Cut & haul buckthorn at Grey Cloud Dunes SNA [FULL]

Grey Cloud Dunes SNA is one of those places you can hardly believe is in a metro area. Located in Cottage Grove, this highly protected Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) features two sandy terraces along the river. The first rises 40 to 60 feet above river-level with remarkable crescents and blowouts sculpted by southwesterly winds. The second, 110 feet above the Mississippi, has a dramatic cut-face. Dunes on both terraces rise in waves, cresting 10 to 20 feet above the swales.

Join FMR staff in the southern portion of the SNA Saturday, November 5, 9-11 a.m. After a brief orientation, volunteers will help cut and haul invasive buckthorn from the worksite to make way for native habitat.

Due to tool usage, including loppers and saws, this event is not suitable for youth. As this a special type of park is meant to protect rare, fragile plant and animal habitat, Grey Cloud SNA does not feature such amenities as trails or restrooms.

Capacity is limited, in part to tread lightly on this special place but also to make sure everyone has a chance to ask questions about the site's ecology and the many native plants.

If you have any questions please contact FMR Outreach Assistant Linda Moua at lmoua@fmr.org or 651-222-2193 x17