The Pagosa Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest is monitoring 600 ponderosa pine saplings recently planted around the northern loop of Williams Creek Campground.
The plantings cover about 10 acres at the campground, which is near Williams Creek and Reservoir.
In 2011, the spread of a root disease in campground trees became so extensive that the ranger district determined camping was unsafe, and the campground was closed until at-risk trees could be removed. Dead and dying trees were cut down to protect visitors and infrastructure. The landscape was then allowed to heal from the impacts of the tree removal.
The condition of the newly planted ponderosa saplings will be monitored regularly by the Forest Service. Long-term studies will help future foresters plan and manage for healthy trees and safe camping in the area.
Durango Nature Studies will look at the important role soil plays in ecosystems and human lives at the “Dirt on Dirt” workshop from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday at the Durango Nature Center.
Anthony Reinert, program facilitator for DNS, will lead the workshop. Participants will look at how geology and hydrology create different soil types and focus on the need for healthy soil to support plant and animal communities.
Participants will also get a hands-on understanding of soil science regarding composition and rudimentary testing of soil samples.
All workshop participants will receive free entry to the Nature Center, which is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The cost of the workshop is $10 for non-members and free for members.
The Nature Center is 12 miles south of Durango’s Farmington Hill off of U.S. Highway 550. For detailed directions, call 382-9244 or visit www.durangonaturestudies.org/dncdirections.htm.
Herald Staff
