Dutch Charley Savanna

This project will restore and enhance 19 acres of oak savanna habitat within the Dutch Charley Creek WMA in Redwood County, Minnesota by burning a CREP grass field, sowing prairie forb seed, planting shrubs, and planting bur oak seedlings at a rate to create oak savanna. Bur oak seedlings will be protected from herbivory and competition with tree shelters and weed mats. Plantings will include 500 bur oak, 1,000 American hazelnut, 100 gray dogwood, and 500 other mast-bearing shrubs. Shrubs will be closer to the creek riparian area. Routine prescribed fire of the savanna after that, as part of the DNR's regular habitat maintenance program will kill unwanted sprouts and favor prairie species in the understory.