Invasive plant removal begins at Fourth Street Preserve in Lewes

Restoration work at the Fourth Street Preserve continues to move forward as members of the Delaware Master Naturalist Program began the first phase of invasive plant removal over the weekend. The group focused on the removal of English ivy, one of the most aggressive non-native species impacting the health of native trees and understory plants throughout the preserve.

The volunteer effort marks an important early step in preparing the 29-acre site for native tree and habitat restoration. Removing invasive vegetation allows sunlight, nutrients and space where native plants can reestablish, a critical step to restoring the property’s ecological balance and long-term resilience.

In addition to invasive removal, Rodney Robinson, task  force chair and landscape architect, joined Jim Ford and Scott Wilkinson, task force members, to mark the southeastern trail with stakes, outlining the route for a future walking path. The planned trail will allow visitors to experience the preserve’s natural features up close while protecting sensitive areas from overuse and erosion.

“These actions may seem small, but they represent major progress toward the preserve’s long-term vision—a thriving, accessible urban forest right in the heart of Lewes,” said Robinson. “We’re grateful for the Master Naturalists’ expertise and dedication, and for the community’s ongoing support as this important work continues.”

The Fourth Street Preserve Task Force meets publicly at 2 p.m., the second Wednesday of every month at Lewes City Hall, 114 East Third St., Lewes. Residents are encouraged to attend, stay informed and participate in volunteer opportunities as the project advances.

To learn more, go to fourthstreetpreserve.org or follow Open Space Alliance on Facebook.