Back to List

Oak reforestation project helps restore Rice Creek North Regional Trail

Rice Creek North Regional Trail volunteers

A reforestation initiative in Rice Creek North Regional Trail has contributed to ongoing conservation efforts, providing valuable insights into seedling survival rates. Due to urbanization and fire suppression, forests have experienced an overgrowth of invasive species, making it difficult for native trees to thrive. While Ramsey County Parks and Recreation has worked to remove invasive plants, a long-term reforestation plan had yet to be implemented.

In response to this challenge, 18-year-old Matthew Higley collaborated with Ramsey County to lead a large-scale conservation project. As part of his pursuit of a distinguished conservation service award, Higley partnered with Michael Goodnature, Natural Resources Manager for Ramsey County, to plant 400 bare-root oak seedlings — red, white and bur oak — across multiple acres of the trail. Of these, 100 seedlings were specifically flagged for a survival study, marking the first time the county formally tracked long-term seedling viability.

Higley recruited 15 volunteers from his high school swim team, local scouting groups, and family members to assist with the planting in May 2023. Over the following months, he conducted multiple surveys to assess the seedlings' health. By the first frost, 90 of the 100 flagged seedlings had survived, with 77 classified as being in very good health. His findings provided critical data supporting the effectiveness of Ramsey County’s previous reforestation efforts.

This initiative represents a significant step toward restoring the region’s native oak forests. Higley acknowledged the contributions of his volunteers, Goodnature’s expertise, and the support of Ramsey County Parks and Recreation in making the project a success. With continued conservation efforts, the newly planted trees are expected to strengthen the long-term health of the forest ecosystem.