Restoration of Reber Woods in Muncie
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Fort Wayne-based Indiana Michigan Power is partnering with a conservation group to help convert a former farm field into a wildlife habitat in Muncie. The Red-tail Land Conservancy wants to connect two strips of mature forest in Reber Woods.
Since part of the open land sits underneath existing powerlines, they are unable to plant trees. Instead, I&M and Red-tail are planting a specific blend of native grasses and wildflowers.
The grassland will provide a natural corridor for wildlife to move from one habitat to another. It also supports local and migratory animals with food, water, and shelter.
“When Red-tail reached out to see how we could help bridge the gap of these two forests, we were happy to help support a seed mix for the field that allowed for the continued safe operation of the power infrastructure and continued restoration of the habitat,” said Jennifer Walker, environmental specialist consultant with I&M.
In the other areas of the field not covered by powerlines, Red-tail plans to plant 1,200 trees. Because of a broader restoration project at Reber Woods, the area is not open to the public.