This spring, middle school students at The Philadelphia School worked in their garden at Shelly Ridge. Located in Miquon, PA, Shelly Ridge is a natural area where we conduct environmental science classes. Thanks to a grant from Delaware Valley Earth Force, we were able to augment our vegetable garden project. In addition to planting spinach, mesclun, radishes, and other quickly germinating vegetables, we were able to purchase young plants, including herbs and wildflowers. Students selected species that attract butterflies and other wildlife in the hopes that the garden will become a healthier habitat after we have harvested. (Right now it is a modified drainage basin with little diversity or native species.)
Earth Force’s support also allowed us to expand our restoration efforts in new ways. We had started a small tree tenders group last year, and this season the students focused on erecting a deer exclosure in a particularly degraded area of the forest. Within the fenced area, students planted several sugar maples and viburnums. Our goal is to monitor this site each season to observe how the new plants are faring, as well as what other species are able to germinate and thrive in the protected area. After a few years of nearby deer culling, the herd already seems more balanced than before. The tree tenders found several oak seedlings growing naturally in the woods, which we had never seen before. Jack-in-the-pulpit and other native species were also in greater numbers than in years past, and many warblers were seen migrating through the area. Nest boxes that students built and hung in the garden were quickly populated by wrens. Other boxes were installed in the woods, and we will continue to monitor them for activity.
Our goal is to continue the tree project by building another secured area for potted trees, which students will start from seed. Once the trees are large enough, students will identify areas in need and transplant the seedlings. Another goal is to continue to expand the garden project, perhaps by creating raised beds and starting a wildflower nursery as well. One thing is certain: with the students’ energy and Earth Force’s support, we will continue to improve the health of Shelly Ridge.