The first step in the landscaping process is to take a site inventory and analysis of the soil, drainage, climate conditions and existing vegetation.

This is exactly what county workers and local conservationists are doing before they begin planting native riparian species along the Big Rocky Run stream bed, which runs through the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park between Route 28 and Braddock Road in Centerville, VA. The team will begin planting on Wednesday.

The first phase of the half-mile, $1 million project to restore the stream was completed last year. The goal of the second phase plantings is to stabilize the banks while simultaneously beautifying the stream valley. The riparian zone is the interface between solid land and a running body of water — such as a river or stream — which, because of its close proximity to the water, is often damaged due to erosion.

“The planting project for March 11 is intended to provide supplemental plantings that will enhance the restoration of the stream corridor and help staff learn which plants can compete best with invasive plant species such as Japanese stilt grass which is at the project site,” said Charles Smith, project manager II of the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Storm Water Planning Division.

Officials will plant roughly 400 native plants which have been propagated and donated courtesy of the Maryland Montgomery County Parks department.

Native Maryland shrubs that often thrive in stream and river environments include tussock sedge, Virginia wild rye, buttonbush, and northern bayberry. These species are mostly used to prevent soil erosion along streams and brooks, especially after a period of heavy rainfall.

The event will be open to the public and attendees are encouraged to also bring a bag lunch. The plantings will begin at 9 a.m. and continue until noon, officials said.

Using native plant species to restore an area’s natural landscape can not only help to stabilize riparian zones, but can also help to reverse the pattern of species loss. In addition, native plants can also help to create self-sustaining plant communities which require little maintenance. Because they are already accustomed to the local area, native plantings are able to better withstand damage from freezing, drought, disease and herbivores.