09 August . 2018
Wetland Plugs
Reed’s Crossing: Committed to Conservation
As the need for attainable housing in Oregon continues to grow, so does the need for taking environmental conservation to heart. In recent years, the stunning increase in housing demands has led to the realization that protection of our natural environment must stretch beyond traditional bounds. “Conservation Development” aka housing developments that incorporate protected open spaces, has emerged as a tool that serves to both accommodate the growing need for housing while simultaneously protecting the diverse and lush landscape that makes Oregon so special. This new approach is helping communities move toward recognition of the connections, and even the benefits, of integrating land conservation and development.
As a community that is proud to take an approach to Conservation Development, Reed’s Crossing is guided by a passion to protect this incredible land and its unique character. That passion is woven tightly with reverence for the people who will call this community home, history of the region and symbiotic connection within the larger community.
To uphold our commitment, four existing wetlands on the Reed’s Crossing grounds will be conserved. Wetlands are among nature’s most biodiverse habitats, filled with an astonishing variety of plants and animals; from frogs and fish to reeds, grasses, insects and birds. To jump-start vegetation growth at Reed’s Crossing, we’ve enlisted Teufel Nursery to hand-plant more than 300,000 wetland plugs throughout the native greenway running the length of our community. Species include Slough Sedge, Dense Sedge, Common Sedge and Panicled Bulrush. These native wetland plants provide a range of important ecological benefits, including: water quality improvement, run off reduction, oxygen production, carbon dioxide sequestration and air cooling, while serving as natural aesthetic features for passive recreation.
In addition to giving a home to local wildlife, wetlands also protect against floods and erosion and, once the plants are established, are self-sustaining, eliminating the need for irrigation. Good land stewardship depends on meeting the needs of a community while incorporating those needs within the natural environment. At Reed’s Crossing we are honored to be able to preserve this natural legacy for future generations.