This is the first iteration of a comprehensive resource management plan for the Coastal Terrace Prairie at the proposed Richmond Bay Campus (RBC). As of spring 2014, management of the resource has largely consisted of mowing to reduce invasive plant species and efforts to minimize disturbance of the area, along with some notable small scale research and restoration efforts. The Coastal Terrace Prairie is a key feature of the upland portion of the Natural Open Space area in the Richmond Bay Campus 2014 Long Range Development Plan. The Management Plan is intended to help protect and restore this area in keeping with objectives of the Long Range Development Plan to establish an appealing and inspirational character for the new campus, sensitive and responsible to its natural environment.
This Management Plan anticipates that implementation of the Richmond Bay Campus, and implementation of this Management Plan, will occur at varying degrees of intensity over time. During periods of limited development at the RBC and limited resources for stewardship, steps can nonetheless be taken to reduce the threat of invasive plant species, as described elsewhere (Farrell et al. 2007, Cai et al. 2012). As development at the RBC proceeds, as open space areas outside the Natural Open Space are developed or altered, sod salvage and other more intensive management practices can proceed.
Historically, the Richmond Field Station portion of the Richmond Bay Campus housed companies involved in explosives manufacturing, and some contaminants remain in soil and groundwater. Any activity under this Management Plan must be undertaken with full cognizance of the history of the site, and in accordance with soil management plans approved by regulatory agencies. This Management Plan does not provide authority to undertake any action; activities can only be undertaken with full review and approval of the University, which is responsible for ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
