The Mercer County Park Commission is committed to the preservation and improvement of natural resources within the county park system. Current stewardship practices include reforestation projects, restoration of degraded habitats, protection of sensitive areas, and management of important ecosystems. Many stewardship projects have been made possible by generous grant funding and partnerships with other organizations. The County’s dedication to conservation ensures a healthy environment will continue to be an integral part of the county park system. 

Reforestation

The Stewardship Department works with local conservation partners and volunteers to undertake reforestation efforts throughout the County, including creating future forests from abandoned agricultural fields, expanding riparian areas around waterbodies, and enhancing existing forest composition through supplemental understory plantings. These efforts help build a more resilient forest now and into the future.  

Native Grassland and Meadow Restoration 

The Stewardship Department oversees the maintenance of over 500 acres of native grassland meadow created since 2014. The Mercer County Park Commission continues to identify areas within its parks to convert to native meadow to benefit wildlife, pollinators and park users alike.  

Invasive Species Management

Invasive species have the potential to alter the function of the landscape by displacing native species, reducing biodiversity, and increasing competition for resources. The Stewardship Department coordinates the targeted removal of invasive species from high conservation value areas and restoration sites throughout the park.  

Research, Surveys and Monitoring 

Research has the potential to uncover valuable information that can improve our understanding of the region’s ecology and inform the stewardship of important habitats within county parks. The Stewardship Department performs in-house monitoring of wildlife and plant populations as well as research performed by outside professionals to make informed management decisions. 

Press Releases & Useful Information

Pollinator Meadows

Mercer County Parks Inventory and Analysis: Executive Summary

Spotted Lanternfly FAQ