Speaking of Buckthorn…

The Shorewood Council discussed a contract for removal at Freeman Park, on November 13 at 7:00 p.m. See the packet here starting at page 144.  Read the minutes of the discussion starting at page 4

Hennepin County Railroad Authority (HCRRA) is issuing permits for maintenance of HCRRA property along the Lake Minnetonka and Dakota trails.

“People with property adjacent to HCRRA land may request permits for landscaping improvements. Any improvements to HCRRA land must be approved by HCRRA and should focus on benefiting wildlife and pollinators and improving water quality.” – HCRRA

Complete the application online. The permit is free.

What to know about buckthorn:

• European (common) buckthorn is extremely hardy and tolerant of a variety of light conditions, ranging from full sun to deep shade, though it is more common in forests than in prairies.
• Buckthorn spreads quickly and outcompetes native species due to its fast growth and early leaf-out time.
• It emits a chemical called “Emodin” into the ground, which is toxic for plants, humans and animals.
• Buckthorn berries, bark and roots are considered poisonous.
• Mice, red squirrels and some birds, like cedar waxwings and robins, eat and disperse the seeds. Few native animals rely on them as a food source. The berries also can have a severe laxative effect on some birds which may result in death. Deer will not eat buckthorn.
• The berries cause severe cramping and diarrhea in humans and dogs. Keep small children out of areas where buckthorn berries fall, as the blue/black berries may be mistaken for blueberries and accidentally eaten.