OSM Director Lends Expertise to
Botanic Garden Efforts

OSM Director Brent Wahlquist (center) explains the benefits of the Forestry Reclamation Approach (FRA) as U.S. Congressman Tim Murphy (left) and Pa. DEP Deputy Secretary J. Scott Roberts look on during a recent roundtable sponsored by the Botanic Garden of Western Pennsylvania. Director Wahlquist participated in the roundtable at the invitation of Congressman Murphy. Endorsed by the Appalachian Region Reforestation Initiative (ARRI), OSM helps promote this science-based approach because of its many benefits which include enhanced biodiversity through habitat restoration, carbon sequestration, restoration of high value forest as well as reduced runoff and flooding because of increased water infiltration. The roundtable was attended by local leaders and supporters of the Botanic Garden. (OSM photo).

Lindsey Totten of the Botanic Garden of Western Pennsylvania points out future features of the Garden to U.S. Congressman Tim Murphy (left), Andrew G. Baechle, Director of the Allegheny County Parks Department (center), and OSM Director Brent Wahlquist (right). At the invitation of Congressman Murphy, the Director participated in the tour while highlighting benefits of the Forestry Reclamation Approach (FRA) to friends and supporters of the Botanic Garden. Endorsed by the Appalachian Region Reforestation Initiative (ARRI), this science-based approach has many benefits which include enhanced biodiversity through habitat restoration, carbon sequestration, restoration of high value forest as well as reduced runoff and flooding because of increased water infiltration. OSM believes the FRA will assist in efforts to quickly grow a diverse selection of large, native trees in the forested area of the Botanic Garden. (OSM photo).