Second-Year Report: January–July 2025
Oakland Cemetery CLM Pilot Program
Monica Newbury
This report summarizes the restoration and conservation activities conducted at Oakland Cemetery in Dallas, Texas, during the first six months of 2025 as part of the CLM Pilot Program. While I am not an active volunteer on-site, I have kept informed of ongoing efforts through regular communication with volunteers and updates from the Oakland Prairie Project Facebook group.
When I joined the CLM Pilot Program, it was with the understanding that I would serve primarily in a supervisory capacity, due to time constraints, and that volunteers would lead the day-to-day project activities. With that understanding, I want to begin by recognizing the incredible commitment and energy of our volunteers, who have come primarily from the Dallas Chapter of the North Texas Master Naturalists (NTMN) and our Friends of Oakland Facebook group. Their work is often self-directed or coordinated by Michael Puttonen, the project coordinator. While I rarely give direct instruction, I occasionally provide approval for projects involving structural changes to the cemetery grounds.
Key Projects and Progress (Jan–July 2025)
1. Invasive Species Removal
In partnership with the Texas Trees Foundation, volunteers conducted invasive species removal over the course of four Saturdays. Efforts focused on clearing privet and other invasive plants from around the bases of post oak trees, helping to preserve the cemetery’s native woodland ecosystem.
2. Wildflower Meadow Cultivation
Following the seeding of a native wildflower meadow in October 2024, volunteers have been diligently maintaining the area by removing invasive threats such as nut grass and snail vine. This work supports the long-term health and biodiversity of the site.
3. Wildlife Water Feature
A new water feature was established to attract native wildlife. This addition has already led to sightings of three duck species, native Texas bees, butterflies, frogs, and other pollinators and wildlife, contributing to the ecological richness of the cemetery grounds.
4. Flora and Fauna Survey
The newest class of NTMN students successfully completed a flora and fauna survey as part of their CLM project contribution. Special thanks to Patti Erickson, who compiled a comprehensive slideshow report of the findings to be shared with Julie Fineman.
5. Native Grassland Expansion
Volunteers are currently solarizing a 3,600-square-foot area in preparation for fall seeding of native Texas meadow grasses. This project aims to expand the prairie habitat and support local pollinators and bird species.
6. Plant Identification and Documentation
Ongoing plant and wildlife identifications are being made by volunteers and recorded on iNaturalist, contributing to a growing database of the site's biodiversity.
7. Native Plant Sale and Grape Jelly Production
In the spring, volunteers held a successful native plant sale featuring species gathered on the cemetery grounds. Additionally, they harvested native Mustang Grapes to produce 11 gallons of jelly, which will be sold during cemetery tours to raise funds and awareness.
Additional Information and Acknowledgments
Much of the above activity, along with photographs and detailed timelines, is regularly documented and shared through the Oakland Prairie Project Facebook group. interested parties to explore the group for ongoing updates and volunteer recognition.
Special thanks to all the volunteers, Master Naturalist partners, and community supporters who continue to give their time and energy to the restoration of this historic and ecologically significant space.