This meadow is a former yard from a historical homestead. The first things to colonize this disturbed area are pioneer species. Pioneer species begin a chain of ecological succession that ultimately leads to a biodiverse, mature forest. The meadow consists of wildflowers like Goldenrod and Asters, Milkweed, Grasses and shrubs such as Silky Dogwood. Think of this meadow as the early stages of life in the ecosystem – a small child that will eventually grow to look a lot like the forest behind it! In the meantime, the meadow provides habitat and food for birds, insects, butterflies and other wildlife[1].