Small But Mighty Willows

Youth from the Community Fly Fisher brave cold, rainy weather to plant willows that help fight erosion.

Shrub willows only reach 12 feet in height, but their roots work wonders, holding soil in place against the force of fast moving creeks. Each year, in cooperation with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts and Cooperative Extension, the Network oversees the securing, distribution and planting of 1000 shrub willows. The Restoration and Protection Plan for the Cayuga Lake Watershed identified sedimentation as a major threat to Cayuga Lake. Not only is the eroded soil a concern, but also it serves as a vector to carry pesticides, nutrients and heavy metals from uplands to the lake. The majority of willows were planted on Six Mile Creek supporting larger erosion control projects. The remaining willows were planted along Treman Creek. Both youth and adults who contribute their time to plant the willows received a brief educational program on the harm caused by soil erosion, and simple techniques in prevention and restoration. The willows are generously supplied by NYS Department of Environmental Conservation to protect streams with public fishing access.