Natural Areas Management Plan

ALLERTON PARK & RETREAT CENTER:

NATURAL AREAS MANAGEMENT PLAN

Prepared: December, 1992 Robert E. Szafoni1, Francis M. Harty2

Revised: January, 2012 John D. Griesbaum3

1Illinois Department of Natural Resources Division of Natural Heritage 2The Nature Conservancy 3University of Illinois - Allerton Park & Retreat Center

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 ...... 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 PRESETTLEMENT CONDITIONS OF ALLERTON PARK ...... 1 CURRENT STATUS OF SIGNIFICANT RESOURCES ...... 2 ECOLOGICAL THREATS TO NATURAL AREAS ...... 5 1. Exotic Species ...... 5 2. Altered Successional Patterns ...... 5 3. Other Disturbances ...... 6 AMOUNT OF CURRENT/POTENTIAL VISITOR USAGE ...... 6 OVERALL MANAGEMENT GOALS ...... 7 OVERALL MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 7 A. Prescribed Burning ...... 7 B. Exotic Species Control ...... 8 C. Control of Undesirable Woody Vegetation ...... 9 D. Enhance Diversity of Prairie Reconstruction ...... 9 E. Survey & Monitoring of Species of Management Concern ...... 9 F. White-Tail Deer Control ...... 10 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ...... 10 RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES ...... 11 LANDSCAPE RESTORATION OPPORTUNITY ...... 12 DEVELOP PARTNERSHIPS ...... 13 BIOFUELS ...... 13 CHAPTER 2 ...... 14 MANAGEMENT SCHEDULES ...... 14 SUN SINGER ...... 15 CENTAUR ...... 20 FU DOG ...... 24 BLACK ...... 28 GREEN ...... 33 BLUE ...... 38 RED ...... 43 ORANGE ...... 48 BUDGET ...... 53 LITERATURE CITED ...... 54 FIGURES ...... 56 APPENDIX 1 ...... 58 APPENDIX 2 ...... 59

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Allerton Park has long been recognized as one of Illinois' most significant natural areas. It is located in the Grand Prairie Natural Division (Schwegman, et al. 1973) and contains outstanding examples of old-growth floodplain and upland forest. It supports populations of the state endangered eastern massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus), state threatened Kirtland's watersnake (Clonophis kirtlandii), black-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus erythropthalmus) and Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus).

Allerton Park is one of only three areas in central Illinois with over 500 acres of contiguous forest. Large forested tracts are important breeding areas for many neotropical migrant birds whose populations have declined dramatically as forest fragmentation has created smaller and more isolated woodlots.

The high diversity of natural communities and native species, especially forest trees and wildflowers, and the park's location along an unmodified reach of the Sangamon River also contribute to the high natural quality of the site. A portion of the site has been recognized as a National Natural Landmark by the U. S. Park Service.

PRESETTLEMENT CONDITIONS OF ALLERTON PARK

The land which makes up the present day Allerton Park was first surveyed by the federal government's General Land Office during February - July 1822. The surveyors moved through areas in a systematic fashion establishing the township, range, and sections we know today. In establishing these lines in the field, surveyors recorded witness and bearing trees (species, diameter, & distance from section post), general descriptions of the surrounding land, locations of changes in land features (forests, prairies, ponds, and/or rivers), and the width and flow of all rivers, creeks, and brooks. In general, the surveyors were good naturalists who knew their plants and their records are considered to be very reliable (Bourdo, 1956; Hutchison, 1988).

The systematic fashion in which the survey was performed and the quantitative nature of witness tree data permits an interpretation of probable distribution of natural communities at the time the surveys were done (Anderson & Anderson, 1975). As these surveys were performed before widespread European settlement, the data provides an insight to the vegetation present in an area before disturbance by white settlers - a glimpse of the landscape in its original natural condition.

These records indicate that Allerton Park was almost entirely wooded at the time of settlement (Fig. 1). Prairie was present at four locations in the park; in the far southeast corner near the current prairie planting, in the floodplain at the far northeast end of the park (part of a larger bottomland prairie which extended from this point upstream about two miles), north of the road between the formal gardens and 4-H camp and between the picnic area and Fu Dog garden.

Upland forests occurred on the ridges above the river valley. Tree species recorded here were white oak, black oak, and hickory. Savanna, or a savanna-like community, existed between the prairie at the southeast end of the park and the upland forest. Though pin oak was recorded by the surveyors in these areas, it is possible that what they saw was shingle oak; in the absence of leaves both species display an unusual, decurrent branching pattern and pin oak would be more commonly found in low, wet areas. Generally, the understory was fairly open and contained hazel and briars (Rubus sp.). At the northwest corner of the prairie planting, the hazel and briars were "thick as damnation".

Bottomland forests were present throughout the park's floodplain. Tree species noted include bur oak, sycamore, elm, and honey locust. With the exception of the small area at the northeast corner of the park, no bottomland prairie was present in the park.

The interaction of fire and topography had a profound effect on the presettlement vegetation of Allerton Park. Frequent fires were an important component in the prairies which occurred on the uplands away from the river valley. These fires crept into the forests and were important in maintaining oak-hickory forest on the dissected uplands near the valley and the savannas at the interface between the prairie and forest. The ravines and bottomlands, more protected from fire, supported fire sensitive species such as elm, honey locust and basswood, as well as oaks and hickories.

CURRENT STATUS OF SIGNIFICANT RESOURCES

The Illinois Natural Areas Inventory (INAI) surveyed Allerton Park in 1976 and 2008 documenting 470 acres of very high (grade A) and high (grade B) quality forest on the site (Fig. 2). This is the largest area of high quality forest in the Grand Prairie Natural Division (White, 1978). Allerton Park holds INAI category designations of I (high quality natural communities) and II (specific suitable habitat for endangered or threatened species; Appendix 1).

Natural communities include: • Dry-mesic upland forest 2

o Grade A = 91 ac. old growth & old second growth o Grade B = 45 ac. old growth & old second growth, grazed o Grade C = 191 ac. logged, grazed • Mesic upland forest o Grade A = 24 ac. old growth & old second growth o Grade B = 18 ac. old growth & old second growth, grazed o Grade C = 55 ac. logged, grazed • Wet floodplain forest o Grade B = 292 ac. relatively undisturbed o Grade C = 176 ac. young to mature forest

The upper Sangamon River corridor, from its origin (Mclean County NW of Saybrook) to the Piatt/Macon County line, varying from a large creek (width 4-6 feet) to a small river (width 35-50 feet) flows through Allerton Park. The Sangamon River depths range to four feet. Stream habitats include sand and mud bars, rapids, riffles, and fairly deep pools. The Sangamon River holds INAI category designations of II (specific suitable habitat for endangered or threatened species), III (Dedicated Nature Preserves, Registered Land and Water Reserves, and Enrolled Natural Heritage Landmarks) and VI (Unusual Concentrations of Flora and Fauna). (Appendix 2)

Allerton Park is one of 13 protected natural areas along the Sangamon River corridor that, taken together, preserve more than 11.5 miles of the Sangamon River and over 4,410 acres of forest and other natural land along the Sangamon River corridor in Piatt and Champaign counties.

The Upper Sangamon River Land and Water Reserve (USRLWR), is immediately adjacent to the north east of Allerton. This reserve contains upland and bottomland forest, grassland and old field habitats. Allerton Park and USRLWR together protect ~6 miles of Sangamon River and ~2000 acres of land. Furthermore, USRLWR and Allerton Park together comprise one of the largest remaining forests in central Illinois.

Four species of conservation concern occur within Allerton Park. Two reptiles: Kirtland’s watersnake (Clonophis kirtlandii) and eastern massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus), one amphibian: mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus) and one bird: black-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus erythropthalmus). Other species of federal management concern have been reported from the park (Appendix 2). The two reptiles are currently being considered for federal listing as threatened or endangered species by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Additionally, the Forests Campaign within the Illinois Department of Natural Resource’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Plan & Strategy identifies multiple statewide goals that the Allerton Park Natural Areas Management Plan will facilitate.

Specifically, these goals and actions are:

• Maintain and enhance the composition of Illinois’ forested habitats o Reintroduce natural disturbances or suitable substitutes on a large scale 1. prescribed fire should be applied, where appropriate, to maintain or restore open woodland habitats (e.g., savanna, barren), promote oak- hickory regeneration, stimulate the germination and production of native ground-layer plants and control invasive species 2. sustainable forestry practices will be necessary to restore and manage open forest habitat types in locations that have matured to closed forest or been invaded by undesirable woody species, to mimic natural processes in areas where fire is not an appropriate management tool, to supplement fire where undesirable trees have grown too large to be controlled safely with fire, and create diverse age classes of forest necessary to sustain wildlife species requiring various successional forest stages. The economic benefits of sustainable forestry practices provide an incentive for landowners to improve the quality of their forests. o Edges of forested habitats should be widened to create broader transition areas from grassland, shrub/successional, savanna/open woodland, to closed forest, thus providing more and better habitat for most wildlife species in greatest need of conservation and slowing drainage waters from agricultural or developed lands prior to entering streams o Continued removal and control (chemical, mechanical and biological) of invasive exotic plants, especially within high quality natural areas o Reintroduce native species into forest habitat where decimating factors have been eliminated and natural recovery is unlikely o Reduce, then maintain a white-tailed deer herd of about 700,000 animals by increasing hunter opportunity (permits, season framework, incentives-based access to private lands). It is expected that forest habitat conditions will improve as the deer herd is reduced through harvest. o Address deer populations in locations where browse is degrading habitat quality and/or preventing recovery of vegetation

• Expected increases in statewide forest acreage (the continuation of an 80-year trend) should emphasize: o Restoring floodplains and riparian corridors o Ecological connectivity among forests and other habitat patches o Reducing fragmentation of forests 500 acres and larger • Restore and manage high-quality examples of all forest, savanna and barrens communities, including all Grade A and B Illinois Natural Areas Inventory sites, in all natural divisions within which they occur.

As a University of Illinois research area, the flora and fauna of the park have been extensively studied for many years. These studies include, but are not limited to, periodic forest inventories, breeding bird communities in various community types and changes in bird populations over time, movement patterns of farmland deer, small mammal population ecology, and wildlife radio-tracking investigations.

ECOLOGICAL THREATS TO NATURAL AREAS

Two major ecological threats to the integrity of the high quality natural area and the park in general exist: exotic species and altered successional patterns.

1. Exotic Species

The problems caused by exotic species in natural areas are well-known (e.g. Harty, 1986). While the potential for numerous exotic species problems are high at a site with arboreta and gardens of non-native plants, the major exotic species problems at Allerton Park are species which are problems statewide - garlic mustard, bush honeysuckle, Japanese honeysuckle, and multiflora rose.

Garlic mustard is widespread and locally abundant, primarily in, but not restricted to, floodplains, ravine systems, and other naturally or artificially disturbed sites. The honeysuckles and multiflora rose are widespread and occasionally common where found. Multiflora rose tends to be more common in formerly grazed areas and along edges, while the honeysuckles are found in the forests as well as successional sites. These three species are widely dispersed by birds and mammals.

Other exotic species such as Oriental bittersweet, smooth buckthorn, winged wahoo, privet, osage orange, wisteria, autumn olive, and black locust are present and have potential to become much greater problems in the future. These species should also be controlled where encountered.

2. Altered Successional Patterns

The settlement of the land by early Europeans resulted in the reduction and eventual elimination of fire as an ecological force in the Allerton woodlands. Presettlement fires maintained relatively open understories conducive to the maintenance of oak forests and savannas, thickets of hazel and other fire-adapted shrubs, and numerous species of summer- and fall-blooming herbaceous plants

(Anderson, 1991; Ebinger, 1986; Nuzzo, 1986). The cessation of fire has altered these patterns.

Forest understories have become denser, primarily with fire-sensitive trees of more mesic communities (e.g. elm, ash, maple, black cherry) (e.g. Ebinger, 1986). Oak regeneration has slowed and summer- and fall-blooming plants have become less common.

Another factor which has altered successional patterns and species composition is grazing. Livestock, while an important component of the Allerton legacy, have impacted parts of the park. Many species of native plants, wildflowers and woody plants, are reduced or eliminated by grazing while a few, unpalatable species increase, often dramatically (Stoddart et al., 1975). Typically, these increasers are thorny woody plants such as hawthorn, osage orange, black locust, gooseberry, multiflora rose, honeylocust, and prickly ash. Non-thorny species which respond similarly include white snakeroot and coralberry (buckbrush). The abundance of these species in formerly grazed areas slows, and may disrupt, the natural successional patterns that would occur.

3. Other Disturbances

Other disturbances which may have impacted the structure and species composition of the forests of Allerton Park include selective logging and/or timber salvage, Dutch elm disease, and overabundance of white-tailed deer. The magnitude of these impacts is speculative. Today, only the last factor, overabundance of deer and the concomitant browsing, have negative impacts (Nixon et al., 1991; Strole and Anderson, 1992). AMOUNT OF CURRENT/POTENTIAL VISITOR USAGE

An extensive and well-maintained trail system permits visitors to experience all natural features present in Allerton Park, including the high quality natural areas. Annual visitation to the park, gardens, and conference center is estimated at 125,000 (Allerton Park traffic counter data). The park offers outstanding potential for public education of a variety of natural resource problems (e.g. impacts of exotic species, deer overpopulation, mesic succession) and management techniques used to address these problems.

The trail system would also permit simplified access to interior regions of the park for management activities and the movement of personnel and/or equipment. This is a significant consideration in an area of locally rugged topography.

OVERALL MANAGEMENT GOALS

The management goals for the natural resource base at Allerton Park are:

1. Protect and maintain all tracts of very high and high quality forests as determined by the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory.

2. Protect, maintain, and enhance a large area of contiguous woodland habitat for forest interior species.

3. Restoration and reconstruction of disturbed areas of the park to its presettlement condition.

4. Survey and periodically monitor populations of all state-listed or watch list species (Appendix 1). Survey and periodically monitor species of special management concern or rarity (Appendix 2).

5. Enroll all natural areas into Illinois Nature Preserve Commission (INPC) Land and Water Reserve or Nature Preserve programs.

OVERALL MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

A. Prescribed Burning

In order to maintain and enhance the prairie reconstruction, reduce and control undesirable vegetation in successional fields (e.g. hawthorn), reduce mesic succession in upland oak-hickory forests, and provide exotic species control, fire should be re- introduced to the resource management area. Burn units should be designated and a prescribed fire regime established for each unit dependent on its management problems and goals.

Oak woodlands require fall burning; successional areas are best burned in fall but can be burned in spring. Prairies can be burned in spring or fall unless a specific management problem necessitates a spring or fall burn (e.g. sweet clover).

Burn units should be established so that some portion of each community remains unburned for the season (Panzer, 1988; Harty, et al., 1991). This is most important in the prairie reconstruction which is the smallest unit overall and the one 7 that is important to at least one species of management concern - eastern massasauga. Prescribed burns of this area will only be carried out while the massasauga is inactive below ground.

Woodland burns can and should follow the existing trail system as these trails will provide excellent firebreaks and equipment access.

Burn frequency (how often a specific unit is burned) will depend on management goals for the unit, response of unit to past burns, and management problems present (e.g exotic species). For example, prairies are generally burned more frequently than woodland areas. Units with high garlic mustard populations may be best burned two years in a row to break the biennial cycle of this species. Burn frequency for a unit is best assessed after ground surveys of proposed units which can be outlined on a site map or aerial photograph.

B. Exotic Species Control

1. Garlic Mustard - A management plan for control of this herbaceous exotic has been developed by the Department of Natural Resources (Szafoni, 1992). In general, control methods include handpulling of basal rosettes, hand pulling and off-site disposal of flowering plants, application of 2% Roundup to basal rosettes during late fall and early spring, and prescribed fire (Nuzzo, 1990). Initial efforts should take place where populations of garlic mustard are beginning to get established. Progress should then move on to heavily infested areas.

2. Japanese honeysuckle - Small infestations of this exotic vine can be controlled by repeated handpulling, especially when soils are moist and roots can be removed. Larger infestations can be foliar sprayed with 2% Roundup during late fall or early spring when most other plants are dormant (Evans, 1984; Nyboer, 1992). Particularly large, smothering plants can be sprayed at flowering time.

3. Bush honeysuckle - There are many species of exotic honeysuckle. All exotic honeysuckles in natural areas and restorations should be controlled. Small plants can be handpulled, especially when the soil is moist. Larger plants can be cut at ground level with loppers or a chainsaw and the stump treated with 20% Roundup. This method can be used whenever temperatures are above freezing. Foliar application of 2% Roundup is effective during the growing season but this method is best used in late fall or early spring to avoid damage to desirable species (Nyboer, 1992).

4. Multiflora rose - Foliar application of 2% Roundup at the time of flowering is the recommended treatment for this exotic. Care should be taken to avoid spraying

8 non-target plants. Small, spindly plants, typical of many woodland multiflora roses, are best not treated in this manner due to damage to non-target individuals. Applying 20% Roundup to the cut stem or cane is preferred in this situation (Szafoni, 1991). However, in areas to be burned, fire may control this species, avoiding the use of herbicide in this instance.

Rose rosette disease (RRD), a pathogen of multiflora rose, is widespread in central Illinois. Infected plants die within 2-3 years and, therefore, need not be targeted for control (Burks, 1992). (The impacts of RRD on other roses and members of the rose family are not well-known at this time. No effort should be made to spread the disease until more information is available.)

5. Other woody exotic species - The application of 20% Roundup to the cut stem or stump of most species will result in effective control. Larger individuals can be girdled and the Roundup applied to the girdle. Cuts and girdles should always be made as close to the ground as feasible.

C. Control of Undesirable Woody Vegetation

Species such as hawthorn, prickly ash, and honeylocust can be controlled by the application of 20% Roundup to a cut surface or girdle as described above. This technique will be most useful in the prairie and savanna areas, but can be used in any community.

D. Enhance Diversity of Prairie Reconstruction

The existing prairie reconstruction is low in species diversity, especially with respect to the native forbs. Prairie forb rootstock, obtained from the Illinois Department of Conservation, should be planted in the area. Rootstocks are planted in April - May and are easiest to plant in areas burned the previous spring or fall. Using a tile spade or dibble bar, one person could plant 300-400 plants in a day. Using a tree planting machine, several thousand can be planted in a day.

E. Survey & Monitoring of Species of Management Concern

While investigations to locate new species of plants and animals for the site are encouraged, past studies have located and/or documented several species of special concern at Allerton Park. These include the state-threatened Kirtland's watersnake and state endangered eastern massasauga. Attempts should be made to non-destructively

9 survey these species on a regular basis.

Annual searches during the breeding season are preferable for birds. Additionally, surveys to monitor area sensitive forest interior birds should be conducted periodically. Regular checks of known snake locations for individuals or characteristic signs would provide useful information for these species. Searches of appropriate habitat for new occurrences of these species are strongly encouraged.

F. White-Tail Deer Control Excessive white-tail deer density in and around Allerton Park have impacted regeneration of palatable native flora (e.g. oak (Quercus) and hickory (Carya) tree species, spring ephemeral wildflowers) while allowing prolific regeneration of unpalatable exotic and native vegetation (e.g. garlic mustard, multi-floral rose, white snakeroot, coral berry). White-tail deer density must be reduced to allow sustainable recruitment of native flora and protect the biologic integrity of Allerton Park. A white-tail deer control program that reduces deer numbers by allowing firearm and/or archery hunting and sharpshooting or some combination of these techniques was implemented in 2004. At that time deer abundance and densities were at their peak (700 deer, ~70 deer/mi2) within the survey area (~10mi2) It will be necessary for this program to continue, in some capacity, indefinitely to reduce or maintain white-tail deer densities in and around Allerton. To monitor deer densities and there impacts in and around Allerton and to determine an appropriate deer density goal: 1. Monitor trends in deer herd using population indicators: a. Aerial surveys (visual or infra-red as conditions permit) b. Observation logs c. Hunter effort d. Harvested age and class structure 2. Asses crop damage in agriculture fields adjacent to Allerton, 3. Monitor deer-vehicle collisions in vicinity of Allerton Park 4. Monitor vegetation to assess the impacts of deer browse and recovery of native vegetation. It will be necessary for Allerton Park to monitor the dynamic nature of land ownership surrounding the park and the variable deer harvest strategies and techniques. Allerton Park will continue to monitor the surrounding deer harvest, attempt to develop deer management partnerships and remain prepared to adapt and modify the deer control program as conditions warrant. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

The implementation of the above management recommendations provide ample

10 opportunities for volunteers to assist, lead, or even develop and execute projects within the framework outlined above. Some activities are fairly simple and straight-forward and, once demonstrated, can be performed by anyone. Such activities include handpulling garlic mustard rosettes and flowers, and planting prairie forb rootstock.

Volunteers with particular skills or knowledge can be utilized to survey or monitor breeding birds, map nest locations, or search for Kirtland's watersnake.

Volunteers also assist with prescribed burns; their role determined by the amount of experience they have. Inexperienced volunteers should always be paired with agency staff or other experienced individual.

The potential of volunteer opportunities is limited only by the number and enthusiasm of the volunteers and the guiding hand of the landowner.

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

Allerton Park has been one of the most important research natural areas in central Illinois. A long and diverse literature exists regarding the flora and fauna of the local environment. Some of these investigations were short-term, one-time studies; others are more long-term in nature.

The implementation of this management plan will provide research opportunities unparalleled in Illinois. It is indeed rare that the effects of the restoration and reconstruction of a landscape can be investigated with the wealth of background data that currently exists for Allerton Park.

Opportunities are great and cover a diverse array of taxa and biological processes. Clearly, the direct and indirect impacts of fire and exotic species control on plant communities, oak regeneration, fungi, insects and other invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and small mammals are worthy of basic and applied research. What is the proximate response of local resident species to burn patches? What is the relationship between fuel load, fuel type and condition, fire intensity, and fuel consumption? How will animal communities track the changes in vegetation and how quickly do they respond? What is the genetic structure of isolated populations, such as the eastern massasauga, within the site and are there genetic concerns in their management?

These are just a few of the many possibilities for research investigations which follow-up on the large scale restoration of the natural landscape. In addition, there are a few research topics that can be addressed immediately on the site. One would be an

11 inventory of the species of bats which use the area. The large expanse of forest and foraging areas provided by the Sangamon River could support a large and diverse bat community. The presence of the federally endangered Indiana bat is a possibility as it has been recorded from Christian, Ford, and Vermilion counties. A second important study would be the presence and productivity of forest interior birds, similar to studies being conducted by Dr. Scott Robinson of the Illinois Natural History Survey in the Shawnee Forest and in northwestern Illinois. Many of these species are undergoing population declines nationally and concern for neotropical migratory birds, many of which require large forest blocks, is very high.

Because of the "permanent" status of Allerton Park as a research area, the potential for long-term investigations is high and would attract researchers from several nearby universities as well as the Illinois Natural History Survey. Allerton's location near the University of Illinois makes it especially attractive to graduate research. All these factors add up to a research potential which not only will be scientifically significant in both the short- and long-term, but will also provide information critical to improving management techniques throughout the midwest.

LANDSCAPE RESTORATION OPPORTUNITY

Allerton Park offers one of the last and greatest opportunities for restoration of the prairie/forest ecosystem left in Illinois. The park and associated agricultural land covers almost 4000 acres. Allerton Park occupies both sides of the Sangamon River, a high quality stream, complemented by large acreages of one of the largest and highest quality floodplain and upland forests left in Illinois. This matrix of communities and its overall size supports many remnant populations of vertebrates and plant species which were common throughout the Grand Prairie before European settlement.

The restoration of four sections of cropland adjacent to Allerton Park would be a major contribution to enhancing the biodiversity of Illinois. The technology and expertise to conduct a restoration of this scale and magnitude is currently available. The primary issue facing such a project is the recovery of revenue lost to the park from the conversion of 2560 acres of row crops to prairie. To address this issue, several avenues could be realistically pursued if the University embraced the concept and put its full support behind it.

For example, as new farmland is gifted to the University, it could be substituted for acres taken out of production at Allerton Park. This could be based on soil productivity or on an acre-for-acre basis. A fund appeal to alumni and faculty promoting the project and soliciting donations toward completing the project would be very well received, resulting in an endowment at some point in the future.

The restoration of 2560 acres of cropland to prairie would be to ecology what the Morrow Plots are to agronomy. The excellent work conducted by the staff and students at the University of Illinois over the long history of Allerton Park establishes a baseline for research data that certainly rivals any place in Illinois and probably the entire Midwest. It would be most fitting that this objective be achieved and these research opportunities supported by Illinois' only Land Grant College.

DEVELOP PARTNERSHIPS

Conservation and management of Allerton’s natural areas will require collaboration and partnerships with various state and federal agencies. Every effort should be made to reach out to relevant organizations (e.g. Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), The Nature Conservancy (TNC)) for guidance and assistance. The University of Illinois currently has a standing “Memorandum of Agreement” (MOA) with the IDNR stating that the two respective agencies will share resources and personnel while managing Allerton Park and USRLWR as one unit on a landscape scale using ecosystem principles.

BIOFUELS

The University of Illinois owned agricultural land north of Allerton Park could provide a unique opportunity to research the use of native prairie vegetation for biofuels. Using native prairie plants would provide ecosystem services such as providing grassland bird habitat, minimizing surface water runoff, reducing sediment load into waterways, etc. in addition to biofuel stock. A minimum of 200 acres could be set aside as a prairie restoration, harvesting 100 acres for biofuel use leaving the remaining area for grassland birds and other wildlife to use.

CHAPTER 2

MANAGEMENT SCHEDULES

(Continued on next page)

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

SUN SINGER

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 214 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Habitat for slippershell

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Grassland formerly grazed pasture

D: Trails

Comments: Relatively small area of grade C upland forest exists on south facing ridge near border with Centaur zone. Entire floodplain forest is moderate/high quality (B, C). Large mowed area surrounding Sun Singer statue is centered in upland. Majority of uplands are former cattle pasture that appears to have been unmanaged after removal of cattle, are graded very low quality (D, E) Developed and Successional Field. Canopy dominated by black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) with very few scattered oak (Quercus) and hickory (Carya). Ground level vegetation heavily dominated by multifloral rose (Rosa multiflora), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), privet (Ligustrum sp.), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.) and Osage orange (Maclura pomifera).

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Action: Locate, control and eliminate exotic woody species and invasive native woody species throughout upland and floodplain forests Details: Cut or girdle with hand or power tools, treat stump/girdle with 20% Roundup or 20% Garlon 4 in non-diesel carrier, or apply 20% Garlon 4 in non-diesel carrier in basal bark application. Foliar spray small, brushy individuals with 2% Roundup during growing season. May also apply 20% Krenite in August/September to woody vegetation. Species include but are not limited to bush honeysuckle, black locust, honey locust, garlic mustard, Japanese honeysuckle, autumn olive, oriental bittersweet, multiflora rose, privet, Japanese barberry, and Osage orange.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Locate and control garlic mustard. Details: Locate and hand pull garlic mustard when ground is moist and roots can be removed with plant. If garlic mustard is too abundant to hand pull or if roots are unlikely to come up when pulled, then foliar spray individual plants with 2% Roundup when leaves are green and most native herbaceous vegetation is dormant.

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Action: Permit allowable uses Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Action: Plan, coordinate and execute prescribed fires Details: Execute fall burns only on higher quality areas of upland forest to improve habitat by promoting and stimulating regeneration of forest woody and herbaceous vegetation and top-killing woody and herbaceous exotic/invasive species.

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Construct firebreaks Details: Clean litter and slash from a 4-8 foot wide strip along the perimeter of burn units where other suitable firebreaks do not exist. Removal should be down to mineral soil using leaf blowers and council rakes. It may be necessary to rake around snags close to the edge of the firebreak to reduce the potential for an escape. Utilize natural firebreaks (ravines, rivers) where possible.

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Interseed oak (Quercus) and hickory (Carya) nuts and seedlings Details: Plant nuts or seedlings as they become available. Plant early enough in season that plants become established before dry summer months.

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

C: GRASSLAND

Objective: Maintain grassland structure

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Control these sprouts by applying 15% Garlon 4 in non-diesel carrier in basal bark application. Foliar spray black and honey locust with 0.5 oz/gal mixture of Transline during growing season. May also apply 20% Krenite in August/September to woody vegetation.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 15th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct prescribed burn

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

D: TRAILS

Objective: Maintain trail system

Action: Mow as needed, remove fallen trees, address erosion concerns and keep trails in a suitable state to allow hiking by park visitors, use as fire breaks and equipment access by park staff to remote locations of natural areas

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

CENTAUR

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 256 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Habitat for slippershell

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Trails

Comments: Contains moderate to high quality (grade C, B) upland and floodplain forest. Man-made structures include Death of the Last Centaur statue/garden, concrete stairway, 4-pillar structure’s at each end of Death of the Last Centaur garden axis and House in the Woods. Canopy dominated by oak (Quercus) and hickory (Carya). Ground level structure is open with scattered pockets of multifloral rose (Rosa multiflora), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), privet (Ligustrum sp.), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.), etc.

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

Action: Permit allowable uses Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum 21

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

C: TRAILS

Objective: Maintain trail system

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

FU DOG

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 139 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Habitat for slippershell

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Trails

Comments: Upland forest is moderate quality (grade C). A large proportion of floodplain forest is high quality (grade B) with a smaller section of moderate quality (grade C) near the base of the upland ridge. Man- made structures include the Fu Dog garden, Observation tower and vine walk. Upland canopy dominated by mesic tree species such as hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) elm (Ulmus) and maple (Acer). Oak (Quercus) and hickory (Carya) are present in substantially smaller numbers, but will provide seed stock as mesic species are controlled and eliminated. Ground level structure is very dense and dominated by exotic/mesic invaders such as privet (Ligustrum), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera) and oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus).

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

Action: Permit allowable uses Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

C: TRAILS

Objective: Maintain trail system

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

BLACK

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 235 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Prairie restoration Habitat for slippershell Habitat for Kirtland’s watersnake

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Grassland Prairie restoration Former grazed pasture Former crop field

Comments: Uplands consist of moderate to high quality (grade C, B) forest. Upland unit located at the south west corner is the lowest quality area of unit and heavily infested with multifloral rose (Rosa multiflora), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), privet (Ligustrum sp.), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.), oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), etc. The U-shaped upland unit on the east side is the highest quality area of the zone, with ground level vegetation open and exotics widely scattered. Floodplain contains high quality (grade B) forest. Wildcat Creek flows north to south through the zone till convergence with the Sangamon River. Two prairie restorations occur in this zone, one at the extreme north west corner near the north entrance of Allerton (planted in 2009) and the other occupying an old field south of the Diversified Farm (planted in 2007). Exotic invasion to the restorations is limited. Man-made structures include Diversified Farm buildings (sheds, barns, grain bins and house). No statuary, formal gardens or trails exist in this area.

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum 29

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

Action: Permit allowable uses Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

C: GRASSLAND

Objective: Maintain grassland structure

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Action: Reduce encroaching woody vegetation Details: Grassland birds respond negatively to woody vegetation in grasslands. A significant amount of black locust, honey locust, multifloral rose and privet are encroaching into grasslands. Control these sprouts by applying 15% Garlon 4 in non-diesel carrier in basal bark application. Foliar spray black and honey locust with 0.5 oz/gal mixture of Transline during growing season. May also apply 20% Krenite in August/September to woody vegetation.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 15th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct prescribed burn

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Reduce abundance of exotic herbaceous vegetation

Action: Control Canada thistle Details: Spot spray individual rosettes with label rates of Transline prior to flowering. Minimize damage to non-target species

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Control reed canary grass Details: Apply a 2% solution of Glyphosate product using backpack or boom sprayer. Apply early in season to avoid contact with non-target species.

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

GREEN

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 209 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Habitat for slippershell

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Trails

Comments: This zone contains some of the highest quality upland forest in central Illinois. The upland areas hold high and very high quality (grade B, A) forest. The floodplain forest is of moderate quality (grade C) and belongs to the Sangamon River and Willow Branch Creek. Canopy dominated by oak (Quercus) and hickory (Carya). Upland areas exist that are dominated by mesic woody tree species (i.e. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum), Black cherry (Prunus serotina), Elm (Ulmus sp.), Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), etc.). Ground level structure is open with scattered pockets of multifloral rose (Rosa multiflora), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), privet (Ligustrum sp.), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.), oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), etc. This Lost Garden is located near the south east area of the zone. Exotic/invasive prevalence is highest in the vicinity of the Lost Garden. A significant area directly north of the Lost Garden was cleared in the early 1900’s, which likely contributed to the exotic/invasive issues in the area.

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

Action: Permit allowable uses 34

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Control and eliminate mesic woody vegetation (i.e. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum), Black cherry (Prunus serotina), Elm (Ulmus sp.), Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), etc.) from upland areas. Details: Controlling no more than 10% of individuals in any given year, cut or girdle with hand or power tools, treat stump/girdle with 20% Roundup or 20% Garlon 4 in non-diesel carrier, or apply 20% Garlon 4 in non-diesel carrier in basal bark application.

C: TRAILS 35

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Objective: Maintain trail system

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

BLUE

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 207 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Habitat for slippershell

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Trails

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

Action: Permit allowable uses 39

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

C: TRAILS

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Objective: Maintain trail system

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

RED

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 276 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Habitat for slippershell Habitat for eastern massasauga Habitat for Kirtland’s watersnake

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Prairie Restoration Habitat for eastern massasauga Habitat for Kirtland’s watersnake

D: Trails

Comments: Except for the ravines, ridges and floodplain forest at the northern extent of the zone, this area was clear- cut and used as a cattle pasture prior to the mid-1940’s. Narrow strips of moderate quality (grade C) upland forest exist along the northern border of this zone. After the donation of the Allerton estate to the University of Illinois, grazing was ceased and the area was reclaimed by woody vegetation with little to no management, resulting in the area becoming heavily infested with mesic woody and exotic/invasive vegetation. Upland canopy dominated by mesic tree species such as hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) elm (Ulmus) and maple (Acer). Ground level structure is very dense and dominated by exotic/mesic invaders such as privet (Ligustrum), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera) and oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus). The Prairie Restoration is located in this zone. The restoration project was started in 1955 by biologist with the University of Illinois and used a translocation site for eastern massasauga rattlesnakes that were discovered in and around the 4-H camp. At present the Prairie Restoration lacks diversity and is graded low quality (grade D). The restoration is heavily infested with sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata) with scattered individuals of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) and sweetclover (Melilotus spp.).

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

herbaceous vegetation is dormant.

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

Action: Permit allowable uses Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

C: PRAIRIE RESTORATION

Objective: Maintain grassland structure

Dates Staff/Personnel January 15th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct prescribed burn

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Maintain and enhance prairie diversty

Action: Conduct prescribed burn

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor John Griesbaum

D: TRAILS

Objective: Maintain trail system

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

ZONE NAME:

ORANGE

Management Unit Natural Features

A: General 68 ac Sangamon River Dry-Mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest Habitat for slippershell

B: Forest Dry-mesic upland forest Mesic upland forest Floodplain forest

C: Grassland

Comments: Majority of uplands are low quality (grade D), small area of moderate quality (grade C) upland forest near ridge. Floodplain forest is high quality (grade B). Upland canopy dominated by mesic tree species such as hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) elm (Ulmus) and maple (Acer). Ground level structure is very dense and dominated by exotic/mesic invaders such as privet (Ligustrum), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera) and oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus). Grassland is and open are at the south entrance, dominated by turf grasses.

A: GENERAL (zone-wide activities)

Objective: Protect, maintain, and enhance natural features

Action: Conduct bird surveys for species of conservation concern: grassland and forest interior birds

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to June 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct mussel surveys for species of conservation concern, monitor species diversity and abundance

Dates Staff/Personnel July 1st to Sept. 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

Action: Conduct surveys for state listed snake species

Dates Staff/Personnel April 15th to May 30th NAM/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct surveillance of preserve features.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st to December 31st NAM John Griesbaum

Objective: Identify and control exotic species and invasive woody vegetation

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel March 1st to May 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Objective: Support resource-based recreation compatible with natural feature protection

Action: Permit allowable uses Details: Allowable uses include hiking, nature observation and scientific research. Currently deer hunting is allowed to control local white-tail deer abundance.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 1st – December 31st NAM John Griesbaum 49

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

B: FOREST

Objective: Reduce / Reverse mesic succession in dry mesic upland forest

Dates Staff/Personnel October 20th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 30th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

C: GRASSLAND

Objective: Maintain grassland structure

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

spray black and honey locust with 0.5 oz/gal mixture of Transline during growing season. May also apply 20% Krenite in August/September to woody vegetation.

Dates Staff/Personnel January 15th to December 31st NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

Action: Conduct prescribed burn

Dates Staff/Personnel February 1st to April 15th NAM/Contractor/Volunteer John Griesbaum

ZONE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE FOR ALLERTON PARK

BUDGET Allerton Park Natural Areas Budget Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Detail 5 yr. Total PERSONNEL (FT, Ben. Elg.) Natural Areas Manager $ 35,000 $ 36,050 $ 37,132 $ 38,245 $ 39,393 Fringe Benefits $ 15,040 $ 15,491 $ 15,955 $ 16,434 $ 16,927 Tot: Sal, wages, bnft $ 50,040 $ 51,541 $ 53,087 $ 54,680 $ 56,320 $ 265,667

EQUIPMENT Rx Fire $ 3,000 $ 3,120 $ 3,245 $ 3,375 $ 3,510 $ 16,249 Invasive/Exotic species control $ 2,000 $ 2,080 $ 2,163 $ 2,250 $ 2,340 $ 10,833 Stewardship $ 2,000 $ 2,080 $ 2,163 $ 2,250 $ 2,340 $ 10,833 Deer Program $ 2,000 $ 2,080 $ 2,163 $ 2,250 $ 2,340 $ 10,833

MATERIALS/SUPPLIES Truck Maintenance $ 2,000 $ 2,080 $ 2,163 $ 2,250 $ 2,340 $ 10,833 Equipment Maintenance $ 1,000 $ 1,040 $ 1,082 $ 1,125 $ 1,170 $ 5,416 Invasive/Exotic species control $ 2,000 $ 2,080 $ 2,163 $ 2,250 $ 2,340 $ 10,833 Deer Program $ 2,000 $ 2,080 $ 2,163 $ 2,250 $ 2,340 $ 10,833

CONTRACTUAL SERVICES Invasive/Exotic species control $ 12,000 $ 12,480 $ 12,979 $ 13,498 $ 14,038 $ 64,996 Rx Fire $ 10,000 $ 10,400 $ 10,816 $ 11,249 $ 11,699 $ 54,163 Deer Program (Aerial Surveys) $ 3,000 $ 3,120 $ 3,245 $ 3,375 $ 3,510 $ 16,249

COMMODITIES Herbicide $ 5,000 $ 5,200 $ 5,408 $ 5,624 $ 5,849 $ 27,082 Seed/Plugs $ 5,000 $ 5,200 $ 5,408 $ 5,624 $ 5,849 $ 27,082

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Conferences $ 1,000 $ 1,040 $ 1,082 $ 1,125 $ 1,170 $ 4,416 Training $ 1,500 $ 1,560 $ 1,622 $ 1,687 $ 1,755 $ 6,624

OTHER Natural Areas Technician (seasonal) $ 6,000 $ 6,240 $ 6,490 $ 6,749 $ 7,019 $ 26,498 Deer Program Technician (seasonal) $ 6,000 $ 6,240 $ 6,490 $ 6,749 $ 7,019 $ 26,498

5 YR. TOTAL COST $ 605,936

LITERATURE CITED

Anderson, R. C. 1991. Presettlement forests of Illinois. pp. 9-19 in Burger, G. V., J. E. Ebinger, and G. S. Wilhelm. Proc. of the Oak Woods Management Workshop. Charleston, IL 106pp.

Anderson, R. C. and M. R. Anderson. 1975 The presettlement vegetation of Williamson County. Castanea 40:345-363.

Bourdo, E. A. 1956. A review of the General Land Office survey and its use in quantitative studies of former forests. Ecology 37:754-768.

Burks, S. A. 1992. Multiflora rose and possible controls pp. 7-8 in Managing Problem Exotic Species in Missouri and the Midwest. Missouri Dept. Conservation. Columbia, MO.

Ebinger, J. E. 1986. Sugar maple, a management problem in Illinois forests? Transactions of the Illinois Academy of Sciences 79:25-30.

Evans, J. E. 1984. Japanese honeysuckle: a literature review of management practices. Natural Areas Journal 4:4-10.

Endangered Species Protection Board. 1990 Checklist of endangered and threatened animals and plants in Illinois. Springfield. 26+pp.

Harty. F. M. 1986. Exotics and their ecological ramifications. Natural Areas Journal 6:20-26.

Harty, F. M., J. M. Ver Steeg, R. R. Heidorn, and L. Harty. 1991. Direct mortality and reappearance of small mammals in an Illinois grassland after a prescribed burn. Nat. Areas J. 11:114-118.

Hutchison, M. 1988. A guide to understanding, interpreting, and using the Public Land Survey field notes in Illinois. Natural Areas Journal 8:245-255.

Nixon, C. M., L. P. Hansen, P. A. Brewer, and J. E. Chelsvig. 1991. Ecology of white-tailed deer in an intensively farmed region of Illinois. Wildl. Monog. no. 118. 77pp.

Nuzzo, V. A. 1986. Extent and status of midwest oak savanna: presettlement and 1985. Natural Areas Journal 6:6-36.

Nuzzo, V. A. 1990. Experimental control of garlic mustard in northern Illinois using fire, herbicides and cutting. Report to the Ill. Dept. Conservation. Springfield. 16+pp.

Nyboer, R. W. 1992. Vegetation management guideline: Japanese honeysuckle. Nat. Areas J. 54

12:217-218.

Nyboer, R. W. 1992. Vegetation management guideline: bush honeysuckles: Tatarian, Morrow's, Belle's, and amur honeysuckle. Natural Areas Journal 12:218-219.

Office of Migratory Bird Management. 1987. Migratory non-game birds of management concern in the United States: the 1987 list. U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wash., D. C. 27+pp.

Panzer, R. 1988. Managing prairie remnants for insect conservation. Nat. Areas J. 8:83-90.

Schwegman, J. E. 1973. The natural divisions of Illinois. Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. Rockford. 32ppp.

Stoddart, L. A., A. D. Smith, and T. W. Box. 1975 Range Management. McGraw-Hill Book Co. NY. 532pp.

Strole, T. A. and R. C. Anderson. 1992. White-tailed deer browsing: species preferences and implications for central Illinois forests. Nat. Areas J. 12:139-144.

Szafoni, R. E. 1991. Vegetation management guideline: multiflora rose. Natural Areas Journal 11:215-216.

Szafoni, R. E. 1992. Control of the exotic, garlic mustard, at Allerton Park, Piatt County, Illinois. Report, Illinois Department of Conservation. 5pp.

Szafoni, R. E. 1992. A revised vegetation monitoring procedure for assessing g deer damage on Illinois Department of Conservation properties. Ill. Dept. Conservation. 8+pp.

White, J. 1978. Illinois Natural Areas Inventory Technical Report. Univ. Illinois. 426pp.

FIGURES

Figure 1: Presettlement vegetation of Allerton Park, Piatt County, Illinois. Boundaries between community types are approximate.

Figure 2. Extent of high quality natural communities at Allerton Park, Piatt County, Illinois as determined by the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory (White, 1978). The dark boundary outlines the upland, ravine, and floodplain forest of outstanding natural quality.

APPENDIX 1 Appendix 1. Endangered and threatened species currently known from Allerton Park, Piatt County, Illinois. (W = watch list, T = threatened, E = endangered).

REPTILES 1992 2001 2011

Kirtland's watersnake (Clonophis kirtlandii) W T T Eastern massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) W E E

AMPHIBIANS

Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus) T

BIRDS

Black-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus erythropthalmus) T

APPENDIX 2 Appendix 2. Species of special management concern at Robert Allerton Park, Piatt County, Illinois.

SPECIES RATIONALE

Indiana bat federally endangered, possibly present, survey needed

Franklin's ground squirrel south end of range, prairie species, occurs at Barnhart Prairie, Champaign Co. southern bog lemming cyclic populations, moist prairie species pine vole uncommon woodland microtine, fragmentation sensitive

Broad-winged hawk forest interior species (FIS)

Pileated woodpecker FIS

Hairy woodpecker FIS

Acadian flycatcher FIS

Wood thrush FIS

Blue-gray gnatcatcher FIS

Yellow-throated vireo FIS

Red-eyed vireo FIS

Appendix 2 (cont'd)

SPECIES RATIONALE

Bell's vireo federal species of management concern

Northern parula FIS

Cerulean warbler FIS, also a federal species of management concern

Yellow-throated warbler FIS

Ovenbird FIS

Louisiana waterthrush FIS

Kentucky warbler FIS

Hooded warbler FIS

American redstart FIS

Scarlet tanager FIS

Henslow's sparrow bred in 1949-50

Brown-headed cowbird brood parasite