In 1996, two biologists from the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) were invited to visit several sites owned by ConocoPhillips in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to assess the potential for habitat enhancement projects on those locations. The WHC presented its recommendations for projects that would benefit several species of birds and other wildlife on four areas at and near the Research Center. A volunteer team of employees and other community members then began work on the suggested enhancement activities. Habitat improvements made on two of the sites have earned official WHC certification.
Eliza Creek Butterfly Habitat Wildflower Plot
The Eliza Creek employee picnic area, located in the heart of Bartlesville's 275-acre Research Center, was transformed from a manicured Bermuda lawn, devoid of biodiversity, to an enhanced habitat. Team members removed the grass and brought in additional soil and rock for landscaping. With the help of a local garden club volunteer, merchant and Boy Scout troop, the team prepared the plot and planted colorful native wildflowers beneficial to butterflies and hummingbirds.
Although covering only 4,300 square feet, the burst of beautiful and varied blooms provides a haven for many different species of butterflies, moths and other insects, as well as hummingbirds, goldfinches, rabbits and foxes. A bluebird nesting box on the edge of the plot is home to several bluebird families. Visitors strolling through the area are treated to an attractive view of nature. Signs provide information on the different types of flowers that have been planted, how to create backyard wildflower plots and other habitat enhancement efforts at the Hillside site.
In 2000, a Bartlesville community leader nominated the project for the Keep Oklahoma Beautiful Award. The team and ConocoPhillips were proud to win the award in the Business-Environmental Improvement division.
Hillside Habitat Area
The Hillside is an 80-acre natural area just west of the Research Center. It was identified by the WHC as an excellent location for cavity-nesting bird habitat enhancement. With assistance from Boy Scout Troop 5 and a local bluebird expert, dozens of nesting boxes were built and installed. Several families of bluebirds, titmice, Bewick's wrens and chickadees have been raised in the boxes with more than 400 fledglings since 1997.
At the recommendation of the WHC, a naturally eroded draw was dammed forming a pond to hold rainwater runoff. The result has been an increase in amphibians and water-loving birds, such as coots and ducks.
In cooperation with the USDA Forest Service, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Boy Scout troops and other community members, the team planted 1,200 bare-root tree and shrub seedlings. Redbud, dogwood, maple and sand plum are among the beneficial and attractive species that now thrive on the site.
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