Assist Homeowner Associations

DLC is pleased to assist homeowners’ associations with the difficult challenges of managing and enhancing natural areas that are part of the common space of the neighborhood.

These common areas -- such as woodlands, ponds, wetlands, stream corridors, and trails – are valuable natural assets.  They are elements of the community’s green infrastructure that provide many ecosystem services, including stormwater retention and groundwater recharge, water pollutant removal, climate moderation, oxygen generation, and wildlife habitat, as well as recreation, connectivity, and even inspiration.

If neglected, they can be weed-choked detriments to the neighborhood rather than important natural amenities.

DLC would assist the association in crafting a conservation easement on these parcels that would create a partnership in stewarding the land in perpetuity, advising on such issues as exotic invasive species removal, pest management, and appropriate usage that does not impact the conservation values.  This not only enhances property values of current residents, but assures that the natural features will be preserved for future generations who may choose to reside in Davidson as a sustainability-focused community.

In return, the HOA would agree to pay to DLC a stewardship fee, representing a modest amount per homeowner or a small surcharge on property sales.

Exotic Species

Kudzu is the best known of the plants that were introduced here from foreign lands for one purpose, but have exploded in their extent such that they displace our native species and can proliferate to make even walking through our woodlands virtually impossible.  Control of these "invaders" is one of the most important but challenging functions of land managers.  Read more. 
(Be sure to scroll down to see the "Dirty Dozen" list.)