Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Update (2016) parks_and_recreation_system_master_plan_update_oct | Page 536

Q. Riverside, the Farnsley-Moremen Landing (301.1 ac.)
Managed by: Operations Division
Despite its historical status and use as a recreation park, Riverside also contains
significant natural resource fragments - more than any other fragment park. Located in
southwestern Jefferson County along the Ohio River, Riverside definitively lives up to its name
with just under two miles of frontage on the Ohio River. Forested and no-forested habitats share
about equally in land cover at around 135 acres each. Approximately 38 acres of forest is
riparian woodland. Additionally, there are 54 acres of hydric soils in the middle and south ends
of the property. These zones of hydric soil should be considered for their potential to develop
wetland ecosystems. It may be advisable to discontinue mowing in some of these zones to allow
native wetland vegetation to occupy the sites. Riverside is also home to one endangered species:
the Copperbelly Water Snake. As stated earlier, other rare plant and animal species occupy the
Ohio River. It is also likely that endangered bat species would be found in the forested areas of
the property, especially since these forests are located adjacent to the Ohio River. The riparian
zones of Riverside should be protected by removal of invasive species, and reintroduction of
native plants. Increasing the extent of the riparian zone should be considered where appropriate.
Many of the mowed areas could be reduced allowing riparian woodlands an opportunity to
develop instead. Riverside is contiguous with several zones of CID property and these areas
combined with Riverside could be managed more effectively as a higher functioning ecosystem.
The “Master Plan for Riverside, The Farnsley-Moremen Landing Jefferson County, KY”
(2010) tells the historical story of this site and should be consulted prior to any work related to
natural resource management.
i. Desired future condition
The woodland habitats of the property will be free of dense infestations of non-native
woody invasive plant species. Wetland habitats will be developed to increase the diversity of
habitats and species found on the site.
ii. Goals
1. Protect the existing riparian woodlands and increase their overall health through
invasive plant management
2. Increase the buffer zones of riparian woodlands as appropriate
3. Discontinue mowing in zones of hydric soils allowing wetland species to develop;
certain more intense practices may be needed to aid the recovery of these sites.
iii. Standards
Carry out woodland restoration work in all woodlands removing non-native woody
invasive plant species using proven techniques. Establish annual monitoring and follow-up
prescription to prevent re-infestations. Tap into NRCS EQIP Program and others for funding to
support habitat improvement practices.
iv. Concerns
Metro Parks and Recreation must remain diligent about preventing re-infestation of the
woodlands until the native plantings have become well established.
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