The Restoration of Red Maple Swamp

Here is a note from Lena Crandall, President of the Friends of Scarsdale Parks: The south entrance to the Red Maple Swamp, 5.4 acres of open space in Greenacres, is in the process of restoration. Mark Colbran, a Boy Scout in Troop 60, Scarsdale, has initiated the rejuvenation as part of his Eagle Scout Service Project. The goal is to remove invasive plants such as English ivy, multifloral rose and Norway maple trees from the freshwater wetlands, and replant with native trees and plants in the spring.

Last November, Colbran coordinated 33 volunteers, including donated manpower from Ridgecrest Landscaping; they cleared fallen leaves, tore up English ivy, which had migrated from surrounding backyards, and cut down Norway maple saplings. Concurrently, the Village refurbished the storm water drainage system at the South entrance to eliminate the forces of erosion on the main trail. With permission from the Village, in particular Suzanne Busby, Superintendent of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, and Eric Gerringer, Deputy Superintendant of Public Works, and the go-ahead from adjacent property owners, Bartlett Tree Company recently volunteered manpower to cut down seven Norway maples. The Swamp trail will benefit from their woodchips and their logs, which will define the path. The removal of the Norway maples is important because their shallow root systems, dense shade, and release of toxins into the soil inhibit other plant growth.

This exciting Eagle Scout project has had the support of the Greenacres Neighborhood Association, The Friends of the Scarsdale Parks, the Conservation Advisory Council and village staff. Colbran greatly appreciates the efforts of many volunteers, Ridgecrest Landscaping and Bartlett Tree Experts for helping to prepare the site in anticipation of spring planting. Landscape designer Eti Katoni will lend her expertise in the selection of appropriate wetland flowers, shrubs and trees; the native species will provide food and shelter to the many birds and small animals that inhabit and visit this preserve. A new split rail fence, signage and waste receptacles, funded by the Village of Scarsdale, will also be installed by Colbran to complete the restoration.