Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Update (2016) parks_and_recreation_system_master_plan_update_oct | Page 546

V. Waverly Park (198.8 ac.)
Managed by: Natural Areas Division
Waverly Park is on the northern extent of the knobs region with similar topography,
habitats and species as found at JMF. The forest is well developed throughout the park and
would be classified as a “Recovering Class” forest for the most part. Several small streams drain
the uplands of the park and these are mainly dry in the summer and fall.
A well developed and well used trail system of 8.4 miles has been built throughout the
entire park serving mountain bikers and hikers. The trail was built with an eye toward the
newest design and construction guidelines to make it very sustainable as well as enjoyable for
users. The old trail system is still evident in several areas and work needs to take place to allow
the forest to recover it these areas.
The 4.5 acre lake is the center of public access within the parks. The lake supports heavy
use for fishing. Wetland plantings along the lake and fore-bays have a diverse assortment of
species including Pickerel Weed. Pied-billed Grebes, and various ducks have been observed on
the lake as well as Osprey.
In 2015, a half-acre pollinator meadow was installed on the north side of the lake. Work
will be carried out in coming years to help establish the meadow and assure a very diverse
assortment of native wildflowers.
Extensive work to rid the woodlands of non-native invasive woody plant species has
taken place in the park since 2010. Annual monitoring and follow-up treatments are carried out
to prevent re-infestations.
i. Desired future condition
The forest will be managed toward the development into a “Maturing Forest” class.
ii. Goals
1. Maintain the current prescription for invasive plant management concentrating on edge
habitats where invasions are most likely.
2. Manage the development of the pollinator meadow.
3. Protect the diverse assortment of wetland plants by guiding fishing access points to
appropriate areas.
4. Continue work to close off old trails and prevent the development of rogue trails in the
forests.
iii. Standards
Follow proven practices to manage invasive plant species. Follow proven techniques to
guide visitors away from recovering areas and protected shorelines.
iv. Concerns
Waverly Park is surrounded by heavy development of suburban neighborhoods.
Encroachment issues along these edges have often included clearing woodlands, dumping,
hunting, and rogue trails for which Metro Parks and Recreation must be vigilant.
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