The Washington Post — November 16, 2023

“The takeaway is that you should plant a suite of native species that optimize fruit availability and bolster fruit diversity across the seasons.”

“[N]ative berries such as dogwoods, spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and viburnums naturally provide the high fat and calorie content that birds need. …”

[Native, bird-friendly berry plants in Sunriver: Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia), Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), Wax Currant (Ribes cereum), Golden Currant (Ribes aureum), Wood’s Rose (Rosa woodsia), Oregon Grape (Mahonia (Berberis) aquifolium).]

NOTE THIS! ==> “Nonnative shrubs, on the other hand, are more like fast food: prevalent, but NOT A GOOD FIT for native songbirds’ nutritional needs.”

“Feeding birds nutrient-rich berries from native plants isn’t just good for avian species; it also helps promote the growth of those plants, which many say are better for the environment because they have co-evolved with the overall ecosystem.”

= = = = = =

If they are not protected, every one of the native, bird-friendly berry plants in Sunriver, except Oregon Grape, will be decimated from browsing by the tame deer in Sunriver.

Prohibiting reasonable use of fencing material to protect these valuable NATIVE plants is completely counter to the Sunriver vision stated in the Sunriver Consolidated Plan which specifically calls out native trees, wildflowers, and wildlife — e.g., birds — as “community treasures.”

Such prohibitions — which are not based on any evidence and are being promoted by a tiny group of individuals — discourage or effectively prevent conscientious owners from planting native “micro habitats” (as my wife and I have done).

This misguided campaign to prohibit owners from protecting native plants on their own property also flouts the Consolidated Plan’s foundational principle: “Ecological vigilance has been a major concern since the beginning of planning.”

Owners have another month to let the Board know their opinions.
Click here for SROA contact information.