I am leading a project to re-wild, or regenerate, a woodland floodplain along Third Fork Creek where it flows under Woodcroft Parkway in the 2,000-home Woodcroft subdivision in southwest Durham, NC. This half-acre was completely covered in invasive plants, mainly a 30+ year old stand of Chinese privet, until early spring 2023. Since then, my project volunteers and I have removed the privet, watched to see many native plants spring up, and planted about 300 native plants, most purchased by our HOA (thank you, Woodcroft Community Association!) and many donated. We are now fighting a mighty onslaught of privet re-sprouts and many new invasives, and will plant more in the fall. We collaborate with the NC Wildlife Federation and the New Hope Bird Alliance. I just completed a certificate in Therapeutic Horticulture from the NC Botanic Garden (2024). Otherwise, I'm self-taught in all of this, and welcome everyone to teach me more. I am a native of Elkin, NC (Surry County), who grew up climbing trees and playing in the local creek in the woods (part of the Yadkin River watershed), but my suburban son had no such experience. I long to create a community around this spot, for children to play and explore, and families and individuals to come and connect with nature. I also am determined to rescue and protect as much of the nature in this spot, this city, this state and this nation as I can. We welcome your help! Volunteer with us! Email woodcroftwoods@gmail.com.) - Rah (Sarah) Bickley