Grassland Restoration

Grassland Restoration via Solarization

Pennyfield/Lock 22 (mile 19.6) - OPEN
Antietam Creek Campground (mile 69.7) - OPEN
Canal Road (mile 70-71) - OPEN

The National Park Service is restoring native grasslands throughout C&O Canal NHP to improve species habitat, maintain ecological resilience, and enhance the safety, reliability, and sustainability of park features. These areas are currently dominated by non-native invasive species that threaten native species and require frequent maintenance. The park is restoring native grasses, sedges, and flowering plants, which will promote pollinators and birds to use for a food source and habitat.

The park is using a using a technique called “solarization” to eliminate the non-native species and create a favorable environment for the native plants to thrive. Solarization is an effective herbicide-free way of eliminating non-native grasses and plants using heat. With solarization, plastic sheets are used to trap heat from the sun, eradicating the invasive plants, including their roots and seedbanks, down to a few inches below the surface. The sheeting will be removed after 6-8 weeks and then a native seed mix will be planted.

 

Grassy area near Pennyfield

NPS Staff

What is the P.L.A.N. ?

Purpose? [Why are we undertaking this project?]

To restore native grassland habitat and improve ecosystem functions.

Length? [When are we closing, and how long?]

This project will begin in August 2025. Plastic sheeting will be in place for 6-8 weeks with seeding following. Grassland establishment can take up to three years for plants to mature and fill out the area.

Alternative Activities? [What can I do instead?]

Visitors should not be impacted by the solarization process in the areas that have been identified. These small, lawn like areas are located in areas that will not impact visitor access or activities.

Next Step? [What are the future benefits?]

The completion of this project will result in small grassland conversions throughout the park using a unique technique that requires no herbicide use. After the establishment of the grassland, visitors will be able to enjoy flora, birds, and pollinators.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

What is the need for the project?

To restore native grasslands in the park, which will improve species habitat, maintain ecological resilience, and enhance the safety, reliability, and sustainability of park features.

What does the project include?

Solarization is an effective herbicide-free way of eliminating non-native grasses and plants using heat. Afterward, areas are sown with native seed mixes specific for their location and requirements.

What type of native plants will be planted?

Seed mixes vary throughout the different sites depending on location but all contain a mix of native to Maryland warm and cool season grasses, sedges, and flowering plants (e.g. coneflowers, bee balm).

Where will the project take place?

Near Pennyfield/Lock 22 (mile 19.6), the canal prism at Antietam Creek Campground (mile 69.7), and the canal prism along Canal Road (mile 70-71).

When will the project begin and end?

August 2025 – October 2025

How will the project impact park visitors?

Visitors will see large plastic sheets in areas. This is only short-term for 6-8 weeks, then they will be removed.

How will the project benefit park visitors?

These areas will contain native grasses and flowering plants, increasing pollinator and wildlife viewing opportunities.

How will this project impact natural and cultural resources?

Every project the NPS executes undergoes review by a multidisciplinary team to ensure compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other federal, state, and local laws.

How is the project funded?

This project was funded through the National Park Service Natural Resource Fund Source, where it competed nationally for funding to convert areas to grasslands for the promotion of pollinators and other ecological functions.

Who can I contact if I have further questions regarding the project?

Additional questions are to be directed to the park headquarters at 301-739-4200.