Walk Among the Oaks
A Community Restoration Gathering
Wednesday, October 8 | 5:30–7:30 PM
MB Johnson Park, Moorhead
Join us for an early evening of connection, ecological care, and seasonal beauty beneath the falling canopy of the majestic Bur Oaks at MB Johnson Park.
We’ll begin with a visit to one of the oldest Bur Oaks in the Moorhead Parks. This large towering tree is believed to be over 200 years old. After hearing her story, we’ll learn about the invasive Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) threatening her understory—and take action.
Bur Oaks are keystone giants of our riparian forests — they stabilize riverbanks, nurture habitat, and support biodiversity. But Common Buckthorn aggressively invades, choking out oak seedlings, altering soil and light conditions, and reducing the forest’s resilience. Without action, our forests risk becoming thickets instead of thriving native woodlands.
Volunteers will help clear buckthorn to protect the next generation of native trees.
Details:
- Wear sturdy clothing, leather gloves, and shoes suitable for light forest work, safety glasses can be important for those who get deeper into buckthorn thickets.
- Families and children welcome
- No prior experience needed
- Buckthorn is easiest to identify in mid-autumn when its green leaves remain after others have dropped
- an RSVP at the bottom of our events page is encouraged
- Optional post-event gathering for refreshments nearby
Let’s honor the trees, the land, and each other—through presence and participation.
Moorhead Parks and Recreation and Red River Health have combined to facilitate this event.
