Forest Disturbance History

Many human-caused disturbances have been felt at this location, post colonization. This area and surrounding areas were logged most recently in 2005. In some areas, logging was done selectively, but elsewhere, trees were clear cut. The associated soil disturbance, compaction, and canopy reduction has greatly impacted the forest ecosystem here, allowing invasive species to take hold and reducing habitat for native organisms.

One of the invasive species well known in the Gulf Islands is Scotch broom. Volunteers and Conservancy staff have worked diligently to clear large patches and annually maintain areas of the park free from this yellow flowering plant. Looks like satisfying work? Want to help? Learn to identify broom to remove it from your property or contact us to join a volunteer work party. Click here to join our volunteer list!

To remove Scotch broom, use loppers to cut below the top root. Scotch broom will not re-sprout from below the top root but will readily re-sprout from the stem. The larger and older the stem, the less likely it is to re-sprout, so for stems larger than 3cm in diameter, we recommend cutting the stem above the ground with a hand saw.