The thorny locust is a fast growing tree that is invading a large portion of the Blackthorn Hills Nature Preserve.  As a result the native trees are unable to grow.  A section of the preserve was selected for thorny locust removal and the work began.  The first work day involved tagging the trees to be removed.  Subsequent work days have involved cutting the trees, dethorning, hauling and stacking the cut wood, clearing the forest floor of the thorns and debris and disposing of the nonusable remains. Much of the wood has been donated back to the nature preserve for use in the camping area.