Forest Park, a crown jewel of St. Louis, Missouri, is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a living testament to the importance of urban conservation. Spanning over 5,000 acres, the park is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and waterways. Among its many features, the Jefferson and Bowl Lakes stand out as iconic landmarks that have shaped the park’s landscape for over a century. However, these waterways have faced significant challenges in recent years, including sedimentation, erosion, and water quality issues. To address these concerns, a major restoration project is set to begin on the east waterways of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes. This initiative marks a new chapter in Forest Park’s conservation story, promising to enhance the ecological health of the park while preserving its historical and cultural significance.

In this article, we’ll explore the details of this ambitious project, its impact on Forest Park’s flora and fauna, and what it means for the future of urban conservation. From the basics of forest flora to the importance of preserving rare and endangered species, we’ll delve into the many facets of this restoration effort and its broader implications.

The Legacy of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes

Jefferson and Bowl Lakes are two of the most recognizable features of Forest Park. Designed by renowned landscape architect George Kessler in the early 20th century, these lakes were created to provide aesthetic beauty, recreational opportunities, and ecological benefits. Over the years, they have become integral to the park’s identity, serving as a backdrop for countless memories and community events.

However, time and environmental pressures have taken their toll on these waterways. Sedimentation from stormwater runoff, invasive species, and aging infrastructure have led to degraded water quality and habitat loss. The upcoming restoration project aims to address these issues, ensuring that Jefferson and Bowl Lakes remain vibrant and functional for generations to come.

The Restoration Project: What’s Happening?

The restoration of the east waterways at Jefferson and Bowl Lakes is a multi-faceted project that involves several key components:

1. Sediment Removal: Over the years, sediment has accumulated in the lakes, reducing their depth and impairing water quality. The project will involve dredging to remove this sediment and restore the lakes to their original depth.
2. Shoreline Stabilization: Erosion along the shorelines has led to habitat loss and water quality issues. The project will include measures to stabilize the shorelines, such as the installation of native vegetation and erosion control structures.
3. Water Quality Improvements: The project will incorporate strategies to improve water quality, including the installation of filtration systems and the removal of invasive species that contribute to nutrient pollution.
4. Habitat Restoration: The restoration effort will focus on creating and enhancing habitats for wildlife, including fish, birds, and amphibians. This will involve planting native vegetation, creating wetlands, and improving the overall ecological health of the area.
5. Community Engagement: The project will include opportunities for community involvement, such as volunteer planting events and educational programs. This will help foster a sense of stewardship among park visitors and ensure the long-term success of the restoration effort.

Impact on Forest Park’s Flora and Fauna

The restoration of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes will have a profound impact on the flora and fauna of Forest Park. By improving water quality, stabilizing shorelines, and restoring habitats, the project will create a healthier and more resilient ecosystem. Let’s take a closer look at how this initiative will benefit the park’s plant and animal life.

Forest Flora Basics: The Role of Waterways

Waterways like Jefferson and Bowl Lakes play a crucial role in supporting the park’s flora. They provide essential water resources for trees, shrubs, and other plants, while also creating microhabitats that support a diverse array of species. The restoration project will enhance these benefits by:

• Promoting Native Plant Growth: The removal of invasive species and the planting of native vegetation will help restore the natural balance of the ecosystem. Native plants are better adapted to local conditions and provide more benefits to wildlife.
• Improving Soil Health: The stabilization of shorelines and the reduction of erosion will help maintain healthy soils, which are essential for plant growth. Healthy soils also support the growth of beneficial microorganisms that contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem.
• Enhancing Biodiversity: By creating and restoring habitats, the project will support a wider range of plant species, from towering trees to delicate wildflowers. This increased biodiversity will make the ecosystem more resilient to environmental changes.

Tree Identification: A Changing Landscape

The restoration project will also impact the park’s tree population, particularly along the shorelines of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes. Trees play a vital role in stabilizing soil, filtering water, and providing habitat for wildlife. As part of the project, new trees will be planted to replace those lost to erosion and other factors.

Some of the tree species that may be planted include:

• Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum): Known for its ability to thrive in wet conditions, the bald cypress is an excellent choice for shoreline stabilization. Its distinctive “knees” provide habitat for aquatic organisms.
• Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor): This hardy tree is well-suited to wetland environments and provides valuable habitat for wildlife.
• River Birch (Betula nigra): With its attractive peeling bark and tolerance for wet soils, the river birch is a popular choice for riparian restoration projects.

During the restoration process, visitors may notice changes in the park’s tree landscape. However, these changes are part of a larger effort to create a healthier and more sustainable ecosystem.

Medicinal Plants and Rare & Endangered Flora

Forest Park is home to a variety of medicinal plants and rare or endangered species, many of which rely on healthy waterways for their survival. The restoration of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes will provide significant benefits for these plants, ensuring their continued presence in the park.

Medicinal Plants: A Living Pharmacy

Many of the plants found in Forest Park have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The restoration project will help protect these valuable resources by improving water quality and creating healthier habitats. Some of the medicinal plants that may benefit from the project include:

• Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa): Used to treat menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms, black cohosh thrives in moist, shaded areas.
• Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis): Known for its antimicrobial properties, goldenseal is often found in rich, moist soils.
• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Commonly used to boost the immune system, echinacea prefers well-drained soils and sunny locations.

By restoring the health of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes, the project will help ensure that these medicinal plants continue to thrive in Forest Park.

Rare & Endangered Flora: Protecting the Park’s Gems

Forest Park is also home to several rare and endangered plant species, many of which are sensitive to changes in water quality and habitat conditions. The restoration project will provide critical support for these species by:

• Creating Wetland Habitats: Wetlands are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, providing habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species. The project will create and restore wetlands, benefiting rare and endangered plants like the showy lady’s slipper (Cypripedium reginae) and the eastern prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera leucophaea).
• Reducing Invasive Species: Invasive species can outcompete native plants, including rare and endangered species. The project will focus on removing invasive plants and restoring native vegetation, giving rare species a better chance to thrive.

Seasonal Flora Changes: A Dynamic Ecosystem

The restoration of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes will also have an impact on the park’s seasonal flora. As water quality improves and habitats are restored, visitors can expect to see changes in the plant life throughout the year.

• Spring: Spring is a time of renewal, and the restoration project will enhance the park’s spring blooms. Visitors may notice an increase in wildflowers like Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica) and trilliums (Trillium spp.), which thrive in moist, shaded areas.
• Summer: Summer brings lush greenery to the park, and the restoration project will support the growth of native grasses and shrubs. Visitors may also see an increase in aquatic plants like water lilies (Nymphaea spp.) and pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata).
• Fall: Fall is a time of vibrant colors, and the restoration project will enhance the park’s fall foliage. Trees like sugar maples (Acer saccharum) and red oaks (Quercus rubra) will benefit from improved water quality and soil health.
• Winter: Even in winter, the park’s flora remains active. Evergreen trees like eastern hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis) and white pines (Pinus strobus) will provide a splash of color against the snowy landscape.

Conclusion: A Brighter Future for Forest Park

The restoration of the east waterways at Jefferson and Bowl Lakes is more than just a construction project; it’s a commitment to the future of Forest Park. By addressing critical issues like sedimentation, erosion, and water quality, this initiative will create a healthier and more resilient ecosystem that benefits both people and wildlife.

As the project gets underway, visitors can look forward to a renewed appreciation for the park’s natural beauty and ecological significance. From the basics of forest flora to the importance of preserving rare and endangered species, the restoration of Jefferson and Bowl Lakes is a testament to the power of conservation and community.

So, whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a casual visitor, take a moment to explore the wonders of Forest Park. The lakes may be changing, but their legacy—and the park’s—will endure for generations to come.