Huron Pine Grove Restoration Study

The City of Cambridge Water Department (CWD), in partnership with the Fresh Pond Reservation Master Plan Advisory and Water Boards, is committed to managing the long term health and viability of the unique Huron Ave. Pine Grove habitat. This forested slope as well as other naturalized landscape areas within Fresh Pond Reservation provide critical ecosystem services in protecting the Fresh Pond drinking water reservoir.

May, 2025 - Test Plots fenced

June, 2025 - Invasive plant species removed. Plots prepped for planting

July, 2025 - Plots planted with white pines

August, 2025 - Training in plot monitoring expected.

Ongoing - Sourcing and planting native understory as time and resources allow, and monitoring.

Planting finalized by fall, 2025 and test plot monitoring will be ongoing.

This similarly aged pine grove lacks the expected white pine regeneration and native understory that would succeed the pines as the trees reach the end of their lifespan. In order to explain why and to inform a future restoration approach, CWD and Hatch landscape architects (with Board input) have located and planted five 20' x 20' test plots within the grove to test and control for animal browse, trampling by users and their dogs, soil physical and biological conditions, and competition from non-native invasive species such as norway maple and buckthorn. Earthwise Aware (EwA) will help document existing and planted conditions and train volunteers to monitor test plots over time.

Test Plot 1 is fenced to control for browse and trampling with no soil amendments

Test Plot 2 is fenced and plants have been given a biochar* soil amendment

Test Plot 3 is not fenced with no soil amendments

Test Plot 4 is fenced and plants have been given a mycorrhizae** soil amendment

Test Plot 5 is fenced and plants have been given both biochar and mycorrhizae

*Biochar:

Biochar is a charcoal-like product derived from pyrolysis (burning of organic material in a low-oxygen environment). Biochar improves soil physical and biological properties while also sequestering carbon. The vast surface area and complex pore structure provide an expansive habitat for microbial activity and soil biodiversity. Soil porosity, air movement, drainage, water retention and drought resilience are enhanced. Biochar increases nutrient retention, reduces the need for fertilizers, and neutralizes soil pH (ex. pine grove soils are 4.3-5.0 with a goal of 5.0-6.0).

**Mycorrhizae:

Mycorrhizae (Ectomycorrhizae in this case) is the symbiotic connection between fungi and plant roots. Mycorrhizal fungi provide crucial plant benefits including enhancing nutrient and water uptake, protecting against disease, pathogens and pest, and improving soil structure. Mycorrhizae occur naturally in healthy forest systems.