Pioneer Rock Landfill

About the Program
WM manages a capped landfill in Brown City, Michigan. The location is outside of the main town amongst farmland and fields and approximately 60 miles from Detroit. The project team manages approximately 80 acres of grassland with some trees mixed in as well as some wetland areas. Their projects focus on fruit trees, grassland, invasive species, deer and pollinators.

Practices and Impacts

• The project team has focused on a four-acre forest habitat that includes many native trees. Additionally, the team has chosen to plant fruit trees to provide forage for local species. Trees are monitored for survival. 
• The grassland habitat that covers the majority of the property is interspersed with non-native species, including invasive species such as autumn olive. The project team mows and utilizes chemical treatment to prevent growth of non-natives and increase abundance and diversity of native grasses. 
• In addition to the grassland invasive species, the project team cuts also invasive plants and applies herbicides to the stumps. This has shown success in combating invasive species across the property. Additionally, the project team utilizes experts from state universities to plan long-term soil health.
• The project team has observed a healthy population of white-tailed deer on the property. They also use trail cameras to capture photos.