Prairies, Meadows and Grasslands

Grasslands makeup the smallest portion of the park’s property, about 3% of the total acreage. Grasslands include old fields, meadows, and prairies. They provide shelter and nesting habitat for songbirds, small mammals, and other animals. They are particularly important in providing food and nectar sources for pollinator species. For example, during autumn, numerous monarchs can be observed within grasslands.

The greatest threat to grassland vegetation is non-native invasive species, which often outcompete native vegetation for light, nutrients, and space.

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Northeastern old field

Northeastern old field has been designated as a vegetation community found within the Park (Coxe, 2014). Old field communities are either still used for agriculture or pastures or are reminiscent of areas that were previously used and now are left to succession unless mowed regularly. The dominant plant species generally include perennial grasses, heaths and herbaceous plants.

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References

• Coxe, R. (2014). Historical Analysis and Map of Vegetation Communities, Land Covers, and Habitats of the Woodlawn Tract New Castle County, Delaware. Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Division of Fish and Wildlife. Smyrna, DE: DNREC. Retrieved 2019