by Kyrstin Onaga

What began as volunteering eventually sprouted into fruitful collaboration for William Babcock, a long-term volunteer with Pierce Conservation District. He began participating in work parties at South Prairie Creek Preserve (SPCP) in 2022. By 2023, William was in the process of removing many self-seeded black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) trees that had overgrown along an access road on his property. He approached Ryan Bird, our Habitat Restoration Manager for assistance.

South Prairie Creek Preserve at the time had two related issues: certain areas were difficult to plant, and many plants were facing drought-related mortality. Seeing a solution for both parties, Ryan asked William if he would be willing to grant Pierce CD’s habitat team access to his land for livestake harvesting. "Live staking" is a technique that involves taking stem cuttings from trees or shrubs (in this case, cottonwood trees) during their dormant season and inserting them directly into the ground, with the intention for them to grow into new trees. 

Live stakes collected from William's property.

A live stake planted at SPCP in spring, showing some growth.

William exclaimed that he was “super excited at the prospect” and has been donating live stakes ever since. Pierce Conservation District has installed approximately 912 large diameter livestakes at SPCP since 2023.

Live staking is a process than anyone can do. It's a great practice for those who want to restore wild habitat, stabilize soil and "kickstart" a riparian buffer. Learn more about how to live stake on your own property!