Forest Park’s Successional Forest Rebounds After Tornado
Restoration efforts are actively underway in Forest Park’s Successional Forest after a May tornado. This work, led by Forest Park Forever and the City of St. Louis, aims to heal the urban woodland while continuing its long-term ecological transformation.
Understanding Successional Forest’s Journey
Successional Forest, over 20 acres, was formal parkland before transforming into a natural forested state in the 1970s. Park ecologist Amy Witt explains its natural evolution, with native plants filling the canopy. The goal: quality nature within the city.
Tornado’s Impact and Adaptive Restoration
The May 16 tornado extensively damaged Forest Park, impacting 1,053 trees in the nature reserve, including Successional Forest and heavily hit Kennedy Forest. Existing restoration plans for Successional Forest were adapted to the storm’s challenges.
With restoration ongoing, Witt’s team integrated tornado damage into their plan. A 2.4-acre hillside section became a key focus. Lost trees opened the canopy, creating sunnier spots ideal for planting new seed mixes and young trees to shape the next forest generation.
From Debris to Growth: Community & Future Vision
Community spirit shone during a recent event: 170 volunteers joined staff to plant 800 trees, 500 in Successional Forest. Witt noted excitement to move from debris removal to active planting. Pink flags mark new saplings for care.
Long-term plans involve adding shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses as young trees establish, enriching the forest layers. The forest’s look will shift through succession phases. Prescribed fire may manage growth, recycle nutrients, and control fuels in the evolving woodland.
| Aspect | Past (Pre-1970s) | Current Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Land Use | Formal parkland, mowed | Functioning urban woodland |
| Vegetation | Scattered landscape trees | Native trees, shrubs, grasses |
| Management | Mowing, formal design | Ecological succession, adaptive restoration |
| Community | Passive enjoyment | Active volunteerism |
Broader Park Recovery Efforts
The May tornado damaged over 3,000 trees across Forest Park. Successional Forest restoration is vital, addressing immediate storm damage and advancing the long-term mission of transforming managed landscapes into thriving urban woodlands.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Successional Forest?
A 20+ acre section of Forest Park, formerly formal parkland, now undergoing restoration since the 1970s to become a natural forested area. - How did the tornado affect Forest Park?
The May 16 tornado damaged over 3,000 trees park-wide, including 1,053 in the nature reserve. Kennedy Forest was hit hardest. - What restoration is underway?
Existing plans were adapted. A 2.4-acre hillside is being planted with new trees and seed mixes, using increased sunlight. Future plans include shrubs and wildflowers. - How did the community help?
170 volunteers planted about 800 trees across the nature reserve, with 500 in Successional Forest, showing strong community support. - What’s the long-term vision?
To create a thriving urban woodland with diverse vegetation layers. This includes ongoing planting and potential use of prescribed fire for ecological health.
Continued dedication to Forest Park’s recovery and ecological health ensures St. Louis locals will enjoy this vital urban green space for generations. Consider supporting Forest Park Forever’s efforts.
Forest Park Forest Rebounds After Tornado
