Lake Ellyn Park 2013 Master Plan

3. the vision
aquatic habitat. In more actively-used locations along the
lakeshore, a naturalized edge may not be appropriate. In
these locations, turf grass is proposed to be extended to the
lake edge, coupled with a reinforced stone or cobble bank
and walking surface to provide improved stabilization and
access to the lake. It is also recommended that additional
lake access structures and overlooks be incorporated
along the shoreline. These access points will be designed
in the form of multi-functional deck or terrace structures
that provide additional fishing access, gathering locations,
and improved underwater fisheries habitat throughout the
park.
Stabilized Turf/Lawn Areas
A significant portion of the park on the west side of the
lake is deployed in turfgrass lawn, which accommodates
a range of uses and activities. The plan anticipates
improvements to the turfgrass, edges, and adjacent
landscapes to help improve the enjoyment and beauty of
these spaces, as well as reduce maintenance liabilities.
Sam Perry Nature Preserve Habitat Restoration
Currently, the landscape within the Sam Perry Nature
Preserve is dominated by a combination of weedy invasive
species such as Eurasian multi-flora rose, honeysuckle, and
buckthorn shrub species common to such conditions. The
ground plain is dominated in many areas by the presence
Vinca minor (Perrywinkle), a common ornamental nonnative
groundcover. Stewardship activities such as select
shrub and brush thinning in the understory combined
with annual burn management would facilitate the
healthy restoration of the entire system and improve park
and preserve security. The current densely overgrown
character of the preserve has created an attractive
nuisance in that it has become a popular location for
underage drinking. Proper stewardship could result in
the restoration of a valuable local natural resource unique
to this area.
The areas north and south of the boathouse receive the
most use daily and during events. These areas require
special attention to ensure turf vigor, and protect tree
roots. These areas may require the addition of a high
performance soil blend, irrigation, and maintenance
regime that accommodates more intense use.
The turfgrass area bordering the entrance drive to the
boathouse is a high visibility area within the park that is
also subject to a substantial amount of pedestrian traffic.
The grass on either side of the drive gets heavy use during
events such as the art fair and Fourth of July fireworks,
and should be stabilized to keep it functional and lush. It
is recommended to stabilize 18-20’ of turf on either side of
the edge of pavement. The turf could be stabilized using a
material such as gravel grass (a compacted, open-pore soil
and gravel mix) as a growing medium, or other turfgrass
reinforcement options.
Close up view of Sam Perry Nature Preserve improvements
Lake Ellyn Park Master Plan
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