Prudence Memorial Park, PO Box 228, Prudence Island RI 02872
Land Management
Minimizing Disturbance
In keeping with the requirements of a natural burial ground, the Prudence Memorial Park property is being actively managed to control non-native invasive species and promote a greater biodiversity of native plant species on the landscape. Management of invasive (e.g. autumn olive, Japanese barberry) and nuisance (e.g. green brier) species is performed through periodic cutting/mowing and, if necessary, the application of natural non-chemical herbicide products.
Plants that are native to this area and suitable to specific conditions (e.g. sun/shade, dry/moist) are being planted throughout the property as appropriate to support the widest variety of wildlife; primarily pollinators and birds. The presence of rocky areas (e.g. foundations), mature trees and shrubs, open field, and moist soil in previously excavated areas provides a canvas on which to establish a broad range of native species that serve to extend wildlife foraging opportunities across multiple seasons.
Native plantings are also used to create a greater sense of privacy by screening nearby homes from view as well as to create private seating areas along pathways for quiet reflection. Given the soil type and the mix of open and sheltered aspects that are already present on the landscape, achieving these goals should require minimal effort after the first few years of more intensive management. However, it will take several years and, in some instances, decades for plantings to mature and spread out to achieve the full effect.
