Ecology and Vegetation in a Passively Managed Urban Park in Worcester, MA

As urbanization continues to expand globally, urban parks are becoming critical habitats for human and non-human species alike. Understanding the various contexts and conditions of local parks prompts improved management and conservation efforts for such expanding urban habitats. Therefore, I assess the ecology and vegetation of a local park, Cookson Field, located in Worcester, MA, US, through a comprehensive series of vegetation surveys and examine its urban context through an examination of land-use history. I find that Cookson Field is primarily an oak (Quercus sp.) woodland with an ericaceous understory consisting mainly of blueberry (Vaccinium sp.) The extant forest is at varying levels of succession and the overall forest structure and vegetation is impacted by the park’s lengthy history of development. This research aims to support better management and planning of the park to improve its biodiversity and vegetation. Similar surveys can be undertaken to understand local urban parks, although it is acknowledged that this is a limited, site-specific assessment and other additional methods should be considered to further analyze the ecology and contexts of local studies of urban public spaces