Rebirth of Bald Cypress: Uniting Restoration & Community Rejuvenation

Jackeys Creek, a heavily impacted stream by saltwater intrusion in North Carolina's Cape Fear River estuary, has extensive ghost forests that no longer provide storm surge protection, putting surrounding communities at risk. The project begins by establishing saline retention zones at the entrance of Jackeys Creek through hydrological modeling and implementing engineering measures to mitigate soil alkalization for coastal soil improvement. A temporary protective perimeter is established between the existing forest and ghost forests, utilizing dead cypress trees and a range of plant measures to facilitate regeneration. This comprehensive approach aims to create a complete storm surge defense system along the Jackeys Creek coast.

Project Background:

Saltwater intrusion has caused significant forest mortality along the Atlantic coast of North Carolina. Jackeys Creek, located in Leland, has experienced destruction of its cypress forests due to urban development. Subsequent storm surges have further devastated the forests, creating a destructive cycle. The combined effects of storm surges and saltwater intrusion have led to the formation of extensive ghost forests, posing a growing threat to nearby vulnerable communities.

Early-stage Strategies:

Strategy A: Saline Retention Zones

Hydrological simulations design saline retention zones at Jackeys Creek's entrance, controlling saltwater intrusion, erosion, and facilitating habitat restoration. These zones also mitigate coastal flood risks.

Strategy B: Temporary Protective Perimeter

A temporary protective perimeter integrates temporary and later-stage vegetation, creating a pathway for exploring the natural landscape. Organic materials facilitate the gradual integration of the pathway into the ecosystem.

Late-stage Strategies:

Strategy A: Soil Improvement

Soil restoration involves subsoil and topsoil improvement. Subsoil treatment reduces pollutant levels, while incorporating organic materials enhances topsoil fertility. Planting trials ensure soil suitability for agriculture and ecological restoration. 

Strategy B: Expanding Ecological Niches

Fast-growing herbaceous communities protect bald cypress saplings from storm surges. Selective plantings diversify the cypress forest, creating a stable ecosystem and reducing storm surge threats.

Strategy C: Christmas in a Natural Setting

Community activity areas are designed at the interface between the community and ghost forests, integrating Christmas celebrations while raising awareness about the impact of the Christmas tree industry on natural habitats. 

Common Strategies:

Strategy A: Repurposing Dead Cypress Trees

Preserved dead cypress trees are repurposed for ecological revetments. Christmas tree recycling becomes a post-Christmas activity, involving families in creating personalized tree stumps as part of the site.

Strategy B: Employment Opportunities

During restoration, job opportunities are provided to the community. As the cypress forest regenerates, workers transition to managing community activity areas, ensuring project sustainability.