Cuthrell Oak Savanna Enhancement

This project will enhance 80 acres of oak savanna habitat within the Whitewater WMA in Winona County, Minnesota by using a Seppi mower (or equivalent) to mow all competing trees and shrubs 4" diameter or less from overgrown savanna. Follow-up chemical treatment in spring will target resprouting invasive vegetation (buckthorn, honeysuckle, etc.). Prescribed fire after that will kill additional sprouts and favor prairie species in the understory. There will be no seeding or planting, as there is sufficient seed bank in the soil and from surviving plants to naturally expand the predominance of prairie species. These management practices have been used successfully by the DNR on nearby sites of similar composition and aspect, and are effective in enhancing oak savanna habitat.