Edison Woods

Envirotech Consultants, Inc. was contracted to design and implement restoration of Edison Woods with the goal of creating an array of diverse native ecosystems. Reinstatement of the natural hydrology of the site was integral to the restoration of original habitat communities. Forested areas within the Preserve were enhanced by the reintroduction of historic hydrologic conditions that promoted flooding and saturation of the soils. In order to enhance the overall habitat and biological diversity within the Preserve, approximately 376 acres of land were restored to native prairie systems. The upland ridge and some of the higher portions of the fields were restored to tallgrass prairie species, resulting in approximately 109 acres.

The remaining acreage was restored to wet prairie areas with a seasonally saturated hydrologic regime. Emergent pools will be scattered throughout the prairie areas in deeper depressions. This interspersion of prairie habitat and forested floodplain creates a representation of the historic landscape in the region and allows visitors to gain an appreciation of the American landscape at the time of the frontier.

The array of habitat types present within the Preserve allows for tremendous habitat and biological diversity, as well as creating a multitude of educational opportunities at the site. The site can be used by area schools for comparisons of different community types and the climatic and hydrologic conditions necessary for the establishment of differing plant communities. It can also be used to learn about the historic landscape of the area and the plants and animals associated with these communities. In addition to the plant and animal life present at the site, the Preserve provides an invaluable resource for studying hydrology with wetlands, headwaters and streams occurring throughout the site. Overall, Edison Woods Preserve has the ability to provide unique and memorable educational and recreational opportunities to the surrounding communities, as well as providing benefits to area wildlife and improving water quality.