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Welcome to Notes from Nature!
This is our new monthly e-newsletter where we will highlight all things natural resources in Rochester Hills. If there is anything in particular you would like to learn about, share it with us via email at parks@rochesterhills.org.
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They often go unnoticed to the untrained eye, but invasive species are all around us...and they are a problem. Once an invasive species spreads, they prohibit any native plants or trees from growing in an area. That then leads to low quality habitats that lack diversity and support fewer wildlife. A few examples of those invasives are buckthorn, autumn olive, honeysuckle, and phragmites. Putting a stop to their spread is an intensive process that the City undertakes on a regular basis in our parks and all of our green spaces. Even residents can address issues on their property or in their subdivision with the help of the City. To learn more about what the City is doing to treat invasive species or to see how we can partner, call our Natural Resources team at 248-656-4673.
Making Maple Syrup
Learn about the maple syrup making process, tap a maple tree, and even go home with equipment to make your own at this "sweet" program at 11am or 1pm on Saturday, Feb. 25 at Bloomer Park. Cost is $15 per person + $10 for the starter kit. Click here to pre-register!
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Explore Archery
Take aim in this introductory class led by a certified USA Archery Instructor that is perfect for all ability levels and ages 10+. Equipment is provided and the program takes place from 10-11am on Saturday, March 4. Cost is $15 per person. Click here to pre-register!
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Apply for a Free Street Tree!
The City is giving away up to 250 free trees this spring as part of our annual Community Tree Planting Program. All trees are 2-inch caliper and approximately 8-10 feet tall. To learn more about the program and to order your free tree, visit rochesterhills.org/trees. The City has planted more than 10,000 trees since starting this program!
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Adding to our Green Spaces!
The City has added another 11 acres to its green spaces with the purchase of the Auburn Green Space at 3001 Auburn Road. The property features over 6.5 acres of emergent marsh wetlands, with some forested wetland areas. Further study and planning for the natural features on this property is underway. With the addition of this property, the City currently has 138 acres of green space. For more information on green spaces in our community, visit rochesterhills.org/greenspace.
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Meet the North American Racoon!
These masked scavengers can be found everywhere and at times are a pest. They typically hunker down in the winter but do not hibernate. Our team has been receiving more calls about sick looking racoons - which is from a spike in the distemper virus. This virus cannot spread to humans. If you see this behavior or have questions, call 248-656-4673.
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Get a taste of the fruit of a Serviceberry!
Native to Michigan, the Serviceberry tree has white flowers in the spring and bursts of color in the fall. It also produces small fruits great for pie filling or jam - that is if you are faster than a bird as they often get to them before they fall to the ground. Learn more about the Serviceberry and our other street trees here.
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