This park encompasses close to six acres of open space near the end of Jetton Road.

INVASIVE SPECIES ERADICATION PROJECT: SILVERTHORN

Silverthorn (Elaeagnus pungens, also known as thorny olive or oleaster), becomes a problem when it escapes from planted landscapes into natural areas. Like many invasive plants, it outcompetes native vegetation by forming dense thickets and shading out plants below. If it begins climbing, it can even block sunlight and photosynthesis from occurring in larger shrubs and trees. Spreading both through root suckers and seed dispersal by birds, it can rapidly displace native vegetation and reduce biodiversity, wildlife habitat quality, available forage, and native insect life.

The most effective management method of silverthorn is prevention. Due to its ability to escape natural areas, it is important to reduce growth and distribution. Silverthorn can be removed by cutting it down to the ground with repeated treatments throughout the year and careful observation for growth in new areas. 

In March of 2022, efforts were undertaken to significantly halt the spread and and to eventually eradicate silverthorn from Jetton Road Neighborhood Park. The process will take years to complete, but the very important first step involved using a forestry mulcher to remove the plants. The resulting mulch was left in place to decay. Along with the mulching, there will be prescribed measures needed annually to prevent new growth from occurring.  Additionally, any dead and dying trees will be thinned and removed from the park to promote a healthy forest.

If you have questions, please email us or call 704-892-6031 x160.