What’s Planned for 2024? Woodlands & Habitat Committee

Our mission remains steadfast: to enhance the natural beauty of our community, promote biodiversity, and foster a sense of environmental stewardship among residents.
Let’s dive into the projects on our horizon. Our focus this year… TREES!

  1. Planting Native Trees and Shrubs
    Our commitment to maintaining our unique wooded community continues to grow. In 2024, we’re diving deeper into re-establishing native trees and shrubs in Craneridge common areas. Why native plants? They’re hardy, adapted to our local climate, and provide an essential habitat for wildlife.

    We’ll be focusing on planting in more common areas—including between private properties and two areas in the Meadow. These plantings aren’t just about aesthetics and maintaining our property values; they’re a testament to our shared commitment to nature. If we’d like to plant near your home, someone will contact you directly!
  2. Tree Planting Workshops for Homeowners: SAVE THE DATE! Saturday May 4
    Calling all tree lovers – that’s all of us! Our tree planting workshop is designed specifically for homeowners. Learn the art of planting, nurturing, and safeguarding trees and shrubs in your own yard. From proper planting techniques to caring for (watering!) and protecting from deer browsing, we’ve got you covered. Let’s keep Craneridge a woodland community!
  3. Guides and Videos: Your Tree Planting Companions
    Look for a series of user-friendly guides and instructional videos that you can access at any time. These resources will demystify the tree and shrub planting process. From selecting the right tree for your yard to ensuring its longevity, our guides will give you the knowledge you need.
  4. Seeds of Tomorrow: Craneridge Tree Nursery
    Get ready for something groundbreaking: the beginnings of a Craneridge native tree nursery! We’re collecting locally sourced tree seeds and nurturing them in innovative “air pruning” boxes. These seedlings will grow into the giants of our future landscape. Imagine future generations of oaks, maples, and dogwoods thriving right here in Craneridge.
  5. Battle Against Invasive Species
    Our ongoing partnership with WNY PRISM (Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management) remains crucial. Together, we’ll combat invasive plants and insects that threaten our ecosystem. Stay informed about removal efforts, early detection, and prevention strategies. Let’s protect our native biodiversity.
  6. Continued Creek Remediation
    The lovely and serene Crump Brook winds its way through our woods, but erosion and habitat degradation in many creek-side areas are a growing concern. Continuing our partnership with Erie County Conservation District, a request for $17,000 of grant funding is being submitted on our behalf for the erosion-damaged areas on the west end of Deer Run for a creek remediation project.

Questions? Ideas? What to help in some way? Contact Gwen at gwenalegre@gmail.com

In 2024, let’s nurture our woodlands, celebrate our habitat, and sow seeds of positive change. Join us on this green journey—it’s a legacy we’ll leave for generations to come. 🌿🌳🌱