Invasive plant species have made their way up Marys Peak and Siuslaw National Forest officials are planning to take action through an update to the trail system.
The forest’s recreation and botany staff are working together on the trail improvements to reduce the spread. Officials are asking for the public’s help.
“In order to maintain an area as special as Marys Peak, we need the help of all of our visitors,” Matt Ramich, recreation manager for the Central Coast Ranger District, said through a news release. “Hikers and their pets should stay on designated trails to help us avoid spreading more invasive plant species.”
Over the years, a user-made or unofficial trail within the meadow south of the Marys Peak summit day-use parking area has been identified as an invasive species spreader, officials said. The trail will be decommissioned and temporary fencing will be set up in an effort to rehabilitate the meadow and protect it from further damage.
Ramich stressed that Marys Peak is an important natural and cultural resource.
“It has been designated as a Scenic Botanical Area because of its rich, unique scenery and plants,” he said. “It is also a place of great significance to the surrounding tribes.”
A number of invasive species have made their way up Marys Peak, officials said, including oxeye daisy and fox glove. Hikers, bikers and pets roaming off trail can unintentionally pick up non-native seeds and spread them across the forest.
Visitors are encouraged to use official trails such as the East Ridge Trail, Summit Trail and Meadow Edge Trail to explore the top of Marys Peak. Officials added that an official trail is being designed to give visitors access to the area after the rehabilitation is complete.
Marys Peak Alliance, a community-led organization, is also working with the Siuslaw National Forest to protect the sensitive, rare plant community on the rock gardens near the summit of Marys Peak. Additional fencing and barriers will be placed around most fragile areas to preserve the unique microhabitats.