Randy's comments are well justified. Just look at how Russian Olive (among other invasives) has invaded the desert southwest and seriously reduced the quality of habitat there for many species that breed and migrate through that area. Russian Olive is NOT a good choice for revegitating Bateman Island. See Russell Link's new book "Landscaping for wildlife in the Pacific northwest" (U. W. Press, Seattle).

Cheers,

Chris

Chris Thompson, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

>>> "Hill" <hill at cbnn.net> 08/09/01 11:43PM >>>
I would rather this didn't turn into a lengthy discussion thread, but I hope
that ecologically focused organizations would look at something other than
Russian-olive to replace it after the loss. While it shelters and feeds
birds, especially in the winter, it is extremely invasive and continues to
spread uncontrollably from some of the original habitat and shelterbelt
plantings of many decades ago. Unfortunately, it continues to be sold in
nurseries and is still included in many habitat plantings by managers in
some agencies while others in the same agency are trying to eradicate it.

Randy Hill
Othello

----- Original Message -----
From: "Larry Fischer" <lfischer at bentonrea.com>
To: "Tweeters" <tweeters at u.washington.edu>
Sent: Thursday, August 09, 2001 10:48 a
Subject: BATEMAN ISLAND BURNS


> Greetings, Tweeters,
> I'm sorry to report that Bateman Island, Richland, Benton Co. WA has
> been largely destroyed by fire. Last Friday about 60 acres of this
roughly
> 100 acre island was devastated by fire. Yesterday the remaining
vegetation
> was ravaged except for about 10 acres. Thus far, "no accidental causes"
> have been found.
> Many birders thoughout the state knew Bateman Island because it was a
> prime spot to locate unusual as well as expected migrating birds.
> Available only by foot or boat, it was also a popular fishing and party
> spot. Some of the vegetation reflected its pioneer farming but it also
> holds a rich Indian history. In addition, it was home to deer and other
> wildlife.
> Over time, the willows and Russian Olives will return. I am hopeful
> that ecologically focused organizations and governmental agencies will aid
> in the restoration of this "jewel" and increase the plant diversity
beyond
> that which would naturally reoccur.
> This is a sad message, but our birding friends in Tweeterland need to
> be aware of the loss.
> Ruth M. Fischer
> Richland, WA