In another section of the reforestation area a large debris pile is ignited after water is sprayed on the historic corn crib and surrounding ground to protect the structure.
The November burn timing clears the space in advance of a large scale tree planting planned for next month. In December, Laurel Hill will receive 2,000 seedlings; part of a $107,000 installation contract for 32,000 trees that will be placed in four park reforestation areas: Ellanor C. Lawrence, Elklick Woodlands Preserve, Frying Pan and Laurel Hill.
Project manager for the Laurel Hill effort, ecologist Darko Veljkovic said six tree species will be planted, four kinds of oak and two hickories. Fencing will be completed next week in advance of planting to protect new seedlings from deer browse.
Removal of invasive and overgrown plants by the county and park volunteers has made the historic corn crib and creamery buildings, built as part of the Occoquan workhouse/prison operation, visible to hikers.