Vegetation

Louisville’s open spaces include native grasslands, wetlands, agricultural lands, shrub communities, and pockets of urban habitat. These areas provide food and shelter for wildlife. Healthy plants also protect soil and water and can help lower wildfire risk.

Vegetation management

Vegetation is a foundation of a healthy open-space ecosystem. Staff check plant and soil conditions throughout the year. They remove weeds, protect native plants, and help damaged areas recover. When planning this work, staff consider wildlife habitat, wildfire safety, soil and water health, farming, grazing, trails, public access, and the long-term care of the land.

How we care for vegetation

Open Space staff use many tools to manage vegetation based on management objectives (restoration, visible sightlines, fuel breaks, weed control, etc.)

• Monitoring populations of native plants.
• Monitoring and controlling weeds.
• Planting native grasses, flowers, shrubs, and trees.
• Using cattle or goats to manage vegetation.
• Implementing strategies in the Wildfire Hazard and Risk Assessment for Public Lands
• Protecting wetlands and areas near streams.
• Working with volunteers and local partners