Portable Reservoirs with Wicks Being Tested for Tree Growth
The Calabasas-based AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps is taking part in a tree-planting experiment in the Santa Monica Mountains.
NCCC is field-testing a new technology that allows for the more effective planting of trees in arid soils. The so-called Cocoon technology was introduced by Land Life Company, a private Dutch firm.
Cocoon testing is taking place in an area of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area—Rancho Sierra Vista in Newbury Park—that is being rejuvenated by the Mountains Restoration Trust public land agency.
MRT’s mission is to protect and restore the native areas of the Santa Monica Mountains.
The Cocoon, a biodegradable water reservoir, allows the roots of new native plants to slowly absorb water over time, taking the place of weekly watering.
Ollivier Girard/CIFOR