IDOT Removes Invasive Trees for Prairie Restoration Along US-34 and US-150

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The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has removed invasive cedar trees and brush along the US-34 and US-150 corridor in Galesburg as part of a prairie restoration project. The goal is to fully restore native prairie in the area, which is home to the threatened Rattlesnake master plant. IDOT will plant native trees this spring and continue to manage the area to protect the prairie ecosystem.

Why it matters

This project aims to preserve and restore an important prairie ecosystem in the Galesburg area, which provides critical habitat for threatened species like the Rattlesnake master moth. Removing invasive plants and reintroducing native vegetation is a key strategy for protecting biodiversity and maintaining the region's natural heritage.

The details

IDOT removed all cedar trees from the interchange area due to their invasive nature, as well as other invasive brush like bush honeysuckle and autumn olive. Native trees that were present were left in place, though IDOT noted there were not many remaining. This work is part of a larger effort to fully restore the native prairie in the corridor, which is designated as a high-acreage prairie restoration location. The project also aims to protect the Rattlesnake master plant, which is present in all four infields of the area and is critical habitat for a moth listed as threatened and endangered.

• In the coming years, IDOT will spot-spray teasel plants in the area.
• This spring, IDOT will plant native trees along the US-34 westbound ramp from Carl Sandburg Drive and at other locations along the corridor.

What’s next

IDOT also has a future project planned to reshape ditches along US-34 to address drainage and maintenance issues in the area.