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Buckthorn Removal at Deep Lake: A Conservation Success Story

The invasive buckthorn menace along Deep Lake’s shoreline is finally meeting its match thanks to a remarkable community effort. The Deep Lake shoreline is undergoing a transformation that benefits both the environment and local wildlife.

Beginning in 2021, the North Oaks Homeowners Association (NOHOA), the Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization, and residents launched a collaborative project to combat invasive species and restore native vegetation. In November 2024, the North Oaks Company joined the effort, focusing on some of the densest buckthorn stands along the lake’s eastern shoreline. This partnership has significantly accelerated the Deep Lake shoreline restoration plan, and we look forward to continued restoration efforts as needed to establish a healthy, native plant community.

 

Among the native plants making a triumphant return is the striking red-osier dogwood, easily recognized by its vibrant red bark. This vital shrub not only stabilizes the shoreline but also serves as a host plant for 95 species of butterflies and moths. Shade-intolerant and struggling under the dominance of buckthorn, red-osier dogwood is now thriving in its natural habitat.

The impact of this restoration is also felt by local wildlife. Sandhill cranes, which nest in the lowland marshes near Deep Lake, benefit greatly from the removal of dense buckthorn thickets. These birds rely on open pathways to move between their nesting sites and foraging areas, and the cleared shoreline provides a more accessible environment for their needs. The shoreline restoration serves as an inspiring reminder of what the natural landscape of a Minnesota lake should look like.

*Photo credits: Common buckthorn.  Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.

This project underscores the power of community-driven conservation efforts and highlights the importance of preserving our natural ecosystems for future generations. Let’s continue to protect and cherish these vital spaces.

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