Habitat & Wildlife

In fall of 2010, a dwarf hackberry (Celtis tenuifolia) was discovered growing on a sandy hillside located on Western Michigan University (WMU) property next to the Stadium Drive apartment complex. The ecosystem where this uncommon tree species is growing is reminiscent to a pre-settlement savanna, the ecosystem which transides woodland to prairie and the latter which is nearly extirpated in Southwest Michigan. A study done by WMU researchers based on old U.S. Public Land Survey information were able to create a map showing vegetation in Kalamazoo county during the 1820Љ—Иs. The new data shows that this spot lies at the convergence of what was believed to be an oak savanna and burr oak opening before settlers began to transform the landscape (Appendix A). This urban green space has sandy soil and maintains a mix between dense forest, woodland and open savanna area but is heavily infested with exotic invasive species.

Since the discovery of C. tenuifolia on campusОѕby Dr. Todd Barkman, more individuals have been identified on the land. This tree species has been recorded in Michigan only 30 times (populations and individuals) in 6 different counties since 1974 and makes this finding the first in Kalamazoo county to be recorded (MNFI). In Michigan C. tenuifolia is classified under special concern status and is considered Љ—…rare or uncertainЉ—И yet is not legally protected. The land sits on the lower slopes of the remnants of the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital, holding historic value but also acts as an important area for the natural storm water drainage. This urban green space is an important aspect to students living in the stadium drive apartments, the community garden and the overall aesthetic appeal that WMU provides to its students and community.Оѕ

The goals of this project are to remove invasive species, plant and seed native species, improve conductivity of wildlife through campus and the community, and increase student knowledge and respect for ecosystem restoratio

Northwest corner of Howard and Stadium
Kalamazoo, AK 85719
United States

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