Taking care of the soil at McLaughlin Woodland
A basic principle of forest restoration is to protect the soil of the forest floor from erosion and compaction. Logs, leaf mulch, sticks, twigs and wood in various stages of decay form a first layer of soil that is protective against physical elements. It also provides the conditions for new growth, and nutriments for existing growth. As recently as the 1960's what is now McLaughlin woodlands on Mission Hill in Boston was mostly grass covered and mowed often. Because th
