On October 12, 2022, Dwayne Estes (SGI Executive Director) joined Larry Weaner (Founder of New Directions in the American Landscape) to co-present a workshop at Bridgestone Firestone Wildlife Management Area in Sparta, Tennessee. The all-day workshop was attended by landscape architects, resource managers, private individuals, and others interested in learning about Southeastern grasslands.
The day began with introductions from Dwayne Estes, Clarence Coffey (retired, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency), and Larry Weaner about the history and ecology of the area, as well as, things to consider when working with clients or others who may want to create or restore grassland communities.
Dwayne and Clarence introduced some of the history of the Cumberland Plateau and how that relates to its ecology.
Larry continued the conversation by adding how important it is for landscape architects to be able to read the landscape at multiple levels and then apply what they see when working with clients.
Participants then carpooled to multiple sites where they were able to explore and learn first-hand how restored grasslands respond to different management activities. Lots of different grassland-dependent plants were identified and discussed, including at least five different species of bluestem. Many of the plants that were found serve as host plants for caterpillars, not to mention food and cover for a wide range of wildlife including quail. Historical connections and information about how to incorporate these natural components into designed landscapes were interwoven into the ecological discussions.
The fall colors of the grasslands were in full display, and although rain clouds hung around for most of the day, only a few drops actually fell during the workshop. The natural beauty, stimulating conversations, and new acquaintances combined to make this an amazing day.
SHANNON TRIMBOLI, INTERIM DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Shannon helps the Southeastern Grasslands Initiative tell the forgotten and untold stories of our Southeastern grasslands.