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open savanna-prairie of this size provides habitat opportunities proximate to the urban area that <br /> is exceeded only by Alton Baker Park. <br /> Because of the overwhelming dominance of ground layer vegetation (grasses and fortis) by <br /> Eurasian species, and the paucity of local native species, opportunities for wildlife use are lower <br /> than if native species dominated. Native wildlife species co-evolved with native vegetation, and <br /> some native insect species (for example Monarch butterflies) need exclusively one or more <br /> certain native species to complete their life cycles. Non-native species can substitute in many <br /> ' cases for general food and cover, but cannot replace native species in instances where they are <br /> relied upon exclusively, particularly by insects. Plants and insects are low on the food chain, and <br /> if they are present in diverse types and large numbers, more diversity can be expected higher up <br /> the food chain. For example, if insects prosper, several species of bats and birds, which forage <br /> over the grassland would benefit. <br /> The location of Rasor Park on a corridor of riparian habitat adds greatly to its habitat value. <br /> Many birds, herptiles, mammals, and insects (such as migrating butterflies) utilize riparian <br /> corridors for not only feeding, watering and cover, but also migration and dispersal to new <br /> habitats. Thin corridors of riparian vegetation have less value than wider corridors because they <br /> provide less food and cover, and Rasor Park provides a very wide natural habitat adjacent to the <br /> corridor. Park use is relatively low density compared to other adjacent uses, such as commercial <br /> and residential. Many animal species moving along the corridor cannot utilize adjacent <br /> developed areas, but they can utilize adjacent open spaces temporarily during their movement <br /> periods. Rasor Park habitat, especially managed using techniques that will improve habitat <br /> values, also can be a destination for some species. For example, if the milkweed populations <br /> recently planted in the park can thrive, adult monarchs may arrive in the park, lay eggs on the <br /> milkweeds, and produce a new generation. (That generation may then continue on a northward <br /> migration.) <br /> Rasor Park is part of the greenway system included in the draft Eugene-Springf eld Goa15 <br /> inventory of natural resource areas. For additional discussion of the values of the connectivity of <br /> the greenway park system, see Lev, 1988. This report was prepared as part of the area's Goa15 <br /> efforts. <br /> Conclusions <br /> Rasor Park presents as excellent opportunity to restore native vegetation communities that <br /> existed prior to the time of EuroAmerican settlement. Ten acres in size, it is large enough to <br /> comprise a significant and manageable patch of valuable habitat for native plants, animals, fungi, <br /> and other species. Likewise, the riparian forest provides opportunities for controlling exotic <br /> species and replanting with native tree, shrub, and herbaceous species to increase the health, <br /> structure, and viability of the river zone. The existing Oregon white oak woodland and other <br /> native trees are also valuable resource assets of the park. Finally, outstanding potential exists for <br /> public education and interpretation. <br /> J <br /> Rasor Park Master Plan 10 City of Eugene, Parks Planning <br /> i <br /> II <br /> <br /> i <br /> <br />