BRIDGESTONE/FIRESTONE, INC.
LAW DEPARTMENT, " . " . ~~~ '_ __ '_ ____J"_ " "" "" " 5CTCeri"tury Boulevard •"P.'O. 'Box i4Q8?dp * Nashville. IN "37214-8SOO ENV!RONMENTAX_S_ECTLQM.. _. " . V __ ._". . -_ Phone: .6157872-5000 FAX; 615-872-1490
October 1, 1997
Ms. DebraRossi(3HW23)~ '" " •" ------Remedial Project Manager U.S. Environrnentai Protection Agency, Region III 841 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-4431
Re: Wildlife Habitat Council Report regarding Woodlawn Landfill
Dear Debi: .
As we have discussed, the Wildlife Habitat Councilhas evaluated the Woodlawn site for its potential for wildlife habitat, and how that potential might be optimized with the progression of the;_site remediation currently under design. I find .their ideas very interesting, and I thought you might also - so I ajtn enclosing a copy for you to review. As. you will see, they are very positive regarding the beneficial aspects of a phyto-cap at this site...: -;-... V-...T; ._:r;.":_ :1:..I!;;I:""..: ":.i:~:'": ": .- -.;._ ."-""" -~~ 1_:_::::...... " .~
Sincere]y, . • ^ ' S Timothy A Bent
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AR309695 BR309696 ^-? &J---W E [H I ,'
By.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR WILDLIFE HABITAT ENHANCEMENT AT THE BRIDGESTONE/FIRESTONE WOODLAWN LANDFILL
REPORT SUBMITTED TO: . BRIDGESTONH/FIRESTONE PORT DEPOSIT, MARYLAND
REPORT SUBMTTTED.BY: WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL 1010 WAYNE. AVENUE" " SUITE 920 SILVER SPRING, MD 20910 .
JULY 31,1997
AR309697 Preparers of this report were:
Mike Hodge, Wildlife Biologist Debbie Hahn, Research Assistant and the staff of the Wildlife Habitat Council
Ackno wled gments:
The Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) acknowledges the dedication and commitment required for Bridgestone/Firestone to initiate a wildlife habitat enhancement program at its Woodlawn site. We thank Bridgestone/Firestone for their hospitality during the WHC visit. ....
Note; This report is intended as a guidance. tool for implementing wildlife- habitat enhancement programs on corporate sites worldwide. WHC cannot assume responsibility for all local, state, and federal regulatory programs and authorizations. Prior to implementing any activity in a regulated habitat (i.e. wetland, floodplain, forest), we recommend that you reference regulatory requirements in your region. WHC .can assist you with the identification of appropriate regulatory contacts.
Nondisclosure Statement: This document contains confidential and proprietary information. WHC will not distribute this report, to others without express written consent from Bridgestone/Firestone. We also recommend that discretion be. used when distributing this document to others.
'1R309698 Opportunities Reporter Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc. recently joined the list of corporations actively involved as. members of the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC). The new partnership is coming to fruition with WHC "assisting" with a potential wildlife program that combines "habitat improvement and community outreach at the Woodlawn Landfill in Port Deposit, Maryland. The _Woodlawn Landfill is the first site Bridgestone/Firestone hopes "to participate in WHC's Wildlife at Work program, which focuses- on a company commitment, local community participation, and conservation organization support in the long-term, proactive management of property to benefit wildlife. This program also provides avenues to implement innovative land management practices and to increase. environmental awareness in the. community surrounding .the site.
This rep'OTt^Opporfunifies forWildlife'Habitat Enhancement at the Woodlawn Landfill, is based on a "site visit conducted by a WHC biologist in June, 1997. The report is the result of an assessment of the site .property, discussions with Bridgestone/Firestone personnel, and independent research. Recommendations for. enhancing habitats and designing community outreach programs are included within this report, as well as methods for generating a solid foundation and participation within the proposed wildlife program.
Wildlife need four requirements from their habitat - food, water, cover, and space." .This report butlines-.specific recommendations that provide and enhance these.requirements at .the Woodlawn Landfill. Recommendations include: • erecting artificial nesting boxes for songbirds and wood ducks, • placing raptor perches, • building brush piles, . • '.•.:/ -----. ---: • rotationally mowing open areas, . " • ": • planting trees .and shrubs, to expand wooded corridors around the site, - • eradicating phragmites from the storrnwater retention pond/ and • planting food plots. ; . ^ ..',..
Wildlife Habitat Council ._...... ". . . . .; _.....- 1 AR309699 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firesiori£f~s 'Woodlawn Landfill
The wildlife program can also serve as a great mechanism for increasing environmental awareness in the community and educating the public about the process of waste management. This can "Be accomplished by: • combining habitat enhancement with educational programs that increase public awareness and demonstrate that those responsible for the site are good neighbors and responsible land stewards, • inviting community groups to help implement habitat enhancement projects and aid in conducting wildlife surveys, and * holding special "wildlife days" by offering activities such as tree plantings or building nature trails.
This report is the first step in long-term partnership between Bridgestone/Fires'tone and WHC, As the Woodlawn Landfill proceeds toward a potential Wildlife at Work program, WHC is available to provide additional guidance and technical assistance. -
Wildlife Habitat Council /5R309700 Opportunities. Report for Bridges tone/Fires fane's Woodlawn Landfill'
n. OVERVIEW
To best assist Bridgestone/Firestone in developing a program that meets the goals for the site, WIfC;: visited.the^Waodlawn Landfill to learn the history of the site, talk with Bridgestone/Firestone personnel, overview the habitat types and determine potential options for managing the site for wildlife and increased environmental awareness;.". . .•.•." - =." " "".".: ~ ~~ ~~~.'.-."--" - ,
A. Site Visit .,__ ..,..,„,..____ ..,_„.,__, —-J . ,..,.. - -,.._..
WHC's. visit '"to" the "sTte"was* conducted on June 26, 1997 '.by WHC Biologist Michael R. Hodge. Mike met with Tim Bent of Bridgestone/Firestone to review the. habitats at the site and overview the remediation options for the contaminated landfill cell. Discussion began when Mike picked Tim up at the Baltimore/Washington Airport. During the drive to the Woodlawn Landfill, the history of.the site was covered and the groundwork for the visit was established. Once.: arriving at' the site, ;a brief driving tour was ^cpnd.ucte.d around the perimeter of the property. Areas of the site walked and observed more closely were-.the landfill cell containing the Bridgestone/Firestone waste, the stormwater collection-pond, the down gradient stream,_and the site entrance.
The visit ended with initial ideas for developing the site for wildlife habitat and environmental awareness discussed during the drive back to the airport.
Wildlife Habitat Council ... , _.; . ...__ . . . _ AR30970 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Fifestane's Woodlatvn Landfill
B, Site Description
The Woodlawn Landfill is located just north of Port Deposit, Maryland. It is directly adjacent to an active. Cecil county waste transfer station. The south, west, and north borders are near residential properties while the eastern side is bordered by a county road.
Woodlawn is a closed landfill that was owned and operated by Cecil county. Bridgestone/Firestone was permitted to landfill waste from their nearby processing plant during the processing plant's operation. Upon closure of the processing plant, Bridgestone/Firestone was further permitted to landfill the remaining sludge from their lagoons in a specially designed landfill cell at Woodlawn. Since, the closing of the landfill, contamination of local groundwater was discovered. The site is now listed on the Superfund NPL arid is undergoing discussion as to future plans for the site. - -
Habitats on site include open areas, a stream, wooded corridors, and wetland areas. The site has a wide diversity of habitats and topography available to regional wildlife,
C. Wildlife on Site
The visit was conducted at about 2 o'clock on a hot day in June so few wildlife species were noted during the time on site. Despite the less" than ideal situation # for conducting a" species inventory for animals, a scarlet tanager, kingbird, and wood thrush were all observed while on site. In addition, many other species. were noted as occurring on site at other times. Table 1 contains a representative list of some flora and fauna found at the Woodlawn Landfill site.
Wildlife Habitat Council AR3D9702 Opportunities Report for'Bridgestone/Flres tone's Woodlawn Landfill
Table 1. Representative List of Wildlife Found at the Woodlawn Landfill i Common Name [ Scientific Name Plants black locust Robinia pseudoacacia chestnut oak Quercus prinits daisy fleabane Erigeron annuus jack in the pulpit Arisaema triphyllum mayapple _.: : , ,"- ~ — Podophyllum peitatum milkweed Asclepias spp. multiflorarose...... Rosa multiflora eastern red cedar Jiinipenis virgin'iana phragmites , ....,.- Phragmites spp poison ivy ; '_'_ Toxicodendron radicuns smooth sumac ~~ Rhiis glabra spicebush Lindera spp. tulip poplar Liriodendron tulipifera Animals American robin Turdus migratorius blue jay " Cyanocitta cristata cottontail rabbit Sylvilagiis floridanus gray squirrel ....Sciunt. s carolinens.is house sparrow : Passer domesticus kingbird Tyrannies spp.. scarlet tanager Piranga olivacea white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianns wild turkey Meleagris gallopavo wood thrush Hylocichla mitstelina
Because common names vary from region to region scientific names, have been provided to assure consistency among species.. A list of all species mentioned in this report can.be found in Appendix B of this report. . .
Wildlife Habitat Council . ..."."_"_. i._"._-"_"._ / 7..."!-.".".."- .'.!,"~^I-=. =1.--.-. . - - flR309703 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlazim Landfill
HI. DEVELOPING A HABITAT ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM
In order to assure a successful program with long lasting effects on wildlife and the local community, it Is imperative that time and effort be spent developing the program, A strong basis will provide the impetus from which additional programs and projects can sprout. At the Woodlawn Landfill, this process needs to include local community groups, employees from the county, Bridgestone/Firestone monitoring personnel, and other interested parties.
However, before getting involved in the voluntary portion of the program, WHC recommends conducting a general clean-up of the site to prepare for the program. All excess trash and other unused materials should be removed prior to proceeding with an inventory or implementing an enhancement program. Once the site is free of .excess trash, the projects outlined in the habitat enhancement section of this report should be used as-a menu of options from which to choose when writing the management plan for the Woodlawn Landfill.
A» Conduct an Inventory ..... _, _
An initial step that is recommended prior to developing further plans for habitat enhancement is to conduct an inventory of plant and animal species currently found on site. This will provide baseline data for measuring future successes, increase the awareness of those participating in the inventories, and allow a wildlife team to determine which habitat components are missing for target wildlife species.
To accomplish the inventory, WHC recommends working with local bird watching groups to account for the avian portion of the inventory. Also, consult with neighbors and employees at the county transfer station. ta_ learn of
Wildlife Habitat Council - 6 AR30970U Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Fireston&'s Woodfcram Landfill mammals, and invite a gardener or botanist to participate in developing a list of plant species found on the site. .___.._._____• __.._... ,_......
When approaching potential partners it will be important .to share the goals for the site, and the need for developing an initial and future inventories. If a program is developed, inventories should be conducted seasonally to account for .migratory birds and seasonal wildflo.wers.... Inventory techniques can be found in Appendix E. -'- " - - - -
B. Hold an Initial Meeting
After the inventory is completed .and a final decision is reached for the future of the site, WHC suggests reviewing ideas from this, report and holding an initial meeting among invited guests from the community, local conservation groups, the Port Deposit "planning department,. the Cecil county landfill staff, and Bridgestone/Firestone employees." During" the. meeting it will be. important to discuss the status, of the site, the needs -of the surrounding communities, goals for environmental education, wildlife habitat enhancement projects, and opportunities for community involvement. , ......
C. Build a. Wildlife-Team...... ~ ,„ ."„..„ ,:,;._ _.;.,,
From the meeting it will be. important to develop a wildlife team to decide which projects should be implemented, .who will assist in getting'projects completed^ what the time ;frame for. .the program should be, and what the overall goals for the site should consist of. It is vital that the team be.broad based to assure the greatest participation and ownership of the program. Members of local conservation groups and government agencies.... can provide local expertise whereas. ..WHC- can provide additional input and facilitation _ activities.
Wildlife Habitat Council"" """."..- AR309705 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill
Employees from the transfer station could also be asked to join the team. During WHC's site visit the county employee at the transfer station shared a strong interest in the outdoors and wildlife. Finding individuals with an interest in the outdoors, hunting, fishing, bird watching, gardening, and education is unequivocally the most important portion of a long term program with active involvement. Please be aware that it is not necessary to have any degree of expertise to be a part of the team. More experienced team members can teach others less versed in understanding ecosystems and the wildlife atthe site.
D. Write a Management Plan
The management plan provides the formal document to be used when determining the direction of the program. It is recommended that it be arranged to list goals, objectives, and prescriptions. These are best arranged in an outline fashion where the goals are the most inclusive and the prescriptions describe exactly what is to be done and when. .
Management plans are also simple documents used to maintain the direction of the program and to share with new groups interested in the program. When the goals and objectives of the program are outlined in a readable document, it becomes easier to demonstrate the large scheme of the program as well as why individual projects are implemented.
IV. HABITAT ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The Woodlawn Landfill presents a number of opportunities for managing for wildlife. A variety of habitats including a stream, open fields, wooded corridors/
Wildlife Habitat Cwndl. 8 flR309706 • Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill
and a stormwater retention pond offer considerable resources for wildlife. Enhancing these .-habitats and providing the four essential requirements for all wildlife; food, water, cover, and space, is essential in any well conceived wildlife management plan. If these living requirements are provided, the wildlife team will be providing the means for increasing biodiversity at the site. Increased biodiversity should be the .underlining goal of rall habitat management projects and programs developed at the Woodlawn Landfill.
A. Erect Nest Boxes __...„.____.,...._•: .._..—_ ....-,.
Due "tcTloss-of habitat, some bird species lack adequate nesting places. One group of birds that can be easily helped is the cavity nesters. .These birds typically nest in cavities,, left in snags, (dead standing trees) by woodpeckers or other creatures. The cavities are then occupied by a nesting pair of adults to raise one or more broods each nesting season. However do to development and other land management practices,"many snags have been removed therefore.leaving few ideal nesting places for cavity nesters. - —-, = .." ="- .- .
A supplemental source, of these nesting cavities can be" provided at the Woodlawn Landfill by erecting artificial, nesting cavities known as bird boxes. Boxes rare designed tp_mimic the natural cavity size for the target species. Much success has been achieved in reviving the numbers of bird species once -on the decline. A common rTeSt box user that is a good example is the eastern bluebird. Once Vspecie's".with declining -numbers, the. efforts of nest monitors have contributed, significantly to the rebo_und of'the_ species. Last year alone WHC sites reported the fledgling of over 3,400 bluebirds from artificial nesting cavities erected at corporate sites with wildlife habitat management programs. Other species will also readily use properly designed nest boxes if placed.in the correct habitat. VVHC'recornmehds.. that Bridgestone/Firestone encourage the use of
Wildlife HabitatCouncil „.,..,.__. ...,.,. . .-...._,,-.. ,.~ ,...--•.,,,,...-., .^-=.. -- - SR3097Q7 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/FSrestoneJs Woodlawn Landfill nest boxes at the Woodlawn Landfill to assist populations of native birds and to provide an opportunity for hands-on education for those assisting and monitoring the program.
Careful monitoring of nest boxes will also allow the site to participate in WHC's Nest Monitoring Program. This program compiles data on birds nesting on WHC sites throughout the United States, thus documenting the number of birds hatched and fledged each breeding season. In 1996, for example, over 12,375 young birds were fledged at participating corporate sites. Each year this data is compiled in a Nest Monitoring Program summary, a copy of which is included in the pocket of the black three ring binder version of this report. Additional copies are available from WHC at no charge. ..: ..— — -
I. Manage for Eastern Bluebird
The eastern bluebird has historically suffered in numbers, and the lack of suitable nesting cavities typically found in snags is a continued threat to the speties/Tdeal eastern bluebird habitat includes open sites "such as fields, pastures, and mowed areas with scattered trees for perching. ~ _"~T~T_". IT ."".." I"_ a) Place Nest Boxes The Woodlawn Landfill has many ideal areas for bluebird boxes especially the open areas of the landfill cap and the adjoining property that was purchased by Bridgestone/Firestone. Because bluebirds are very territorial, bluebird boxes should be placed at least 100 yards apart. Bluebirds prefer to have some type of perch (i.e. a shrub or small tree) located several yards in front of the entrance to their nest box. The young birds often fly to this perch on their first flight and adults will use the perch to hunt for insects. '
Wildlife Habitat Council . . 10 AR309708 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill
WHC recommends that the team members start by installing ten or twelve boxes around the landfill and adjacent Bridgestone/Firestone property. The boxes should be in locations that are easy to monitor so it is recommended that they be placed near the perimeter roads. As interest in the program grows, program participants may be able to monitor more boxes, and additional boxes can be. installed in other areas of the site. More information on eastern bluebird management can" be found in Appendix E, --.--- ^ -
(i) Monitoring Information Maintenance and monitoring of nest boxes is essential to success. Ideally, songbird boxes/should be monitored weekly during the nesting season,. and only as many boxes that are able .to be regularly monitored should be erected. Monitoring provides data that can be used to track the success of the program and will allow..the team members to .avert problems such as predation by snakes and raccoons:, If predation 'is found to be a problem, predator guards should be placed on nest box posts. See the design in the Eastern Bluebird Habitat Management Series in Appendix E for details.
Monitoring will also_.prevent, competitive species, from using the nest boxes."Invasive species, such as the European starling and house sparrow compete for nesting sites with other cavity-nesting birds, often going as far as destroying the eggs ;and^young of their victims. By monitoring nest boxes regularly, nests . and eggs of the starling and sparrow can be removed before they become. productive. If these species are found to inhabit the boxes, the adults can be. trapped and removed from the nest boxes... If team members are uncomfortable with this approach, they may vigorously shake ;.the eggs (a technique: called, addling), rendering them invfable. The .adult bird will return and continue to sit on the eggs," which will prevent it'from disturbing the nests of native birds, but the eggs will nothatch.. .
Wildlife HabitatCouncil__V!T" .'. ...,...' ^_J_-- ...---,-...-..------• - - •= -- 11 AR309709 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill
Caution must be taken to positively Identify the birds and eggs as those of the house sparrow (Passer domesticits) or European starling (Sturniis vulgaris) before addling. Native songbirds are legally protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Conservation Act, which prohibits the possession or taking of birds, nests, eggs, or parts thereof. The house sparrow and European starling are not protected under this law.
2. Manage for Tree Swallows
Tree swallows are another species that commonly use nest boxes-placed in open areas. They are also very attracted to water sources and will commonly be seen feeding on insects close to the water's surface. As with bluebirds, the lack of suitable nesting sites is a limiting factor in the success of the tree swallows reproduction. Similar care should be taken when monitoring these boxes as snakes, raccoons, European starling, and English sparrow are., also common predators or competition of the tree swallow.
Tree swallows will use habitats similar to the eastern bluebird but prefer more open water. They will however also use upland habitats and are compatible with bluebird nesting programs. WHC recommends placing up "to ten nesting boxes around the landfill area to attract nesting pairs of tree swallows to the site. Additional information about managing for tree swallows is. included in the Tree Swallow Habitat Management Series located in Appendix E.
3. Place a Wood Duck Box at the Stormwater Pond
Wood ducks are very colorful birds that prefer. wooded wetlands, marshes, stream beds, and ponds for nesting habitat. Wood ducks also provide another good example of how the efforts of nest monitors" assisted in the comeback from near extinction. Today their numbers are flourishing.
Wildlife Habitat Council 12 AR3097IO Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill
Their diet consists primarily of seeds,'acorns, berries, and insects. -.The food sources and other ..components could be provided at the Woodlawn Landfill at the stormwater retention pond. If the pond is cleared of the abundant phragmites, it could provide suitable habitat for attracting wood ducks, to use the site. Currently the amount of open water is too limited to provide good wood duck habitat. However' with the enhancement of the pond and the presence of a nearby stream this area could house wood ducks in the future.
Once the program proceeds and members of the team are looking to expand the prograrrr, WHC recommends placing one wood duck box on the pond shoreline to attract a nesting pair to the site. Additional information about the wood duck and its- management can be. found in the .Wopd Duck Habitat Management Series located in Appendix E- of this report. . •
B. Develop a Rotational Mowing Schedule ...... ,..,.; .,
Currently,"bqth.the capped portion of the landfill and the adjoining property are not maintained with regular mowing. These areas consist of a variety of grassy areas with intermittent shrub growth. The lack of mowing has resulted in improved wildlife habitat as more.ccrver and food-sources have become available with increased growth. However landfill caps often require occasional mowing to prohibit the ..establishment of woody vegetation-and-to- aid in monitoring activities. If mowing is requlre'd at the Woodlawn Landfill, WHC recommends that the team implement a. rotational mowing schedule. In addition, to enhance" food and cover sources-for wildlife."at the site as a whole, similar techniques could be implemented on the adjacent land regardless.. : .
Wildlife Habitat Council. "' " _'"I~T 7l"""_"Il.~_^I"-""~7 "."...... 13 AR3097I i Opportunities Report for Bndgestone/Firestbne's Woodlawn Landfill
Example A
150 ft.
Example B
300 ft.
E-xamples of rotational mowing regimes. Numbers depict the year that each section is mowed. E-xample A is a smaller field where only three strips are ^ _ . necessary, and example B is a larger field that is divided inro six strips. Nodes than fay the third year each strip oas been mowed an least ones. •
Figure 1. Rotational Mowing Wildlife Habitat Council 13a AR3Q97I2 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Pirestone's Woodlawn Landfill
To establish a rotational mowing scheme, divide a designated area into three strips no less".than 50 feet in width and clearly mark areas to be mowed. This will prove valuable when demonstrating through educational materials the value of this managerrTeW strategy. Strips less than 50 feet do not allow small prey animals adequate protective cover: The strips should be mowed once annually in a rotational pattern. For example, given three strips, the first is mowed one year, and the other two are left unmowed. The second year, another strip is mowed, leaving the first and.third.unmowed. The third year, the third strip is mowed, leaving the first and second to grow. After the third year, the process, begins again. Mowing should take place in the late fall to avoid affecting the feeding and nesting of. wildlife.,- ^Examples of rotational mowing patterns are depicted in Figure 1. " "~~
While preventing 'the .establishment of deep-rooting wocrdy vegetation, the primary advantage of rotational . mowing as a management tool is to create a variety of grass heights/each of whicli.benefits.,wildlife in a different way. New grass"; growth, provides, forage for small mammals and attracts insects which are preyed upon'by songbirds and small raptors. Taller grasses provide food, and cover, fox small mammals and nesting sites for songbirds. Small mammals and birds .attracted, to the area mayalso,,provide a food source for red-tailed hawks, foxes,: and other predators. -In addition to the habitat, benefits, rotational mowing also serves: as arTeccellent educational tool for teaching the ecological principles of old field succession. " ————.-..• ------——--- -:
C> Place Raptor Perches „-„„„:; .- —.--.-.-.-~~.~
The landfill and the. adjacent Bridgestone/Firestone land are probably inhabited by small mammals, which, are "."food" items for raptors, or birds-of-prey. Many raptors, including red-tailed hawks, locate food by surveying an area from high
Wildlife Habitat Council ..__ ...... - — - 14 flR3Q97!3 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestorie's Woodlawn Landfill branches or tall structures. In addition to giving the raptor a wide visual range, perching in a high place enables an easier takeoff and greater attack speed for the raptor when hunting. Raptor perches can be constructed to facilitate hunting by red-tailed hawks and other raptors on the site. A raptor perch can be created by erecting a 16 to 20-foot long 4" x 4" post with a crossbeam at the top. The lower three to four feet of the post should be buried in the ground and additional braces may be required for stability. Old telephone poles can be substituted for the 4" x 4" post,
WHC recommends placing two raptor perches, one at the edge of the landfill opposite the site entrance, and the other on the adjacent, property. Raptor perches can be monitored by watching them from a distance and looking for signs such as droppings and animal remains around their bases. Encouraging use of the capped area by raptors could also help control populations of burrowing animals. Further information about constructing raptor perches can be found in the Raptor Perches Habitat Management Series in Appendix E,
D. Build Brush Plies
Brush piles can be built to encourage use of the site by wildlife such as rabbits and other ground dwelling mammals. Brush piles will be used by small animals as a refuge from predators and inclement weather if the piles are" within 75 feet of other shelter. However, these animals will be exposed to predators as they travel to and from the .piles creating a balance with the raptor perch project. By building brush piles, the team can support both predator and prey species. ••
Brush piles are very easy to construct using dead branches and other natural materials. The largest pieces of wood should be used to create a base, and then smaller branches and twigs can be piled on top. Figure 2 is an illustration of a
Wildlife Habitat Council 15 AR3097H* Opportunities Report for Bri'dgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill
* "Tr* , -'-^v- /. r • 2~., ':'&-:.^- j . > •' S^lr*""^-51'-fa' at*-'. -•<•* ~*'• . ' :-.——-~>t.^ _:»^•-'-',.n.' v-I'V"-*^'»s-.^""»-"V .••*—.- -••
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(Adapted ferrt:-MHhJ^c3nisi.:.::or-..WUdlifa-Habitats- on 'P'rivata Ldr.ds." Dara.ei J. Deckar and John.W,": Figure 2. Brush Piles Wildlife Habitat Council ------• - . ' AR3Q97I5 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's.WoQdlawn Landfill brush pile. Several brush piles can be built around the open areas of the landfill and adjacent fields. Occasional observations can be made of animal scat and tracks near the piles to determine use. Further information about brush pile construction can be found in the Brush Piles for Wildlife Habitat Management Series. in Appendix E. .._._. E, Expand Wooded Corridors Much of the Woodlawn site is open because of the landfill or what seems to be previous farming of the adjacent property, however, several wooded corridors that provide very valuable habitat for large mammals and many songbirds surround the Woodlawn Landfill. In an effort to build on these habitats and provide additional benefits to the Woodlawn site, it is suggested that tree seedlings be planted to expand upon the currently wooded areas. Planting seedlings is a low cost activity that results in increased wildlife habitat, hands-on activities for all groups involved, and an excellent demonstration for projects that can be implemented at other similar sites.. ^: ," When planting the corridor, WHC recommends using a variety of seedlings to create initial results and plan for long term benefits. It should be noted that trees and shrubs should not be planted in straight rows but in staggering rows to create a natural setting. A list of native trees and shrubs that could be planted to expand the corridor and create additional buffer is included in Table 2. Wildlife Habitat Council 16 flR3097!6 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Waodlazvn Landfill Table 2. Native Trees for Expanding Wooded Corridors Trees American beech Fagus grandifolia blackgum Nyssa sylvatica Canadian hemlock Tsuga canadensis red oak - - - Quercus mbra sweetgum Liquidambar styraciflua white oak Quercus alba Shrubs winterberry holly Ilex verticulata bayberry Myrica spp. highbush blueberry Vacdnhim con/mbosum possumhaw viburnum Viburnum nudum redosier dogwood Cornus serecia serviceberry Amelanchier arboreta This project" should be carefully coordinated and planned with .the meadow planting recommended later in this report and the rotational mowing schedule. Areas"planted with seedlings need to be clearly flagged to assure that newly planted seedlings are not mowed or disturbed by other planting initiatives. F. Create a WiLdflawerMe_ad.QW , .„ Wildflower "meadows ."are aesthetically pleasing and provide valuable wildlife habitat. They consist'of food.and cover as well as nesting spots for many species of .butterflies, hummingbirds, .songbirds,, and small mammals.- A wildflower meadow, could be designed and planted in the area currently occupied by empty drums and also near the entrance to the site. Wifdflowers develop extensive root systems, which are'alsQ.yery valuable at holding soil in place.to reduce erosion and-excess'runoff. . The..combination of functionality and improved wildlife Wildlife Habitat Council _. , ...... ---."...--..."- -._..... 17 AR3097I7 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill habitat provide an appealing consideration for the future use of this area of the site. Completed in conjunction with the other options presented in this report, this option could provide a very valuable wildlife sanctuary that could be used to demonstrate to others the value of active management and the use of native plants. In addition, landscaping practices could be done in conjunction with the U.S.- Fish and Wildlife Service's Bayscapes Program. This program" is intended to raise awareness of beneficial landscape practices within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Additional information is included in Appendix E. 1. Creating a Wildflower Meadow Careful site preparation is essential to wildflower meadow success as new planting areas must be free of weeds and grasses. To prepare undisturbed areas for seeding, WHC recommends disking the soil at the designated planting area, spraying with a non-persistent glyphosate herbicide, such as Roundup, then planting the seeds in early spring (Rodeo is recommended in areas that may be wet or are near wetlands). It may be necessary to keep the seeds in a cold place such as outside or in a freezer until spring because many wildflower seeds~~need winter cold to break their dormancy period, After the planting area is prepared, seed the meadow with the wildflower mix in early spring. The overall seed mix, including grasses and wildflowers, should be distributed at a rate of 15 pounds per acre and include a 60% grassland 40%. wildflower mix. To make spreading the mix easier, seed should be mixed with an inert bulking agent, such as-saw dust that has been lightly dampened. This will ensure proper distribution of the seed. Mix 1 part seed to 3 parts bulking agent. Wildlife Habitat Council _ . IS AR3097I8 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill Because, wildflower and grassyseeds require good seedrto-soil contact, lightly rake and.then roll the. seeded area after seeding. If rainfall is inadequate to keep the soil moist,, regular early morning watering during the first four to six weeks (and beyond if drought conditions exist) will result in a higher germination rate. Water the seeded area just enough to keep the soil moist; be careful not to over water, - , .._.-.. .-.._"..*--• -.--.--—------ 2. Species Selection WHC recommends planting; wildflowers and grasses .that are native to Maryland because many exotic species can become invasive and limit the natural diversity of the area. Table 3 lists, some valuable native.grasses .and wildflowers that can be planted at the Woodlawn Landfill. Table 3. List of Native Grasses and Wildflowers for the Woodlawn Landfill GRASSES broom sedge - - j purple love grass little bluestem switchgrass Andropogon virgihicus "\ Eragrosiis spectabiiis Andropogon scopafius Panicum virgatum -,...*.\ - t***tt^=^=:--.- ^T^ June grass . :..-..--: ;;-_i_ side-oats grama meadow fescue Koeleria cristaka ' \ Boittelona curpendida Festuca elatior Wildlife Habitat Council ' " AR3097I9 Opportunities Report for Bridges tone/Fires tone's Woodlawn Landfill Table 3: continued WILDFLOWERS Name Blooming Time Color Soil Moisture beard tongue" spring white medium 1 Penstemon digitalis i columbine* spring red - -. dry-medium Aquilegia canadensis dwarf crested iris* spring purple dry medium - i Iris cristate i wild geranium1 spring pink/purple moist ' ! Geramufn maciilattim bee balm* summer red moist ; Monarda did\ima , black-eyed susan* summer yellow dry-medium ! Riidbeckia Hirta . butterfly weed H summer orange ~ dry ^ Asclfpias tuberosa . dense blazing star summer lavender wet-medium > Liatris spicata , lance-leaved coreo'psis H summer yellow dry I Coeropsis lanceolata ' shooting star8 summer pink dry-moist ! Dodecatiieon nieadia j swamp sunflower summer . yellow medium . Helianthus aiisitstifoliits evening primrose ~ : . summer, fall yellow dry-medium i Oenlhera bisnnis blue aster fail blue/violet dry-medium Aster azitreits New England aster H fall lavender moist- medium Aster novae-an%liac New England blazing star faU pink/red wet-medium Liatns borealis purple conefiower ri fall ; purple dry-medium '- Enchinacea piirpitrea H - hardy, reliable species ... S - shade tolerant, good for planting along wooded edge . _ : - A list of seed sources can be found in Appendix C, V : ' " " " """"" '7 3. Maintenance and Monitoring of Meadows During the first year after seeding, weed control will.be critical.... Perennial wildflowers and grasses spend most of their energy during the first year establishing root systems and therefore~~grow: slowly. Weeds,., however, grow_ much more quickly than the desirable wildflowers. When weeds have reached a Wildlife Habitat Council 20 . AR309720 Opportunities ~Report~for Bridgsstone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill « height of 12 to 16-inches, they should be mowed back to 6 to 8 inches (most v desirable planted species" will not be taller than 6 inches during the first year). Brush hogs and weed eaters -.work best because they lay cuttings down so that they will'dry put and not .smother wildflower seedlings. The frequency of mowing during the first year will depend upon weed density, but should be about once every two months. Once .established, the meadow should only need to be maintained by annual mowing. Ideally, the area should be mowed in late winter (November) to avoid disturbing nests and young animals. More information on wildflower meadows is included in Appendix E in the Wildflozuer Meadozv Habitat Management Series. .. G. PlantJEofldPlots '._..' .... „._„„, ,-.- Food plots have traditionally been popular tools of wildlife managers for attracting wildlife to specific sites. .Their role as a supplemental food source can be debated however: the value .created by the increased viewing opportunities can be ^significant. Agricultural, practices have also, played a significant role in the. history and culture of. North America's east coast. Therefore several small food-plots in the back corner of the Bridgestone/Firestone property would be a nice addition to the whole wildlife.-program package at the Woodlawn Landfill site. -The food crop should not be harvested but left as a winter food source for the wildlife remaining on site. WHC recommends several one acre areas designated to ,foodr crops. .In these, areas,, corn,, grain sorghum, lespedeza, or clover could be planted each year to attract wildlife to the site.' Each area should be clearly marked and noted as .a food plot for wildlife. Wildlife Habitat Council '""" ' "'""" "~^~ ' , , 21 AR30972! Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill BL Control Phragmites in the Stormwater Retention Pond Phragmites is an invasive reed grass with little value to wildlife. Phragmites can take over an area very rapidly, excluding all native plants which may have higher values to wildlife. The phragmites stands at the stormwater retention pond have choked "the wet area to the point that very little open water is available to local wildlife. If the area is to be enhanced for wildlife and educational purposes, it is recommended that the stand of phragmites be. eradicated, The most effective way to control phragmites is to use a non-persistent herbicide such as glyphosate on the plants, followed by mowing. Glyphosate should be sprayed directly onto the plants in late summer, when the plants are transporting nutrients into their root systems for winter use. Care should be taken so that non-target plants are not subjected to the herbicide. After waiting six to eight weeks for the herbicide to achieve its full effect, the phragmites should be cut down as low as possible. This mowing may have to be repeated several times before the phragmites are eradicated. After initial eradication, monitoring will be important to assure that the phragmites does not become re-established.after initial enhancement activities., Further information about controlling phragmites can be found on the Common Reed Grass sheet, and the Wetlands Invaders Habitat Management Series located in Appendix. E. . V. OPPORTUNITIES TO INCREASE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AND CONTRIBUTE TO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION The location of the Woodlawn Landfill adjacent to the Cecil county waste transfer station presents an excellent opportunity to create a demonstration.area Wildlife Habitat Council 22 .1R309722 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill for explaining : the landfill process and the destination of trash created by residents .of the local community' and tourists passing through the Port Deposit area. The e'ducational component can. be, closely tied to the function and monitoring of the closed site as well as the habitat enhancement portion of the program to "demonstrate that. _ a,, proactive approach to maintenance and monitoring can result in valuable.learning opportunities. A. Construct a Nature Trail.'.,., .„.,...... -,. Trails are great for raising awareness and education levels of chosen themes or" curriculums by providing hands on learning experiences that cannot be achieved in the dassrourfT^lone, -They are also very valuable in continuing education for adults interested in furthering their knowledge of the natural world and other specific learning experiences'that can be supplemented with field work. For this reason it could be advantageous to use the closed landfill as a demonstration of the relationship of waste management and the surrounding environment. 1. Create Trail Loops When creating the best interpretive trails it is important to incorporate loops. Loops lend the trails to multiple groups without the distraction of retracing the same 'portion of traitor running into additional groups while traversing the trail path. A variety of loops with different lengths can also tailor to a number of age groups, attention spans, and time restraints. For .the .Woodlawn Landfill and surrounding grounds it is recommended that three loops be flagged and. created. They could begin'near the., entrance. _at the transfer, station .to incorporate the relationship between the landfill,. current recycling and disposal activities, and the natural environment. If. -traffic may create a potential negative to this entrance, the roadway on the adjacent Bridgestone/Firestone property could be Wildlife Habitat Council - - -"L ,,,.....—...... ---.-- flR309723 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Fifestone's.Woodlawn Landfill enhanced to handle traffic to the educational areas but the relationship to the active trash disposal should not be lost. 2. Traverse Through a Variety of Habitats The property at the Woodlawn landfill contains a number of habitat types" that possess different qualities and wildlife habitat. It is important to capitalize on this diversity to provide the optimal learning^ environment. Habitat types that could be highlighted include the old farm area that lies adjacent to the landfill to the north. By implementing some of the previously mentioned habitat enhancement projects the old farm area could be used to highlight' best management practices of agriculture as well as food plots used to attract wildlife. Other areas of interest could be the. extended wooded corridor running the boundary of the property, the landfill proper, and areas near the stream down hill of the landfill. During WHC's visit a variety of wildlife was noticed along the stream corridor. This could easily be taken advantage of without impeding upon the integrity of the current habitat or stream quality. Trails near the stream should remain away from the streambank but could incorporate an overlook that adequately provides a view of the water and.associated wildlife of this area. 3. Use Interpretive Materials To accomplish the goal of informing trail users about the natural environment and impact of necessary practices of waste management, it is critical that interpretive materials be provided along the trail loops. Signs and trail maps are very important to keep the attention of the participants on the theme at hand. Interpretive materials could focus on habitat requirements of all wildlife such as * water, cover, food, and space. Relationships of these habitat to. .different wildlife species and how they use each habitat to support their day to day activitiesj.could be explained at stops along the trail. Although wildlife components are_ recommended as a focus, the landfill activity and function should not be Wildlife Habitat Coimcil 24 flR30972U Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill disregarded. For a truly, beneficial trail system to work at the Woodlawn Landfill, the compatibility of the landfill and.surrounding environment should be apparent. Landfill technology has advanced considerably since its inception and this .project could provide a means of studying the_ potential final use of a landfill post closure. . It could also' be effective in educating the users of the transfer station .as to their impact on the environment and demonstrating an example of a final resting place of the waste created at their homes. Including, a portion of the site near the transfer station to promote recycling efforts "would also add to the value of the educational experience provided by the habitat management program at the__landfill. Slogans such as Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle could be used to educate the importance of reducing the waste stream. This would provide an important role in increasing the awareness of the residents of Port Deposit as well as tourists traveling through the area. B. Establish an Education Center ,._....._ , ,.,,.,.- - Materials such as water sampling kits/ microscopes/field guides, binoculars, and literature about wildlife, natural processes,, and thejandfill business could be.. provided in an education facility provided at the. site. Browning Ferris Industries' Coneslroga'Landfill in Morgantown,_ Pennsylvania has implemented a similar program at their active landfill, to.demonstrate the current technology of waste management and the compatibility to the environment. A similar concept could be. adopted at the Woodlawn Landfill to demonstrate the final closure of a landfill and the potential future uses, of landfills,as wildlife habitat. Closed landfills can provide many of the habitat requirements of wildlife and this could beJaighlighted at the educational center, '...... - • Wildlife Habitat Council ~'~'~7~~'_-'. -.'..... - .,-,.-- —-=-=- - =- 25 AR309725 Opportunities Report for Bridgestcme/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill Educational facilities can range from newly built centers to trailers designed to handle small groups of visitors. Materials about agricultural practices, landfill operations, wildlife habitat, and environmental quality could be addressed and provided to organized groups visiting the site. A log of visitors would be important to document the site's use and to account for the groups being reached by the educational efforts of everyone involved at the site. Because the site is listed as Superhind, visitors should first be invited to tour the site by appointment only. This will allow liability issues to be better managed and will assure the site is being used for the targeted environmental education needs. Once a program is developed further, additional access "may be granted- U.S. Steel Group has developed a program at their South Taylpr Environmental Park outside of Pittsburgh/Pennsylvania that allows unlimited access to select teachers and school groups involved in the program since its inception. The South Taylor Environmental Park is a landfill operation where a pavilion was constructed as an education area for school groups visiting the wetland mitigation site associated with the landfill operations. Additional community access could also be arranged at the Woodlawn Landfill as future management of the site is determined. VI. WHC'S CORPORATE WILDLIFE HABITAT CERTIFICATION PROGRAM WHC provides certification for corporate and industriaLsites that demonstrate a long-term commitment to managing for wildlife and increasing biodiversity in their area. Once the team at the Woodlawn Landfill has implemented, monitored, maintained, and documented projects that enhance wildlife habitat for at least one year, Bridgestone/Firestone :may be eligible to apply for Wildlife Habitat Council ,26 AR309726 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill certification through WHCs> ...Corporate 'Wildlife Habitat Certification/International Accreditation program. Descriptions of certified projects, are published in WHC's International Registry of Certified Corporate Wildlife Habitats and press releases are distributed to local and national news contacts. Certified sites also receive an award plaque and are honored at WHC's Annual Symposium. In order-to be eligible for certification,, the program" at Woodlawn Landfill must conduct an ongoing animal and plant species inventory. This will show how the wildlife habitat enhancement program is affecting the local ecosystem. A wildlife habitat management plan that outlines goals for the site and the methods that will be:used to accomplish those goals is required. All enhancement projects must be. carefully documented as well. Once a site has achieved certification, it must apply for recertification every two years to ensure that the commitment to creating wildlife habitat is long-term. More .information about certification can be found in Appendix D. - • - VII. SUGGESTED IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE To assure: a -successful program it is often advantageous to begin with small, highly sucQe;ssful_projects that create valuable wildlife habitat. The following implementation schedule is only a sample. Actual implementation will depend upon interest and schedules of interested groups; funding, and time of year. Program Development 1. Develop a wildlife inventory Wildlife Habitat Council ' .. . . .'. .'.'.. .._/-. '. -'- - - • 27 AR3Q9727 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill 2. Write a management plan reflecting future uses of the site 3- Contact interested participants to join the wildlife management of the landfill Habitat Projects 1. Begin rotational mowing practices in open areas . " 2. Plant food plots on the adjacent Bridgestone/Firestone property 3. Build brush piles in open areas : 4, Erect nesting structures around the perimeter of the property Program Development 1. Update the wildlife inventory 2. Make adjustment to wildlife management plan to reflect changes in the. program 3. Contact groups" interested in the educational component of the program Habitat Projects 1. Plant a wildflower meadow 2. Control Phragmites in the retention pond 3. Erect raptor perch poles - : . 4. Expand wooded corridors around the site 5. Monitor nesting structures Year 3 Program Development 1. Construct the nature trail 2, Place interpretive materials 3. Create an environmental education center Habitat Projects 1. Landscape education center with plants native to the site and valuable to wildlife habitat " . Wildlife Habitat Couticil . 28 AR3D9728 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlazun Landfill 2. Participate in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Bayscapes Program 3.' Continue'monitoring nesting structures VIH. SUMMARY Of the many Bridgestone/Firestone sites, the Woodlawn Landfill is the first to consider a habitat enhancement program in association with the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC). This report was prepared to provide wildlife habitat enhancement and community outreach recommendations for the Woodlawn Landfill. Bridgestone/Firestone could start.by holding an initial meeting with regulatory agencies, Cecil county employees, community groups, and Bridgestone/Firestonepefsonhel to spark interest in the program. Once established, the wildlife-team determining the. future use of the site should select.a specific project to implement as the first .step in a long range wildlife habitat program. Recommendations for habitat enhancement at the Woodlawn Landfill include: " ."- "-"" " v; .n:v:" :~:"::""""" "" .- --;--• • Erecting nesting structures for bluebirds, and tree swallows • Expanding wooded corridors around_the site ... • Building brush piles = " ; ..-"-• • • Rotationally mowing portions of. the site • Creating a wildflower meadow...... • Placing raptor perching structures , ._'.',-_'_ . • Controlling Phragmites _ .:__-:..-...._ • Planting agricultural food.plots for wildlife In addition _.to, .habitat enhancement, environmental education programs are recommended to make visitors to the site and the county transfer station aware of waste management and the, potential compatibility of closed landfills and Wildlife Habitat Council "...... ,,•.. . ------29 : AR309729 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firestone's Woodlawn Landfill wildlife habitat. Recommended projects for raising environmental awareness include the following. • Utilize the Cecil county transfer station to highlight the management of the site • Create a nature trail * Provide interpretive materials * Develop an environmental education center After some of the projects have been established for at least one year, the Woodlawn Landfill wildlife management program may be eligible for WHC certification to receive recognition for the proactive management efforts on behalf of wildlife. To achieve program certification, a habitat management plan, documentation of implemented projects including photo documentation, and a log book should be submitted. Other materials that may be required are listed on the certification application form provided in Appendix D of this report. WHC views this report as the first step in long-term partnership with Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc. We Look forward to working with the .employees , regulatory agencies, and community groups to achieve environmental goals at the Woodlawn Landfill and at Bridgestone/Firestone facilities. throughout the United States. __ ' ... ' : Wildlife Habitat Council ' 30 SR309730 Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/ttrestone's Woodlcwm Landfill TABLE OF CONTENTS . L EXECU11VE:SIIfcfiS^ n. OVERVIEW ;;.™~;...... ™...... ™^ A: Site Visit;,;...... _,™^™_...^..Z,...... ^..;^.....L...... „..„...... „„....„..„...... „...„ 3 B. Site Description...... «,..-,...—.„„..„.....„.„„„„...... _...... „...„.....„....._„„... 4 CWiidM>n£;ite^^^^ HI. DEVELOPING A FlABITATERr^N^ 6 A. Conduct an inventory...... _—«.„.„.„...... „....„„..„..„>„...„„.„...... „.....,.. 6 B. Hold an Initial Meermg.,.,..-.....,.™.;,,...... ,.,,.,.....,™^^ 7 - C Build a Wildlife Team.....;...^..,.;,:...u..™™^...... ;..m;...,...._...... J.....,.....^ D. Write a Management Plan ...... ™...... ^..™«_...... 8 JV. HABITAT &tifi^ A. Erect Nest Boxes\....~w~;:.r.;«;:;^.™^ 9 1. Manage for Eastern"Bluebir,d.,...... ,..,.....„..„.„..„....„...„„..„.„...... „...... „ 10 2. Manage for Tree Swallows „„...... „„„..„„,.„«...... „...... „....•„.„....„.. 12 3. Place"a Wood Duck Box at the Stormwater Pond...... 12 B. Develop a Rotational Mowing Schedule...... 13 ClTIaceRaptor/I'erches-..:.....-.....^^ 14 D,- Build Brush Pues"...;!.:;.:...;^;™..;^^^ 15 E. Expand Wooded Corridors...;....,...... „„,...„..,...„...... ,...... ,...... 16 F. Create a Wildflower Meadow»...... ™.~™T.—...—™.."....™..™...... ™...... 17 1. Creating a WUdflower'Meadow ...... ,_...._...... ^...... ,...... 18 2. Species Sele^tT67i...... w..,....-.,.,~..™,™--^^ 1 3. Maintenance and Monitoring of Meadows...... :...... —...... 20 G. Plant Food JPIois^^l-^./.^ 21 H. Control Phragmites in the Stormwater Retention Pond.—...... ,...„...... —.... 22 V. OI^O1TIJMETIEST'UW Wildlife Habitat Council ...____.... .,...... _ -....- -<. ------31 AR30973I Opportunities Report for Bridgestone/Firsstone's Woodlawn Landfill 1. Create Trail Loops...... ,...... ,.....™...... _—_....,„.„.„„„„„...... ,.„...,..,.... 23 2. Traverse Through a Variety of Habitats...... ,.....,...... ™...... ,....™.. 24 3. Use Interpretive Materials ...... __...... 24 B, Establish an Education Center...... ,,.,,„.„.„„..„..,„_-....____..,.m....™., 25 VL WHC'S CORPORATE WILDLIFE HABITAT CERTIFICATION PROGRAM26 VH. SUGGESTED IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE...... 27 Vm. SUMMARY ...m.,...... -...... ,.....,..,...... ,.,...... 29 Table L Representative List of Wildlife Found at the Woodlawn Landfill...... 4 Table 2. Native Trees for expanding Wooded Corridors...... 17 Table 3. List of Native Grasses and Wildflowers for the Woodlawn Landfill..19 Figure 1. Rotational Mowing...... ,...... ,...... 13a Figure 2. Brush Piles...... 15a Wildlife Habitat Council 32 AR309732 APPENDIX A REFERENCES R309733 REFERENCES Benyus, Janine/M. 1989, The Field Guide to Wildlife Habitats of the Eastern United Stales, Simon & Schuster Inc. New York, New York. • . Bull, John and John Farand Jr. 1977. The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Birds, Eastern Region. Alfred A. Knopf, New York, New York. 784 pp. Burt, William H. and Richard P. Grossenheider. 1976.. A Field Guide to the Mammals of America North of Mexico. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, Massachusetts. 289 pp. Martin, Alexander C, Herbert S, Zim, and Arnold L. Nelson, _1951t American Wildlife and Plants: A Guide to Wildlife Food Habits. Dover Publications,, .Inc., New York, New York. 500 pp. " " . Payne, Neil F. and Fred C, Bryant. 1994. Techniques for Wildlife Habitat Management of Uplands. McGraw-Hill, Inc., New York, New York. 840 pp. Peterson, Roger Tory. 1968. A Field Guide to Wildflowers of Nortfaastern and North Central North America. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, Massachusetts. 420 pp. " ' _ •" " ' Petrides, George A. 1988. A Field Guide to Eastern Trees. Houghton Mifflin Company, New York, New York. 272 pp. Rice, J.A. (editor), Pond Management Guide. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission arid The. North , Carolina Agricultural Extension. Service. 27pp. Schenk, Marcus. 1990. Butterflies, How to Identify and Attract Them to Your Garden. Rodale Press, Inc., U.S.A. 160 pp. Shemnitz, Stanford D. (editor), 1980. Wildlife Management Techniques Manual. The Wildlife Society, Washington, DC" 6Uppr Stokes, Donald and Lilian. 1990. The Complete Birdhouse Book: The Easy Guide to Attracting Nesting Birds. Little, Brown and Company, New York, New York., 95pp. AR309731* Stokes, Donald and Lilian. 1989. The Hummingbird Book: The Complete Guide, to Attracting, Identifying/ and Enjoying_ Hummingbirds. Little, Brown and Company/Boston, Massachusetts. 87pp. Trapp, Suzanne, Michael Gross, Ron Zimmerman. 1991... Signs, Trails, and Wayside Exhibits. UW-SP Foundation Press, Inc. Stevens Point, Wisconsin. 103pp.. flR309735 APPENDIX B WILDLIFE CITED AR309736 SPECIES LIST Birds American robin Turdus migratorius blue jay . . Cyanocitta cristata Eastern bluebird Sialia sialis European starling ... Sturnus vulgaris house sparrow - - - pas^er ^omesticus kingbird .' -"-.-."-"• Tyrannus spp. red-tailed hawk Buteo j'amaicensis rufusrthroated hummingbird Archilochus colubris scarlet tanager ... , . Piranga olivacea tree swallow Tachycineta bicolor white-tailed deer ---- -Odocoileusvirginianus wild turkey ' Meleagris gallopavo woodduck - Aixsponsa wood thrush Hylocichla mustelina Mammals __ ...... _...... cottontail rabbit .Sylvilagus floridanus gray squirrel .___Sciurus carolinensis fox Vulpes spp. raccoon . Procyon lotor Plant • bayberry . .. . Myrica spp. beard tongue - Penstemon.digitalis bee balm " . Monarda didyma bitternut hickory " Quercus rubra black-eyed susan ' . " ; . Rudbeckia Hirta blackgum ' Nyssa sylvatica black locus . . -... Robinia pseudoacacia blue aster ...... - . Aster azureus broom sedge ". ""'~"~~'- ^"-. --.Jv ~Andropogon virginicus butterfly weed "."" ; Asdepias tuberosa Canadian hemlock . . Tsuga canadensis chestnut oak . Quercus primts , clover Trifoliumspp. columbine "" ", Aqidlegia canadensis corn Zea mays daisy fleabane . - -. ._.Erigeron annuus dense blazing star Liatris spicata flR309737 dwarf crested iris . Iris cristata . _ '. evening primrose ; Oenthera biennis highbush blueberry Vaccinium^prymbosum jack in the pulpit Arisaema inphyllum June grass .. . . :" " Koeleria cristata lance-leaved coreopsis Coeropsis lanceolata lespedeza Lespedeza spp. little bluestem Andropogon scvparius - mayapple " Podophyllum peltatum meadow fescue Festuca elatior milkweed . ...._ Asclepias spp. multiflora rose - - Rosa m.ttltiflora New England aster _ Aster nouae-angliae New England blazing star Liatris borealis northern red cedar Juniperusvirginiana phragmites . Phragmites spp poison ivy Toxicodendron radicans possumhaw viburnum Viburnum nudiim purple coneflower Enchinacea pitrpurea - purple love grass --Eragrostis spectabilis redosier dogwood .. ... Cornus serecid red oak Quercus rubra serviceberry Amelanchier arboreta shooting star Dodecatheon meadia side-oats grama Bouteloua curpendula smooth sumac Rhus glabra sorghum Sorghum halepense spicebush Lindera spp. swamp sunflower . Helianthus~a_itsust_ifolius sweetgum iquidambar styraciflua switchgrass - Panzcwm v.irg~atum tulip poplar Liriodendron tulipifera white oak Quercus alba wild geranium Geranium maculatu winterberry holly Ilex verticulata AR309738 APPENDIX C INFORMATION SOURCES flR309739 Maryland Information Sources Government Department of Natural Resources. LT.S, Fish and Wildlife Service Director, Wildlife Division BayScapes Josh Sandt Britt Eckhardt Slattery Tawes State Office~31dg. 177 Admiral Cochrane Dr. Annapolis, MD 21401 Annapolis, MD 21401 (410)974-3195 .... (410)573-4581 Environmental Contacts The North American Bluebird Wildlife Society Society President P.O. Box 6295 - - - Marilyn Mause Silver Spring, MD 20906-0295 228 Candy Tuff Dr. (301) 384-2798 , Reisterstown, MD 21136 (301) 833-7990" . .: " Nurseries Bel Air Farm Supply (annuals & Evergreen Farm perennials) 4219-Webster Rd. 424 N Main Street Havre De Grace, MD 21078 Bel Air, MD 21014 . (410)9390659. (410)8386111 Rake's Nursery 6 Barnes Corner Rd. Colora, MD 21917 (410) 658-30.15 - APPENDIX D CERTIFICATION INFORMATION WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL" DEMYSTIFYING WHC's CERTIFICATION PROGRAM A STEP-EtfT-STEP GUIDE The PrOUd, The Elite important to the non-humans. Other benefits rrn Tr-TTr1 /^ *ir* J * include a listingTri WHCs International IHe Wilt tertlliea. . Registry of C^&dCorpse Wildlife What certification is and why it's good to get Habitats, a certmcat'e acknowledging the site's accomplishments given at an awards banquet WHCs Corporate Wildlife Habitat during WHC's .Annual Symposium, and eligi- Certmcatian/Iniematibnal Accreditation bility for the "Rookie of the Year" award for Program formally validates wildlife habitat outstanding performance "in the initial.stages management and environmental education of a wildlife program, or "Corporate Habitat of programs at corporate sites. In the short the Year" for recertified sites." In addition, sites term, an accredited site receives credibility, often receive positive media attention, a distinction, media coverage, and other bene- refreshing occurrence ^iven'the tendency of fits discussed below. But in the long run, two some media to give industry the opposite kind important goals are achieved: assurance that, of coverage. Sites also qualify to display the wildlife at corporate sites will benefit from a WHC certification sign as a marker for all who good habitat enhancement program, and a pass fay to note, "Now here is a corporate site demonstration to the public that industry and that cares about wildlife!" wildlife can indeed coexist. < The program has grown tremendous- What's.Seing Demystified? . " ,; ly since its inception in 1990, from 18 certi- " --This article outlines how corporate sites fled sites to 137,~resulting in a dramatic rise with habitat projects apply for certification. in VYHC-reccgnised wildlife acreage (Chart What are the requirements? How should the t A). In 1990, the program was attractive only application form itself be approached? What are to WHC members. Today, nonmember corpo- ~ the possible outcomes after application review? rations rrom around the world are requesting And finally, what is ^certification? applications. In addition to providing recog- ..= - ... . nition. the program also serves as an incen- Thp Pprmirprnpnts live to develop habitat projects. And as the J,11^ fvc^uu cmcuip program expands, it also evolves. WHC con- ^he ba5c' overa11 ^f ndaras. Everyoody meets tinues to streamline the program while at the them. There re no slackers nere. . same time maintain its standards and respond . " ., . ,• . „, - i , u. - " to ne» opportunities, such as recognizing off- tt. ,r Let ^ «et to *e .*»"- '\C;™ sits oroSrans accreaitabon is not easy. The criteria Also, ^a result of feedback and the that projects must m«t were «tablished to .. increased international interest in the pro- ^sure.the program s cred.Dmty among prores- gram. WHC added -international accredit*- «onals the fflmmun,tii_and ,ae -,, d,a. and its Son- to the 3d., a more broadlv recognized wntaang ^lue to the participant now and term of achievement 'n ** mtu"' ^L^*™nt5h^t^^m~ The benefits of being certified are ficaton program that l.nKS too mroncalty manv. with third-party validation being one of aa\ta*?!* c°n,c^ 'naustna! proaucaon the most important to the site, and long-term and wjUUiie habiteL must be smcu managemen^ t for wildlife beinag one of the most th,e rollowi. .,n Ea standarcs* f'3'm.e ThWll*re sitee ^m^u ^ mest • active, sustained habitat management , _ _ As a result of the survey, WHC has projects, that provide benefits to native" "__implemented some changes, including: wildlife, add to the wildlife diversity of " ~ " • a description of the three possible the area, and, if applicable, exceed any ratings after an application is regulatory requirements; ' _ __ _ reviewed by the committee; • an active monitoring program that • a shorter, more concise re- documents the habitat projects or .. . certification application form; and accomplishments over time: and • separate forms for certification and • active involvement by corporate recertification, employees in. the planning, imple- " ~ " """ "One suggestion under consideration mentation, and/or monitoring of the " is a school certification program that is sepa- program. rate from the existing Corporate Wildlife Habitat Certification Program. The Survey Why we did it. How we're implementing your Certification suggestions. ...;.,".."""""", " Now for the meat and potatoes. What you need to do. Over the past five years, participants" ----- ...,.=«, in the Certification Program have shared The following criteria ensure that only their ideas and concerns about the program those sites with sound, committed wildlife pro- and we've listened. Also, the Program grams are accredited The site must imple- Advisory Committee, a'committee of the ment, maintain,, and. monitor at least one com- WHC Board of Directors, decided to make " plete, viable habitat management project* for some changes to.the. program and wanted to at least one year prior to the application dead- hear how participants felt about these line; create, manage, and update a site-specific changes. So we "asked for your reactions. . wildlife management plan; provide adequate More than 41% responded, and all had very documentation (photo and written) of man- helpful suggestions. agement efforts; been visited and formally After compiling the preliminary evaluated by a WHC biologist; and demon- results of the survey, we learned that 71% of strate a level of commitment that will carry respondents .thought the standards of the the program for at least two years. Certification Program are adequate and appro- , If reiated to mitigation or sfmi[ar regulatory issuef ^ pro. priate (Chart B}. Other Survey questions " jectfs) must exceed regulations. revealed that participants view the program as .Application packages must be corn- credible among peers, as being valuable as a plete and include all the information listed on public relations tool, and as having outstand- the form; all information requested by WHC is ing value to the corporation (Chart C). . necessary to process and review applications. Chart A: Certified Corporate Wildlife Acres 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 Years AR3097U3 Documentation of project implemen- Chart B: Certification Standards tation and maintenance, and of monitoring activities is'also crucial for accreditation. Information submitted should answer, "What exactly has been done with the wildlife pro- gram to move it forward toward its goals?" For each action or project, specify when, where, how, and why it was implemented. Finally, one of the problems that WHC most frequently encounters during the certification process is incomplete applica- tions. Even though certain items on the form may not seem critical to a site's application, they are. In particular, media materials allow Adequate/Appropriate WHC to provide the proper recognition if accreditation is achieved. The black and Too stringent white photos that are requested on the form are sent with press releases; the color slides Too subjective are used to showcase the site during the WHC Symposium awards ceremony. Other The Deadline Too lenient You've seen it before. Here it is again. Certification and recertification The site wildlife management plan is applications must be postmarked by July 31, a critical portion of the application. Keep in jggg. This deadline is critical to allow the mind that a WHC Opportunities Report, writ- Review Committee enough time to evaluate ten by the WHC biologist who visited the site, ^ch application, check references, and corn- is not a wildlife management plan. Although pfle and produce the Registry, the certificates, WHC is available to help write management and the multimedia presentation. - plans, the site Opportunities Report serves as Applications postmarked between August 1 a menu from which the site wildlife team ^3 August 30 require an additional S100 late chooses projects to implement, which are fe£j and will not be eligible for the "Rookie of then included in a wildlife management plan, the Year" or "Corporate Habitat of the Year" Sample management plans are available from awards. Applications postmarked after WHC's headquarters and are included in the August 30,1996 will not be accepted. application materials. Chart C: Value of Certification Value (5 being highest) 5 i i i i i II i i i i i IiIf Credibility Ptiblte gmnloyes incentive asnsiit Overall Overall Valuetn Amana Rilittoiu Relations to Enhance to Busiwss Value to Value to ffi™^ p«rs Value Value HaBitat Opsrattons Site Corporation Protected AR3097UU PrOCCSS* * Directors, a three-year recertification rotation What's it gonna be? One of three possibilities." may te implemented beginning in 1997 In addition to receiving continued dis- Once WHC receives an application, it ^^ for being part of an elite group of cor- is checked for completeness and reviewed by P0^6 f*65'one <*** 82 el'j?ble for the Review Committee, a team of seven WHC £tlon ^ %**& reoave the coveted wildlife biologists. Each application is criti- ^?0rate Ha^ °/?e Yea^ *"**-. . cally reviewed and given one of three designa- .19^inne£ DuP°nt Company-Victona P ant tions: Certified, Good Start, or Denied. m Vtc^ona' ^f' developed a formal wildlife ' management plan that is supported by a + Certified. Certification is awarded to vision, overall goals, key objectives, and habitat those sites that meet all of the requirements prescriptions for each area included within the and standards of the program. Up to five out- plan. (Criteria and additional information on standing newly accredited sites may be sent the award are available from WHC.) forward for consideration for the "Rookie of As a result of the helpful suggestions the Year" award. One site will be chosen for received from the survey, we will supplement this award by a panel of independent judges the original applications on file for sites from industry and the conservationcornmu- applying for recertification with the addition- nity. (Criteria and additional inforrnafiori on al documentation sent this year, thus reduc- the award are available from WHC.) ing the amount oif paper that needs to be sub- + Good Start The primary reason for a f ittef: fThe "*» ™^ficrtQn application site receiving a "good start" rather than certi- £"? hf ^.^ ltems ™g*d for the fiction is maturity: sites whose programs gf^ Committee to review the applications are less than a year old and simply have not therefore, ^ «£ *e fo™ **&$, «* had time to demonstrate commitment and enclose evetytiinig that is requested Boxes achieve results. Applications from sites that aW?r * ea This scoring sheet does not determine if a site wildlife program achieves certification, it ranks those programs achieving certification and recertification for the awards and for the three year recertification rotation. Nominees for WHC's Rookie and Corporate Habitat of the Year Awards are chosen from the pool of successful certification and recertification applications. Each site wildlife program achieving WHC certification, "regardless of size of the site or number of employees, is rated on the following criteria and is eligible for these awards. The three highest ranking programs applying for initial certification are nominated for the Rookie of the Year Award. The three highest ranking programs applying for recertification are chosen as nominees for the Corporate Habitat of the Year. The previous year's winner of the Corporate Habitat of the Year is automatically nominated for the award again to give that site wildlife program a chance to retain their title. Those site programs applying for recertification that rate 21 and higher on the following criteria move into the three year recertification rotation. (5 as best) 12345 Improvements to Habitat: The habitat projects and accompanying management plan demonstrate an understanding of the interrelationship between habitat components that provide each animal's living requirements. The program lends a sense of overall conservation and is not simply a group of unrelated habitat projects. 12345 Scope of Projects: Relative to the size of the site and the number of habitat types present, the program addresses or plans to address each available area at the site and strives to manage as wide a range of habitats as possible. Also, efforts to raise environmental awareness have been developed. 12345 Level of Commitment: Documentation supports that monitoring and maintenance activities are done frequently and thoroughly. 12345 Outside Group Involvement: The program is accessible to the local community, conservation organizations, and regulatory agencies. The wildlife program has invited outside groups to participate. 1 2 3 4.5 Length of Involvement: (Not a criteria for Rookie of the Year) The program is committed to implementing and monitoring a program for the long term, and outlines how this has been and will be accomplished. 12345 Employee Involvement: The program involves a high percentage of employees, as well as employees from a range of levels within the company (relative to the number of employees at the site). 12345 Credibility: Does the site program demonstrate that efforts are credible and provide real values to wildlife and to biodiversity and would those efforts stand up to scrutiny of other environmental professionals? AR3097U6 Environmental Education^ 7 : Program Guidelines Environmental education programs link wildlife tidpate in standard programs. habitats with the community. Educational outings pro- vide opportunities for children and adults to learn about • Incorporate projects such as Save Our Streams the natural world and ways to protect it. Programs can to capture and observe aquatic life and test water be created both on corporate lands and on school prop- quality, erties. By forming a partnership with a nature center, local school, or other community organization, corpora- ' • Provide resources such as microscopes, binocu- tions are able to educate individuals from a variety of lars, and animal specimens to1 broaden student backgrounds, enabling them to make a difference today understanding. and in the future. . ".'-" ' . ""-".". ".""!" . ", ... . • Develop specific curricula, with input from WHC has found that the most successful programs teachers and students, based on habitats and spe- are ongoing and involve more than funding on behalf of . cies.onsite. the company. Employees, their families, and.other;corn- .___. __._ ...... -_ muniry members benefit from creative .environmental Mentoring Programs education programs based "on wildlife, habitat projects... . * Involve one class and a regular group of em- Components of Successful Programs ployees with each visit building upon the knowl- edge gained in previous visits. • Programs focus on natural communities, inter- relationships, and the positive" role that humans can • Pair site employees with unique groups of .stu- play in these communities-_"__" __ .'___'-_'__', ~: ~ -, "-"."" " " -dents, such"as those "at risk." • Hands-on, critical thinking, and decision mak- • Emphasize the development of one-on-one rela- ing activities are emphasized. - ...... tionships which foster an appreciation and sense of respect for nature and provide role models. • Employees participating in the education pro- grams attend training seminars arid workshops • Emphasize cooperative activities such as study- at local nature centers, local schools or colleges, ing prairie plots, constructing nature trail mark- natural resource agencies, or conservation organi- ers; monitoring nesting structures, conducting on- zations. Examples include Project WEd, Project going species inventories, and planting trees to cre- Lfiarning Tree, and Save our Streams. ate wildlife corridors. Many opportunities:are/available for developing en- • Develop specific curricula, with input from vironmental education programs. WHC encouragescre-'"._' __ teachers..and. students, based on habitats and spe- ative programs and can visit sites and meet with com- .._._ cies on site pany and community representatives to develop appro- priate environmental education programs which maxi- . •. Document changes in attitudes with written mize the site's wildlife and human resources. _ .. comments from employees and students. Examples of Programs -'"Nature Trails .__'. WHC encourages" sites to cQnsider_th_e potential avail-?. • Provide public access. able to them to. develop programs, either on their lands .-....___.... or on school grounds, which utilize the habitats as "out- * "Offer naturalis_t-guided walks, self-guided writ- door classrooms." WHC merhbers have successfully en- ten brochures, interpretive signage, or a combina- gaged in the following types, of environmental education programs. , ; .-;__ ._"_ ' - ,_";.: :-_i_: . :i:..:._,i-.-. .• ..r:_;__r:-z_^ Biological Field Study Programs • Involve numerous groups of students who par- ^JJJ^^e^TiT D TT- TT^- r^r^r"^ Wll^JJl-lril rlAisllAl t^wUiN^ij-. flR3097U7 tion of these. School) • Describe local species, habitat interrelationships, * A minimum of 3 letters of reference from teach- and cultural resources. ers, community members, or other group leaders. • Link sites' habitac enhancement projects. Additional materials and certification applications are available through WHC * Emphasize the importance of active habitat man- agement and native species. • Construct blinds for wildlife observation. • Provide logbooks for visitor registration, com- ments, and suggestions. Certification of Programs Sites with established programs are encouraged to pursue certification. WHC's Corporate Wildlife Habitat Certification Program is designed to recognize companies and sites which have taken proactive steps in the envi- ronmental education field. Certification for environmen- tal education recognizes successful efforts to establish, maintain, and monitor environmental education pro- grams and activities. In order to clarify exact requirements for certifica- tion of an environmental education project the follow- ing quantifiable guidelines have been established. The groups you have been working with may be resources to you and may be interested in helping collect and pre- pare documentation for the certification application. Sites applying for environmental education certifi- cation must provide documentation of all of the follow- ing. - ..._...... • A minimum of 12 documented program days per year involving the outside group and site em- ployees. This can include any combination of 12 visits by the same group or 12 visits by different groups. ._. • A program description explaining why the pro- gram was developed, the goals of the program, methods of teaching, evaluations of success, and groups involved. * A curriculum, developed jointly by teachers, emplovees and other community members, which explains the activities at the site. Existing curricula are suitable as long as they are adapted to specific - -. site conditions. Wildlife Habitat Council _^ . t 1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 920 • Audience information on groups that participate c;iv~. Regardless of how large your program is, or how 3. Wildlife Inventory and Photo References extensive your plans, you will want to establish_a work- _.._ .__«- -~ . z.. . . _ ing management plan. The plan outlines your goals, "Include your inventory information. Knowing defines your programs, and offers guidelines to Insure which species occur on your site is the baseline for mea- that the achievements you have made in habitat enhance- suring your program's success. As reviewed in WHC's merit are maintained and continue to benefit wildlife. inventory guidelines, this is an ongoing project"— as new species are identified, they should be added to the list. Writing out your wildlife management plan also Include any plans you have for activities that will Eview details your enhancement program and provides the be- and expand the inventory; ginnings of WHC's Wildlife Habitat Certification appli- cation process. Remember as you develop your plan that In addition to your inventory list, it is helpful to it should become a working document. It is intended to document your successes with photographs. Set up pep- be modified as goals change due to conditions and in manent sites where pictures can be taken periodically, to response to the implementation of your projects. A document...changes resulting from implementing the sample management plan is available...... projects in your management plan. "Before" pictures should be taken, and follow-up photos should be taken Format on a regular schedule. You may want your "after" pho- tps taken during the same time the following year Sea- To be successful, your management plan should sonal changes will influence the appearance of the pcject include the following six sections. ~' 7. andltus allows a fair comparison to assess the progress of your projects. I. Introduction _.._.._ - - — - - 4. Objectives and Prescriptions Begin with an overview of your program. De- __ .,;,:. .. = . scribe the basic elements, how your company became in- This section provides the key to creating a work- volved in habitat enhancement projects, and the overall ing document. First, lef s define the difference between goals of the company. Your-initial goal was to form, an the goals outlined in the introduction and the objectives employee wildlife committee, which can now work to- and prescriptions you will develop. gether to develop your wildlife inanagement goajs. A few achievable targets will encourage you to focus your Goals are designed to provide a general target efforts on specific projects. You may also want to center for management. your goals around one specific area of your site. Example: The goal of our management pro- 2. Site Description "~" "gram is to enhance the present habitat condi- tions for the Eastern bluebiid. If you have walked on your site, this section should come easily Identify your geographic location Objectives define what will be accomplished and proximity to nearby cities, arid then provide details - - - — How much, how many, when? on the site. Establish the percentage of the site devoted ... ------. _ _ . to habitat, proxirruty of operations to the aieas, and acre- . .Example: Rep lace 51 acres of lawn with na- age. Include a map or aerial photograph of your p»p- tive wildflpwer meadow by 1996. erty if available. . . . —...... - Once the general information has been outlined. Prescriptions are the management methods to you identify habitat types, plantspecies, ponds, wetlands,.. be implemented, to accomplish the objectives and special features such as cliffs and brush. It is also — How,, when, where? appropriate to describe surrounding land and adjacent property. You may also want to address fprmerjanci uses._; It's helpful to measure the success "of.your program, if you can identify, for example, a formerly mowed lawn now restored to natural prairie. w WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL* AR3Q97l*9 Example: Disc the 51 ace lawn to the north of projects, accomplishments and progress toward program the building in March 1994. Use Roundup to goals. Establishing an activities journal as an appendix remove growth following the discing of the to your plan and as a portion of your documentation for lawn. Seed using a broadcast seeder and a monitoring and maintenance is one way to fiflect the 40:60 grass/wildfiower mix. achievements of your projects. This is available £rom WHC wife the sample management plan paviously ref- Near-tenn projects can be described thoroughly erenced. through this format and long term projects can be out- lined and then expanded and revised during implemen- Additional materials and certification applica- tation and completion. This enables those using the plan tions are available through WHC to see what is to be done as well as why they aje doing the projects and how each fits into the overall goals of the plan. It's also an easy reference for new team mem- bers. Wildlife shouldn't fae the only ones benefiting fiom your plan. S. Monitoring and Maintenance Identify tach goal andspecific actions to be taken roruaemamtenaiKsandmorutorinsofyourpcjects. Pro- vide information on how to conduct the procedure and a schedule for when the action is to be taken. Program success and WHC certification require an ongoing main- tenance and monitoring program and the documentation or" this In your wildlife team activities journal, and wild- - . ••--•- life team meetings. 6. Implementation Schedule This section will contain a schedule of dates for implementing habitat projects, inventory walks, and wildlife team meetings. Also by outlining one, three, and five year goals, you can help team members begin to think about each of the steps needed to Each the overall goals. The schedule should also contain some "stEtch goals." Envision your site in five years, what species will ._ _ . _ . besharingyoursite,whathabitatpiDJectswiIlbe in place, and how the site should appear While planning, recog- nize and account for the maintenance and monitoring these future projects will require. After your wildlife management plan is imple- mented and your prescriptions are underway, evaluate it for effectiveness and success. Don't shy from making changes when needed. Successful habitat programs are . ., continual learning processes for everyone, even the ex- perts. When making a change, leave the original section and amend the plan by Identifying the isasons for the change and new methods to address the circumstance. Certification of Wildlife Programs The Wildlife Management Plan is one compo- Wildlife Habitat Council nent of the requirements for WHCs Wildlife Habitat Car- 1010 ^ayrie Avenue, Suite 920 tification Program. If you are working toward cem- Silver Soring MD 20910 fication, keep in mind ways to demonstrate your undef *uvcrop ring, i coo <*9O standing oF the rationale for vour selection of wildlife Telephone: 301-588-3994 • FAX: 301-588-4629 AR309750 The Corporate Habitat of the Year and Rookie of the Year Awards ocmaia Criteria WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL- ______Corporate Wildlife Habitat Certification Program ••& .*. s Corporate Habitat of the Year and Rookie of the Year awards are designed to recognize two corporate sites for outstanding environmental stewardship and voluntary employee efforts. The candidates for the awards are gener- ated from the pool of applicants for certification and recertification. Each candidate is nominated by the WHC Certification Review Committee, arid the nominees' applications are submitted to a panel of independent profes- sional judges for review and decision. Nominees and winners are chosen based on the following criteria. Eligibility ______Corporate Habitat of the Year - Only sites that have been previously certified with programs in place for at least two years and are currently applying for recertification are considered for this award. Rookie of the Year - .Only tiiose sites that are applying for first time certification are eligible for this award. Requirements and Selection Criteria Improvements to Habitat - The habitat enhancement measures are designed to improve or protect biodiversity. The management plan demonstrates an understanding of habitat needs of target species and the interrelationship of habitat components that provide the animals' living requirements. Scope of Projects - The program should include a wide range of projects, including a diversity of habitat or species involved in the management program relative to the size of the site. The plan should also address issues beyond habitat enhancement such as environmental education, which includes developing environ- mental awareness among employees and the community. Level of Commitment - The wildlife team should be highly committed, demonstrated by the contribution of time, effort, and resources relative to the size of the site. Commitment reflected in the frequency and thoroughness of maintaining and documenting the management program is considered in addition to the type and scope of the project implemented. This will be demonstrated in the activities journal and other program documentation.. The extent of future plans for the management program will also be considered. For example, the application~indicates changes to habitat (i.e., 400 trees planted) or an increase in species diversity indicated through inventorying and.monitoring programs. Outside Group Involvement - The enhancement program should be accessible to the local community conservation organizations, or state and federal agencies.. This can occur through actively involving out- side groups in on-site projects, 'seeking expert technical advice, and/or conducting public tours, (ft does not include hiring an outside consultant to design the program.) Length of Involvement- The Review Committee. wiU.exaj^e.th^. program based on how long it has been maintained with or before involvement of the Council, and/or how long it will take to implement and achieve the program's.stated goal. Employee Involvement -"The program should involve a high percentage of employees from different lev- els within the company (e.g.. hourly, assembly. Une: and managerial). Credibility - The program .should stand up to, scrutiny by rnembers_of tlae_ environmental profession and provide a model for other companies. . /CX flR30975l Wildlife Habitat Council Wildlife Management Plan Sample WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT PLAN for WOODRTTE CORPORATION Spoonville, USA Prepared by: Woodiite Corporation Employee Wildlife Team in cooperation with Wildlife Habitat Council Local Conservation Group, and State Department .of Wildlife Conservation January 1,1993 SR309752 I. INTRODUCTION Woodrite Corporation, the world's leading manufacturer of wooden spoons, is located in Spoonville, USA. After becoming incorporated in 1962, Woodrite purchased a 150 acre dear-cut lot in Spoonville, and built a production area encompassing 55 acres. The remaining 95 acres have been left to natural succession, and some o£ the 320 employees have been interested in forming nature trails and benefiting the wildlife on the property. The extent of present habitat enhancement structures on Woodrite's property is limited to a bird feeder and birdbath in a courtyard area near Mirror Pond. At the request of various employees, the plant manager contacted the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) in May 1992 to obtain assistance in developing a wildlife management program for the company property. A site visit by a WHC biologist was conducted in September 1992, and management opportunities for the 95 acres available for enhancement were discussed, outlined, and compiled by November 1992. Art organizational meeting for establishing a wildlife team was held, resulting in 11 team members. The resulting wildlife management plan was compiled by the wildlife team based on recommendations from WHC and the State Department o£ Wildlife Conservation. Over time, the plan is designed to increase biodiversity on the property by implementing enhancement projects and linking existing habitats with adjoining habitats to provide a stable, more diverse ecosystem. To work toward an increase in biodiversity, the plan includes one, three, and five year goals. During the Erst year, the team will focus on protecting and enhancing the Mirror Lake area. In additiou to maintaining the original projects, the three- year goal includes plans to improve habitat for bluebirds and purple martins and create butterfly gardens and wildflower meadows. In five_years, the team hopes to build upon the success of the initial projects to develop and implement a forest management program for the 75 acre woodlot and pursue art agreement with the neighboring fanner to improve the quality of his pasture for both wildlife and his cattle. Specific objectives and prescriptions for the first-year goals are provided later in this plan. IL SITE DESCRIPTION When the Woodrite Corporation purchased the land for its corporate headquarters in 1962, the property was in the early successional stages of growth following a clear- cut Now, 31 years later, an even-aged stand of pole-sized American beech and sugar maple covers about 75 acres to the north of the office and production complex. flR309753 The site" is bordered on the north and south by residential areas, and on the east by a town park consisting of mowed lawns with an abundance of large silver and sugar maples. The western portion of the ..property is adjacent to land owned by a farmer and used as a pasture_for cattle. This pasture and streambank have been over- grazed, and the resulting vegetation is in poor condition. Mirror Lake, a 4 acre pond, separates the forested area from the production area, and is stocked with largemouth bass and brown bullhead. The area immediately. surrounding the pond is mowed lawn. The pond inlet, Moss Creek, empties into the east side of the lake, improper forest management techniques have been applied along the shores of the Moss Creek upstream of the lake, resulting in a high amount of sediment washing into the creek, and thus poor lake water quality. The outlet flows from the west side of Mirror Lake. For a map of Mirror Lake, see Figure 1. The office and production area consists" of approximately 25 acres of mowed lawn, half of which is a large. Eat_lawri" on both sides of the entrance road. m. SITE INVENTORY AND PHOTO REFERENCE STATIONS One of the first steps in managing the property was to conduct a site inventory and establish photo reference.._statioris. These are tools used, to measure the progress of the program. An inventory of plants^ and animals found on the property is included in Appendix B. This list is a result of an inventory walk done soon after the establishment of the wildlife team on November 23,1992. Updates to the inventory list will be made during the course o£ the projects and scheduled inventory walks will be held seasonally to document wildlife using the property. Photo reference stations'were se't up "on the first inventory walk at locations noted on the site map (see Figure 1). During subsequent inventory walks, pictures, will be taken from these stations to document the results of the management projects. IV. HABITAT ASSESSMENT TO DETERMINE THE PROGRAM'S GOALS During-'the site "inventory the wildlife team focused on identifying plant and wildlife species on "the property as well as determining what habitat requirements were lacking for wildlife species" present' In order.for a species to occupy a particular habitat, the four-basic, needs of wildlife must be" present: food, water, protective cover, and space for foraging and raising young. A well -developed wildlife habitat management program should address all of these requirements. The ultimate goal of any well concieved wildlife program should include the protection and enhancement of biological diversity (biodiversity). Biodiversity is a AR3097514 measure of the number of species of plants and animals, their populations, distribution, and genetic composition, in a given area or ecosystem. Ecosystems with a high degree of biodiversity are better able to withstand and recover from disturbances. The habitat assessment of the Spoonrite property determined that some habitat requirements were lacking, limiting the number of species on site. It was determined during the site inventory/habitat assessment that there is a need for a greater diversity of plant species to provide more food and cover for wildlife. The shorelines of Mirror Lake and Moss Creek are particularly limited in the amount of vegetation available for food, cover, and good water quality. The lack of vegetation in and around Mirror Lake is limiting the amount of food, cover, and spawning habitat for fish. In order to enhance the lake for fish, the amount of aquatic vegetation should be increased and underwater structures should be added to the bottom of the lake to increase cover for the fish. Mirror Lake was also found to be lacking nesting sites for cavity nesting birds such as the wood duck. In order to attract cavity nesting birds, the habitat around the lake must be improved to provide nesting sites and a source of food. In order to improve the habitat for species that we are trying to attract, the wildlife team did some research into the life histories of those species. The research included the foods, nesting sites, and cover preferred. This research provided us with a better idea of what to focus on when we developed the goals of the wildlife program outlined in the next section. V. GOALS, OBJECTIVES. AND PRESCRIPTIONS . __. The wildlife team will focus on three goals during the first year of this plan. To increase biodiversity in the Mirror Lake area, the following goals, objectives, and prescriptions will be implemented. Progress towards these goals will be documented in the activities journal, Appendix A. Goal 1. Increase the abundance and diversity of plant species. Goal 2. Provide appropriate habitat for wood duck. Goal 3. Enhance the quality of the lake for fish. Goal 1: Increase the abundance and diversity of plant species. Objective: Create three peninsulas on the shoreline of Mirror Lake by fall 1993 and an island by fall 1994 to provide more cover and food resources for wildlife. Prescriptions: HO Dredge coves in the shoreline and use fill to create peninsulas in July 1993. Points will, be depicted on the site map. A backhoe will be used. Coves will be left at the AR309755 resulting depth, but peninsula shorelines will fae sloped at a 2:1 ratio. _ ^ _. 2) Create an island by piling rock, crushed stone, and soil at the location depicted on the site map. An excavator will be used, and the island shorelines will be left at the resulting slope. This project will begin in summer 1994. Objective: Improve the quality of the water within the lake by fall 1994.. Prescriptions:" " ~1) Plant the disturbed areas of the Moss Creek shoreline with a grass/forb mixture provided in Appendix A. Seeding will be done in March 1993 using a broadcast seeder. 2) Plant cattail, bulrush, and sedges in the areas depicted on the map in May 1993. Tabling plants will be used and planted in a random, natural pattern. Goal 2: Provide appropriate habitat for" wood duck. Objective: Construct".and erect 6 wood duck nest boxes around. Mirror Lake by spring 1993 to compensate for the lack of natural nesting cavities. Prescriptions: 1) Corlstruct'6:wood duck, nest boxes over the winter of 1992-93 using the guide provided by WHC, 2) Erect the 6 nest boxes on randomly selected trees in the -forest no more than 100 feet from the shore and 10 feet high. Placement should be done in February 1993. Objective: Enhance food sources for wood ducks by planting beech and oak trees on the forest edge, "and smaftwe"ed and arrow" arum on the lake shoreline by spring 1993. " : "" "; _ _.___ -" Prescriptions: 1) Plant 25 oak seedlings and 25 beech seedlings around the. edge of the_hardwoo.d- forest to the north of the pond in May 1993." ~'. . „_. " :": __.. - 2) Plant 50 arrow arum rhizomes randomly along the entire shore of Mirror Lake, and seed smartweed along the northern shore of the lake in May 1993. AR309756 Goal 3: Enhance the quality of the lake for fish. Objective: Provide bottom structures for cover, feeding, and spawning habitat throughout the lake by fall 1993. Prescriptions: 1) Place 6 brush piles consisting of loosely tied bundles of dead tree limbs between 4 and 6 feet long at locations designated on the map in August 1993. 2) Place 3 piles of rocks at locations designated on the map in September 1993. Rocks should be of various sizes and placed in a pile at least two feet high and four feet across. Objective: Provide aquatic vegetation on new and existing shore areas to increase spawning habitat, cover, and feeding areas for fish. Prescriptions: 1) Install 100 eelgrass plantings in the new shoreline areas shown on the map in May 1994. —_ 2) Plant native willow and alder upstream from the mouth of Moss Creek to reduce sedimentation on fish spawning beds. VI. MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE Maintenance and monitoring are crucial aspects of the management plan, and can be used to determine the success or failure of any projects. Each monitoring and maintenance action will be recorded in the wildlife team activities journal. Also, notes regarding any observations, wildlife use, and other interesting information will be recorded for future reference. Goal 1: Increase the abundance and diversity of plant species. Monitoring includes: 1) • Monitor the quality of the water at the inlet of the lake, in the center of the lake, and at the outlet of the lake before, during, and after the vegetation is planted on the shores of Moss Creek. Measurements and observations regarding dissolved oxygen, clarity, and temperature will be recorded in the activities journal. AR309757 2) Monitor the success/failure of the wetland vegetation plantings by first inspecting the growth daily until-the plants are established, and then weekly. Observe the plants to determine success of any one plant species over another, wildlife use, and general appearance and record these observations in the activities journal. Goal 2: Provide appropriate habitat for wood duck. Monitoring includes: 1) Monitor the wood duck boxes in accordance with WHC's Nest Monitoring Program. Check for "signs of predations and take steps to reduce .predation if it occurs. Repair damaged boxes and dean all boxes annually. 2) Monitor the plantings around the shoreline on a weekly basis. Maintain the areas immediately surrounding the planted trees to discourage grass and shrub overgrowth. Observe and record in the activities journal success /failure of any one spedes," wildlife "use,"and possibilities for future plantings. .."...!.._.. Goal 3: Enhance the quality of the lake for fish. Monitoring includes: 1) Monitor the eelgrass _ plantings weekly to determine success or failure. Observe and record in the activities journal any wildlife use and possibilities for future plantings. VTL IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE ...... The following schedule is subject to changes due to weather and other factors. Entries that have been accomplished prior to applying for certification and any changes in the schedule are included in the activities journal. It should be noted that although it does not appear in this schedule, maintenance and monitoring is and will .be done constantly, and is also -being thoroughly documented in the wildlife team activities journal...... Winter 1992=1993 -Inventory walk. Establish photo reference stations. Construct six wood duck boxes. ~ "^.: ~ February 1993 "Place wood duck boxes. . . March-April 1993"" Inventory walk. Prepare and seed Moss Creek shoreline. May 1993 " Plant wetland vegetation and trees around Mirror Lake. AR309758 July 1993 Inventory walk. Dredge coves and create peninsulas in Mirror Lake. August 1993 Place brush piles in Mirror Lake. September 1993 Inventory walk. Placement of rock piles in Mirror Lake. Winter 1993-1994 Inventory walk. Explore bluebird and wildflower meadow management objectives and prescriptions. Apply for WHC certification. May 1994 Inventory walk. Plant eelgrass in Mirror Lake. July 1994 Inventory walk. Create an island in Mirror Lake, October 1994 Inventory walk. Finalize bluebird and wildflower meadow management plan. Discuss objectives and prescriptions involved in increasing bottom depth and texture diversity. Winter 1994-1995 Inventory walk. Explore purple martin management and butterfly garden project opportunities. Monitoring of existing programs will continue as previously described. New projects will be implemented as specific objectives and prescriptions are developed and human and financial resources are available. •AR309759 APPENDIX A _ ...... __- - - - ~-~- WOODRITE CORPORATION ACTIVITIES JOURNAL > September 13,1992 :A Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) biologist visited to • discuss opportunities available for a wildlife habitat program at Woodrite. Corporation. Mirror Lake, Moss Creek, and the forest behind the lake were visited by a group consisting of the WHC biologist; Jim Herde, Spoon Quality Control; Beth Kippen, Marketing Coordinator; Tom Jacobs, Maintenance Supervisor; and James Woodrite, President ••-— ------—~ November 5-12,1992 The report Opportunities for the Enhancement of Wildlife Habitat at Woodrite Corporation arrived and was circulated and discussed by Jim Herde, Beth Kippen, .and Tom Jacobs. James Woodrite contacted Jim Herde and set a date for the first wildlife team meeting for November 23,1992 at 9:00 am at the Spoon Office. Beth -Kippen would advertise by placing memos on bulletin boards in lunchroom. " " November 23,1992 The first wildlife team meeting was held. Participants were: Jim Herde, Beth Kippen, Tom Jacobs, James Woodrite, Billy Ashford, Victor Valdez, and John Weiczuk. The plan was reviewed by all, and an inventory date was set for December 19,1992. A meeting would beheld following the walk, with hot cocoa and donuts provided by Jim Herde's wife. The Wood Duck Management Series provided by WHC was copied-for interested individuals. December 5,1992 Billy Ashford talked to the Rome High School shop teacher, who agreed to have his class build 6 wood duck nest boxes, as long as Woodrite supplied the wood. December 19,1992 .. . . —The inventory walk was held. Mrs. Woodrite provided assistance with identifying trees and some birds. Ten bird species were seen, and photo reference-Stations were set up and pictures were taken around the lake at locations depicted on the map. We all learned a lot January 10,1993 . -". "— - ---Tom Jacobs talked to a state forester to get suggestions for species to plant on Moss Creek .shoreline...The forester would provide a list to supplement the .WHC list within 3 weeks. January 20,1993 . A- team meeting was held. .Billy Ashford and his son brought in the completed nest boxes,, and a thank you note for the dass was drafted by James Woodrite. The boxes are planned, to be placed on February 7 by Billy Ashford and Jim Herde. Everyone" else was invited to help as well. AR309760 February 7,1993 A snowstorm made placing the wood duck nest boxes impossFole and dangerous. The nest boxes will be placed the following weekend, on February 14. February 25,1993 A team meeting was held, Tom Jacobs brought in the list supplied by the state forester for plantings on Moss Creek shoreline. The list . induded more tree spedes to be planted, and a final list was compiled so Tom could get a price estimate from Meadeis Nursery, a local greenhouse. The nest boxes, were finally erected after the meeting with help from all the members. A red-breasted nuthatch was seen during the walk to the sitel March 17,1993 A team meeting was held, and a new member, Jackie Hernendez was present The Moss Creek shoreline would not be planted in March because of the amount of snow remaining. The spring inventory was scheduled for April 5,1993. All members were urged to attend, and the local chapter of the Audubon Society would be invited as well. Wood duck boxes were checked after the meeting by Victor Valdez and James Woodrite; none were damaged. April 5,1993 The spring inventory was held. The group of 11 was split into four smaller groups. A member of the Audubon Society was in each of the groups. The inventory was an incredible success, and photos were taken at the photo reference points. Three pairs of wood ducks were seen on Mirror Lake, and flock of savannaii sparrows (uncommon in this area) were seen near Moss Creek. Results of the inventory were posted in the lunchroom. April 6,1993 . The Moss Creek shoreline w;as seeded and trees were planted by Jackie Hernendez, Tom Jacobs, and Beth Kippen. April 19,1993 ... Three new employees were present at this meeting, and stated that excitement surrounding the successful inventory was the cause for a new interest in the program. John Weiczuk got a local nursery to donate trees for Mirror Lake plantings on condition that local students would be invited to help. Wood duck nest boxes were monitored after the meeting. Four were being used, one of which was dump nested. The Moss Creek shoreline plantings were monitored, and the uncommon Bock of savannah sparrows spotted during the inventory was seen eating all of the seeds. Tne area must be replanted. May If 1993 Wild turkeys were seen feeding and doing courtship displays on east shore of lake. All employees were talking about it at Lunch. The Moss Creek shoreline was examined by Tom Jacobs and James Woodrite to determine the possibility of future replanting. Erosion is extremely bad in some - areas, and James decided the best way to deal with it would be to call the state Department of Wildlife Conservation for assistance. Plantings would be postponed for the time being. " AR30976 May 15,1993 Wetland plants and trees were planted on the Mirror Lake shoreline as planned. Thirteen members of Mr Wiggs'.Sth grade dass were present to help. The plantings look a little sparse, but Mr. Wiggs, a former landscaper, said not to worry, they would- fill in over time. Monitoring of wood duck nest boxes was. done by Beth Kippen while "planting was being done.. A brief wildlife team meeting was held after the planting session. June 23,1993 Frogs and minnows were observed among new wetland plants in Mirror Lake. An. excavator and bucket loader were scheduled to create coves and-peninsulas on July'13 through the 15. A meeting was held,,and an inventory walk was scheduled for July 5. •? July 5,1993 ' .' The summer inventory walk was held, 6 team members were present A bluebird was seen sitting on the post used to mark the photo reference station. Also, an American bittern was spotted among the wetland plantings. Two se'pafaTerwood duck hens with 6 ducklings each were seen in the vicinity of the lake. ••- -.- _-.-—--= -:-.-— - _.-_ .. July 13,1993 . - ---'"- -.-JUtecoves were dredged by Victor Valdez in the excavator, Jim Herde, and Billy Ashford. The excess soil was piled along the shore to form peninsulas. The water in the lake was quite doudy as a result of digging, and members, of the. wildlife .team were concerned and made plans to check it periodically along with other monitoring procedures. Also, excess seed from Moss Creek shoreline plantings was spread on the exposed peninsula soil. July 20,1993 ,_~ .;-_-^L__. .r_" A team meeting was held, and the local community was invited to tour the habitat enhancement projects done so far... Monitoring of the nest boxes was "xione_ during the tour to show participants how to check a nest box. Interest was generated, and some members stayed to construct and place 3 brush piles in Mirror Lake ahead of schedule. --.---- August 19,1993 A regular meeting was held. Srx~~members were present Beth Kippen brought to the team's attention that she found purple loosestrife, an exotic, invasive weed on a new peninsula on Mirror Lake,, and that she would check with WHC and state biolpgists. to plan a course of action. *Note: For certification, the activities journal should be completed for all activities and meetings up to the time of certification application. Minutes from wildlife team meetings ar^^l5Ojiielp_ful for certification,. .... Wildlife Habitat Council - - - 1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 920 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910. ... (301)588-8.994 Printed on Recycled Paper" _. . -:- " ""-"".- "" ""- January 1995 SR3Q9762 Wildlife Habitat Council 1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 920 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 (301)588-8994 Printed on Recyded Paper - February 1994 AR309763 I! 1 WILDLIFE HABITAT COUPtClir 1997 Certification Application Corporate Wildlife Habitat Certification/ International Accreditation Program Please include ail information requested in items 1-10 for habitat certification, also include items 11-15 if applying for certification of environmental education programs. Submit by July 31, 1997 with the application fee to the Wildlife Habitat Council. 1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 920, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910, (301)588-8994, Fax (301)588-4629. Applications postmarked after Juiy 31,1997 will be assessed a $100 late fee and will not be considered for the Rookie of the Year award. WHC wildlife biologists review submittais for benefit to wildlife habitat, documentation of results, an understanding of the rationale for selection of wildlife projects, and employee and community participation. Outstanding applications will be nominated for the "Rookie of the Year" award. 1. $600 Application Fee (Check or money order only. Nonmembers - application fee of $ 1200) 2. Site Information:————————————:———————————————'.———————— Company Name and Facility/Site Name (Exactly as they should appear on award certificate) Site Contact or Wildlife Team Leader Title and Department Telephone Fax Mailing Address City State Zip Code Number of Employees Total Number of Involved in the Program Site Employees 3. Wildlife Management Plan Q ;7. Photo Documentation*^ Q^ Certification of an Environmental Please attach a complete wildlife*. In order to demonstrate the results of Education Program management plan for your site. Ex- f~. enhancement projects, before and af-r- Items 11-15 are required if 'applying for amples of eligible programs include ter photographs should be taken from certification of an Environmental Edu- enhancement, creation, restoration, established photo reference stations. cation program. Qualifying programs and protection of habitat and indi- Each photo should be dated and refer must focus on raising awareness of the vidual species management. Man- ... to locations identified on maps or phc* importance of wildlife and/or habitat. agement plans should be developed '. tos of the management area. . prior to initiating a wildlife program - -, - . ..";,.]- ; ' -\ 11. Program Description Q and include project goals, a site de-. 8. Community References : f"T- Please attach a description of the goals scription, species inventory, and ob- List three environmental/conservation and components of your environmental jectives. .WHC can provide sample references, outside the company, hav- education program and how they relate plans and guidelines. : •;,;.. ing, knowledge of the project. Ex- to wildlife. Eligible programs must " *• amples include state wildlife biolo- have at least 8 program days per year. 4. Species Inventory- /:.:"[_]. gists, college professors^ or delegates ' . . Seasonal inventories should provide - from conservation organizations. 12. Curriculum |~J an on-going listing of animaLand ; 'jl „ i. "V ;' j .i|'..'.. Developed by employees with assis- plant species identified on site.'in-^ 9. IS to 20 Color Slides* ,;: Q;. tance from teachers, the curriculum in- eluding scientific names. Please ...If certified, these will.be used at the ' cludes lesson plans, printed materials. note if you have included the inven- •- and the specific details on the topics awards ceremony and will not be re- LD lory within your Wildlife Manage- turned. Slides should depict habitats, taught during the educational experi- ment Plan, above. wildlife, or wildlife team activities on ences offered. • 5. Monitoring and Maintenance site. Please identify company and site name on slide jacket./ . 13. Audience Information Q Documentation !"""] Include the number of participants in or Critical to a successful application each program day and demographics. is a progress report that identifies, 10. Media Materials Q . * Company public relations contact This section may also include copies of with dates and findings, results of feedback from your audiences. maintenance and monitoring efforts • (on mailing label) including name, ad- dress, telephone & fax number. on the habitat projects. Entries 14. Education References LJ should include notes on nest box * Five contacts for local media' (names, addresses on mailing labels, Include three letters of reference from monitoring programs, activities and phone numbers) that you would people having knowledge of the pro- journal, plantings, and reports on ~ gram. One letter should be from a conditions, success rates, feeder use. want press releases sent to if certified. » Extra copies of good, clear pho- teacher. 6. Maps or Aerial Photos Q tos of the habitats ..or wildlife team Information should be noted on the activities that you .would want sent . 15. Community Partners Q map or photo including sites of spe-, along with press releases, to above': List all organizations, schools, conser- cific habitat projects, photo refer- media contacts. Please include one vation groups, or state agencies that ence stations, and other features.. for each media contact. participate in the educational programs. * I, the undersigned, do hereby release all rights to photographic materials lhat serve as part of this application for certification, i fully authorize the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) to keep and use this material in any manner, Including such options as media coverage, slide presentations, and WHC-incIusive documents, with the understanding lhat due credit will be given lo the photographer and com- pany responsible for the origin of the picture. Signature————————————.————————————————————— Dale ——————— APPENDIX E HABITAT MANAGEMENT SERIES AR309765 Bay Scaping for the Long Term ——A Homeowner's Guide —— Bay Scapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefiting process of long-term planning, we can reduce the need for people, wildlife and Chesapeake Bay. Bay Scaping advocates unnecessary chemicals and create landscapes that require a "holistic" approach through principles inspired by the less money and time to maintain. relationships found in the natural world. Doesn't long-term planning require the services Why is long-term planning so important for my of a landscape professional? home landscape? No. There may be circumstances where you will want the Most of us don't realize how daily landscape maintenance advice of a landscape architect or landscape planner, such as decisions affect the surrounding environment. The impacts when you are building a new home or when you undertake of landscape decisions reach far be- ______designing a challenging site. In such yond individual property lines, , ffl nativeshrubs \fi3i cases, theexpertknowledgeandopin- however. In reality, such decisions M /, / JHj ion of a landscape professional is affect our_.neighbors, area wildlife w house /~X /T*\ f]l //V} often indispensable. However, we and the natural resources found H ^-/^-*^/j l<^f\ can all participate in long-term plan- throughout surrounding communi- - |tj c/""Sr^T~T C^ ////oS? n*n& ^or *anclseape management. ties. By planning the management of W 'J^vA \ fo'^S^ffld^jb. For the most part' il translates to our home landscapes over the long £K \^& fj \^^-^//'% /i looking at the big picture, or thinking term with these concerns in mind, j* \v \&£^ ^Zz&^ / f pond Jji ahead to the landscape that you want " each of us can make a positive con- U * 7K \/"*"——^"^•^-- •-' vW -"}_©» 5' 10 or even 20 years from now. Ask tribution to Chesapeake Bay, to fish |^ffs?^\ X '«""« ^^^^N/X"^^ yourself some of these questions: wildlife habitats and to the f^5"2"?^ \ ' ^\ \C-to off our own hvesi- . .:-- ,-",-^= yf'^- \ H (/J fJrt \\ tp^S^m":e^t' An environmental education initiative developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Chesapeake Bay Field Office. AR309766 analyze site potential property lines and get a copy of your plat if boundaries are organize a functional landscape j unclear. Use the action guide insert of this publication to '_„ select trees, plants and ground covers for both land- ! review existing site conditioris'as you plan your landscape. scape and wildlife benefits ! » determine real or hidden maintenance costs If you have recently moved into a new or existing home, it may take a year to study your site conditions and gather This process can be used whether you live in a townhouse, the information needed to plan your landscape for the a semi-detached house ora single family residence. Remem- long term. You may also discover after spending time in ber that the creation, use and care of a landscape constantly your new home that you have screening needs or drainage evolves as your lifestyle changes. And unlike an artificial problems that were not at first apparent. , environment, a natural landscape continues to grow, ma- ture, die and give new life. Landscape plans must be flexible Step two: organize a functional to accommodate change over time. landscape to meet your needs. The planning process, step by step Develop a plan for your landscape that meets the many needs of your household. Household members should Step one: analyze your site for work on this as a group, prioritizing each possible use and landscape potential. agreeing to a plan for differen^afeas of your property. Try using graph paper to sketch out existing buildings, trees This step involves taking a comprehensive inventory. To and plants that will form the basis for your ultimate, fin- understand the characteristics of yourproperty,youneed to ished look. Then use several sheets of tracing paper to study the building blocks of the land. These include soil sketch potential area uses and to explore how such uses composition, site exposure, existing trees and plants, drain- best fit existing structures, foot traffic and specific needs age, and possibly an existing septic field. Consider natural of family members, including pets. conditions, such as the amount of sunlight throughout the day, seasonal wind direction and average rainfall. Your j The agreed-upon plan should list desired area uses-such as local Cooperative Extension Service office can provide you sitting and entertaining, growing vegetables or flowers, with information on local climate conditions (such as aver- play, or storage-in order of importance. The size of each age first frost dates and coldest winter temperatures), area can be readily determined based on the number seasonal wind patterns and severity, and precipitation people using it, their interest level and the space available. trends. This will be especially useful if you are planning Use the checklist on the action guide insert of this publica- flower and vegetable gardens. tion to help you evaluate items to consider. You also need to consider the built, or artificial, elements Now write down the requirements for each element. For including the buildings, walls, fences, paving, steps, utili- example, a vegetable garden needs good, soil, near-flat ties, entrances and views £in and out). Be attentive to land, sun and protection from wind and wildlife. An out- door dining space works best.with.a flat, solid surface, some shade, some sun, proximity to the kitchen and privacy. A play area requires good lawn grass and, depending on the children's ages, a fence and play equipment. Consider the need to build fences or privacy screens before finalizing your plan. Step three: select trees, shrubs and ground covers for landscape and wildlife benefits. Now the fun part begins! Think of your property as a room, or better, a series of rooms. The paving, lawn and ground covers represent the flooring; the fences, walls, hedges or planted screens form the landscape walls. Trees, trellises, arbors and the sky form the ceiling. Furnishings for your outdoor living room include benches, lawn furniture, lights and sculptures. Define the sizes of the garden rooms you sketch to ^f^t where plants and trees are required and permitted. Color AR309767 •LLIANCE CHESAPEAKE BAY Bay Scapes Action Guide — Home Landscape Audit: Long-Term Planning — Inventory home landscape conditions and existing uses. ASSESS EXISTING NOTES FOR YOUR SITE SITE USES IMPROVEMENT Wind Direction Buildings ( %) » Summer winds: N S E W * Residence ... * Winter winds: N S E W~ » Utility (circle one) » Garage Sunny Areas Yard Areas ( %) * % in summer * Open area * % in winter • Play area * Other use • . _ . .. Paths/Roads ( %) Shadyij Areas - _. _.. » % morning shade " •• People . •• Cars, vehicle access » % afternoon shade • Paved area J^Water Drainage Service Areas ( %) ^^* % overall well drained areas * Trash cans * Fuel delivery tanks » % overall poorly drained areas * Outside storage * Inside storage Grading Vehicle Parking ( %) » Sloped areas • Garage * Embankments * Paved surface » Walls * Pavers Sof/s Utilities ( %) * Types of dominant soils * Poles » % of soil compacted » Lights 4 % of soil exposed » Pipes * Soil test for pH * Buried cable...... Plants Other ( %) * Ground cover _..__., ______* Shade trees . _ . : : * Accent trees _ : ~ - -_-- . + Foundation shrubs 7 * Accent shrubs _ .._... » Vines A AR309768 Home Landscape Audit: Long-Term Planning List and prioritize your different landscape functions. LANDSCAPE DESIRED/ PRIORITY ACTION 1 FUNCTIONS REQUIRED High Med. Low REQUIRED * Provide privacy * Provide recreational area * Easy to maintain » Provide hobby activities * Grow fruits &. vegetables * Conserve fuel * Provide color (flowers) + Provide sunny area •* Provide shady area » Protect from wind * Screen away views » Provide safety/security —————— < * Provide additional parking * Provide pet area * Offer quiet, woodsy area * Offer picnic/barbecue area + Provide clothes-drying area » Landscape structures/ walls * Provide sitting area * Offer habitat for birds/ wildlife - * Reduce foot traffic «• Share open space * Provide storage (tools/ toys) * Provide composting area •» Provide potting table/shed * Provide wildlife habitat * Other. 4 AR309769 can be used dramatically in hues of recL orange and yellow, ] triers, fertilizer spreaders, sprayers and watering~devices. . or more subtly with earth tones such as browns, tans and * Maintain an overall casual, as opposed to formal, appearance, grays Consider the attributes and architectural style of your house as you plan your landscape. An informal arrange- Consider the potential variety of evergreen plants available ment of plantings and grasses complements many house for screens and windbreaks and deciduous plants or per- designs as well as the practical demands of children and ' haps a trellis for shading a living robirfduring the summer. pets. A casual design will provide a softer texrural ele- Choose trees and plants according to seasonal bloom and ment that blends in with your house design instead of color; increase some "of your personal favorites as well as detracting from It. plants new to you. "- ~ :i".~~:~ _ Avoid labor-intensive, manicured hedge screens. Instead, try a border of tall, native grasses against a wood or metal Now that you have the basic elements establishe.d, it may fence. Evergreen hollies and certain species of deciduous be useful to bring in a nursery expert arid seek his or her viburnum also provide screening without the need for advice. A trip to a nearby nursery with your plan in hand frequent pruning. is a wonderful way to move forward. Take your time when Use plant and tree species native to the Chesapeake Bay water- selecting plants. Explore the possibility of using some shed as much as possible; avoid exotic, high-maintenance native trees and shrubs. In addition to their beauty, they species. Natives require fewer inputs of water and fertil- offer special attributes (such as significantly lower require- izers .and adapt well to local climate conditions without ments for water, fertilizers, or pesticides). taking over other vegetation. Prune interfering, damaged or diseased branches. You may Finally,, remember to provide for even need to remove existing shrubs and trees to let in backyard wildlife as you make your additional light or make room for adjacent plantings. selections. Animals need food^wa- /^-^'^^^:%^fe ! * Sizevegetable or flower gardens to realistically fit available space ter, cover for nesting and hiding, and needs. Don't create a management monster. Consider and a toxin-free home. Many natives local climate conditions before siting any garden area. are excellent for providing these..wild life needs. Use tall grasses, and ground covers on slopes. They will not only reduce your maintenance burden, but are superior Step four: determine real ornidden costs for slowing down surface water velocity and reducing associated with long-term maintenance. potential runoff during storm events. Encourage some areas to remain woodsy in character. Wooded The final step in the long-term planning process will be to , areas offer beauty and natural ecology lessons for kids of evaluate the costs in maintaMing your home landscape. In | all ages. Check the BayScapes Beneficial Plants list for this evaluation, review^your proposed plan for opportuni- | ground "covers that perform well in shady locations. ties to save both time and money. Long-term maintenance' " j » Practice Integrated Pest Management diligently. This is a requirements may play the single most important role in ' necessary first step toward achieving an ecologically bal- making final decisions on a landscape plan. A complex and [ _ anced landscape that will attract wildlife. costly plan often leads to an abandoned landscape that : * Reduce ornamental annual use; adopt perennials for sea- seemed like such a good idea atfirst. Remember, there is no ! sonal color. They offer savings in time and expense and, such thing as a maintenance-free landscape. It simply does ] once established, generally require fewer inputs of fertil- not exist. However, a focus onreducing maintenance: will " izers and water. provide a plan that makes sense'for you and your budget. Here are some simple ideas that can help you achieve a manageable landscape: " " ~" "~~~ ~ " — '_ ' ' - Limit high-maintenance turf to a r__ __ While it serves, as a sturdy and soft ground cover forplay areas, it requires regular mow- ing, watering, fertilizing, weed contfofand periodic disposal of grass clippings. And, with it comes the use and ~~ ~~ maintenance of a longlistofequip- > merit, such as mowers, trim- AR30977Q Special consideration areas to the landscape. Such landscapes represent a significant, tangible way for you to contribute to the health of loca' Woodland wildflowers offer great beauty and enjoyment but waterways and Chesapeake Bay. require special maintenance for long-term success. The basic maintenance tasks, in addition to proper soil preparation, Suggested reading list plant selection and installation, include periodic thinning of the canopy to permit adequate light, addition of leaf mulch to ' Clark, David E., ed. Basic Gardening Illustrated. Menlo Park, assure adequate soil build-up, restricted traffic from people Calif.: Lane Publishing Company, 1975. and pets to prevent compaction or breakage> and removal of competitive, invasive species. Wildflowers in a wooded area Cravens, Richard H. Vines. Alexandria, V A: Time-Life Books, 1979. will reward you with butterflies and songbirds, as well as colorful patches to enjoy nature's solitude. Kramer, Jack, Hanging Gardens. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons. 1971. Marsh and wetland plantings similarly require restricted foot traffic to prevent compaction, replanting on occasion with Countryside Books, eds. Home Landscaping. Barrington, IL: A. B. native species and periodic removal of any invasive plants. Morse Company. 1974. Marshesand ponds introduce extraordinary sights and sounds uncommon to the typical residential property. Should you Verley, Rosemary. Classic Garden Design. New York: Congdon have the benefit of a marsh or pond nearby, you will delight Weed, Inc., 1984. in a wide range of wildlife species, including fish, amphibi- ans, small mammals and waterfowl. Pollan, Michael Second Nature, New York: Dell Publishing, 1991. Whether you opt for a formal or more casual look, think of The Lawn Institute. Redesigning the American Lawn. Hartford, vourhome landscapeasanartisticexpression. Likeany work ConIU Yale University Press-1993' of art, it should contain basicResign elements: balance, con- ^ ^^ New ^ H hton Mifflin/ trast and unity. Achieving a beautiful composition involves mixing contours, colors, tone and texture in a balanced way Springer, Lauren. The Undaunted Garden: Planting for Weather- throughout the landscape. Contrasting colors and textures Resilient Beauty. Fulcrum Publishing, 1994. will give your landscape interesting movement and focal points. Unity may be achieved through the repetition of an Brooks,lohn^The Country Garden. New York: Crown Publishers, element or elements-perhaps a favorite perennial. Inc., 1987. _ ;- ' . .. - .. : .; When planning different use areas and planting new veg- For detailed specific instructions for the safe use of fertilizers and pesticides in etation, keep in mind the ultimate size and spread of what your community, contact your local or area Cooperative Extension office. you plant. While it can be a delight to incorporate a diversity of new plant species into your yard, small-mass-plan tings of COOPERATIVE EXTENSION fewer varieties often create a more unifying theme than many varieties of individual plants. Drive around your neigh- A service of the land-grant university systemsjn the District of Columbia, oorhood and surrounding communties to get ideas and to Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. confirm which plants do well in your location. ' FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BAYSCAPES Finally, do not attempt to naturalize your landscape all at once. The replacement process can be overwhelming. Make U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service a long-term plan to introduce new materials and ideas into Chesapeake Bay Field Office you r landscape, one section at a time, as opportunities present 177 Admiral Cochrane Drive t hemselves. BayScaping, when approache_4at your own pace, Annapolis, MD 21401 can b,e a creativ..e andj rewardin ,-g experience. . -«*- ——- (410)224-2732 Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Inc. A well-designed landscape incorporates each of the Bay- P.O. Box 1981 Scapes principles while meeting the functional needs of the LLIANCE Richmond, VA 23216 household. It includes native plantings and low-mainte- A" 111,' (804) 775-0951 or toll-free nance areas wherever possible, minimizing the need for CHESAPEAKE BAY_ Qiesapeake Regional Information Service supplemental water and chemicals with the potential to 1 (800) 662-CRIS pollute surface and ground water supplies. It provides cover and food for wildlife and, through the tenets of Integrated Illustrations © Megan Rollins 1994. Pest Management, returns natural pest control mechanisms Printed on Recycled Paper "RR3Q977 Integrated Pest Management ——A Homeowner1s Guide —— BayScapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefiting techniques, certain pests may never become a problem. The. people, wildlife and Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping advocates a first step involves monitoring pest outbreaks to determine "holistic" approach through its principles inspired by the rela- if the pests are actually causing a problem, whether they tionships found in the natural world. increase or decrease in number and whether control mecha- nisms are really needed. If you decide to control a pest What is Integrated Pest Management? outbreak, various measures should first be considered. Cost of application, impacts on non-targeted organisms, residues, Integrated Pest Management (D?M), as the name, implies, is the risks to nearby water supplies and chemical toxicity all have integration of various management strategies-including bio- to be evaluated. logical, cultural and chemical methods-into a comprehensive program of pest control for the home landscape. For the weary Depending on the pest, the control strategies vary, but may homeowner who is confronted with a multitude of pests include: taking no action, physically removing the pest (i.e., throughout the year, an effective, by hand or with tools), using less IPM program offers a wide variety toxic means such as biological or of choices to manage pests. IPM natural compounds, or as a last encourages you to choosemethqds The praying mantis is a good friend to resort, using pesticides. In the have in your garden. It continually that best suit your local landscape. consumes insects to fuel the energy IPM system, pest elimination is In the Bay region, this approach needed to shed its skin and grow. not necessarily the goal or out- minimizes impacts oh non-targeted come of pest control. species, area wildlife and the wa- ters of Chesapeake Bay. Prevention With IPM comes the opportunity Pest prevention is fundamental alternatives to chemicals as a- to IPM. By initially preventing of controlling pests. Many the problem, control mechanisms natural and biological controls ex- may not be necessary later on. ist in the landscape to ward off Pest prevention begins with plant insects, disease and other pests.. selection. The most suitable vari- While IPM does not totally elimi- eties and species of plants should nate chemical pesticides as .a .control measure, it can help be chosen for your site. Proper plant selection involves not reduce the volume of pesticides usecLon the land. : :.. . only your ownpersGnal preferences, but also careful consid- eration of a plant's ability to live and thrive in your location. With more than 13 milliorTpebple currently living in the Bay watershed and another 3 million expected by the year 2019, When evaluating the site, consider the degree of sun expo- nonpoint source pollution from toxic substances has become sure, slope, drainage, amount of shade, wind, volume of foot a problem for living resources in the Bay ecosystem. Npnpoint traffic,, soil type, temperature variations and other environ- source pollution is pollution corning from disparate sources. mental factors. Plant species should also be selected for their Runoff from urban streets, farms and construction sites are" ability to resist pest infestations. This should be one of the examples. When containing traces of toxic elements, this most important considerations when selecting plants for pollution can affect" the.'entire foocl chain-from the smallest your landscape. For example, in a heavily infested gypsy moth organisms to the fish and waterfowl inhabiting the waters of area, a poplar tree may be the tree of choice when compared to the Bay. Reducing chemical use in the hpmejandscape (and a red oak, since gypsy moths prefer oaks to poplars. thus the risk of associated runoff), reduces the potential risk of toxins reaching non-targe ted organisms and local creeks. Many plant species are well adapted to the Chesapeake Bay re- gion; some are more susceptible to pests than others. A good The IPM program '"'.'_'' IPM practitioner will use disease and insect-resistant varieties, species that meet the sun or shade requirements for your site, Practicing IPM begins by implementing a sound pest manage-" and species that will out-compete common weeds. Refer to program in your home landscape. By using preventive the BayScapes beneficial plants list for recommended species. An environmental education initiative developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the II.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Chesapeake Bay Field Office. RR309772 Management (or cultural) practices Proper management plays a key role in pest prevention. Youreffortsto jb$j98& ~*\&* S2SS?*^>^ Frowst section Piays a kfy m* maintain healthy populations of ^fSW.^, fl\7^^!h^ ^^'f^'^,™^^ plants will go a long way toward preventing pest outbreaks. For about trees, plants and ground covert lawns, cool-season grasses (gras- ses that grow better in cooler weather) should be mowed to no less than approximately 23 inches in height. Takecare not to remove more than one-third of the leaf blade at a cutting. Warm-season grasses (grasses that grow well in warmer weather) W U ^J? ^1^ ^^^\LWA specific weeds. Experiment should be mowed to no ^. j Jf ^^SL\ wM^^fflft with these varieties in your less than 1.5 inches in ^^_J_,^^ , ^^^ iMWTJIl home landscape. height. Proper mowing height helps to suppress weed populations. Potential weed Biological controls populations in tall fescue, for instance, can be reduced by more than 50 percent with proper mowing height. Your landscape is home to many beneficial creatures that naturally A balanced fertility program will improve the vigor of all prey on pests. Nature controls large insect populations species. Soil testing should be a standard practice, and through other insects and through animals that feed on Samples should be taken at least every three years. Fertilize insects. Spiders, lady beetles, wasps, big-eyed bugs and cool-season grasses in the autumn and warm-season grasses praying mantlses are a few that depend on other insects for in early and mid-summer. As a rule of thumb, no more than food. Birds, bats, frogs, lizards, certain snakes and toads 35 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet should be also feed on insects. By encouraging these wildlife friends in applied to a lawn per year. Do not exceed a ___ your landscape, other controls may not be necessary. pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet dur- £§jljj£§5j$jj&^ ing a single application. " , vC'feS^.^^^^^S'r''^11.'!' Natural agents control diseases as well ,"£' \"V^^^^J^S^^Nl%ui^'1^'rS-' ' as msects- Milky spore disease will Trees and shrubs need to be periodically - ; -.; • .1 ^jp& .^^fljj:^8M||_E^_/ 'r '•".'' kU* grubs in the lawn, and Bacillus pruned, and tools should be sanitized - ^.^jjjSS^^^^PFfcM^V'V-- *> thuringiensis (commonly referred to before use. Dead and diseased limbs •'f •v^-"vvj^«K^'V^?V\\ ,v•, \? as BT) is a product that controls should be pruned and discarded. Mech- - ''.^x V^>'; - v< ;'?'' '•V1. •. ',". small moth larvae. For weeds, op- tical injury is a major cause of landscape ,• 'X .,_ „ * _f->7^*•_'' r... . lUons include jnechanical control, plant decline, so use care when you prune. ^ /^sSrSS^ good management practices, mulches, or i( ^ ^Hi m some casesrsimply accepting a few Here are some other management tips to keep in mind: l| * weeds in the landscape, which will greatly reduce your dependence on chemicals. * Aerating compacted soils is an important practice that allows water penetration. Earthworms are Thresholds nature's way of performing aeration; introduce An important part of IPM involves decision-making. You them to your soil if they are not currently at work. must first decide whether or not you actually have a pest that Rotating crops in your vegetable garden will reduce needs controlling. Perhaps with time, the pest will just natu- pest populations over time. rally disappear before significant economic or aesthetic dam- „.„.,. age occurs. While-you may consider the pest a nuisance, is it Returning dippings to the lawn restores nutrients. flilia,actuallwy ihr^tpnin*threatening- an*«y„ livingo thinhhing^ in youvour landscape.? Removing weeds by hand is not only good exercise, Sometimes pests can be physically removed. Many but also good for the environment. Certain plants, populations will reach their threshold at a certain point such as annual rye, exhibit traits that suppress control after this peak is usually not necessary. One of the SR309773. LLIANCE CHESAPEAKE BAY BayScapes Action Guide — Home Landscape Audit: Integrated .Pest Management - Identify opportunities to practice Integrated Pest Management in your landscape. PESTS ALTERNATIVE CONTROLS NOTES Miscellaneous Mosquitoes «• Remove sources of standing water such as old tires; buckets, etc. * Mow grassy areas. Chiggers » Regularly mow grassy areas. Ticks /Fleas » Treat host animals and their sleeping quarters as opposed to the entire landscape. Wasps /Homers *• Control in the darkness by removing nests. Be careful! General * Encourage birds, such as purple martins, to control insects during the day, and bats to control insects at night. _ » Consider erecting houses for these beneficial insect predators. Turf * Use bio-con trol products. . . Grubs * Encourage moles, birds and milky spore disease, Other Insects -* Encourage birds, toads and beneficials such as spiders, praying mantises and other predators. » Plant grass species other than bluegrass. * Encourage beneficials and naturally occurring fungal and_hae- terial diseases to kill pests; avoid using insecticides, fungicides. Brown Patch * Wait for favorable weather; the problem may take care of itself. Net Blotch *• Re-seed and maintain a balanced fertility program. Other Diseases * Plant recommended species for the si_te, . .__..!. * Maintain a balanced fertility program. * Maintain proper moisture levels; don't over-water. . . Weeds * Accept weeds as a natural part of the landscape (depending on location). » Mow cool-season" 'grass no" lower than 2 inches. ^ ; :,.- * Mow warm-season grass no lower than 1 inches, . . . ,...,, * Re-seed and fertilize cool-season grass in the fall, * Plant rprtifipd wppd-frpp. ^ed » Maintain a full stand, reducing bare spots. * Avoid early spring fertilization. » Use tall fescues^ bermuda or zoysia grass with endophytes. • » Discourage thatch build-up. ..._.. * Encourage earthworms .for aeration...... ^ ...... /5R30977I4 PESTS ALTERNATIVE CONTROLS NOTES Shrubs and Trees salts, etc.). » Remove dead or dying plants Insects * Encourage predators such as ladybeetles, big-eyed bugs, spiders, praying mantises, birds, bats, lizards, toads, frogs and others. * Remove by hand and dispose of insect pests. •» Monitor populations for thresholds. * Remove mechanically (using a vacuum cleaner for boxelder bugs, for example). * Remove dead and dying branches or dead trees. * Wash leaves with teaspooon of detergent and a gallon of water. * Wipe leaves with small amount of alcohol. Weeds * Manually remove weeds. * Mulch. < * Provide alternative ground cover. Vegetable Gardens Insects * Practice crop rotation, using narrow rows and trap crops. * Employ sanitation practices and plant early for an early harvest. * Use natural controls (predators, parasites and pathogens), resistant varieties,biological products, botanical insecticides, insecticidal soaps. Weeds * Mulch, use a cover crop; practice minimal or no tillage. Disease •» Use resistant varieties and rotate crops. Employ sanitation practices. Integrated Pest Management combines biological, ~~cultiifai and chemical methods to control pests in the home landscape. When working outside, you may want a tool kit close by, including paper and pen, bucket, trowel, pruning shears, and a magnify ing glass. Illustrations © Megan Rollins 1994. AR309775 NATURAL PREDATORS & THEIR PREY Likewise, avoid the use of pesticides on windy days or when honeybees and other beneficial insects might be in the area. Lacewings Prey on aphids, scale, whiteflies, . Honeybees are most active during daylight hours, so evening (Chrysopidae family) _ mites, mealybugs, other lacewings insecticide applications pose less danger to them. and the eggs of mites, thrips and other insects. Pesticid_ . . e. use Spiders Feed on anything that gets stuck in (Arachnida order) their webs. _ ...... „- Use of a pesticide should be considered only after alternative controls have been Bee flies Feed on locust eggs, parasites of exhausted. First, be sure that you have (Bombyllldae family) the larvae of fiies,_>v^sps, bees, properly identified the pest, and select beetles and ants. a product labeled for use on it Because Safer pesticides pose a~difficulty in terms of INSeCTICIDAL SOAP Praying mantises Eat aiiyln^ect_they catch, including storage and disposal, purchase the (Manteodea family) beneficials. minimum amount of product needed. DragonfheT-. a. s Eac t. smal lH flyiinci •• g insects• »,. includin• i j- g Second, choose the least toxic chemical. (Odnata order) midges and mosquitoes. The signal word on the label indicates the product's toxicity level: Products marked CAUTION are Soldier beetles Prey on cutworms, gypsymoth less toxic than those that have a WARNING on the label. By (Caritharidae _ larvae, cankerworms, "slugs and using the less toxic chemical, risks to wildlife and other family) snails. ______..._,..... natural resources are diminished. Always store pesticides in a secure area away from children and foodstuffs. Because some products become ineffective when subjected to freezing temperatures, pesticides should be stored in a temperature-controlled location. The label contains important information about target pests, environmental safeguards, rate of application, poisoning and more. Always read and follow label directions carefully. Re- member, a violation of label usage directions is against the law. Be^cautious when using any pesticide. Be careful not to get any pesticide product on your skin or in your eyes. Do not breathe pesticide vapors. Wear protective clothing, includ- most important pest management practices: involves moni- I ing rubber gloves, protective eye glasses, a long-sleeved shirt boring pest populations. Through ni6mtoring,wis~e control I and long trousers. Do not apply pesticides on a windy day decisions can be made. . " "::; :_~-^^^^- ::: ..: -. f _or when rain is expected. Be careful to avoid drift or runoff j during application. Timing ' ' ...... ;. .___.,.., ....- . _ _ _ Accurately timing control measures .means thatyou need tp._ When mixing pesticides, more is not better. Measure accu- be aware of pest population levels, weather conculrdns and"; rarely. Prevent spills and back siphoning. Do not apply pesti- the population dynamicsW various pestsr'As an example, j cides near water resources such as wells, streams, ponds and many pests are more Susceptible to control measures at bird baths. Because of the difficulty in disposing of excess particular points in their life cycle,_Weeds should be con-. • pesticides, do not mix any more product than you actually trolled when they are small. As an example, chickweed in the need. These practices are safer for you, more economical and lawn should be controlled in the fall. When chickweed be- better for the environment. comes anoTicable problem in the spring, it is usually too late for effective control. Insects are better controlled at the point When IPM is adopted both philosophically and practically in where the population is doing the most economic or aesthetic the landscape, it acts as an effective pest control system. IPM damage. If a frost or cool weather is near, simply waiting for" mimrriizes environmental impacts, while enabling you to tnis change may be the only control you need. ;;~ .,..;.";.... j maintain ah attractive landscape at a reasonable cost. Most important, it represents a significant way for you to contri- ° n°t use chemical sprays just before a rainfall. They may bute to the health of local waterways and, ultimately, the Bay have time to work before washing into nearby waters. without.leaving home. • M;- •• . : AR309776 The University of Maryland Cooperative Extension Service. Effective Lawn Care With Reduced Pesticide and Fertilizer Use. .-^ Fact shee.r #637. ."" ' .... . : — ----- Virginia Cooperative Extension. Gro'undwater Quality and the Use of Lawn and Garden Chemicals by Homeowners. Publication #426-059,1992. Most of us consider the bumblebee a Virginia Cooperative Extension. Ecological Tu rfTips to Protect «u!saitce outdoors, but without its pollinating activities, many flowers the Chesapeake Bay: Classic Agronomic Principles Can Reduce cattld not reproduce and the landscape Pesticide Need. Publication #430-396,1991. aid be very drab indeed. Virginia Cooperative Extension. The Virginia Gardener Year IPM mail order suppliers Round Guide to Pest Management. Publication #426-615,1990. * Alternative Garden Supply, Inc. Daar, Sheila. Least-Toxic Pest Managementfo r Lawns, Common 297 North Bamngton Road Sense Pest Control. Berkeley, Calif.: Bio-Integral Resource Streamwood, Illinois 60107 Center, 1986. •..--- (800) 444-2S37 * Free catalog 1 Fitzpatrick, Neal. Have a Healthy Lawn Without Using Toxics. * Gardens Alive! ' Chevy Chase, Md.: Audubon Naturalist Society of the Cen- P.O. Box 149 ' tra^ Atlantic States, 1987. Sunman, Indiana 47041 ,._.__———:——___. ,,_ _,..„. (812) 623-3800 • Free catalog ' \ _____ 1 For detailed specific instructions for the safe use of fertilizers and + Nature's Touch ; pesticides in your community, contact your local or area 11 ISO W. Addison Street i Cooperative Extension office. Franklin Park, Illinois 60131 ! (312)455-6900 ! COOPERATIVE EXTENSION * Necessary Trading Company ! A servics °ft}ie land-grant university systems in the District of 8311 Salem Avenue -" ' Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. New Castle, Virginia 24127 : — -————— — (703) 564-5103 * $2 Catalog, refundable with order • 1 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BAYSCAPES i * Pest Management Supply Company PO Box 93S ' y^§$i-&SK 'rtiHi^uwrT U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Amherst, Massachusetts 01004 ! T£Z7 Chesapeake Bay Field Office ttmmmvm &SSCP? 5lPr- 177 Admiral Cochrane Drive U5UU) 2/Z-/6/2 . .... | V^|gj|y \SW' ArmspoJis, MD 2H01 General information/newsletter [ Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Inc. * Bio-Integral Resource Center (BIRQ i A A r r r * \j(~ r P.O^Box 1981 " P.O, Box7414 ! '^Kj tt Richmond, VA 23216 Berkeley, California 94707 ^^^Ht&AFEAKFMY (804) 775-0951 or toll-free (415) 524 2567 ' •—^~' Chesapeake Regional Information Service 1 '- l_(800) 662-CRIS Suggested reading list \ Kowik, Robert. Designing and Maintaining Your Edible land- i Illustrations © Megan Rolling 1994. scape - Naturally. Santa Rose, Calif.: Metamorphic Press, 1986, Printed on Recycled Paper Olkowski, William et, al Common Sense Pest Control: Least o toxic solutions for your home, garden, pets and community. New town. Conn.: The Taunton Press, 1991. AR309777 BayScaping to Conserve Water ——A Homeowner's Guide —— BayScapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefit- include: timing, thoroughness, proper equipment, mulch- ing people, wildlife and Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping ad- ing, plant selection and water zoning. Together, they can cut vocates a "holistic"approach through principles inspired your normal water use by as much as two-thirds during by the relationships found in the natural world. summer months. Why is conserving water in landscapes important? Timing meahs'watering plants and lawns only when they need it. Too often, lawns are watered as an automatic reaction The population in the Chesapeake Bay watershed continues to hot temperatures. Instead, you should water the lawn to grow by leaps and bounds. It is anticipated that no fewer when it has shown you it is thirsty. A thirsty lawn is easy to than 3 million riew'residents will make the mid-Atlantic spot when walked on, the grass will lie flat and reveal region their home during the next 25 .._..._..- . . footprints. Similarly, shrubs show years. This will undoubtedly put se- you they need water by wilting. In rious strains upon natural resources, both cases, water during the coolest including fresh.water* In some house- part of the day to avoid unnecessary holds as much as 40 percent of the evaporation. Early morning or early water used each month finds its way evening hours are generally best. into the landscape, so future fresh water supplies depend upon wise Thoroughness means watering suf- outdoor water use. -. . - ---"- ficiently. Water deeply and carefully, but not too often. Thorough water- Water-wise landscaping means ing promotes stronger root syst- many things. It means evaluating ems, enabling plants to find below- much water the lawn and land- surface water during droughts or e really need, learning how and hot spells. Watering too lightly or when to apply water in the land- too often actually harms plants by scape, understanding that plants encouraging shallow root systems. thrive with well developed, deep Shallow roots make landscape plants root systems, using "plants with more vulnerable to temperature lower water requirements .and.. Drip irrigation I'M a vegetable plot saves water. extremes and the damage caused by minimizing water wasteful the gar- drought and disease. den. In the Bay region, water-wise ' . : '-; ; : ^—.—— ~. _ ...... landscaping, orJ xeriscapingV * . , is..._..—- one'of- the BayScapeI " " s pro-"-- - :"-._--__Prope- r equipmen" " ". t applies water carefully and prudently, gram principles. Keep in mind that excess, or wasted, water and you cannot expect to significantly reduce water use runs off the land carrying nutrients, sediments and even without it. For example, standing with a water hose and a traces of toxic products into nearby creeks and streams." spray nozzle watering your lawn is both time-consuming and ineffective, since the lawn is not getting a deep soaking. Protection of local waterways feeding into "the Bay,_there^ If you follow timing guidelines, water sprinklers do an excel- fore, hinges upon reduced surface water runoff. Each of us lent job of deep watering. Adjust the sprinkler position as must make an individiial efforjt.to steward_o_ur_s_har_ed water each area of the lawn hasbeen thoroughly soaked. For shrubs resources. This g'uide provides"tips to help you Become and flower beds, soaker hoses deliver deep watering over a water-wise" and explains how water conservation contrib- few hours. The most efficientway to thoroughly water shrubs, utes to healthy rivers and a healthy Bay. __ __ flower beds, vegetable gardens and container gardens, how- ever, is with a drip irrigation system hooked directly to your How can we reduce outdoor water use? hose. Drip irrigation sends water straight to a plant's roots with virtually no loss to evaporation. You can reduce the amount of water used to maintain your lawn and garden with little significant expense or serious Mulching shrub beds, flower beds and vegetable gardens rt. For the most part, reducing water use means chang- results in dramatic water savings. Most people use wood the way you have watered in the past. Key elements chips, shredded hardwood and softwood bark, grass clip- An environmental education initiative developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Chesapeake Bay Field Office. .AR309778 pings, and tree leaves as mulch. A mulch cover 3 to 4 inches deep will significantly reduce evaporation loss and prevent unwanted weeds from sprouting in your garden. Remember not to pile mulch too high against the base of a tree or shrub to avoid deterioration of the outer skin layer that may dam- age or possibly kill it. Mulch can be purchased in 3-cubic-f oot bags, or in bulk by thepidcup truck or dump truck load. Your local municipality may even offer mulch on a pidcup basis at Shredded bark no charge or a nominal fee. covers and protect* plantings. Plant selection plays an important role in reducing water use. Drought-tolerant or xeriphy tic, plants available at nurs- eries and garden centers require very little water to thrive in the Bay region. "Xeriscaping" is an emerging landscape philosophy centered around water-wise landscaping. It has gained tremendous acceptance in arid parts of the United States, such as the desert southwest, Texas and California. The new focus on drought-tolerant or low water-use plants has stimulated nurseries and garden centers in the Bay inhabitants, since naturally occurring sources are dediningor region to expand their stock, and they now offer many' seasonally stressed. Direct watering can be as simple as put- spedes to choose from today. ting out a bird bath or a shallow pan of water to provide a drink for thirsty birds, butterflies, and other wildlife passing through your yard. For frogs, turtles, salamanders, fish and other aquatic species, you may want to provide a small garden Water zoning plays an pool, complete with nearby plantings of berry or nut-bearing important rale varieties of trees and shrubs. Provide water for shy animals in xtriscapfagt or wafer* wise near a brush pile or other safe cover. No rnatter how you gardening. provide wildlife with water, you will be pleasantly rewarded Plants are grouped according to How else can I use water wisely in my landscape? •water need fry zones: low, medium and There are a number of additional ways to conserve water high. through wise practices." These include controlling runoff from your yard, replacing lawn areas with alternative landscapes, providing mulch cover for bare spots in your yard, aerat- ing your lawn, and recycling water to your garden and yard. You can do many things to reduce and control water running off your yard. When rainstorms hit, a tremendous Water zoning means laying out your landscape, lawn and amount of water falls rapidly to garden areas in zones according to water need. High water- the yard surface, where it use plants, such as colorful flower beds of bulbs, perennials accumulates quickly or annuals, are grouped very dose to the house and walk- and runs to lower ways to be enjoyed from both outside and inside the house. ground. This run- Group medium water-use plants as well as lawn areas a bit farther out from the house, and plant low water-use plants, such as natives, on the perimeter for screening and privacy. How can I provide -water for wildlife? By practicing xvater conservation techniques you will be able to allocate water for the wildlife. Water is critical to Bay area AR309779 LLIANCE CHESAPEAKE BAY BayScapes Action Guide — Home Landscape Audit: Conserving Water — Identify opportunities to save water in your home landscape. ASSESSMENT CONSERVATION SUGGESTIONS NOTES Y/N Timing * Do you water your lawn and_ plaints regularly? * Water lawn only when visible signs * Do you water on the basis of convenience only? indicate it needs it * Do you use a spigot-mounfed timer to regulate » Avoid rigid schedules. watering amount? * Use a good regulating timer for hose. » Water during cool part of day (morning or evening). Thoroughness . || j * Are you" spending enough time to allow for * Use a watering timer. thorough soaking in a given" £r£a? ~ " "" " "~ ""__"". """"'* Calculate your water use. «• Do you have a method to measure water use? * Review your water rate. * Do you know how much water per unit ot time you * Use a rain gauge. useathome? "~~~ .".' Equipment * Do you have proper equipment to water efficiently ? * Use good hose washers. » Is your equipment (hoses, timers, sprinklers, etc.) in + Store hose when not in use. » good condition? . " ~ ~~'~ "".::.._ + Keep sprinklers/timers in "good * Are you using any drip imgatiori~it3mp'meh.?"~ condition.. • Does any of your equipment leak? » Add a drip system. » Repair any leak immediately. Mulches * Do you use a mulch cover for all plantings? * Mulch all exposed soil. . _. * Is it at least 3" .thick? * Apply mulch uniformly. * Are there more places where you could use mulch? * Locate high-quality mulch nearby. • Is good mulch available to you affordably? * Consider mulch alternatives (list) * Do you recycle grass dippings as mulch? Plant Selection • Do you have plants that need to be replaced? > Replace with a beneficial species. * Will you shop for replacement/ new plants soon? » Select plants resistant to drought. * Have you ever used native plants before? * Look for plants with wildlife value. Water Zoning \ | ] * Can you "organize your landscape into a.series of » Identify high-water use plant areas. water zones, to reduce overall water use? * Identify moderate-water use areas. . [ II * Can your watering equipment be used in a water • Identify low-water use areas. zoning plan? • -..--.= - » Identify xeriphytic plants. | | | » Do you know where to go to look at a model . garden that features water zoning? Wildlife Needs - ; — 1 j 1 * Is there water now for wildlife in your landscape? * Add a shallow dish or bird bath. |_| | * Is it feasible to add a small bird Bath or shallow * Let a water .hose drip into a con- iff dish and keep water in it year-round? tainer. ^^~| •» Do you have a shady, cool, and safe place for water?* Use a half-barrel for a.small pond. * Consider a small vinyi-lined pool. AR309780 How to calculate the time needed for proper Just how far has water penetrated? water application Determining the actual amount of time needed to penetrate Wise water use begins with calibrated equipment. To deter- your dominant soil type with water is easy! Turn on your mine how long youshould run your water sprinkler to apply water sprinkler and periodically examine the depth of water 1 inch of water to your lawn, use the following method: penetration in the ground by inserting a screwdriver or longer soil probe. You can estimate the water penetration » Place your sprinkler in the desired location and depth by noting the wet soil mark on the probe. Under set up five equally sized cans or cartons at inter- normal circumstances, 1 inch of water will wet these soil vals away from the sprinkler to catch water, ^- types as follows: „ _ Place cans no farther than 5 feet apart. Sticky, clay-type: 4 inches Run your sprinkler for one hour. Loamy, fertile: 8 inches Sandy, fast-draining: 18 inches After the elapsed time, collect the cans and pour the water into a single can. Once water has reached the depth needed for your soil type(s), record the time so you will know how long to'water this area * Measure the depth of the water you collected in the future. Keep in mind that during periods of extreme during the 60-minute period, and divide the drought, you may need to water a bit more than usual. amount of collected water in inches by the num- ber of cans (five) to determine the application rate on an inch(es)-per-hour basis. Example', If a sprinkler runs for 60 minutes and the total water collected from five cans is 7.5 inches, the application rate will be 1,5 inches per hour (7,5 inches per 60 minutes divided by five cans 1,5 inches per hour). Therefore, to apply 1 inch of water, divide watering timeby average depth to arrive at the number of minutes needed to apply 1 inch of water (60 minutes divided by 13 avg. inches per hour = 40 minutes needed to apply 1 inch). Illustration: ©Megan Rollins 1994. AR30978 Replacing areas currently in lawn grass will make a big A ground cover at the base of a _ difference invourtotal landscape water requirements. Lawns tree performs require tremendous amounts of water. Where appropriate better than turf, (and where legally permitted), wildflower meadows serve as especially m deep shade. colorful low-maintenance substitutes for lawns. On slopes or in heavily shaded areas, ground covers provide an excellent alternative requiring less water. Even converting a relatively small area to trees and shrubs will significantly save water over the course of a growing season. Mulching bare spots in the yard can reduce both runoff and the amount of sediment that accompanies it in storm events. Bare spots generally occur where foot traffic has worn grass thin, where quickly moving water has undermined the root system, and where the ground has recently been replanted. Consider a mulch cover, however temporary, to remedy the problem. Lawn aeration significantly affects how water infiltrates, or percolates into, the underlying soil. A rented aerating ma- chine operated much like a lawn mower will remove small earth cores from.the lawn, leaving thousands of tiny holes for off has the potential to carry nutrients (especially nitrogen surface air and water to contact the root zone. When per- and phosphorus) from lawn fertiHzejrs~_ancl toxic substances. formed just prior to fertilizer application, aeration helps from pesticides, which can cause problems for receiving fertilizers penetrate the soil surface. streams and, ultimately, the Bay. Recycling water may not be a conservation solution that all iftpff can be reduced by planting a mulched shrub bed or Bay residents can pursue but, where appropriate, it makes a T^fR'er at the low end of your yard to slow velocity. Altering significant difference in the amount of fresh tap water neces- the grade of your lawn can redirect fast moving runoff sp" it sary to keep lawns and landscape plants alive and well. Gray slows down and possibly supplies water for..other plants. water is water that has been used once but has not been Trapping rur_bff can result in. the cgeatiQn 'of a jruTiia.ture. contaminated to the point where it cannot be used again. wetland in a small, inconspicuous part of your yard, enabling Gray water, such as recycled sink dishwashing water or you to add wet-soil plant varieties tq your landscape. washing machine water (if filtered), can be piped through a It is important to fatniliarixe yourself with the predominant soil type(s) in yotir landscape and garden areas. Saturated, ivet soils (a) and sticky clay soils (b) retain water far longer than loamy (c) and sandy soils (d), ivbtch tend to drain fast and therefore require more frequent inputs of supplemental water. Often, more than one type of soil can be fotmd in even a relatively small yard area. (a.) Saturated, wetland-type soil (b) Sticky, day-type soil (c) Loamy, fertile soil (d) Sandy, fast-draining soil RR3Q9782 5/8 inch garden hose directly to where it is needed or fed into Suggested reading list a reservoir for later use, perhaps after cooling. A little plumbing is required, but the savings In water use make the Sawyers, Claire E. and Barbara B. Pesch, eds. Gardening t procedure readily justified! Be sure to first check local Wildflowers & Native Plants, Handbook #ll£T~Brookl ordinances for permit requirements and written approval. Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Inc., 1989. Where the use of gray water is prohibited, homeowners can SchmidHn, Wilfred V. and Barbara B. Pesch. eds. Water Garden- recyde rain water, especially that which runs off the roof into ing. Brooklyn: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Inc., 1985. gutters and downspouts. A container placed at the base of a downspout will provide fresh water for your garden and Schneck, Marcus. Your Backyard Wildlife Garden. Emmaus, Perm: outdoor plantings at no cost while reducing erosion and Rodale Press, 1992...... 1 " . runoff during heavy rains. Parker, Cecilia L, ed. Planting an Oasis for Wildlife. Washington, Do not try to revamp all of your landscape water use prac- aC: National Wildlife Federation, 1986." tices at once. Study how you currently use water and then establish immediate and long term steps to conserve. You will be rewarded with less maintenance, lower water bills N-Y-: ^e Reader's Digest Association, Inc., 1978. and the knowledge that you are helping wildlife as well as „ , ,_.,. . 1T, local streams and Chesapeake Bay. Hightshoe, Gary L. Native Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Urban and Rural America, New York Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1988. Other resources XERIPHYTIC (LOW WATER-USE) SHRUBS* . t , _, „,..-. Backyard Wildlife (monthly newsletter), Marcus Schneck Com- Common/Scientific Size Evergretn/ Preferred Soil munications, Emmaus, PA 18049, (215) 481-9452- Name (feet) Deciduous Type The Lawn Institute, P.O. Box 108, Pleasant Hill, TO 38578. Creeping Juniper Tolerates any Juniper horizontalis soil type Urban Areas Habitat Pac, National Institute for Urban Wild Juniper 2-30 Tolerates dry, 10921 Trotting Ridge Way, Columbia, MD 21044. fitniperus communis poor soil. National Xeriscape Council, P.O. Box 163172, Austin. TX Baytosrry 4-8 Tolerates dry, 78716-3172. _..._ .... _. Myricn pensylvanica poor soil Black Chokeberry 3-6 D Tolerates wet, For detailed specific instructions for the safe use of fertilizers and Aronia mtlajiocarpa add, or drv soil pesticides in your community, contact your local or area Cooperative Extension office. Gray Dogwood 8-15 D Tolerates any Cornus racemosa soil type COOPERATIVE EXTENSION Elderberry 6-12 D Needs deep, A service of the land-grant university systems in the District of Scmiums canadensis well-drained soil Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Coralberry Indian Currant 3-6 D Tolerates poor Symphoricarpos orbicnfatiis soil FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BAYSCAFES Highbush Cranberry 12 D Needs well- Viburnum trilobum drained, acid soil U.S. Fisli & Wildlife Service Chesapeake Bay Field Office 1 77 Admiral Cochrane Drive "Take H from the SxifScepes Beneficial P!unts L£*t. Annapolis, MD 21401 (410)224-2732 Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Inc. Illustrations: © Megan Rollins 1994. p-°- B°x im ViA 23216 Printed on Recycled Paper (804) 775-0951 or toll-free CHtSA P£A K£ DAY Chesapeake Regional Information Serv o 1 (800) 662-CRIS - . AR309783 Conservation Landscaping ———A Homeowner's Guide ——— BayScapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefiting creeks and rivers. BayScapes encourages you to take respon- people, wildlife and Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping advocates sibility for the natural resources in your community, a "holistic" approach through principles inspired by the BayScapes begin at home. relationships found in the natural world. Where does conservation landscaping begin? What does conservation landscaping mean? BayScapes begin with the soil. Soil quality affects almost Conservation landscaping promotes landscaping manage- everything that you think of as part of your landscape-trees, ment that works with nature to reduce pollution and enhance shrubs, flowers, vines, and lawn area. Good soil quality wildlife habitat. It encourages a low input formula for yard through wise management is the key to conservation care: less fertilizer and pesticide use, . _ .... landscaping. This includes main- combined with less lawn area and taining a healthy vegetative cover the use of beneficial plants, equals The original reel to prevent soil erosion from wind mower was less water use and less overall main- powered by and water, maintaining proper tenance. The goaLof the BayScapes human energy, soil pH and fertility levels, and providng a good, program is the protection of vital soil pollution-free using beneficial insects to pro- and water resources. T:•-- source of exercise. mote a healthy soil. This guide suggests practical tech- Vegetative cover can be a stand of niques to help you manage your grasses, vines, groundcovers, mul- landscape wisely and, at the same ches, or even vegetables and herbs. time, reduce overall maintenance.. Whatever the choice, it performs a simple changes in the rnanr" vital service in holding soil in place ent of your lawn and garden, and preventing it from washing BayScaping represents an inno- into local creeks and rivers. vative way for ypu^ to contribuie to the health and vitality of local water- Soil pH and fertility are deter- ways and Chesapeake Bay. mined by analyzing soil samples from different soil locations Why is conservation _ _ throughout your landscape. Fertil- landscaping important to Chesapeake Bay? ~1 ^X describes the presence of nutrients and minerals in the j soil, while pH measures acidity/alkalinity levels; together The Bay region is grow'mgTahd growingj-apidly. During the they tell you what plants your soil can support Lime and next 25 years," the population in the watershed will expand gyp'sum may be used to adjust soil pH, while soil fertility from 13 million to an estimated 16 million people, as more and can be improved by introducing organic matter such as leaf more of us wish to live close to the water. With this increase. mold, manure, bark, peat moss and even sawdust. in people will come the need. to,conyert_more forest and crop land to"residential areas. Additional ^buildings and paved Few people are lucky enough to have soil loose enough to surfaces will follow. This fundamental land-use change has .\ poke with a finger, yet holds water like a sponge. You can negative impIicatibns~forThelB_ay, such as reduced wildlife | rest assured, however, that earthworms and beneficial in- habitat and increased soil erosion and rurio_ffl_in_t_o_ local...| sectshavebeenhardatworkinsuchawonderfullybalanced streams and rivers during stofms. ". soil structure. Their presence indicates healthy, chemical- free soil, teeming with microorganisms. Microorganisms Along with this change in land use will come additional lawn such as bacteria, for instance, keep disease-causing fungi and landscaped areas falling to individual management. in check by competing with them for food. Try examining Indeed,, thousands of Bay residents make daily decisions your soil's characteristics: clay or sand-like, wet or dry, dark about the care and maintenance of.their lawns and gardens- or light. You can learn a lot about your landscape this way decisions resultihgln the purchase .and use of ..fertilizers, and will probably discover that more than one soil type ides and other products that affect water quality in locai exists throughout your lawn and garden. An environmental-education initiative developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Chesapeake Bay Field Office. AR309781* philosophy. This means treating only serious or threatening intolerable pest infestations and using biological or physi-j cal control methods. When re-seeding, overseeding or seeding a new lawn area, you have an opportunity to take ad vantage of improvements in seed quality and diversity. Familiarize your- self with the newly available hybrids of grass seed specifically tailored to local climate and soil conditions. Choices in- clude perennial ryegrass, fine fescue and turf-type tall fescue, as well as ornamental grasses. You will find that some varieties perform better than others in drought con- ditions and some tolerate disease well. A landscape professional or Cooperative Extension service agent can help, healthy soil taming with microorganisms. Finally, a lawn will tell you when it needs watering; you have only to watch for the signs. When you The environmentally sound lazvn walk across the grass and leave footprints that do not rap- idly disappear, your lawn needs water. Water thoroughly to Americans have an obsession with weed-free lawns. Accord- provide a good soaking, and avoid watering during the heat ing to the Environmental Protection Agency, each year we of the day to minimize unnecessary evaporation and pos- spend an estimated 5950 million on fertilizers and another sible wilting. $1.5 billion on pesticides for landscape uses. By contrast, BayScapes shows that a healthy lawn provides the best Lawn alternatives defense against an infestation of weeds. An environment- ally sound lawn tolerates a few weeds here and there, and In many situations, grass can be a maintenance burden or it permits only hand removal of unwanted weeds. can be difficult to grow, and a different ground cover may be more suitable. Excellent locations for ground cover al- Cool-season grasses in the Bay region will benefit from fall ! ternati ves may be found on steep slopes, wet or shady areas applications of balanced fertilizers that include at least 10 | and highly erodible sites. When selected carefully, ground percent water-insoluble forms of nitrogen. Cut these grasses covers improve infiltration of water into the soil, slow run- to a 1.5 inch height in the spring, move up to a 3 inch or 3,5 off and reduce maintenance; Ground covers come in a inch cut in the summer, and then back down to 2.5 inch when variety of textures and colors, many with beautiful blooms, autumn comes. These mowing heights, alone, will reduce Here are a few other ideas to consider as you reduce your weeds by more than 50 percent. j total lawn area: i Lawn clippings represent nutrient recycling at its j + Wildflowermeadowsprovideacolorful,low- besr. With proper mowing, clippings will not cause maintenance alternative to lawns and create excess thatch (a tightly habitat for birds, butterflies, and mammals. packed layer of organic de- Decks and brick-on-sand patios offer cozy bristhatdevelopsonlhesoU outdoorseatingwhileallowingwatertoper- surface). Rather, clippings , meate through to underlying soil. break down and return ni- | trogen to the lawn, reducing | * Water gardens introduce sound and texture the need for fertilizers. into the landscape and attract wildlife. Pest control can quickly be- j Tree and shrub selection come a never-ending cycle in a lawn until you adopt a Selecting proper trees and shrubs for the home landscape^B healthy soil healthy lawn can seem a daunting challenge; however, it can besimplified^^ AR309785 LL1ANCE BayScapes Action Guide Home Landscape Audit: Conservation Landscaping Identify opportunities to improve conservation practices in your landscape. ASSESSMENT CONSERVATION OPTIONS NOTES Y/N . . . _s°it .. ---. -— \ \ \ * Havejro'u sent soil jsamples out to * Take a soil test and have determine your yard's nutrient samples tested. needs and pH? * Identify compacted areas. 1 1 i * Are there places where the soil is » Add earthworms. particularly compacted? * Aerate compacted areas. 1 -1 l» Are earthworms at work.In your ^ * Improve soil by adding yard? compost. * Oth^r- Lawn Care \~~ \ \ * Do you use your clippings in a + Collect grass clippings, do compost pile or as a shrub bed not dispose of th.e.m._ . ~ . mulch? * Evaluate poor-growing LI | * Does the lawn grow well in all . grassy areas. ^ places? ~ :; : ... ..; . * Identify areas too shady for ijjf^] *. Would a lawn alternative make good turf. ^tr sense in some areas? * Experiment with IPM for 1 j | * Can yoiTbe"gin to practice IFM in _ weed control. your yard? _ ... . * Othpr: | | i* Are you using lime to adjust the pH? + Water only during cool of * How often do you fertilizelawn the day. areas7 _.,,._ * Practice fall fertilization for * How often do_you mow you lawn? cool-season grass aad spring fertilization for — ~ * Cuttings per vear? ------warm-season grass. * How much time does mowing + Apply lime as needed. ~ usually take you? ...... # Adjust lawn mower cutting • At what height do you mow your height to reduce weeds, _... lawn? _. .. . * How often do you water your lawn during frhp siimmpr? Lawn Alternatives \ \ \ * Do you have_places where ground * Identify sites, where ground covers would work well? covers might perform as I | | » Do you need a garden path, a lawn alternatives. small patio area or a sittutg~deek? •» Identify sites where a garden 1 1 1 * How about a small flower, herb or patch or porous patio vegetable area? . _ ;__=__ surface might be useful or 1 i 1 * Do you have room .for a small pool appropriate. ^^ of water or a water barrel? » Locate sites where flowers or vegetables might grow. AR309786 Practicing IPM for weed control in lawns Proper lawn management is the key to practicing IPM for effective and affordable weed control. For example, potential weed populations in tall fescue grasses can be reduced by more than 50 percent with proper mowing height. Here are some other helpful tips that are part of an IPM strategy for weed control in lawns: * Accept weeds as a natural part of your landscape (depending on location). * Mow cool season grass no lower than 2.5 inches. * Mow warm season grass no lower than 1.5 inches. * Re-seed and fertilize cool-season grasses in the fall. * Plant certified weed-free seed. Taking a soil sample * Maintain a full stand of cover, reducing bare spots. * Avoid early spring fertilization. When taking a soil sample, you'll need a trowel bucket, dip- * Use tall fescues, bermuda grass or zoysia grass •board with paper and pencil, bags, and a shipping box, along that have beneficial endophytes (plants living with sample forms provided by your nearby Cooperative within the grass). Extension office. Samples should be taken every three to five * Discourage thatch build-up. years. The best time is generally late autumn or early winter to *• Encourage earthworms for aeration. avoid the annual spring rush. To obtain a representation of soils in your landscape, follow this step-by-step guide: » Divide your yard or lawn area into sections by sun exposure (sunny versus shady areas), and by gen- eral layout and distribution (such as side, front, or backyard, under trees, with shrub beds, etcetera). * Collect a random set of five or six samples per * section. * Mix the sets of samples per section to collect a representative sample of that section. * Put the representative sample into a bag and at- tach the completed sample form (be sure you have first coded the sample form to match the desig- nated field sections in your yard). * Repeat these steps for each section of the yard and place all sample bags with attached forms into a shipping box. * Send to a public or private laboratory for analysis for a modest fee (S3 to S10 average). Indicate that you wish to analyze phosphorus, potash and pH, and that you are requesting the information to , help you better manage your lawn grass. ; Upon receipt of the soil analysis, enter the informationInto a | Illustrations © Megan Rollins 1994. log, working from section notes made at sampling time. Retain these records to review when it is time to re-sample. AR309787 with a little research and time spent walking W^S^^L Ba^my ifcs ability to retain water. A garden through nurseries .and garden centers. Tradi- (^IfC^^y «v |£® compost pile provides a prolific source {|feUy, trees and shrubs have been chosen" -.^^l^^P^/%, %\ WrC^i of organic humus to improve soil ^Brding to characteristics such as seasonaL/^^^^jl^^l^^ ^^j$P throughout your landscape. bloom intensity, bloom "duration or fall leaf color, ^^Safi V^l/ffr^ (TV While these characteristics are important, today's XQP ^^^1^^ Integrated Pest Management environmentally sound landscapes include trees and c^^ "^^^^Sfe \ shrubs selected for their resilience in times of. drought, <||L^^<§§ci;' When spotting an insect on a plant, most resistance to disease, wildlife benefits, low-input require- g^wV j f of us fear that if action is not immediately ments and ease of care, along with year-round appearance. ^&J *^JI taken, the entire yard will be under as- _ _ _C^JA. iL *^9 sault- This results in a trip to the local Such landscapes incorporate plantings of native species- ^^Sof pjjl nursery or garden center to purchase a those that have succeeded without human help in the Bay ^k CQ JJJ& handy pesticide, which we then use to region for thousands of years. Natives require little in the way Oftjck ^Bwjr erradicate the pest: quickly, permanently of water, fertilizers or pesticidesto thrive and offer a more' ^^if^ " and usually excessively. natural look. Beneficial plants-those providing food or cover-may be combined with natives to maximize the bene/- The more we learn about natural processes, however, the fits to wildlife. (Use the BayScapes Beneficial Plants List for" more we understand that insects and their predators are ideas; then consult with a nursery professional and check. interconnected in a delicate and complex way. This new- with your local library.) _...... , ,._. ™,= „ found knowledge has resulted in an emerging approach to pest control, known as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Fruit and vegetable gardening \ IPM advocates the tolerance of occasional minor outbreaks ] of pests Wherever possible. And if that is unacceptable, pests Remember the delights of growing selected fruits, berries.; are controlled with biological means (such as milky spore for and vegetables for your family. When looking for trees and Japanese beetles or_sabadilla for chinch bugs), or are physi- shrubs that meet functional needs-such as screening away I cally removed from plant leaves by hand or by tool. IPM an objectionable view or providing interest with bloom or [ advocates, as a last resort, careful use and appiication of the »foji^e-consideE r using a fruit-bearing tree or a clutch of berry least toxic compound for the specific pest identified. s. Fruit trees provide dramatic early blossoms and a bounty of delicious, fresh fruit at harvest. Berry bushes have j Recent breakthroughs in technology have yielded effective the same benefits whileprovidingwildlife with needed cov-.. J pesticide compounds, such as insecrieidal soaps and im- er and food. You may wish to avoid peaches, apples and. j proved horticultural oils. These products, which once had pears, because they require high maihtenanceand offer little j limited applicationperiods, can now be used year-round and shade. Vegetable gardens offer the purity and satisfaction of are competitively priced. home-grown food while teaching about plant development from ; Finally, a new breed of entrepreneur-the IPM contractor-is seed. Experiment with different emerging in" urban and suburban markets in response to varietiistifseedandstarter plants." growing public concern about the widespread use of toxins. .__...__. ___^_..___. i you can learn more about this new technology by reading In the autumn, garden plots can be. trade publications and talking with local and state agrono- "put to bed" with a cover crop of mists and horticulturalists. legumes"or cereal grains that will prevent soil erosion while return- • Putting it all together ing vital nutrients.'The_ humus "; produced as the cover crop de- t Conservation landscaping closely resembles the cooperative cays will improve .the soil's | principlesoftheBayScapesprogramitself. It asks you to take structure and enhance j a holistic view of the home.landscape-^Iawn, trees, shrubs, flowers, ground covers and vegetable plot-and consider how your management of each element affects local wildlife, jieigliborhoojd streams and water quality in the Bay. Lawn care: a checklist of risk factors Remeinber, maintaining a healthy, pest-resistant lawn with fewer applications of fertilizers and pesticides is possible, AR3Q9788 but it does not happen by chance. You must frequently Composting: A Recipe for Success* Composting Productions, scout your landscape for signs of trouble. The following list International Marketing Exchange, P.O. Box 775, McHenry, : states common factors that contribute to weeds, disease IL 60051. and insect damage. Campbell, Stu. Let it Rot. Story Communications, P.O. Box Factors Increasing the risk of weed problems: 445, Schoolhouse Road, Pownal, VT 05261. * Grass spedes and variety selection inappropri- Pesticides and You, National Coalition Against the Misuse of ate to Bay region Pesticides, 701 E. Street, S.E., Suite 200, Wahsingtion, D.C. Mowinv* - g uheigh • u*.t to* o shori. _*t. 20003*w^,, (202v*v .) 543-5450. Nitrogen fertilizer inadequate Citizen Guide to Pesticides. USEPA Region HI, 814 Chestnut- Insects have previously damaged area(s) Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Nitrogen fertilizer applied at wrong time Soil suffers from acidity problems or phospho- Alternative landscape resources and products rous or potassium defidendes Poor drainage Necessary Trading Company, P.O. Box 305, New Castle, VA 24127. factors that increase the risk of disease damage: * Grass spedes and variety selection inappropri- AgLife, P.O. Box 84, Boonsboro, MD 21713. ate to Bay region Frequent light watering at night The Bio-Integral Resource Center, P.O. Box 7414, Berkeley, Excessive nitrogen fertilizer applied at wrong i CA 94707' <415) 524-2567. _ i Compost Park, American Horticultural Society, River Farm, «- Excessive clippings left on lawn j 7931E Boulevard Drive/ Alexandra, VA 22308. * Poor drainage ' Factors that increase the risk of insect damage: •- For ^tailed specific instructions for the safe use offertilizers and ; * Thatch buildup in excess of 05 inch , pesticides in your community, contad.your local or area + Turf areas open to 80% to 100% sun exposure , 'Cooperative Extension office. " ~" ' * Indiscriminate application of pestiddes that kill beneficial insect spedes 1 COOPERATIVE EXTENSION * Excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer ; * Factors that increase plant stress, such as mois- ' A service of the land-grant university systems in the District of ture, poor soil conditions or inappropriate ! Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. mowing height i + Pest populations in adjacent lawn areas ' "~ " • Newly established lawns ! FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BAYSCAPES Wliere can I get more detailed information? i f-.&"'1 Jf;s- rish^^iid^lnfr d J i ,^P~B§a& , —'.iygay Chesapeake Bay Field Office RlBW'^lil ~^E^L 177 Admiral Cochrnne Drive For specific information about soils, soil testing, water vw!fe$V r—^-K Annapolis, MD 21401 management pest control and other issues, refer to other ' ^$$§33!^ ^^^j^ (410)224-2732 guides in this Baj^Scapes series and/or contact your local ' ... _ . Cooperative Extension office. For additional information | . _ p'oTo^issiCbappaAe B"y' l"C' on emerging and innovative landscape products and ser- • f^- LLlJ\.NL.h Richmond, VA 23216 vices, the resource list on this page may be helpful. ^*^L • ••'''''''" - (854) 775-0951 or toll-free I f ^J^^HZSAPEAKZ BAY Chesapeake Regionallnformation Service Sitggestec , dj readin,.,..g list. i 11800} 662-CRIS ' ~ " "" Healthy Lawn, Healthy Environment-Caring for Your Lazvn in „ . ^,, _ „. «nn, an Environmentally Sound Way. Public Information Cen- Illustrations © Megan Rolhns 1994. ter PM-2113, USEPA, 401 M Street, S.W. Washington, „ . ^ _ . . _ . r\r on^*:n Printed on Recycled Papft AR309789 Using Beneficial Plants —— A Homeowner's Guide —— BayScapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefiting are also deemed beneficial if they have few maintenance people, wildlife and Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping advocates a requirements and are not invasive. "holistic" approach through principles inspired by the rela- tionships found in the natural world. In the Bay region, the primary habitats where native plants can be found include ancient forests, second-growth forests, Livable landscapes wetlands, freshwater hardwood swamps, dunes, open mead- ows, mountain slopes and grasslands. Our landscape history began when the first settlers arrived in the New World. The colonistsbrought many plants from their In an essay praising native plants, David Northington of the homeland and created landscapes that imitated the European- National Wildflower Research Center says, "Using commer- style gardens with which they cially grown native plants cre- were familiar. Three centuries. ates new design opportunities; later, the American yard is still native plants provide seasonal dominated by European (pri- color, and vary in appearance marily English) elements of in response to natural fluctua- landscape design. An expan- tions in annual temperature and sive lawn, symmetrically precipitation patterns. If a more planted and shaped trees and formal, manicured look is de- shrubs, and profuse flower sired, native shrubs and trees beds of primarily exotic plants and many native ornamental are characteristic of this land- grasses and even herbaceous >e tradition. wildflowers can be part of a more static and structured de- Today, few of us have the sign plan. When used in such a time or resources neetjed to formal landscape, however, na- maintain a formal,European- tive plants still provide many of style landscape. As a result, the same advantages found in people are exploring attrac- less formal, naturalistic land- tive alternatives to traditional scapes: lower water use, greater landscapes, and many have hardiness, reduced chemical de- responded with a more natu- pendence, and even increased ral, relaxed looking yard that wildlife attraction." uses a variety of beneficial plants. This style of landscaping has different names. In the. How can beneficial plants help the Bay? Bay region, it is called BayScaping, due to the many ecological benefits such landscapes provide for Chesapeake Bay. As rain washes over the land, it carries nutrients and chemi- cals from our yards to stormdrains and groundwater and, What are beneficial plants? ultimately, Chesapeake Bay. Because beneficial plants re- quire less fertiliz_er and pesticides, their use in the landscape Beneficial plants" are plants that require minimal mainte- reduces.pollutants carried by rainwater. Therefore, by plant- nance^-such as trimming, watering arid fertilizer or pesticide. ing beneficial plants at home, we can make a meaningful applications-becausethey are well adapted to local climate contribution to the restoration of local waterways and Chesa- and soil types. Beneficial plants begin with na ti ve, or indige- peake Bay. nous species. Although even botanical experts disagree on a formal definition of a native plant, for the purpose of this Beneficial plants also improve wildlife habitat. Since many guide and the BayScapes principles, we shall define it as a beneficial plants are also native plants, local birds, mammals , plant, shrub, vine, or ground cover that would have and other wildlife have come to depend upon them for fruits, n present when Christopher Columbus discovered, nuts and seeds. These plant communities also provide breed- erica. Many horticultural varieties and imported plants ing and nesting sites. These communities have become espe- An environmental education initiative developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the U.S. Fish &Wildlife Service, Chesapeake Bay Field Office. A :tn .>&!•:$ •oom for more people. beneficial plants in my i.iiu£jturally occurring vegetation and, , To begin, do not try to jiaturji- " ^'nr'sbiilonctttncidhersiEy. Invasiv^s ize_your landscape all at characteristics: ------| once. The. replacement 1 process can be over- i^.d prolific reproductive capabilities . whelming. Make Tree of Heaven Tnx1 . Grows in variety of j; alti$$iaia upland habitats; spreads Roseshell Azalea by cloning and seeds What about special or poor soil conditions? W\ stcria Climbing vine Grows generally in ,-7.a'H.tr# • uplan.... .v._-d .habitats __ . ; hig. h When selecting any plant, you not only need to consider climbing on trees bloomin, , g season° , colo•7,r ran d,,.,, height,, bu t. othe ,, r specia•l 11 habita_ t_-tt t requirements and preferred growing conditions. Poor soils, common in urban and suburban locations, require selectin^^ ( SR30979 tjj m^^^L.L^L^^L. f BayScapes Action Guide — Home Landscape Audit: Beneficial Plants — Evaluate your landscape-associated maintenance requirements. ASSESSING MAINTENANCE TASKS SUGGESTIONS/ALTERNATIVES NOTES Fertilizer Applications * How often and when do you fertilize your lawn? * Fertilize rool-spasrm , .__- grasses in fall ff*-*z£:w * How long does this take and at what cost? * Fertilize warm- — ff-e*TIUZEt * m9 season erasses in Vy . JM-J! * How large is your lawn area, and how much fertilizer spring ^ L> _^ I do vou use? ": * Use fertilizers with at (^ ^1 » What type of fertilizer do you generally purchase? least 1.0% WIN (Water _. Insoluble Nitrogen) Pesticide Applications * Do you use a herbicide to reduce weeds? ,__.-.* Raise iawrLcutting height to reduce dSf-^ip* * To control damage to shrubs, trees, flowers or vines? ...opportunity sites for _" _H______jJ weeds pgsritjajL * Do you use chemicals on your roses? What type? * Practice IPM = ""* i * Plant beneficial " E Q f ^TC)o you have a use for all of the pesticides in your species that require ? ^^ •* storage locker? . ._ . _ _ . ... "i~. ..__=____^ .Jess pesticides Watering Habits + How long does it take to water your lawn by hand » Water, infrequently during a hot or dry spell? . . . and thoroughly * What time of day do you water? ...... V Water only in the * What kind of sprinkler do you use (if any)? cool of the day __ , * Use water timers to .|WrrS» * How long do you let your hose/sprinkler run? save water /Fsil(^T~i/%i » How often do you use a water timer? _ - "^2^ - Trimming & Priming Requirements * How many hedges or shrubs do you trim regularly? * Select plants for their growth habit * How often must you trim? * Replace high- -- - * How often do you prune dead or diseased wood on maintenance species shrubs? ; ...... „. : . ._" ' . - with beneficial ^=z^\£*7 * What time of year do you trim or prune? species "... Z^^Cf-*-,^ ^ * Remove dead wood /xX-^^^^B^a ^^iow much time does it take each season? . —•:.. as.it ocsrs_::r "(f fe jjjg Illustrations © Megan Rollins 1994. AR309792 ——— Home Landscape'Audit: Beneficial Plants ——— Decide where beneficial plants could meet important-functions in your landscape. LANDSCAPE PLANTS INVENTORY LANDSCAPE FUNCTIONS ALTERNATIVES & NOTES V Taking stock of your landscape How you use plant material Ideas and suggestions | Lawngrass: How muck do you manage? Ground covers provide an attractive alternative to grass in many areas: deep shade, steep slopes, under trees, etc. * Total sct.iarft feet _.. _ . . * Play area Notes: * Tfrfal shaHy arm * Walkway/path * Tnfal sunny ari»a * Appearance Trees: WJiat kinds and how many? Beneficial species can meet many functional require- ments, enhance habitat for wildlife and require less * Major shade trees * Shade inputs of fertilizers, pesticides and water. * Screen Notes: + Minor accent trees » Accent * Other: » Major evergreen trees (25*+) • Privacy screen * Wind screen * Minor evergreen trees (under 25') * Accent - * Other: * Flowering trees, spring blooming •• Screen * Accent * Flowering trees, summer blooming *• Accent » Other: «• Flowering trees, fall blooming ^ » Shrubs: \V7iat kinds and how many? Many beneficial species mature to a size and appearance appropriate for hedges, accents, borders and screens. + Deciduous spring blooming * Hedge Notes: * Accent » Deciduous summer blooming » Border «• Screen ----- * Deciduous fall blooming *• Accent * Other: * Evergreen foundation plants Year-round green .. Berries * Evergreen accent plants Foliage Special color * Evergreen berries or fruit Other: Vines and Ground Covers : What kinds? Ground covers and vines meet special needs in the land- scape in providing additional color, texture arid bloom. * Evergreen vines Notes: +j\ccent * Deciduous vines » Texture * Blooms ...... „ ...... ** ,-| * Evergreen ground covers * On sloped areas > * In shade areas * Deciduous ground covers * Other: ... .. , ,._.._,. BQ-.nQ-7Qn RECOMMENDED BENEFICIAL PLANTS .:mdscape Plant Description ' Major- .•-..".,„.,",..",../".'...,.. i., .______Use Name . .-..-..„_....._- . -. „..p.-_-_—„.. ..,..—. . -.-• -•- .Benefit. — .....=-.--s ^ - :=r t .,.: gion * ,i ,land:„ .1 ,.„''"" caper.s -,.,._aai-e, that irn " Sourwocd, Sorrel Tree. - P.>TamidaJ..£lower tassels in Tokr.ites'urban " _-r_. . ~j •> ,.!* ,_.,.„ .,. -n ^> -1 :-' i -: . - r i ~ L -i - r" j r- n i " " -...'" - . i " ' ' -ii..*}-. 1-.5 <.U *U L, li-lLlS. i,UJ 11 — i V,1 • V .. ,mc Tree Oxvat'tidrum \ircoreiim July, striking red fall color ...." " ..ccDi-tLtion""' "--s and srisid- e .,....-- '\'e- =.,a. in poo- r or wet soi.,l •cons.Ui^.'p^.. .T it Blackgum, Tupelo . __ Horizontal branches; ...... Value for song-birds, j :"^err,SiOgic."il ^^en, tna t plants ijrr'u- . brLUtant fall color.. ._ . .. _ small mammAis_._....' ing nn rurally in we tlands,floodp la ins or nutrient-poor, sandy soil will per- Ci'sr^rccn, American'Holly _____ Rod berry; needs moist,. . .Wildlife value" . . forni we\\ _n Evergreen, lakberry "Globular; open habit, small Bee nectar; high value and purchasing beneficial Foundation Ilexglabra leaf,blackberry; tolerates .. .for waterfowl, song- plants? Shrub sandy, peaty, acid soil and game birds Most large garden centers and nurser- Juniper -- Oval; bluish gray; tolerates _. Drought tolerant; high Jttnipertts communis dry, poor soil value for songbirds ies offer a broad range of beneficial - -plants for sale. During the last few lecnhious RedChokeberry ' Flowers May-June,.smooth _ Value.fqr song- and Aronia arbutifolia pale leaves, red berry; tol- game birds; trans- 'Plant • ' erates wet acid or dry soil plants well Winterberry " ------*--- - Oval; small flower May, . Value for winter.wa- Ilex verticilJata bright red berry; tolerates - tert'owl & song-sbirds; any soil and some shade .tolerates wet.soil Ground Common Bearberry ' Creeping habit; needs sun; Cover Arctostaphylos uva-ursi tolerates dry soil Violet Wood Sorrel . Tolerates some shade and . Oxalis violncea dry soil Meadow flowers include: ~ - Witdginger (A), bunfh_berry epatica C) and foamffqiaer CPl.^L years, such companies have recognized the importance of add- Loewer, Peter and Barara B. Pesch, eds. Ornamental ing natives to their stock. When you talk to your local plant Plants and Gardens. Handbook #117. Brooklyn: dealer, explain that you want plants that provide wildlife Botanic Garden, Inc., 1988. .. habitat need less fertilizers and pesticides and require less water and overall maintenance. When shopping, be prepared White Christopher P.Chesapeake Bay: A Field Guide. Easton to discuss site information such as sun availability, soil type MD: Tidewater Publishers, 1989. and your planting goals (to provide screening, bloom and color, or wildlife food, for instance). for specific information on selecting and purchasing plants In the Chesapeake Bay region, native plant societies can advise appropriate far your region, contact your local or area you on good mail order and retail sources for beneficial plants. Cooperative Extention office. Contact the American Horticultural Society's Gardening Informa- tion Center, l-SQQ-777-7931 (11 am. - 3 p.m. EST), or write: COOPERATIVE EXTENSION * Pennsylvania Horticultural Society A service of the land-grant university sytems in the District of 325 Walnut Street Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Philadelphia, PA 19106 * The Maryland Native Plant Society, Inc. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BAYSCAPES P.O. Box 4877 Silver Spring, MD 20914 US. Fish & Wildlife Service Chesapeake Bay Field Office 177 Admiral Cochranc Drive * Virginia Native Plant Society Annapolis, MD 21401 P,aBox844 (410) 224-2732 Annandale, VA 22003 „„. , .. „ _ .. . , ——.LLIANC•r •* T , -» T ^E ^ ~Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Inc. One final note... ATI*. Richmond, VA 23216 CHESAPEAKE BAY Hightshoe, Gary L. Native Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Urban and andPlai resilienn •**&«**t specie«s ****** thrive*s ™eve* n tousin h Rural America. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. 1988. windy conditions. The attractive waxy gray berries can persist until Wilson, William W.H,, ed. Landscaping with Wild/lowers and *" " sPnttgsre m"« Native Plants. San Francisco: Ortho Books, 1984. Sawyers, Claire E. and Barbara B. Pesch, eds. Gardening with Wild/lowers and Native Plants. Handbook #119. Brooklyn: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Inc., 1989. Illustrations © Megan Rollins 1994. Bruce, Hal. How to Grow Wildflowers and Wild Shntbs and Trees Printed on Recycled Paper in Your Garden, Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1976. o "AR309795 Creating Landscape Diversity A Homeowner's Guide * BayScapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefiting landscape or garden as small or insignificant but, in fact, it people, wildlife and Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping advocates a provides tremendous relief from the artificial environment. The "holistic" approach through principles inspired by the rela- simple addition of a potted vine making its way up a wall. tionships found in the natural world. adding color and texture to the surface, can be dramatic. It does not require a lot of effort or expense to greatly improve a small- What is the urban watershed? scale garden area and, in doing so, you are making your city more livable by adding to the visual aesthetics shared by all. The Chesapeake Bay watershed consists of a 64,000-square- Small-scale urban landscaping may also be quite portable. We generally consider the ferestSfcfields. farms and wetlands Almost any species of plant will grow in a container and, as • when describing this watershed,,, but rarely do we think to such, move when you move. And if your garden is contain- indudetheurbanandmetropolitan ______erized, you can substantially areas falling within its boundaries. . ->- ' " X*-^bu — .,,.,,.,..- = - — -»-. change its appearance with little "X "-"'^P^**^ I5Jl$i!i^3t&13£&*&~ effort or money. Container plants As in the larger Bay waterehed, the. .___ . '^^^-^^^ . can be shuffled around, lowered urban watershed drains surround- ^^^^^^^^^^ or raised, or re-potted for a dis- ing land surf aces.. While metropoli- ^^^^^^~^ '^jjjjgg^' tinct, new look. tan communities play an integral ^-—^^^^^ "^^^^' ^^^^^^O^^B^ role in the health of Chesapeake -s^****^ -*~" _w-^-^*' ^^^L^^%s^^^^a I* One unexpected benefit for urban Bay. we don't always make that '^iijiJi&^' III Mf* ~ ™ * ll §? gardeners is the heat island phe- connectionaswegoaboutourdaily ^•y^gL^' |,IIJ\jL ff $5 nomenon, which actually extends lives. Hundreds, even thousands, « ;1 '^itigzdkC' J^Uta 1 fi thegardeningseason.Inthespring, oflocalcreeksandstreannsthatfeed 1 '"* ^^^^^^^^^*34 -v § ! urbanareastendtowarmupfaster, ""• . the Bay's river" s or tributarie"-"" ~ s"" I **^r*^]3?!$isij3&BSf^ ffi1^ V^^wr^f"^'^ ~sw * ^* ? i"" *8 'W while in the autumn, they hold piped under ground, channeled f^S .SrSsPi^Js ' ^ H" ff their summer heat a bit longer. above ground in concrete, directed s **^^.^ .-rO^^/ jif ,• -If ff$#/ Such local site conditions are often into stormwater detention ponds, '• I ^r . ^ff". ( |a^ referred to as micro-climates, and moved under cities through large ^^ . • . . • ,^^^^ ; jjj&i' the clever gardener can get a jump culverts, or fed into deep under- ^^,^,^1^^..^ ' ^*^jX^^^^ * . V i,^;," on the growing season and enjoy groundsewers.Othersremainopen \\UV , •; ft W: ^^W..':?<'''&• .1®-''-'''" the outside landscape just a bit and drai" n throug" h communit" y .^1 \L\ 11 ^-#5— —// ?-^ VJ ^^-jjife-^'^t'/y^****j^^^r^iZJ9 '' '" * ' K' ' /AyJ iW i*V^'j*'^iJ longer before winter arrives. parks, large residential complexes"" UUU J \VIi . ^fijiss^W ~\$ffi?^' and urban subdivisions. Local eM^ ^R? ^\^\. '$•$'"" Isn't landscaping and stream corridors provide essential ______^ '';'______. gardening expensive? wildlife habitat as well as much needed recreational and open space for people. Together, this No matter where you live, you can participate in many aspects network of natural and engineered waterways, along with die of landscape gardening with a surprisingly modest budget. land drained by it,, defines the urban watershed. Balconies support a host of gardening options, from container- ized trees and shrubs, to vines and bulbs in pots, to vegetable Land practices and landscape coverwithin the urban water- plants and herbs in tubs. Small water gardens and wall gardens shed play an important role in th.e health of the Bay. In the also thrive in small spaces. As long as you provide adequate Chesapeake region" landscapes providing plant arid wildlife sunlight and regular watering, you can create a wonderful little diversity and pollution prevention_are called BayScapes be- garden for yourself as well as a friendly haven for wildlife cause of the beneficial impact they have on the Bay. friends.Think of your garden as a wildlife oasis that you created, providing another link in the restoration of lost or seriously Landscaping and Gardening Without a Yard fragmented wildlife habitat in the Bay region. City residents may be faced witha variety of landscape choices. Container gardening is limited only by your imagination. If you are an apartment dweller, you might think of your These fanciful creations might include an entire patch of An environmental education initiative developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Chesapeake Bay Field Office. AR309796 vegetables in containers-providing beans, peas, root crops, vine crops, fruit trees and grapes. This HARDV GROUND COVERS type of gardening allows you togarden year-round. Common/ Height Description Reproduction/ Plants can come inside when cold weather arrives Scientific Name (allshade loving species) Habitat Preferences1 and move back out when the danger of frost has passed. The money you invest in plants and garden Wild Stone Crop 3" Blue-green, disc-shaped Propogate by division, tools will be repaid many Sedum tenwturti leaves; white, starry cuttings or seeds; prefers times over with fresh food for flower clusters thin alkaline soil the dinner table. Creeping Phlox 3-10" Triangle-shaped and small Spreads by underground Phlox stolonifera aval leaves; 5-lobed runners; prefers well- flowers in blue, pink, drained, acidic soil white Crested Iris 6" Green dagger-shaped Propogate by division; Iris cristata leaves; lavender/purple/ prefers moist, well-drained, blue flowers acidic soil Green-and-Gold 6-15" Deep green, oval leaves; Spreads by underground Chrysogonum profuse yellow star-like runners, division and virginianum blooms . prostrate stems; neutral, well-drained soils Wild Ginger 8" Cupped, heart-shaped Spreads by underground Asarum canadetise leaves; brown, 3-petaled stemsand division; prefers trumpet blooms " moist, well-drained, fertile soils Other inexpensiv^ideastoconsiderindudehanging Foam Flower 6-12" Evergreen, heart-shaped Spreads by division, stolon baskets mixed with hanging bird feeders, window Tiarella cordifolia leaves; small whitish "to runners and seeds; well- boxes containing herbs for kitchen use right outside pink flowers on raceme drained soils your window, plant stands thatcreate a privacy wall, Pussy-toes . 3^5" Silvery, elliptic leaves and Spreads by runners and shade gardens nestled beneath an overhang of Antennaria _ erect stalks with silvery division; prefers poor, wooden lattice or a trellis. Such gardens add color to platitaginijblia ' heads of white, tubular acidic soils your apartment,as well as charm and distinctiveness flowers " " r that will be appreciated by passersby. „ . „,. ^ .„ , * , rr J r J Bunchberry 4-8 Erect stems with dusters Spreads by woody Coniws canadensis of 4-6 leaves and~smaLL rhizomes, seeds or division; Wallgardenscan be easily createdbyhangingplants, yellow flowers sur- prefers moist, well-drained, some wall figures, perhaps a trellis of vines, ground rounded by white bracts rich acidic soils covers, or climbing vegetable plants and possibly a small water spout from any available bare wall. Twin-lower 6-8" Evergreen; slender steins Propogate by division or Linnaea borsalis with few leaves and two cuttings; prefers moist, Requiring little space, wall gardens serve as privacy pink to white flowers well-drained, acidic soils screens and, at the same time, provide a buffer from objectionable views and sounds. These vertical gar- Wood Anemone 3-6" Delicate creeper with Propogate by seeds or root' dens are easy to organize and inexpensive to create. Anemone whorled leaves and cuttings; prefers fertile, If done carefully, they appear to bring the outdoors solitary, nodding white " well-drained, acidic soils into your apartment,andtheeffectcanbequitecozy. ' flowers Plants in a wall garden, however small, will help Liverleaf 4-8" Thick, almost evergreen Propogate by division or intercept and trap airborne pollutants and, through He;wf/cii acittiloba leaves and dainty whitish self-sown segds; prefers the process of transpiration, cool the air. or bluish flowers" " moisVrich acidic to neutral soils. Alternatives for laivn areas For some people, any size lawn is too much to maintain. Fortunately, there are many alternatives to consider. varieties, and work well in hard-to-reach areas in your landscape. Once established, they require very little mainte- Ground cavers provide an alternative that offers a number of nance and have great appeal to the weary gardener tired color and texture options In both evergreen and deciduous mowing grass. These champions of the garden world flR309797 LLIANCE CHESAPEAKE BAY BayScapes Action Guide ——Home Landscape Audit: Creating Diversity—— Evaluate the many opportunities that exist for creating landscape diversity at your house or apartment. GARDENING SITES SITE CONDITIONS OBSERVATIONS/NOTES Opportunities for BayScaping Consider the $ite New Landscape Ideas Y/N Walls . . , , .... ;,__ ,..-• * Do you have a suitable wall space for a trellis? • Sunny/shady » A hanging plant or two? * Draff /wind * A climbing vine orrambling vegetable vine? v \yatersourceaccessible&reliable? + Dripping fountain? * nrher:~" *• Night Iights?(for "a soft illumination of your gar- den on moonless nights) Windows - " - - . "..."iT^i: '.' " '-'.-- * Would a window box fit in? * Sunny/shady * A lattice edge around the window? * Window sill(s) space * A box herb garden at the kitchen window? * Problem masonry * Birdfeeders? . '.'."." '.'"'.. —-- *-Operable/fixed window(s) * Other: ... __ ih , . -r .-—- - • f- • -- - Balconies * Is there room for container plants? * Sunny /shady * What about a vine on the rail? * Electric pump outlet * A small water garden against the wall? * Watersourceaccessible&reliable? * A windbreak? • Othe'r: . . ___„.. ,,i,,_ , .--.,~. i ---,------PatioSt Decks - - | | * Are there special kinds of containers andplants* Sunny/shady "~"~ you want? .-»• Frequency of use * How about wooden boxes for vegetables? * Good,drainage .» Asmallterrariumorplastichot-houseforstarting * Watersourceaccessible&reliable? seeds? # Other: . | | * A bird bath site?..... __ _ . = . . ~ _-_____- _:^__. _ .- . . - ... .._....._.. . . — ------— - • • _._.-..... Stoops, Steps - + Would a small planted barrel fit? * Sunny/shady • Can a potted plant or two thrive? * Confined space * How about a vegetable garden in small tubs? * Watersoarceaccessible&reliable? * A fruit tree or accent tree? .""..":. --..::" ...... ,* "Other: - ...... : - ; - - - LawnArea(s) * Is the lawn performing successfully everywhere?___ _ * Sunny /shady , * Are there places that could benefit from an alter- • Good drainage native ground cover? * Ground cover sites ** Is the lawn area more than you wisKto maintain? *_ Steep slope{s) * Poof soil » Saturated soil areas * Other: -•-•—- - - AR 309 790 ————— Water milfoil laxyseitator) Water lily , (tubiatrstdl/Iaater) L Water lettuce successful habitat for fish and frogs. Here are some tips to keep in (floater) mind when water gardening: * Water should be kept fresh, clean and abundant. 1-2 ft, Periodically clean out and refill your garden, perhaps Water seasonally. If you use a recirculating pump and fish and plants, this need only be done annually. Water should be available and accessible year-round. PUttte Utter In the winter, an immersion heater will help keep p water thawed out Containers Be sure to use a heavy-duty extension cord with a triple-pronged, grounded plug on any electrical equip- Many shrubs, vines and flowers can be grown in containers — let ment you install in your water garden. your imagina tionbe your guide, day pots in baskets, urns, recycled Choose a convenient and safe location. Most birds metal cans, wooden tubs and rectangular wooden boxes are com- prefer a high perch and protective cover nearby to monly used containers for patio and balcony gardens. Here are ward off danger and make a quick escape. Shy birds some tips to help you successfully garden in containers: like thrushes prefer a water source with shrubbery close fay. * In general, avoid plants that are known to have thick, fleshy roots as they will not thrive in restricted spaces. * Provide good drainage by ensuring that there are drain holes in the bottom, below a layer of rubble, such as clay pot shards, pebbles, or coarse gravel. * Provide a good soil mix for growingfOne good mix is made from 3 parts peat moss and 1 part sand and 1 part commonly available potting soil. * Provide -sufficient water. Confined roots cannot seek out water, so you must water them generously and frequently. * An annual or biennial root pruning will help keep perennials from outgrowing their container. Window boxes provide dramatic color in the form of flowers and Water Gardens vines that can be enjoyed from both inside and outside your house or apartment. The possibilities and combinations of colors and A reliable source of fresh water in the form of a simple lined wooden textures are numerous, but most window box gardeners use both barrel will attract wildlife to your garden, patio, or small balcony. viny, crawling-type plants interspersed with annual or perennial With the addition of a water lily and perhaps another underwater flowery favorites. A window box can be readily replanted to reflect plant, and a recirculating pump, your water garden can provide the changes of the season. Here are a-few tips for successful window box gardening: • Be sure to follow the basic guidelines for container gardening discussed under Containers. * A good mulch cover between soil and plantings will help reduce evaporation dfwa ter during hot weather. * Select plants known to tolerate a range of light, tem- perature and exposure conditions. * Usenectar-producingplantstoattracthummingbirds. » For wintertime interest, consider a thick mulch cover for the soil and, with seasonal plantings removed, cover the box with a tray for feeding songbirds. Illustrations: © Megan Rollins 1994. AR309799 the soil friable, or loose, ready to receive and percolatefailing out objectional views and sounds. Songbirds find living rain into "the ground below. Seasonal bloom periods and fences and shrub beds enticing homes, and the early morning esting, vibrant fall colors result in an exciting and ever- chorus will reward your efforts many times over. Fging landscape. Patios and decks provide another alternative for land previ- Many native, ground covers thrive in shady _areas m the ously in turf grass. These outdoor living rooms are fun and, landscape receiving less than ideal light. In the Chesapeake surprisingly, not too difficult to construct or install. Wooden Bay watershed, they are well-adapted to variable weather construction and brick-on-sand building techniques slow conditions and extremes. Under deciduous trees, in a wood^ down surface runoff and increase on-site percolation. Given land shade garden and even on the north or east side of a the emerging popularity of do-it-yourself deck and patio house, thesehardy ground covers boast distinctive leaf shapes construction, there are a number of instruction guides avail- and naturally resist pests...... _ . -, able. Look for them in your local public library, at home building retail centers and at most full-service nurseries and Vegetable gardens do more than replace lawn areas. They garden centers. provide home-grown produce for the dinner table. Consider intensive vegetable gardening-a method of growing vege- Some gardeners convert their lawn area to trees, replacing an tables and flowers together in relatively small spaces. _ open lawn with the vertical strength of a forest in the making. This option requires careful selection of appropriate trees but In areas close to the house, consider replacing some lawn can be very rewarding over time, especially in terms of area with a water garden, which can consist of just about reduced maintenance. fountains, barrels of water, a bird bath or even a waterlily rub. Beyond my home, what other gardening oppor- Splashing water can provide a much-needed respite on a hot tunities exist? day for songbirds who find the sounds and_cool s_urface_ irresistible. A small wooden barrel or even a plastic tub .can Many options exist that can expand gardening activities -bring life to a colony of waterlilies, cornpletevvith small fish beyond your residence. Many city dwellers find the open or maybe a frog or two. Once ybiTsee'how watet attracts ground at a street tree's base a suitable small garden plot for wildlife, you may find yourself experimenting'with several shade-loving plants, ground covers and even bulbs. Street iners to create a veritable..wildlife sanctuary right at trees provide not only wonderful shade and cool resting rSK Even a simple, shallow bird bath can entertain the spots, but also generous amounts of oxygen to help keep the apartment dweller with reflections and sounds previously air clean and dear. These tall sentinels help to visually break unknown on a terrace or balcony. up the urban skyline and introduce a textural softening to streets and buildings. Trees unite people in a neighborhood Hedges are living fences that give you privacy without an by providing a sense of identity, especially when- a given artificial structure. Large shrubbery plantings also screen species is planted together to define a specific area, such as a boulevard. Be sure to 'get permission in writing from your local municipality before planting around street trees. Along with permission, most municipalities will advise you about proper care and maintenance of the tree and your plantings. In some urban communities, innovative forestry programs offer trairiing'ToTIocal residents, teaching them how to care for street trees. Open and abandoned lots have been com- pletely reforested in some instances. Such patches of forest, however small, provide critical sources.of oxygen and habi- tat enclaves withirTan otherwise artificial environment. Grass strips between the sidewalk and street provide a unique gardening opportunity, assuming that local govern- ment regulations_do not forbid such activity. Many a flower garden has found its way into these places, adding a splash of color t_o an otherwise .dull street scene. Some municipali- ties have taken back portions of paved roads and reworked them for pedestrian use.. A median strip in the middle of a -=- •:.'.-" .s..--.^**v broad avenue provides another source of color and texture ' f * wiAi'-i^jj.Y' AR309800 whenplanted with trees,.shrubs and flowers. These BayScapes Suggested reading list add much to a city's personality. Ray, Richard M., ed. Container and Hanging Gardens. San Many urban areas in the Bay region have organized prcn Francisco; Ortho Books, 1975. grams for local participation, such as community gardens. Generally, tracts of land currently not in use .are made Wang, Linda, ed. TheTown and City Gardener. Handbook#Li? available for neighborhood projects such as vegetable gar- Brooklyn: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Inc., 1979. dens. Community gardens reward residents with free pro- duce, healthy exercise, a sense of personal accomplishment Crockett, James Underwood. The Time-Life Encyclopedia of and the beauty of a colorful garden where a vacant or Gardening: Container Gardening. Alexandria, Va.: Time-Life abandoned lot once stood. Whether you participate as an Books, 1974. - individual gardening in an assigned plot or aspart of a group project, community gardens bring people together while Taloumis, George, ed. Container Gardening. Handbook #85. working toward a common goal. Brooklyn: Brooklyn, Botanic Garden, Inc., 1979, Neighborhood pocket parks managed by community associa- Cravens, Richard H. The Time-Life Encyclopedia of Gardening: tions provide sanctuaries from the noise and chaos of the busy Vines. Alexandria, Va.: Time-Life Books, 1979. city. These wonderful corners, offer shade trees, shrubbery beds, flowers and bulbs, as well as a place to sit and enjoy the Howard, Frances. Landscaping With Vines. New York: The cool, green scenery right in the heart of the.city. Pocket parks Macmillan Company. 1959. may be connected to larger parks by a common creek or stream, forming greenways enjoyed by cyclists, joggers and birds and Kramer, Jack. Hanging Gardens. New York: Charles Scribner's other wildlife. School and church yards provide yet another Sons, 1971. opportunity for community gardening to add even mor^^green space to the urban setting. Pesch, Barara B., ed. Plants & Gardens. Brooklyn Botanic Gar- den Record: Water Gardening. Brooklyn: Brooklyn, Botanic Since most of the population growth in Jhe Bay region is Garden, Inc.,1985. projected for metropolitan areas-particularly those within a two-hour drive of the Bay-keeping these communities livable Clark, David E., ed. Basic Gardening Illustrated. Menlo Parlw. and pleasant has become an increasingly difficult challenge. CA: Lane Publishing Company, 1975. Adding to landscape diversity through BayScaping responds to this challenge by DamroschUc , Barbara. The Garden Primer. New York Workman Publishing Company, Inc., 1988. -moderating temperatures with additional shade frees trapping airbornepoilutants For additional informatiorTon how to create diversity with vegetation in the urban setting, contact your local or area restoring places for birds and. __ Cooperative Extension office. animals to live COOPERATIVE EXTENSION increasing porous surfaces thatabsorb precipitation and A service of the land-grant university system in the District of reduce runoff from the land Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. into local -waterways Collectively, «™ FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BAYSCAPES oaybcape elements reinvieorate a city ______o j ^r-sr^ >——:——v U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service with natural beauty. Chesapeake Bay Field Office •f- BayScaping reminds us that 177 Admiral Cochrane Drive ;? weareconnectedbybothland Annapolis, MD 21401 and water to the Bay. (410) 224-2732 Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Inc. LLIANCE P.O. BOX mi Illustrations © Megan Rollins 1994. Richmond, VA, 23216 (804) 775-0951 or toll-free: Printed on Recycled Paper Chesapeake Regional Information Se 1 (800) 662-CRIS AR309800A BayScapes for Wildlife Habitat ——A Homeowner's Guide —— BayScapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefiting Trees people, wildlife and Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping advocates a Trees that produce edible and nutritious nuts, seeds or fruit "holistic" approach through principles inspired by the rela- especially benefit wildlife. Mammals, birds, reptiles, am- tionships found in the natural world. phibians and insects nest and hibernate in cavities of larger trees during cold weather. Even young trees offer much- How do BayScapes help wildlife? needed resting spots for migrating birds. Forests and open spaces are rapidly giving way "to develop- An array of birds, from orioles to warblers and flycatchers, ment, to accommodate a growing number of people in the Bay feed on the millions of caterpillars and other insects hatching watershed. Whether converted to businesses, shopping malls in the treetops each spring as the leaves emerge. These birds, or houses, the results remain the .known as neotropical migrants, same: natural habitat is destroyed nest throughout North America and species diversity is lost. and winter in Mexico and Central America. They depend Habitatreferstothefood,water,cover upon large blocks of and nesting sites all living creatures undisturbed forest and need to survive. Like humans, each continuous tree corridors, or green- animal has habitat preferences. ways, for their survival. Through BayScaping, wecan restore Trees are classified as evergreen wildlife habitat in small pockets, one (such as cedars) and deciduous (such backyard at a time. Together, these 'The scarlet tanager, a as oaks that lose their leaves each itco-tfopicat ritigrnitt, ard pockets join to form winters in Central and fall). Because they retain their safe havens in which South America and breeds leaves year round, evergreens-in- animals can live and move. And by during the summer in t!t_c_ tower Bay. cludingpines, firs, spruces, cedars, using a variety of beneficial plants, hemlocks and hollies-provide ex- BayScapes attract a Wider range of cellent winter food and cover. wildlife. These wildlife corridors are : most important where large expanses of similar vegetation- Evergreens that bear cones are called conifers. Their tiny such as a row of lawns in a subdivision-lea y e animals vulner- seeds, and needles are favored by titmice, chickadees and able to predators, or where exotic plants like kudzu have some finches. Junipers and cedars produce nutritious ber- upset the balance of native vegetation. ._.______ries, eaten by cedar waxwings and purple finches, while robins, sparrows and mockingbirds nest in them. Pines pro- How can I provide food and cover for wildlife? vide favorite nesting sites for mourning doves and roosting places for robins. As stewards of the land, we can provide food and cover for wildlife by planting trees, shrubs and ground covers. Such Some familiar deciduous trees in the Bay watershed that plantings supplement the natural habitat-the forests, provide food and nesting sites include the black cherry, red fencerows, hedges and meadows-that animals require for mulberry, red maple, sugar maple, river birch, flowering protection, breeding and nesting. Existing vegetation can be dogwood, American beech, black gum and many oaks. supplemented with artificial nesting boxes and platforms- Even small areas can be enhanced for wildlife through the use The acorns produced by oaks provide a reliable, abundant food of container gardens on porches and balconies, box gardens on source. Squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, foxes, wood ducks, window sills, and vertical gardens along fences and walls. mallards, quail, blue jays and woodpeckers enjoy acorns during fall and winter when other food is scarce. Other Water is criticartoTHe.survivalof all creatures. A pond, bird varieties of nut-producing trees important to wildlife friends ba th or shallow dish provides an essential watering hole and include hickories, walnuts, hazelnuts and beeches. Fruit- reststop for birds and small mammals, as well as a focal point bearers like the wild cherry and holly attract wildlife too. ^•ndscaping. An environmental education initiative developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Chesapeake Bay Field Office. AR30980 To lure a variety of holly and staghorn sumac. Spring and summer fruits include animals, plant differ- the chokecherry. high bush blueberry and wild plum. For ent kinds of trees, autumn foods, plant dogwood, winterberry, bearberry, arrow including evergreens. wood, cottoneaster .and elderberry. Of course sogne Group different trees producers, like blueberries and raspberries, are not only val together to provide able to wildlife friends, but tas_ty and safe for people too. a rich base of food, nesting materials Artificial boxes and nesting sites. Birds and mammals that usually nest in cavities of mature Netting BOX \ ^§^^ Create an edge effect by trees may nest in boxes if available. Owls, bluebirds, wrens, alternating trees of vary- purple martins and swallows are just a few. ing shapes and sizes. Some trees, for instance, have a large bare trunk and bushy crown, Bats consume pesky insects like mosquitoes that abound in while others have many low branches and a thinner top. the streams and marshes of the Bay region. Specially de- Consider the time required for a tree to mature, and plant signed bat boxes erected on buildings and trees will attract both fast- and slow-growing species together. Trees that these beneficial mammab to your backyard. Bats roost mature quickly include the white pine and red maple. Oaks inside during the day and perch on the eaves at dusk to feed and hickories grow more slowly. on flying insects. Check with your local library or garden center for good books that explain how tobuild and maintain Transition zones these backyard homes. A transition zone is composed of a variety of plant species that differ in height Planted between a lawn and wooded Water area, for instance, an assortment of small trees, high- and Water for both drinking and bathing is essential to wildlife. low-growing shrubs, and low ground covers offers varying Unfortunately, it is often the most overlooked landscape food and habitat in a concentrated area, while creating a component. Natural water sources continue to rapidly dis- layered effect. To maximize the benefits of the zone, each appear in the cities and suburbs around Chesapeake Bay, layer must be maintained. Trees, especially fruit-bearers, and you can provide this critical habitat need in a number of should be pruned to ensure fruit production and prevent creative ways. shading out of other, smaller species. Shrubs should be pruned annually to maintain their size and shape. A bird bath placed near shrubs or trees provides safe drin ing and bathing for many bird species. Even a shallow p Bushes and shrubs filled with 2 inches or less of water is an excellent drinking Many wildlife species, including foxes, deer, squirrels, rac- source. Placed on the ground, these artificial ponds attract coons, field mice and songbirds, rely on evergreen and small mammals like squirrels and chipmunks. A jar lid of deciduous berry-producing shrubs. Bushes offer shelter and a water attracts butterflies, who usually drink from puddles or quick get-away for frightened birds and small mammals, and tiny depressions in logs. Cup-shaped plants and flowers their dense branches make excellent nesting sites for cardinals catch rainwater for other thirsty insects. _ and mockingbirds. Remember to replace water regularly, especially during sum- Good winter food sources in- mer months. During the wiriter, keep watering holes ice-free. clude the northern bayberry, Provide cover nearby so visitors can make a quick get-away. eastern red cedar, juniper, WJiat about meadows? A meadow does not simply consist of grasses left unmowed. It is a grassland community composed of grasses, wild- AR309802 LLJANCE fir liu CHESAPEAKE BAY BayScapes Action Guide —Home Landscape Audit: Wildlife Habitat— Identify existing conditions and opportunities for improvement in your landscape WILDLIFE REQUIREMENTS IMPROVEMENT SUGGESTIONS NOTES Y/N Water | j | * Is drinking and bathing water available * Drip /misting hose year-round? ______* Pond or water garden | | | * Does the water receptacle(s) have a dry * Tub/container aquatic garden ledge, shallow end and deep area for * Plants that hold water in "cup" access by different wildlife species? structures (e.g., bromeliad) * Are the sources located in shady, cool areas? * Commercfal birdbath * Are the sources located near areas provid- * Upside-down garbage can lid ing protective cover from predators? * Rough-surfaced, shallow dish {__ j | * Does the water move? (moving water attracts wildlife) Food \ \ 1 » Are a wide variety of foods appealing to * Berry-producing shrubs and trees different wildlife species available uTrbugh- * Nectar /nut/ seal-producing plants outtheyear? _ ._.__ _ * Commercial feeders j__.| i * _Are the food sources located near areas that * Suet bags; hard-case feeders provide protective cdve^"friompredafOTS? * Dead logs, rock piles, leaf pile's to attract earthworms and insects N ...... (used as food by other species). ... . ^^ Cover [_'"[""] * Does your yard contain a variety of "cover "" * Evergreens for year-round cover types? . " """". . ._17~7_;" * Dense hedgerows and thickets _ . | j j » Is there cover to attract the wildlife species * Tall grasses " " " you want on your property? + Wildflower meadows. j | | * Is there cover that provides protection + Brush piles/rock piles/ fallen logs from both predators and temperature extremes? ...... ,;,"" Nesting Places |__j__j * Are there any existing structure's. "(Fallen * Commercial nest boxes (available for logs, water gardens, etc.) that provide a birds, bats, butterflies, mammals) place for some wildlife species to. nest/ * Evergreens, deciduous trees, raise young? thickets, and hedgerows | | | * Are there any plants that will provide * Snags {dead trees) and fallen logs nesting material (e.g., thistle down is used for cavity-nesting species by goldfinches)? .___ .. * Species-specific flowering plants _ \ ||* Are there any burrows visible? . for butterfly larvae Plants + What kind of plants do you see?. * Use a wide variety of plants to • Are there any native plants in "your yardf attract a. diversity of wildlife • Do you see any plants that need to be__ ...... * Use native plants whenever removed? ~ ------possible; opt for beneficial" exotics | | | *• Can you see •opportunities to rearrange the as a second choice existing plant material to permit the * Reduce turfgrass wherever possible g^^ introduction of beneficial wildlife, plants? (saves you time and money in |^V] * Are there opportunities to replace any maintenance, and a blanket of existing exotic plants with native" varieGesT emerald green .turf has little | | ]•» How much of your existing lawn do you wildlife value) really need (for children, etc.)? * Practice integrated pest manage- , ment (IPM) to reduce pesticide use . 1————————— — ..._. „ ...... _...... __.__.. _. _ HUOUJUUJ SHRUBS THAT PROVIDE GOOD WILDLIFE HABITAT Providing water Common/Scientific Height/ Wildlife Wildlife friends need water for both Name Width Value drinking and bathing. Water can be. supplied in a bird bath, a small pool, Deciduous ... _ _ _ _ a wooden half-barrel, a shallow dish, Blueberry 6"-30* Blue-black fruits in late summer. or through a dripping hose. An el- Vactfnium species evated bird bath will protect birds fromcats and other predators andean Dogwood, Redosler 4-8* x 10* Provides dense cover in summer. Small white be an attractive addition to your land- Carnut sericta fruits ripening from July to October. scape, A shallow, wide-rimmed dish will provide a safe watering spot for Holly, Winterberry 6-10' Bright red fruits in winter. small animals when placed near Ilex vcrticillata x equal shrubbery or other cover. A small barrel set in the ground provides water Bayberry/Wax Myrtle up to 12* Small, gray, waxy berries from September to and nesting cover for small fish, frogs, Myr.cn spedes x equal April. insects and reptiles. Serviceberry/Juneberry 15-25* Purple fruit ripening in summer. 'Year-round tip: In summer heat, be Anielanchicr species x equal sure to replace water frequently. In winter when temperatures drop to Evergreen freezing, remember to remove ice and Cotoneaster 3"-15" Bright red fruits in fall and winter. Mature refill with water daily. Coloneaster species x equal species provide protective cover. Huckleberry, Box 6-18" " Blue-black fruit ripening in summer. Provides Providing food Goyhissaci* a bradiycery a xindefiniEe .protectivr e cover for ground-feedin& g& birds. Foo- d,, fo- r wildlifM_n-e rmeans two things: Manianitas, Bearberry 4"-20' Dense foliage provides excellent year-round natural sources and food provisions. Arctostaphyios species protective cover. Small red fruits. Humming- The ideal management plan for wild- birds sip nectar from flowers. life provides as much food as possible through plantings in order to meet Grape-Holly,. Oregon 3-6' Provides protective cover. Bright yellow floweryear-rouns d needs of many species. Mahonia tttjuifolium x equal bloom in early spring, attracting bees. Shrubs, trees and vines can reliably provide berries, nuts, acorns, buds, Rhododendron, Catawba 6-10' x 5-8* Dense foliage offers nesting sites for some" catkins, fruit nectar and seeds. Look birds and fyear-roun d protectivr e cover. fot r plant\ Ls ^tha tL provid• .e1 foo e dj a s welln as beautify your landscape. While young plants are growing to full size, and especially during the winter months, natural food sources should be supplemented by food,provisions fromyou and your family. For birds, that means sunflower seeds, millet and cracked corn. In summer, try to provide a nectar source for hummingbirds- Illustration © Megan Rollins 1994, AR309801* flowers and legumes. , Meadow The fragrant flowers of lilac bushes draw butterflies easily. plants, which are the first to colo- The cluster of tiny flowers may be favored because butterflies nize a cleared forest, or farm _..._ can perch and feed from, one flower to another without field left unplowed, .slowly leaving the cluster. Also, since composite flowers are very way to a succession of hardy, they provide a stronger foundation in the landscape. ^Ku•ubs and trees^.; __ „-„-,, .,_ ^ Butterfly weed, named for its ability to attract butterflies, is The rich diversity of flow- a tall, fragrant plant with large clusters of small flowers ers, seeds and insects found varying in color from brilliant orange to yellow or red. The in a meadow attracts a vari- wtu cherry black and orange Monarch butterfly looks for butterfly weed ety of birds and small mammals. . ______as its preferred food source. Grasshoppers, for"insfance, attract" birds like the American kestrel, the smallest and most colorful falcojx.in North Another common butterfly plant, Queen Anne's lace, sports a America. Meadows also attract mammals ranging in size large flat flower head of many tiny white flowers. Other excel- from field mice to deer. Birds such as quail, meadowlark and lent butterfly plants include aster, purple cone flower, black- a variety of sparrows riest and forage here. eyed susan, goldenrod, milkweed, Joe-pyeweed and yarrow. Wildflowers bring in the wildlife. They add a splash of color to A meadow or wildflower garden may require a few seasons your landscape and rival traditional ornamental _flowers_in to become established, so start small. In some areas, county beauty. The nectar of wildflowers is an important food source or local zoning offices and community associations regulate for honeybees, butterflies andhurnmingbkds that rapidly burn" lawn height and weedy plants. Make sure your meadow carbohydrates during flight Th^e jnectar "feeders, in turn, plan complies_wlth all regulations for your particular area by ensure plant reproduction through the transfer of pollen. checking with your local planning and zoning office. And if your community has open spaces or common areas, suggest Butterflies ...... ______.__ - .-. - - -._ that they be planted in meadow to enhance wildlife habitat. If you want to lure these colorful dancing visitors, plant your wildflower meadow in a sunny spot protected from the Hu m mingbirds wind. Flower shape, color, fragrance and time of bloom Hummingbirds feed on the nectar of flowers and insects, which they often catch in mid-air. The smallest of bird ».ies recognize color and seem to prefer intensely sweet species, these tiny aerial acrobats are fun and fascinating to ts over delicate ones. -.---: . .-.T~ -.-. ------— watch. Hummingbirds use up extraordinary amounts of energy for their size and require lots of food at frequent Since plants flower at different times of the year, include a intervals to support their flight habits. For example, the male variety in yoiir.inekdow_s6T5utte_rflies have access to .b.los- . Ruby-throated Hummingbird (the only hummingbird species soms throughout the growing season..^ Creating a meadow east of the Mississippi) will beat his wings up to 70 times a with a diversity of wildflowers will attract many butterfly second in a typical visit to your garden. species while providing colorful blooms from March until October. Include plants and herbs such as alfalfa, red clover, parsley, fennel, dill and butterfly weed which make up an important part of the butterfly's cater- pillar stage diet. " " " -" " - "" ~ ..^^ _._--__=- /-_ Meadow flowers include: pasture rose (A), little bhtestem (B), bee balm (O, blaek=_ejftjl_ Susan (D), and Qtieen Anne's lace (E). AR309805 Tubular-shaped, red flowers are espe- Schneck, Marcus. Your Backyard Wildlife Garden. Emmaus, cially enticing to hummingbirds. Penn.: Rodale Press, 1992. .___. _. . . Plant trumpet vine, Harrison, George H. The Backyard Bird Watcher. New York: Simon & Shuster, 1979. .. ~ • McKinley, Michael D. How to Attract Birds. San Francisco: » Ortho Books, 1983. . .. . " | Tekulsky, Mathew. The Butterfly Garden. Boston: Harvard gcarlct sage, morn- Common Press. 1985. ing glory, coral bells, bee balm and cardinal Xerces'Society & Smithsonian Institution, eds. Butterfly Gar- flower to lure hummers to dening. San Francisco: Sierra Club Books and the National your backyard, or hang a Wildlife Federation, 1990. feeder near your wild- flower garden. Fill a Conant, Roger. A field Guide to Reptiles & Amphibians of commercialfeederwith Eastern and Central North America. Boston: Houghton a mixture of four parts Mifflin Company, 1975. water (boil first) to one part sugar. Clean and Merilees, Bill. Attracting Backyard Wildlife. Stillwater. Minn.: refill weekly. Voyageur Press, 1989. ______How will BayScapes Phillips, Harry R. Growing and Propagating Wild Flowers. benefit me and the Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 1985. J' V&y&zW !;i Sawyers, Claire E. and Barbara B. Pesch, eds. Gardening with Attracting wildlife turns Wild/lowers and Native Plants. Handbook #119. Brooklyn: your yard into a miniature Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Inc., 1989. natural area-an outdoor classroom for learning ___.„_ -^o.-™ •*_.. ^ ., , - ...... about nature. By selecting xg^gHI ^%^fe£ For det"llei ^tructio^s far the^fe use of fertilizers and plants well-suited to your ^SS?C\ P**™** »' 9°™ community, -contact your local or area location, you'll cut the "^^ . . . Cooperate Exfans*n ofjke. amount of time and |§|l^||f.? COOPERATIVE EXTENSION money needed to main- tain your yard and have A service of the land-grant university systems in the District of more hours to enjoy the Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. wildlife you attract. And because they need less water, fertilizers and FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BAYSCAPES pesticides to grow, BayScapes plants reduce the risk of pollutants entering the waters of US. Fish & Wildlife Service Chesapeake Bay. Chesapeake Bay Field Office 177 Admiral Cochrane Drive Annapolis, MD 21401 Suggested reading list (410)224-2732 Martin, Alexander C., Herbert S. Zim and Arnold L. Nelson, Alliance for the Cliesapeake Buy, Im. American Wildlife and Plants: A Guide to Wildlife Food i VA 23216 Habits, New York: Dover Publications, Inc., 1951. -"""''" (804) 775-6951 or toll-free: ^HESAPEAKE SAY QiesapeakeRegional Information Stroice 1 (800) 6B2-OU5 Illustrations QMcgan Ratlins 1994. Printed on Recycled Paper 0 fiR309806 Resources for BayScaping and Gardening for Wildlife PLANTS. GARDENING. AND LANDSCAPING ...... Burrel_l,.C. Cqlston and Ellen Phillips. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Perennials. Rodale Press. 1993. Art. Henry W. A Garden of Wildflowers: 101 Native ISBNS 0-87596-570-9 Species and How to Grow Them. Storey Communications, Inc. Pownal, VT. 1986. ISBNS 0-88266- Burrell, C. Colston and Elizabeth Stell. Landscaping with 405-0 - Perennials. Rodale Press. 199e. ISBNS 0-87596-663-2. Art, Henry W. The Wildflower Gardener's Guide. (The Burrell, C. Colston. The Encyclopedia of Wildflowers. Northeast, Mid Atlantic, Great Lakes, Eastern Canada Rodale Press. 1996 edition) ISBNS 0-88266-439-5 paper, 0-88266-450-6 cloth Storey Communications, VT 1987,1990,180pp. Burrell, C. Colston and Susan McClure. Successful Organic Gardening: Perennials. Rodale Press. 1993. Bir, Richard E. Growing & Propagating Showy Native ISBN* 0-87596-599-8 Woody Plants. University of North Carolina Press. 1992. ISBNS 8078-4366-0 paper, 0-8078-2027-X cloth. Campbell, Stu. The Mulch Book; A Complete Guide for Gardeners. Storey Communications, VT. 1991 Birdseye, Clarence & E.G. Growing Woodland Plants. Dover, NY. 1951. Campbell, Stu. Let it Rot The Gardener's Guide to Composting. Storey Communications, VT. 1991. Bormann, F. Herbert, Diana Balmori, Gordon T. Geballe. Redesigning the American Lawn: A Search for Cox. J. Landscaping with Nature. Emmaus, PA; Environmental Harmony. Yale University Press, New Rodale Press. 1990. Haven, CT. 166pp. ISBNS 0-300-06197-8 paper, 0-300- 05401-7 cloth. Cox, Jeff. Landscaping with Nature, Using Nature's Designs to Plant Your Yard. Rodale Press. 1991. ISBN Bradley, Fern M. Chemical-Free Yard& Garden; An 0-87857-911-7 Easy Year-Round System for Successful Organic Gardening. Rodale Press, PA. 1991, - DeGraaf, Richard, and Gretchin M. Witman. Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Attracting Birds: Manual for the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Northeast, University of Massachusetts Press. 1979. Gardening Series. Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225-1099. Or call Dennis, John V. The Wildlife Gardener. Random (718) 622-4433, EXT. 274. House, NY. 1985. "American Cottage Gardening "The Environmental Gardener . Diekelmann, J. & R. Schuster. Natural Landscaping: "Ferns: Wild Things Make a Comeback Designing with Native Plant Communities. New York: * Gardening in the Shade McGraw-Hill. 1982 "Gardening with Wildflowers and Native Plants "Going Native: Biodiversity in Our Own Backyards Druse, Ken. The Natural Garden. Clarkson N. Potter, • Butterfly Gardens Inc. NY. 1989.296pp. ISBNS 0-517-55046-6. " Native Perennials * The Natural Lawn & Alternatives Druse, Ken. The Natural Shade Garden. Clarkson N. * Natural Insect Control Potter, Inc.. NY. 1992.280pp. ISBNS 0-517-58017-9. " Perennials: A Gardener's Guide "Soils ...... _ .Druse. Ken. The Natural Habitat Garden. Clarkson N. "The Town & City Gardener Potter, Inc., NY. 1994.248 pp. ISBNS 0-517-58989-3. " Trees: A Gardener's Guide * Water Gardening DuPont, E. N. Landscaping with Native Plants in the * The Winter Garden Middle Atlantic Region. Chadds Ford, PA; Brandywine "Woodland Gardens: Shade Gets Chic Conservancy. 1978. * And many others Eilis, Barbara W. & Fern M. Bardley. Organic Bruce. H. How to Grow Wildflowers and Wild Shrubs Gardener's Handbook of Natural Insect and Disease and Trees in your Own Garden. New York: Alfred A. Control. Rodale Press, PA. 1992. Knopf. 1976 Emst, Ruth Shaw. The Naturalist's Garden. Globe Pequot Press, CT. 1993. AR309807 Foote, L. & S. B, Jones. Jr. Native Shrubs and Woody Penn, C. Landscaping with Native Plants. Winston- Vtnes of the Southeast Landscaping Uses and John Blari, Salem, N.C, 1982. Identification. Portland, OR;: Timber Press. 1989. Phillips, Harry R. Growing and Propagating Gottehrer. D. Natural Landscaping. New York: Wildflowers. U of NC Press, NC. 1985. McGraw-Hill, NY. 1982. Sawyers, Claire E. (Editor). Gardening With HIghtshoe, G. L. Native Trees, Shrubs and Vines for Wildflowers and Native Plants. Plants & Gardens, Vol Urban and Rural America, A Planting Manual for 45(1). Bklyn. Botanic Garden, NY. 1990. Environmental Designers. Van Nostrand, Relnhold, NY, 1933. Scott, Jane. Field and Forest: a Guide to Native Landscapes for Gardeners and Naturalists. Walker & Jones, Samuel B. Jr & L E. Foote. Gardening With Co., NY. 1992. ISBN 0-8027-7379-6 paper, 0-8027-1193- Native Wild Flowers. Timber Press. OR. 1990. 6 doth. Knopf. Wasowski, Boring. Keator, Scott, Glasener. Smyser, C A Nature's Design. Rodale Press. Emmaus, Nature Company Guide to Natural Gardening. PA. 1982. Kramer, J. Natural Gardens: Gardening with Native Sperka, Marie. Growing Wildflowers: A Gardener's Plants. Charles Scribner & Sons, NY, 1973. Guide. Charles Softener's Sons, NY. 1973, Marshall. Gardener's Guide to Plant Conservation. Stemberg, Guy and Jim Wilson. Landscaping with World Wildlife Fund. ISBNS 0-89164-139-4. Native Trees. Chapters Publisher, Ltd. Shelbume, VT Martin, L. The Wildflower Meadow Book. Charlotte, Sternber, Guy & Jim Wilson Landscaping With Native NC, East Woods Press. 1986. Trees. Chapters Publishing Ltd.. VT. 1995. McKnTght, W. N, Biological Pollution: the Control and Stevenson, V. The Wild Garden: Making Natural Impact of Invasive Exotic Species. Indiana Academy of Gardens Using Wild & Native Plants. New York: Sdence. ISBNS 1-883362-00-8. Penguin, NY, 1985. Midgeley, Jan. Nursery Sources of Native Plants of the Taylor, Sally L. Native Shrubs for Landscaping. Conn. Southeastern US. 2292 Dunster Land, Rockville. MD College Arboretum Bulletin S30.1987. 20854. Thompson, Louisa. Primer On Native Plant Ecology Mooberry, F. M. And Jane H. Scott. Grow Native Shrubs and Gardening, available through Howard County (MD) in Your Garden. Brandywine Conservancy, Chadds Ford, Master Gardener's Web Site at PA. 1980.68pp, www.agnr.umd.edu/users/mg/natcont.htm. Morrison, Darrei and Sam Jones. Native Southeastern Wasowski, Sally. Requem For A Lawn Mower. Taylor Plant Communities with Guidelines on Design, Publishing Co., Dallas. Restoration and Management Univ. Georgia Press. In Press. Wilson, Jim. Landscaping with Wildflowers. Houghton Mifflin, Boston. 1992. National Wildflower Research Center's Wildflower Handbook. NWRC Clearinghouse of Native Plant Information. 4801 LaCrosse Ave.. Austin, TX 78739. (512) WILDLIFE GARDENING 292-4200. ISBNS 0-89058-201-9 Baines, C. How to Make a Wildlife Garden. Elm Tree Nat'l Wildflower Research Center. Wildflower Books, London, 1985. Handbook. Voyageur Press, Stillwater, MN 1992. Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection. New England Wildflower Society. Nursery Sources. 180 Enhancing Your Backyard Habitat for Wildlife, CT Hemenway Road, Framingham, MA 01701-2699. DEP, Bureau of Natural Resources, Wildlife Division, P.O. Box 1550, Burlington, CT 06013-1550 (203) 675-8130. Nilsen, R. Ed. Helping Nature Heal, An Introduction to Environmental Restoration. Ten Speed Press, Box Dennis, J. W. The Wildlife Gardener. Alfred A. Knopf, 7123. Berkeley, CA 94707. ISBNSO-898-15-425-1. Ny. 1985. Ottensen, Carole. The Native Plant Primer, Harmony Ernst, R. S. The Naturalist' Garden . Rodale Press, Books, NY. 1995. ISBN 0-517-59215-0. PA, 1987. AR309808 Henderson, Carrol L. Landscaping For Wildlife. MN. Kress, S.W. The Audubon Society Guide to Attracting Dept. Nat. Res. St. Paul, MN. 1987. Birds. Charles Scribner's Sons., NY, 1985. Herzog, D.A. How to Invite Wildlife into Your Proctor, N. Garden Birds: How to Attract Birds to Your Backyard. Great Lakes Living Press. 1977. Garden. Rodale Press, PA, 1986. Logsdon, G. Wildlife in Your Garden. Rodale Press, Tekulsky, M. The Hummingbird Garden.: Crown PA, 1983. Publishers, Inc., NY. 1990. National Wildlife Federation. Planting an Oasis for Terres, J. K. Songbirds in Your Garden. T. Y. Crowell Wildlife, NWF,, 8925 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA 22184 Company, NY, 1968. (lists plants by U.S. Region). ATTRACTING BUTTERFLIES National Wildlife Federation. The Backyard Naturalist NWF, 8925 Leesfaurg Pike, Vienna, VA 22184. . Glassber, & Jeffrey. Enjoying Butterflies More. Birdwatcher's Digest 1995. ISBNS 1-880241-08-0 Peterson, R. T. Et at. Gardening with Wildlife. National Wildlife Federation, Washington, D.C. 1974. Rothschild, M., & C. Farrell. The Butterfly Gardener. Michael Joseph Ltd/Rainbow, London, 1983. Schneck, Marcus. Your Backyard Wildlife Garden: How to attract and identify wildlife in your yard, Rodale Schneck, M. Butterflies: How to Identify and Attract Press, 1992. ISBN 0-87596-129-0. Them to Your Garden. Rodale Press, PA, 1990. Tufts, Craig, and Peter Loewer. Gardening for Wildlife: Xerces Society and The Smithsonian Institution. Butterfly How to Create Beautiful Backyard Habitat for Birds, Gardening: Creating Summer Magic in Your Yard. Butterflies, and Other Wildlife, Rodale Press, 1995. Sierra Club Books, San Francisco, CA, 1990. ISBN 0-87596-675-6, ... __ ;._". _ .;: _ .__.-. Tuns, Craig. The Backyard Naturalist National Widlife REFERENCE BOOKS AND FIELD GUIDES Federation Washington, D.C.. 1988. Brown, Russel G. & Melvin L. Herbaceous Plants of Maryland. Port City Press, MD . 1984. ATTRACTING BIRDS .._..__ Brown, Russel G. & Melvin L. Woody Plants of Adams, George. Birdscaping Your Garden: A Practical Maryland. Port City Press, MD. 1992. Guide to Backyard Birds and the Plants that Attract Them, Rodale, 1994. ISBN 0-87596-635-7. Dirr, Michael A. Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (4th ed.) Stipes Publ. Co., IL 1990. Barringtori, R. A Garden for Your Birds. Grosset & .__ _ Dunlap, NY, 1972. ._....— ....._- _ - Pemald, Merritt L. Gray's Manual Of Botany. Dioscorides Press, OR. 1950. Curtis, W. And J. Curtis. Backyard Bird Habitat The Countryman Press, Woodstock, VT, 1988. Foote, L & S. B. Jones. Jr. Native Shrubs and Woody Vines of the Southeast: Landscaping Uses and Davison, V.E. Attracting Birds from the Prairies to the Identification. Timber Press, Portland, OR, 1989. Atlantic. T. Y. Crowel! Co., NY, 1967. Glassberg, Jeffrey. Butterflies Through Binoculars. DeGraff, R.M. and G. M. Whitman. Trees, Shrubs, and Oxford Univ. Press. 1993. ISBNS 0-19-507983-3 Vines for Attracting Birds: A Manual for the Northeast University of Massachusetts Press, 1979. Gleason, H. The New Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora of the Northeastern U.S. & Adjacent Canada. Vol. 1-3. Gellner, S. (ed.). Attracting Birds to the Garden. Lane Hafner Press, NY, 1952. Books. 1974. _ Harshberger, J.W, The Vegetation of the New Jersey Kindtlien, C,T. Natural Birdscaping. Dell Publishing Pine-Barrens. Dover Publications, NY, 1970, Company, Inc., NY, 1979. Harviil, B., et al. Atlas of the Virginia Flora. Virginia Kress, Stephen. The Bird Garden, National Audubon, Botanical Associates, Farmville, VA. Dorling Kindersley Publishers, 1995. ISBN 0-7894-0139- 8. AR309809 Hightshoe, G. L Native Trees, Shrubs and Vines for Thunhorst, Gwendolyn. Wetland Planting Guide for the Urban and Rural Amelrca. A Planting Manual for Northeastern United States. Environmental Concern Environmental Designers. Van Nostrand, Reinhold, NY. Inc., P.O. Box P, SL Michaels, MD 21663 1988. Tiner, R., Jr. A Field Guide to Coastal Wetland Plants Johnsgard, PA Th« Hummingbirds of North America. of the Northeastern United States. University of Smithsonlan Institution Press, Washington, DC, 1983. Massachuetts Press, Amherst MA, 1987. Jones, Samuei B. Jr & L E. Foote. Native Shrubs and Woodburry, EIton N. Butterflies of Delmarva. Tidewater Woody Vines of the Southeast Dioscorides Press, OR. Publishers, Centreville, MD. ISBNS 0-87033-453-0 1989. Justice, William S. & C. Ritchle Bell. Wildflowers of NATURAL HISTORY/FURTHER READING North Carolina. Univ. Of NC Press. NC.1963. Bormann, F. Herbert, Gordon T. Geballe. Redesigning Magee. D. Freshwater Wetlands: A Guide to Common the American Lawn: A Search for Environmental Indicator Plants of the Northeast University of Harmony. Yale University Press. New Haven, CT. 166pp. Massachuetts Press, Amherst MA, 1981. ISBNS 0-300-06197-8 paper. 0-300-05401-7 doth Martin, A.C., H. S. 2m, A. L. Nelson. American Wildlife Carson, Rachel. Silent Spring. and Plants-A Guide to Wildlife Food Habitats. Dover Publlcantfons, NY, Inc. 1951. Leopold, Aldo. A Sand County Almanac. Ballentine, NY. 1966. 295pp. MIdgeley, Jan. Nursery Sources of Native Plants of the Southeastern US. 2292 Dunster Land, Rockville, MD Stein, Sara. My Weeds: A Gardener's Botany. 20854. Houghton, Mifflin, Co., Boston. ISBNS 0-395-70817-6 paper. New England WHdflower Society. Nursery Sources. 180 Hemenway Road, Framingham, MA 01701-2699. Stein, Sara. Planting Noah's Garden. 1996 Newcomb, L. Newcomb's Wildflower Guide. Little, Stein, Sara. Noah's Garden: Restoring the Ecology of Bo.wn & Co., Boston, MA, 1985. Your Own Back Yards. Houghton, Mifflin, Co., Boston. 294pp. ISBNS 0-395-70940-7 paper, 0-395-65373-8 cloth. Niering, W. A. And N. C. Ofmstead. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American WHdflowers, Waskowski. Requiem for a Lawnmower, and Other Eastern Region. Alfred A. Knopf, NY, 1979. Essays and Easy Gardening with Native Plants. Taylor Publishing CO., Dallas TX. 1992. Peterson, R. T. Field Guide to Wildflowers of Northeastern & North Central North America. Wilson, E.O. The Diversity of Life. Harvard University Houghton-Mifflin, Boston, MA. 1968. Press Radford, A.E., H. Ahles & C. Ritchfe Bell. Manual Of The Vascular Flora of The Carollnas. U. Of NC Press, NC. 1968. Rhoads, Ann Fowler and William McKInlery Kline. The Vascular Flora of Pennsylvania: Annotated Checklist and Atias. American Philosophical Soc. ISBNS 0-8716- 2007-4 Rodlek, J.E. and E.G. Bolen. Wildlife and Habitats in Managed Landscapes. Island Press, Washington, D.C. 1991. Strasbaugh, P.D, and E. L Core. Flora of West Virginia. Seneca Books. Route 6, Box81-B, Morgantown, WV 26503.1977, 1992. Sutton, A. And M. Sutton. Eastern Forests. The Audubon Soc. Nature Guides. Alfred A. Knopf, NY, 1983. AR3098IO Native Plant Nurseries in the Chesapeake Bay Region (Not a complete list) MARYLAND _ __ Sylva Native Nursery & Seed NORTH CAROLINA ————————— " ""• ^ Rd. #2, Box 1033 ————————— ————— Atlantic Star Nursery New Freedom, PA 17349 Booihe Hill Wildflowers 620 Pyle Road (717) 227-0486 23B Soothe Hill Forest Hill, MD 21237 -— ~ has MD and PA locations Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (41 0) 838-7950 (9 1 9) 967-4091 seeds and plants Weinstock-Bluemel Inc. Bablkow Greenhouses 2740 Greene Lane Hofbrook Farm & Nursery 7838 Babikow Road - - Baldwin, MD 21013 Route 2, Box 223B - Baltimore, MD 21237 (301 ) 557-7229 Fletcher, NC 28732 (410) 391-4200 (704) 891-7790 Wildflower Bluemount Nursery 2292 Dunster Lane Lamtree Farm 2103 Bluemount Road Rockville, MD 20854 Rt. 1 Box 162 Monkton, MD 21 1 1 1 (301 ) 762-7750 Warrensville. NC 28693 (410)329-6226 Wildlife Landscapes Laurel Springs Nursery Conard-Pyle Baltimore, MD 401 Regal Street 1-800-321-0922 or (410) 758-3766 (410) 256-1777 Hendersonvilie, NC 28739 see also Pennsylvania list ...... _ ^ . ______Nature's Garden NurserY —————————————————————— 372 Welch Rd. 2737 to' Nurserv Road NEW JERSEY Bryson Ctiy, NC 28713 5^T^ri^LForest Hill, MD 2105«0 .. __, , " . _ (704)438-601^ ' 0 (410)838-474.410.838-4747 HesBox s32 6Nurseries , Inc. Niche Gardens Environmental Concern Inc. Cedarville, NJ 08311 1111 DawsonRd P.O. Box P, Chew Ave. (609) 447-4213 SP*^, Mn .„«* SL Michael's, MD 21663 ...._. Ch^e^NC 27516 (410)745-9620 - ___ Pinelands Nursery (919) 967-0078 323 Island Road Fiddler's Green Nursery Columbus, NJ 08022 Passiflora J. Christopher Batten, Inc. (609) 291-9486 P.O. Box 393 3907 Old Taneytown Rd. Germanton, NC'27019 Taneytown,MD . Thompson & Morgan (919)5915816 (410)751-0424 P.O~ BoxjlSOS Jackson, NJ 08527 We-Du Nurseries Heartwood Nursery 1-800-367-7333 Route 5, Box 724 2121 Blue Mount Road Marion, NC 28752 Monkton, MD 21111 Wild Earth Nursery (704)738-3300 (410) 343-0390 49 Mead Ave. Freehold, NJ 07728 ______Kollar Environmental Services 5200 West Heaps Road - ____ . . - PENNSYLVANIA Pylesville, MD21132 - .=„ ~ —— „ .. _.= _...... ^ ______~r~~—— — "~——— — (410)836-0500 NEW YORK Appiachian Nursery RR1 Box 12 Island Road Lower Marlboro Nursery Botanic Garden Seed Co. Waynesboro, PA 17268 P.O. Box 1013 g wyckoff Street Dunkirk, MD 20754 - Brooklyn, NY 11237 Appalachian Wildflower Nurs. (301)855-7654 :.: - ----"(7^624-8839 " " ' —--— Route 1 , Box 275A Reedsville, PA 17084 ^a™e-r-S^lS' JSS. . Harris Moran Seed Co. (717)667-6998 1 4590 Tnadelphra Mill Road 3670 Buffa|o Rd Dayton, MD 21 036 Rochester, NY 14624 Beachley-Hardy Seed Co. (301 ) 596-931 8 (716) 594.94! 1 • P.O. Box 336 Camp Hill, PA 17011 Southern Tier Consulting, Inc. (717)737-4529 n«n Bowman's Hill WUdflower (410) 392-8175 in Ekton, MD (716) 968^3120 or (800) 848-7614 Preserve/ Seed Catalog Washington Crossing Park ;M,r Wildginger Woodlands P.O. Box 103 Waldorf, MD p n s •3inq i Washington Crossing, PA 18977 (301>870-8038 Waster" Ny 14580 (716) 872-4033 (continued...) 4R3098II PENNSYLVANIA, continued VIRGINIA Virginia Natives Wildside Farms Conard-Pyle Company Acid-Wetlands Flora Rox 18V,* oo~>n 372 RosehiK Road 1705 N.Quebec St. Hume, VA 22639 S/ T? ^L^ Arlington, VA 22207 (703) 364-1665 West Grove, PA 19390 (703) 524-3181 Virginia Wilde Farms Ernst Conservation Seeds Antique Orchid Herbary Rt. 2, Box 1512 9006 Mercer Pike Rt- 6, Box 734 Hanover, VA 23069 Meadvffle, PA 16335 Abingdon, VA24210 (804) 643-0021 (814) 425-7276 or (800) 873-3321 t703' ^1463 Waterways Nursery Bell's Farm Nursery 13015 Milltown Rd Native and Aquatic Nursery 4038 Harfaorwood Rd. Lovettsville, VA 22080 834 Church Road Salem, VA 24153 (540) 822-S994 Harleysvilta, PA 19438 (703)389-3082 (610)584-6302 Be,Ie A-re Garden shoppe, Inc ______4119Brandon Ave. Natural Landscapes/ Roanoke, Va 24018 WASHINGTON. D.C. Jim Plyler (703)774-7444 354 N. Jennersville Rd Lou Aronica West Grove PA1S390 Blue Rld9e NurserY & Garden {MD Native Plant Society) MM n\ RKC, -a-Too 3212 Brambleton Ave. Washington, D.C. .610) 86S-37SS Roanoke, Va24018 (202 722-1390 (703) 989-5336 North Creek Nurseries RR2,Box33 Boutique Ladenburg, PA 19350 I^i^XiS VA ->>>w WEST VIRGINIA (215) 283-1330 or (215) 255-0100 rSS\^^S\ &W) y«i>-dut.u Sunshine Farm & Garden Octoraro Wetland Nursery Doyle Farm Nursery P.O. Box 24 158 Norris Road Oxford, PA 19363, ph (610)932-3762 R°und Hill, VA22141 ph (410)392-8175 Bkton, MD location Everwood Nursery Painted Meadows Seeds Round Hill, VA 22141 WISCONSIN P.O". Box 1865 (703) 338-4227 (if needed, esp. for seed sources) Kingston, PA 18704 _ . . .. i(717n f\) 283-291 ^83-zsi1 i Holley'R. BQys 27Q HobbieA s Framp_0_ goe xNurser 3Q6 y „ n. „ .w Warrentown,VA22186 Westfield, Wf 53964 The Primrose Path (703)347-7663 (608)296-3679 RD 2, Box 110 Scottdale, PA 15683 Keatocin Perennials — — Prairie Ridge Nursery Rt. 3, Box 58 9738 Overland Road Svlva Native Nurserv * Se«d Leesburg, VA 22075 Mt. Horeb, WI 53572 Rd. #2, Box 1033 (703)777-1787 (608)437-5245 New Freedom, PA 17349 Mid-Atlantic Wildflowers ______(717)227-0486 Star Route, Box 226 —————————————————————— Gloucester Point, VA 23062 For more plant information: Temple University (804)642-4602 Native Plant Propagation Center Round Hill Garden Irvine Natural Science Center 580 Meetinghouse Road Box 196 St Timothy's School Ambler, PA 19002 Round Hill VA 22141 Stevenson, MD 21 1 53 (216)283-1330 (703)338-7238 (410)484-2413 W. Atlee Burpee Co. Rod SJmmons Maryland Native Plant Society 300 Park Ave (MD Native Plant Society) P.O. Box 4877 18974 Water Crest Farm Nursery Swell Nursery W.D. Wells & Associates, Inc. 505 Baldwin Rd 290 Woodcrest Rd. Richmond, VA 23229 3501 New York Ave., NE West Grove PA 19390 (804)288-7873 Washington, DC 20002-1958 (610) 869-3883 (202) 245-4521 Townside Gardens Delaware Nature Society (302)239-2334 AR3098I2 Wood Duck (Aix sponsa) Wildlife Habitat Council Management Series General rnformation The wood ducfc is considered by many bird watchers to be North America's most colorful waterfowl species. Its scientific name, Aix sponsa translates into " waterbird in bridal dress." Today the wood duck is one of the most common waterfowl species breeding in the United States. However, this was not always the case. Writings from the early 19th Centuiy indicate that wood ducks were in abundant supply and very popular for their tasty meat and bright decorative feathers. B y the late 1880s, unregulated hunting, and destruction of woodland and wetland habitat, had caused the wood duck population to decline to alarmingly low levels. By the beginning of this century, it was largely believed that extinction was just around the comer for the wood duck. Fortunately, the U.S. Congress passed the Migratory Bird Treaty in 1916 and the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, and wood duck populations began to slowly recover. By ending unregulated hunting and taking measures to protect their remaining habitat, wood ducfc populations were making a comeback by the 1920s. A tremendous boost to their recovery occurred during the 1930"s when an artificial nesting box was invented. This helped alleviate the strain caused by a lack of natural nesting cavities. The wood ducks eagerly accepted these boxes as suitable nesting sites, and over the next fifty years, conservation groups and individuals guaranteed the survival of the wood duck by erecting everlarger numbers of nest boxes. The story of the wood duck is an example of how active wildlife management techniques can have a tremendous effect on the overall success of an individual species. This pamphlet is designed to serve as an introduction to the habitat requirements of the wood duck and assist land managers in the development of a comprehensive wood duck management plan. The success of any individual species management plan depends on targeting the specific needs of the desired species and analyzing the designated habitat area as a whole to insure that all habitat requirements are present. This guide also provides recommendations for monitoring the program to insure successes are documented and problems are caught before they have any negative effe'cts on the overall management plan. WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL™ fl D 0 fl Q Q I 1010WiyneAve.Siute920Sa7ffSprin&MD2(mi) (MllSSWWI H K O U 3 O \ Life History Range and Seasonal Movement: "" The wood duck's range extends on the east coast from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota and then south to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. Birds from the New England area will generally migrate to the Maryland area and then disperse along the coast Midwestern wood ducks will winter in the area extending from Georgia west to Texas. On the west coast the wood duck's range extends from British Columbia south to the Mexican border. Upper west coast wood ducks will winter in southern California and the Mexican Pacific coast Wood ducks which already reside in more southern climates may be residents of the same area year round. Generally the fell migration will begin in October and extend into November. Spring migration occurs during March and April. Wood ducks will migrate in either pairs or small flocks. Habitat: Wood ducks nest in woodland areas along lakes, swamps, wetlands or river areas. During the winter months, wood ducks tend to inhabit lakes, bays, and estuaries. Habitat areas chosen by wood ducks are usually populated with a wide variety of other waterfowl species such as mallards, canvasbacks, common mergansers, and Canadian geese. Preservation of these habitat areas will insure that future migrations will not be interrupted and suitable habitat will remain available. Although wood ducfc populations have recovered, the largest threat to their future is the continued loss of habitat By protecting wetland and riparian areas, landowners can assist in the continued success of wood ducks and other migratory waterfowl species which rely on similar habitat areas. Breeding: Wood ducks are acavity nesting species, yet they do not have the ability to create their own nest and must rely on the abandoned nests of woodpeckers. With the hen leading, a pair of wood ducks will .begin searching fora suitable nesting location around mid-March and often will return to the same location each year. The pair will search for a nesting cavity in the woodland area adjacent to the water, rarely nesting more than a mile away. Cavities located 30 feet or more above the ground are preferred, but the height can vary from near ground level to 65 feet When the proper location is found, the hen will work to prepare the nest and the male (drake) will wait in the tree and guard the nest. The hen will lay one egg per day; the normal brood size is 10 to 15 eggs. Once all the eggs are laid, they are covered with down plucked from the mother's breast and incubation occurs for 28 to 37 days. During incubation, the hen will leave the nest twice a day, usually in the early morning and late evening, to feed. Twenty-four to forty-eight hours after hatching the ducklings must prepare to leave the nest Once the eggs are hatched the drake will no longer attend to the nesting site. The mother will fly to the ground and begin calling to the young. The ducklings must scale up the inside of the nesting cavity, which can be as deep as six feet, using the hooked toenails on their webbed feet for anchors. Once the cavity edge is reached, the ducklings jump to the ground, protected from the upwards of 60 foot fall by their protective down. The mother will stay with her young for 8 to 9 weeks before leaving them on their own. During this time period the ducklings are very susceptible to predation with about 40-50% not surviving beyond nine weeks of age. AR3098.ll* Important Food Items: Food foryoung birds and adults differs dranmtically. The early diet of ducklings consists largely of adult and immature stages of terrestrial and flying insects, mainly mayfly and dragonfly nymphs. In addition, studies have shown that tiny fish make up about 15% of theducklingsdietin southern partsof the country. After six weeks of age, the young will switch to plant food until their diet consists of approximately 90% vegetative material including algae, watermeal, watershield, sago pondweed, and duckweed Adult wood ducks feed primarily in the water but will also go ashore and forage on the forest floor for seeds, acorns, and nuts. The seeds of bald cypress, hickory, buttonbush, arrow arum, and bur-reed are favorites in the diet of adult wood ducks. Establishing a Wood Duck Management Program Prior to developing an individual species management program for wood ducks, the site must create a framework within which the program can establish itself and expand. This will allow a full understanding of why certain projects are being done, what the final goal is of the project, how the program will be implemented, and how success will be monitored. This framework should consist of: • the establishment of a wildlife habitat team which will implement and monitor the program, - _._._..____.._ * the completion of an inventory to determine if the targeted species can feasibly inhabit the proposed habitat area, and * the establishment of a maintenance and monitoring plan to document the project and maximize the project's chance of success. L Assess Site and Develop Management Plan Prior to the development of a management plan, the wildlife team should assess the site to determine if it is suitable habitat for wood ducks. As mentioned earlier, wood ducks inhabit woodland areas along lakes, swamps, ponds, and wetland areas. If the site does not meet the habitat requirements of the wood duck, the wildlife team must examine the site closely to determine which components are missing. Questions the team should address include the following. Are there suitable nesting cavities around the water area? Is there suitable vegetation in the area to provide a year-round food source? These are examples of questions which must be addressed while the wildlife team is developing the management plan. .._ ... -- -- As a guide, the team should keep in mind the four basic habitat components required by all species: food, cover, space, and water. During the initial site assessment, the team should also take an inventory of wildlife and plants using the area designated as potential wood duck habitat The wildlife species could be used as indicator species. If their habitat requirements are similar to those of wood ducks and they are utilizing the site, there is a high probability that wood ducks will use this area if all their habitat requirements are provided. Once the wildlife team has decided that managing the site for wood ducks is feasible, they should develop a comprehensive management plan that insures all habitat requirements are provided on or near the site. (1R3098I5 n. Habitat Enhancement Opportunities The following projects are habitat enhancement opportunities designed to provide habitat components which may be missing in your wood duck management area. During the implementation of these recommendations, those overseeing the projects should understand the ecological impact of each project and what effect it is designed to have on the surrounding area. Management on one area will have an effect on other areas, particularly on wildlife which obtain their living requirements from more.than one type of habitat A. Enhance Vegetative Diversity to Provide a Year-Round Food Source Wood ducks obtain their food from a variety of sources, but their diet consists mostly of vegetative materials. They are one of the only waterfowl species which feeds on die fruits andnuts of woody species, but they will also feed on aquatic species. This varied diet will make it easier for sites to provide a variety of different food sources. When determining the availability of food, be sure to consider the winter months where in some regions of the wood duck's range vegetation can be much harder to come by. The following species are known to be included in the diet of wood ducks. Those species followed by an asterisk are of particular value for their usefulness as a winter food source. wildrice* sedge* cowlily bur-reed* duckweed* grape* pondweed oak* watershield smartweed elm* nightshade arrow arum hickory* ash* beech* waterlily blackgum These species may be used to enhance vegetation which already exists in the woodland area or around the water area. Adding these species to those currently existing will make your area more attractive to wood ducks. If the wildlife team is creating a pond or vegetating a shore area for the first time, it would be advisable to include some of the above species in the planting project if the team wishes to attract wood ducks in the future. B. Pond Design Recommendations Before conducting any improvements on an already existing wet area, the wildlife team should be sure that any necessary authorization or permits are obtained before the project is begun. If the wildlife team is creating a pond from scratch, they should consider the design of the pond if one "of the goals is to make the pond more attractive to waterfowl. The shoreline of the pond should be irregular and have as many inlets and peninsulas as is feasible. This will maximize the amount of available access to the water and allow nesting sites to be hidden from one another. The team should also map out the area to be excavated topographically to determine how deep the pond will be throughout the designated area. The preferred depth for wood ducks is no deeper than 18 inches. The ideal scenario would be to create a pond which combines shallow areas ranging in depth from 1/2 to 2 feet, and deeper areas 6-8 feet deep. This will provide habitat for other wildlife species such as fish and turtles and will also insure that habitat areas arc preserved for the ducks in the event of a dry spell. A pond with a uniform depth of 1/2 to 2 feet would likely &y up if an extended drought occurred. The pond should have shallow sides sloping towards a deep spot near the outlet or in the middle. The slope will provide substrate for the growth of aquatic vegetation, thus creating varying types of food and cover for wood ducks. To enhance an existing pond, dredging may be done to form more inlets and peninsulas. AR3098I6 Wood Duck Nest Box Design Front View " ' ""—Side View" Cleat nailed to bottom of lid fits snuggly inside box Holes for 1/4" x 6" Hardware cloth lag bolts strip 3" wide 3" Wood chips Drill four 1/4" drain holes Construction Notes: Use 1" thick weather-resistant lumber which is 12' long and 1' wide. Do not paint or stain the interior of the box. The hook and eye secures aremovable top which enables the nest box to be cleaned yearly. Ducklings climb the hardware cloth to exit the nest box. The lumber for the box should be cut in the following way to create the separate pieces for the box. Everything except the lid should be nailed together. The lid or side should be hinged to facilitate monitoring and cleaning. Lid Cleat 93/4' 12" Side Side Front Back Bottom Lid Brace 2 1/4' 24" 24" 24" 33" . - 13". 14" Interior Nest Box Dimensions finches! Floor Area Cavity Depth Entrance Height Entrance Hole Above Floor 10" x 12" 23" 17" 4" x 3" oval AR3098I7 Predator Guard Design In order to insure the protection of the eggs and the ducklings, predator guards should be attached to all the wood duck box support posts. The guard keeps animals such as raccoons and snakes from entering the box and disturbing the nest Materials needed: A. The guard should be cut from a sheet of galvanized steel. B. Three sheet metal screws for each guard are required to secure the guards to the nest box support. C. Three pieces of 12" x 3/16" strap iron for each guard. Overlap cut edge to TOP View ^^—————^^ ^s^ this dotted line Cutout 60° wedge Cut out centers: 5" hole fits 4" post 6" hole fits 5" post 71/4" hole fits 6" post Completed Side View ^^ „ x v x -, Supporting Brackets: 31\2V> Sheet metal —-7"" \\ X ; Post beneath wood duck box AR3098I8 C. Erect Artificial Nesting Cavities The creation of artificial nesting cavities for wood ducks was a key factor in their recovery earlier this century. Today, destruction of wetlands and the lack of suitable nesting cavities are the primary threats still facing the wood duck. By erecting nest boxes in an area suitable for wood duck habitation, a landowner can provide great assistance to this species. 1. Maintenance and Monitoring ~ Before any nesting structures are erected, the wildlife team should design a maintenance and monitoring program to document the success of the program and insure that invasive species, such as European starlings, are not using the boxes. If neglected, boxes can be damaged by the weather. Old nests must be cleaned out if the boxes are to be used more than once during a breeding season. The boxes should not be removed during the winter because they will provide winter nesting sites for mammals and birds. The wildlife team should develop a monitoring program which insures that the boxes will be monitored at least once a month during the breeding season. The team should not erect more boxes than they can monitor once a month, because it may be counter productive by helping to increase populations of invasive species. Once the monitoring program is in place, the wildlife team should enroll in WHC's Nesting Structure Monitoring Program. Participation in this program will be very helpful when seeking certification through WHC's Corporate Wildlife Habitat Certification Program. To enroll in the WHC's Nesting Structure Monitoring Program please contact WHC at (301) 588-8994 and ask to speak to the Coordinator of the Nesting Structure Monitoring Program. 2. Design The boxes should be constructed of a durable wood that can be made weather resistant; cedar is often recommended. The wood can be painted,"stained, or treated but only on the outside surface. The entrance hole should be an oval that is 3 inches high and 4 inches wide. Additional dimensions for wood duck nest boxes are shown in Figure 1, A3 inch wide strip of 1/4-inch mesh hardware cloth should be attached inside the box under the entrance to function as a ladder for fledglings. The cut edges of this cloth should be folded back before insertion to avoid hurting the ducklings with the sharp edges. Another method of assisting the ducklings in their climb from the nest to the entrance hole is to roughen up the wood surface under the hole with a chisel. At the bottom of the box you should place 3 inches of wood chips to serve as nesting material and to help prevent the eggs from rolling around. The floor of the box should be recessed 1/4 inch from the lower edge of the sides to prevent rotting. The top of the box should be hinged so that it may be opened during monitoring. All wood duck boxes should be fitted with an aluminum predator guard such as the one depicted in Figure 2. The predator guard should be placed 6-12 inches below the box. 3. Placement Wood duck nest boxes can be placed either on land or over the water. If located over the water, they should be placed at least four feet above the high water mark and the entrance hole should face the open water rather than the shoreline. Nest boxes placed on land should be mounted 12-20 feet up on a tree and should be from 30 to 150 feet away from the shoreline. Boxes placed directly at the shoreline appear to be more susceptible to predation. Since the hen must lead her ducklings to water soon after they hatch, the area between the nest box and the water's edge should be free of any major obstacles such as roads or fencing. Nest boxes mounted on trees should have the entrance hole facing the water. Nest boxes placed in trees are very difficult to monitor on a regular basis, therefore, WHC recommends you place the boxes on poles in isolated corners of the lake. Regardless of whether the box is placed over the water or land, the entrance should be clear of obstructions to provide easy access for the ducks. flR3098i9 While developing a nest box program the wildlife team must determine how many boxes to place in the designated wood duck habitat. Due to the wood duck's susceptibility to egg dumping (discussed further in next section), WHC recommends thafthe ream place no more than 2-4 boxes per acre. The boxes should be placed at least 600 feet from each other and should not be visible to one another. The most successful wood duck management programs have been those which use nest houses on posts in the water and are placed in a manner which mimic the wood ducks' natural tendency to nest in isolated locations. Placing boxes in more isolated locations may make monitoring more difficult so the wildlife team should plan carefully where the boxes are going to be placed. The team should attempt to accommodate the natural nesting instincts of the birds while still allowing for monthly monitoring during the breeding season. If predators discover the nest box location, they will return for future eggs, ducklings, and even adult wood ducks. If predation becomes a problem, relocating the nest boxes every three years may be a solution. 4- Egg Dumping While the normal brood size for wood ducks is 10 to 15 , many nests have been found to contain 20 to 30 eggs or more. These -xtraeggs are the result of "egg dumping," or intraspecific brood parasitism. Egg dumping occurs when a female wood duck sees another hen entering or leaving an active nest site. The visiting bird becomes overstimulated and begins to lay eggs on the nest of the other hen. In the wild this impulse is kept in check because wood ducks normally nest in isolated locations. Artificial nesting structures are often mistakenly put up close together and in highly visible locations such as the center of a pond. This will increase box occupancy but will force the normally solitary birds to nest in a colony. This creates a situation where egg dumping becomes common, and overall reproductive success will plument A hen whose nest is dumped with too may eggs will often abandon it; the result is a huge amount of wasted reproductive effort. In a natural scenario only 20% of the eggs will fail to hatch but when egg dumping is out of control, the rate of unsuccessful hatchings will rise to 50-90%. Because of this it is very important to locate your nest boxes in isolated locations as described above. The wood duck is one of North America's most colorful waterfowl. Installing boxes in appropriate habitat areas will increase the number of wood ducks using the designated habitat area and will increase the area's attractiveness to both humans and wildlife. NESTING STRUCTURE MONITORING PROGRAM RESULTS WOOD DUCKS PRODUCED IN NEST BOXES AT WHC MEMBER SITES 1991 ...... 340 1992 ...... 229 1993 ...... 968 AR309820 References Belrose, Frank C. 1980. Ducks, Geese; ana Swans of North America. Stackpole Books, Hanisfaurg, PA. Ehrlich, Paul R., David S. Dobkin, and Darryl Wheye. 1988. The Birder's Handbook- A Field Guide • to the Natural History of North American Birds. Simon & Schuster Inc., New York. Shalaway, Scott. 1994, "Conservation trails," Wild Bird. March 1994. Sherman, Paul W. and Semel, Brad. 1992. ."Killing them with kindness." Living Bird. Spring 1992. No. 2, Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, New York. Soulliere. Gregory J., Albright, Craig A., Nauman, Lyle E., and Geiger, Anthony E. 1992. "Comparative use of wood duck nest house designs in Wisconsin". Wild. See. Bull. 20:156- 163..- ..--.'—.--.I "V~:.. V" ' - "-'—- " '-' : Stokes, Donald and Lillian. 1989. A Guide Book to Bird Behavior, Volume III. Little, Brown and Company. Boston. Stokes, Donald and Lillian Stokes. 1990, The Complete Birdhouse Book. Little, Brown and Company, Boston. DuPont, 1990. Nest Boxes for Wood Ducks. Remington Farms. Remington/DuPont. AR3Q982 Tree Swallow (Iridoprocne bicolor) Wildlife flamtat Council Management Series Breeding Information Habitat: Lake shores, flooded meadows, marshes and open fields. Any areas with open water nearby which support large numbers of insects. Territory Size Tree swallows defend an area immediately surrounding the nesL Although these birds occasionally nest: in groups, nesting boxes should be separated by at least 150 feet Nest Location: Tree swallows nest in tree cavities or in nesi boxes. The holes or boxes are usually located in trees that are out in the open or on the edges of water such as streams orponds. Number of Eggs / Clutch: Normally four to six eggs are laid by a tree swallow. The eggs are pure white without a glossy shine. Incubation Period: The eggs are incubated for 13-16 days. Number of Broods / Year: The tree swallow has only one brood per year. Important Food Items: Tree swallows arc the only species of American swallow thai consumes a substantial amount of vegetable matter to supplement its diet of insects. Berries and seeds (primarily baybeny fruits) have been known to account for up to 20% of a tree swallow's diet. Insects are the main food source and the only source of protein for these birds. Their typical prey includes beetles, mosquicoes. flies, and ants. The majority of their prey is captured in mid-air. General Information: The tresswallow is the firstswallow to appear in northern areas as winter ends. It is able to survive cold snaps by feeding on bayberries and by reducing its activity. Long periods of rain or cold weather during the spring can starve newly arrived migrants by suppressing the number of flying insects. Occasionally an insect population will explode when antcolonies fly or when mayflies reproduced Swallows broadcast their feeding activity as they swoop and feed on the insects. In these cases, tree swallows are often attracted from miles around to take advantage of the abundant prey. WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL™ I6IB W.yn. *«. iuJU JM SIlw. Spirnft. MD .09IO (3OI) S1MW4 AR309822 Management Plan Introduction: Although not difficult to manage, Q*ee swallow populations respond best to very specific attempts to enhance their habitat. The result of a successful enhancement project will be ihe continued presence of "a bird that helps control insect populations and whose acrobatic flying is always visible over ponds, lakes and open fields. Management Objective: To establish or increase the number of breeding tree swallows in an area. Limiting Factors: 1) Availability of nesting sites '_' 2) Proximity to open areas for foraging"' Analvsis: The most important limiting factor isjiesting sites". Nonnallyjree swallows nest in holes and small cavities that form in trees, but these are not always widely available. An area may have a large prey base for the birds, but if nesting sites are'not "available, breeding pairs will not stay in the area. This problem can be solved by erecting artificial nest boxes tailored to the needs of the tree swallow. The size of the house interior and the size of the entrance hole are critical dimensions. Nest box style is less important. Once the boxes are installed, it is recommended that they be monitored on a weekly basis.:Periodic monitoring of the boxes will identify problems with the project (interference from house sparrows, iramrnalian predation, etc.) and will provide information concerning the'growth of the local population of tree swallows due to the nest- box project...... "_..."" ... '._ ii._..". . --- , ."_._."" • - " " In addition to the dimensions of the nest box; their placemen: is also very important in attracting breeding pairs. The ideal location is 4' to-10' off the"ground in a lone.tree in the middle of a meadow-or field. Placing the boxes_on posts gives the added_benefit of predation protection. Baffles and coatings can be added to posrs to help limit access to the nest. The majority of the tree swallow's prey are flying insects whlchjhe birds.catch on the wing. A large open area allows birds to maneuver and "sweep" large areas for insects while expending the least amount of energy. Fields and meadows provide a large insect popuiation which can support multiple birds and multiple families. " '." .__."-" "!.."._ ."' ". The presence of open water, although not limiting, is important. Open water noc only provides foraging areas/b'uVtrec^siwalTo.ws drink just like they eat -on the fly. Large ponds and rivers are areas which provide the swallows with their water requirements. In addition, many insects are aquatic at some stage in their development and are likely to be found near water sources. By locating correctly designed, nest areas .in .the appropriate locations, tree sparrows can be attracted to breed. ... _._..,_—— ...... ; AR309823 Tree Swallow Nest Box Design ^^\^ ^^^^ Front View ^-^ Side View Hinged tup ^-<—-<- ••• ^ { o o o ^V jS' Screw to ^^ secure ^l/ Ventilation holes top 1/4" diameter O 0 O o o Floor Construction Notes: Use wood 5/8 "thick. If painted, only pain: the exterior. Do not paint the entrance hole or any of [he interior. The interior side of the front should either be roughened or one or two small strips of wood should be attached (like ladder rungs) under the entrance hole co aid departure. Tree swallows in weakened condition have been trapped in boxes which had smooth fronts and no "steps". NEST BOX DIMENSIONS (INCHES) " . " ' FLOOR CAVITY ENTRANCE ' DIAMETER OF AREA DEPTH ABOVE FLOOR ENTRANCE HOLE 5X5 8 6 1-1/2 • AR30982U References Bent, Arthur C 1963. Life Histories ofNort h American Flycatchers, Larks, Swallows, and their Allies. Dover Publications Inc. New York. Bull, John and John Farrand, Jr. 1977. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds. Eastern Region. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. Wermore, Alexander. 1975. Song and Garden Birds of North America. Washington D.C.: National Geographic Society. AR309825 Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis) \\ildiife Habitat C ouncll Management Series Figure 1. Eastern Bluebird Range The range of the eastern bluebird comprises the eastern portion of the United States. Within this area their range extends northward to southern Canada- southward to the Gulf ______of Mexico, and from southeast Arizona to Nicaragua. General Information The bluebird is the favorite songbird of many birders. Its bright blue color and melodious song make it a welcome visitor to backyards. The history of the bluebird has been a series of ups and downs and only recently, through active wildlife management, has its future been considered secure. During the days of frontier settlement, the bluebird was one of the few species to benefit :rom the decimation of the eastern forests. The clearing of forests created many snags and stumps for nesting sites and open areas for foraging. The conversion of these clearings into pasturdands- agricultural fields, and homesites perpetuated the abundance of ideal bluebird habitat. Farmers further assisted bluebirds by bordering their fields with wooden fence posts, thus supplying additional nesting sites. These factors led to a proliferation of bluebird numbers throughout the eastern United States. This situation changed in the late nineteenth century with the introduction of the European starling and the English sparrow, These aggressive birds soon began out competing bluebirds for nesting locations, and bluebird numbers began to fall. Further pressures came from the increased use of dangerous pesticides, the replacement of wooden fence posts with metal ones, and a growing human population. Fortunately, the favored status of the bluebird has led to increased efforts to boost its populations. By erecting thousands of artificial nesting cavities, concerned individuals have a made a significant impact on protecting the future of the eastern bluebird. The eastern bluebird is an example of how active wildlife management can have a tremendous effect on the overall success of an individual species. This pamphlet is designed to serve as an introduction to the habitat requirements of the eastern bluebird and assist land managers in the development of a comprehensive eastern bluebird management plan. The success of any individual species management plan depends on targeting the specific needs of the desired species and analyzing the designated habitat area to insure that all habitat requirements are present. This guide also provides recommendations for monitoring the program to insure successes are documented and problems caught before they have any negative effect on the overall management plan. WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL" flR?f]Q8?£ 20910-C30DMM9M H I V U U J U t. U Life History Physical Characteristics: ~— — - - - The eastern bluebird is 6. l/2~to 7 1/2 inches long and has a wingspan of 11 1/2 to 13 1/4 inches. The male in full breeding plumage has a bright blue back, head, and upper wingside. Its breast, sides and flank are reddish brown, and the rest of the underparts are white. The female is paler and duller than the male. Both male and female have dark brown eyes. Immature bluebirds are grayish with speckled breasts and white- spotted backs. ... . _ " .. .. =. .. .-..._-- .".... Habitat: ._.._ — Ideal eastern bluebird.habitat consists of mixed hardwood forests and grasslands. The grassy areas may consist of meadows, pastures, yards, cemeteries, highway ROWs, power line ROWs, or prairies. Mowed areas such as golf courses, and grazed areas also provide suitable habitat. Bluebirds prefer rural areas away from buildingsdue to competition from starlings and sparrows. These open areas provide foraging territory, and nearby trees serve as nesting locations. Although eastern bluebird populations are on the rise, the largest threat to their future. Is the continued loss of habitat. By protecting snags and properly managing open areas, landowners can assist in" the continued success of eastern bluebirds and other species that rely on similar habitat. : . :.. Breeding: Eastern bluebirds are acavity nesting species, but they do not have the ability to create their own cavities. They must_rely on the abandoned nests of woodpeckers and flickers or find other natural cavities. Bluebirds will also nest in the open top of a rotted out stump or fence post. In the spring the bluebird is one of the earliest species to begin nesting. Usually the males arrive first and pick out a nesting site, then begin to sing to _a_ttracj; ajemale. A male bluebird w.illadamantly defend his nesting site, so when erecting boxes one must insure that they are located far enough apart to allow for distinct breeding territories. Once a female is attracted, the male begins an elaborate display of songs, flying maneuvers, and offerings of food. ------ If the female accepts the male's courtship display, nest building will begin and is generally performed by both sexes. The nest building process will continue for 4 to 12 days. The nest itself is a neatly woven shallow cup of dried grass and weed stems.. Eggs are laid_at a rate of one per day until the usual clutch size of 4 to 5.eggs is reached... The^eggs are pale blue and approximately 1/2 inch in length. The female begins incubating the eggs after the last one is laid and continues incubating them for 12 to 14days. The male is usually busy defending the nest, but will sometimes assist with incubation. When the young are:hatched they are blind, featherless^ and totally .dependent on their parents for food, warmttu and cleaning. Both the parent birds will assist with feeding the young. At birth the young are fed small tender insects and later larger insects. With the parents making hundreds of trip per day to supply food, the nestlings will.quadruple their size before they leave the nest, 15 to 18 days after birth. When the time for fledgin~g~.irrives£ tfieparents will stop feeding the young and call to them from outside the nest. The fledglings will leap from the nest and take their first flight, hopefully to a small tree or shrub that is within 100 feet. By this time the male will have already selected a new nesting location and have begun building ajiewiTest. The family will then travel to the new nesting location and the cycle begins again. Bluebirds usually raise 2 to 3 broods over the course of the breeding season. Since bluebirds will not use a box with a nest already inside, it is imperative to remove old nests if boxes are to be used more than once in a season. At'the end of the breeding season, families travel together as one large groupjtnd begin foraging :dhd preparing for the. upcoming"winter. AR309827 Important Food Items: Approximately two-thirds of the diet of an adult eastern bluebird consists of insects," B luebirds feed by perching on a highpoint, such as a branch or power line, and then swooping down to catch insects spotted near the ground. Favored foods are grasshoppers, crickets, katydids, and beetles. The remainder of the bird's diet consists of wild fruits. Fruits are especially important when insects are scarce in the winter months. The availability of a winter food source will often determine whether or not a bird will migrate. If die birds do remain for the winter, they will gather in groups and seek cover in heavy thickets and orchards. Some of their preferred winter foods include dogwood, hawthorn, wild grape, sumac, and hackbeny. Establishing an Eastern Bluebird Management Program Prior to developing an individual species management program for eastern bluebirds, the site must create a framework within which the program can establish itself and expand. This will allow a full understanding of why certain projects are being implemented, what the final goals of the program are, how the program will be implemented, and how success will be monitored. This framework should consist of: * the establishment of a wildlife habitat team which will implement and monitor the program. • the completion of an inventory to determine if the targeted species can feasibly inhabit the proposed area, and • the establishment of a maintenance and monitoring plan to document the program and maximize its chance of success...... : . 1. Assess the Site and Develop a Management Plan Prior to the development of a management plan, the wildlife team should assess the site to determine if it is suitable habitat for eastern bluebirds. As mentioned earlier, eastern bluebirds inhabit areas which are mixed hardwood forests and grasslands. The birds need open areas for foraging and trees for cover and food. If in its present state the site does not meet the habitat requirements of the eastern bluebird, the wildlife team must determine which components are missing. Are there suitable nesting cavities? Is there suitable vegetation for a winter food source? Is there a sufficient amount of open area with trees and shrubs nearby? These are example of questions which must be addressed while the wildlife team is developing the management plan. As a guide, the team should keep in mind the four basic habitat components required by all animal species: food, cover, space, and water. During the initial site assessment, the team should take an inventory of wildlife and plants using the area designated as potential eastern bluebird habitat. Wildlife species recorded during the inventory could be used as indicator species. If the identified species' habitat requirements are similar to those of eastern bluebirds, there is a high probability that bluebirds will also use this area. The wildlife team should proceed by developing a comprehensive management plan that insures all habitat requirements are provided on or near the site. AR309828 II. Habitat Enhancement Opportunities ^ ,. ^ _ JL The following projects are designed to provide habitat components which may be missing from your eastern bluebird management area.... During the implementation of these recommendations, those overseeing the projects should understand the ecological impact of each project and what effect it is designed to have on the surrounding area. Management on one area will have an effect on other areas, particularly on wildlife which obtain their living requirement from more than one type of habitat. A. Enhance Vegetative Diversity to Provide a Winter Food Source As mentioned earlier, eastern bluebirds obtain their food primarily from insects. However, in the winter, when insects are scarce, bluebirds rely on fruits for sustenance. To enhance your land for bluebirds, WHC recommends planting some species which will provide a year-round source of food. The following species are known to be included in the diet of eastern bluebirds. Plants marked with an asterisk (*) offer good "famine food," meaning that they are particularly valuable during the late winter and early spring when other food sources may be exhausted. blueberry wild grape* American holly* winterberry pokeweed firethorn black cherry chokecherry eastern redcedar* flowering dogwood mulberry American elder greenbrier*. . sumac* blackhaw spicebush poison ivy blackberry bayberry* Virginia creeper hackberry These species may be used to enhance vegetation which already exists or may be incorporated into a plan to vegetate ail area. Either, way, planting some of the above species will enhance your site as a habitat area for the eastern bluebird. ..,-.. B. Protect and/or Create Snags The term "snag" is used to describe any dead standing tree. Although snags may appear worthless to some, they are actually a valuable resource to wildlife, especially to bluebirds. Bluebirds are unable to excavate their own nesting cavities and are thus called "secondary cavity users." They rely on other "primary excavator" species such as flickers and woodpeckers to create the cavities from the soft wood of dead trees. Woodpeckers and flickers rely on the presence of snags to create their nesting cavities, so snag preservation is critical to second_ary cavity users such as eastern bluebirds. Eastern bluebirds will also, use snags to search for insects in the decaying bark. Whenever human safety is not an Issue, snags should be left standing. Eventually they will fall down and decompose, thus returning their nutrients to the soil. If there is a shortage of snags, it is possible to create them by "girdling" selected trees. This is done by carving a two inch strip of bark away from the circumference of the tree. The cut should be made deep enough to penetrate the green cambium layer of the tree. This technique will slowly kill the tree, thus creating a snag. When choosing a tree for girdling, avoid mast producing species such as maples, oaks, \ and beech which are an important food supply for many species of wildlife. The number of snags in an ~"^ area is critical. Generally it is advised that on one acre of forested land, there should be one snag larger than 20 inches DBH (diameter at breast-height), four snags between 10 and 20 inches DBH, and two snags between 6 and 10 inches DBH. ; — - /5R309829 Figure 3. Eastern Bluebird Nest Box Design Hole for mounting bolt (Placing rubber tubing between the wood and the bolt will help prevent the wood from splitting as the tree grows Entrance hole 1 1/2 inch diameter Floor recessed 1/4 inch Bottom View o o Drill four 1/4" o o drain holes Construction Notes: B oxes should be constructed of 3/4 to 1 inch weather resistant wood (e.g. cedar). The outside may be painted or Treated but not the interior. The lid or side should be hinged to facilitate monitoring and cleaning. The floor of the box should be recessed 1/4 inch to allow drainage. Floor Side Side Back Front Roof 5" 9" 9" 12" 9" "71/2" Interior Nest Box Dimensions finches) . "" Floor Area Cavity Depth Heigh of Boxt Entrance Hole Above Floor 5"X5" 6" 10" 1 1/2" diameter AR309830 Figure-4. Predator Guard Design In order to insure the protection of the eggs and die nestlings, predator guards should be attached to ail the eastern bluebird nest box support posts. The guard keeps animals such as raccoons and snakes from entering the box and disturbing the nest. Materi a]p, n ceded: A. The guard should be cut from a sheet of galvanized steel. B. Three sheet metal screws for each guard are required to secure the guards to the nest box support C. Three pieces of 12" x 3/16" strap iron for each guard. Overlap cue edge to Top View ^^—-—————-^^ ^^^^ this dotted line Cutout 60° wedge Cut out centers: 5" hole fits 4" post 6" hole His 5" post '71/4" hole fits 6" post Supporting Brackets: 3 Sheet metal screws • Post beneath eastern bluebird nest box AR30983 C. Maintain Open Areas Open fields should be preserved to provide foraging grounds for eastern bluebirds. This will usually require establishing a program to maintain targeted areas as open field habitat. All fields go through a process of natural succession, the process by which vegetation changes over time, eventually resulting in more forested habitat which is less conducive to bluebirds. The replacement of valuable open fields by forests may threaten the quality of bluebird habitat in an area, and should therefore be controlled to insure the success of a bluebird management plan. The easiest method of maintaining an open field habitat is to develop a yearly mowing' or rotational mowing schedule, depending on the size of the designated area. Rotational mowing is a system of dividing the designated area into strips which are at least 50 feet wide and mowing them every third year (Figure 2). One strip would be mowed the first year and the others left alone. During the second year, the second strip would be mowed and the others left alone. This process would continue until all sections have been mowedand then the cycle starts over. The strip sizes are provided as general recommendations and can be adjusted according to the size of the field; however, 50 feet should be the minimum width. Narrower sections provide less protection from predators and will be avoided by bluebirds. For field areas which are less than 150 feet in width, rotational mowing is not necessary. These areas can be maintain by conducting a yearly mowing of the entire area. All mowing should be conducted in late fall to prevent the destruction of ground nesting species, and to allow the areas to grow back to a sufficient level to provide food during the winter. Areas maintained as open fields should be mowed to a height of four to six inches. 300 feet a. 150ft. Figure 2. Example of rotational mowing techniques. Numbers depict the year that each section is mowed, a) Smaller fields where only threestrips are necessary, b) Larger field that is divided into six strips. Notice that by the third year each strip has been mowed at least once, D. Erect Artificial Nesting Cavities The placement of artificial nesting structures has played an important role in recent efforts to boost eastern bluebird populations. Nest box programs have been a tremendous success and by starting one, landowners can greatly assist in efforts to insure that eastern bluebird populations remain at a stable level 1. Maintenance and Monitoring Before any nesting structures are erected, the wildlife team should design a maintenance and monitoring program to document the success of the project, and to insure that any problems which may occur can be detected and alleviated. If neglected, boxes can be damaged by weather. Since bluebirds often raise more than once clutch each season, old nests must be cleaned out of the boxes if they are to be used more AR3Q9832 than once during the breeding season. The boxes should not_be removed during the winter because they will provide shelter for many species ;of mammals and birds." The wildlife team should develop a monitoring pfogranTwhich insures that .the .bpxes.will.be monitored at least once a week during the breeding season. ^However, boxes should not beopened after the 12th following hatching to prevent young from prematurely leaving the nest. The team should not erect more boxes than they can realistically monitor weejdy, because it may be counter productive by_helping to increase populations of exotic competitor species sucE' as European startling and English sparrow. Once the monitoring program is in place, the site should enroll in WHCs Nest Monitoring Program. Participants in this program are asked to register each year and submit summary data forms at the end of the breeding season. Each year WHC compiles the results into a database. Participation in this program is required for certificatiorilhrough WHC's Corporate Wildlife Habitat Certification Program. To enroll in WHC's. Nest Monitoring Program please contact WHC at (301) 588-8994. 2. Design Nest boxes should be constructed of a durable wood that can be made weather resistant; cedar is often recommended. The wood can be painted, stained, and/or treated but only on the outside surface. The entrance hole should be round and 1 l/2inches in diameter. This measurement is crucial because a larger entrance hole will allow starlings to enter.. .Additional dimensions for eastern bluebird nest boxes are shown in Figure 3.; -Nest boxes should not have perches because these will encourage use by starlings. The floor of the box should be recessed 1/4 inch from the lower edge of the sides to allow for rain to drain out. The side of the box must be hinged to allow for monitoring. All bluebird boxes should be fitted with an aluminum predator guard such as the one depicted in Figure 4. This conical sheet of metal should be 18 inches wide and placed twelve inches or more below the bottom of the box. 3, Placement Eastern bluebird nest boxes should be located in open grassy area with scattered trees and shrubs. Boxes should be placed at least 100 yards apart to allow for individual territory size during the breeding season. It is also recommended that the boxes be placed well away from buildings because of the high concentration of English sparrows and European starlings generally found near human habitations. Nest boxes should be mounted three to five feet high on a metal or wooden post. Some research has shown that if the box is placed low, at three to four feet, this may help to deter sparrows. Boxes should face away from prevailing winds and preferably in a southerly direction to- take advantage of sunlight which will help control moisture. A tree or shrub should.be located 25 to 100 feet in front of the entrance to the box, as fledglings will fly to this shelter on their first flight. It is also important that the nest boxes be located far away from any area which is frequently treated with pesticides or herbicides since the birds feed on insects and berries.. Overall, the wildlife team should attempt to accommodate the natural nesting instincts of the birds while still allowing for weekly monitoring during the breeding season. If predators discover a nest box location, they will continue to return for future eggs, nestlings, and adult bluebirds. If predation becomes a problem, relocating nest boxes every three years may be a solution. 4. Control of Exotic Species - :-_:_:?:::" One of the factors~whicn~has led to the decline of eastern bluebird populations is competition with non- native species, namely European starlings and English sparrows. By using the nest box dimensions described is this pamphlet, starlings should be prevented from entering the boxes. However, English sparrows will continue to be a threat. This exotic species will compete with native species for nesting sites, going so faras to destroy, the eggs an~d.fledglings of native birds. However, there are simple steps you can take to discourage exotics .from. becprning^establisJT.ed at your site. If you discover an English sparrow nest, remove it from the box and take it out of the Immediate area. Trapping and eliminating the birds is" even more effective than simply removing the nests. If you are uncomfortable with removing AR309833 the birds or nests, another option is to shake the eggs and leave them in the nest so that they will not hatch and the adults will continue to incubate the eggs. This will prevent the exotic species from attempting to take over another box...... ___. ^^ III. Employee/Community Outreach Opportunities The development of an eastern bluebird management program may provide your site with the opportunity to incorporate an employee/community outreach program into the habitat management plan. Nest box programs are an excellent way to introduce people to the positive impact humans can have on native wildlife. A. Develop An Eastern Bluebird Nest Box Trail On many sites it is feasible to place the eastern bluebird nest boxes in a manner which accommodates their natural nesting habitat and allows for the creation of a nest box trail. Placing the boxes along a trail will not only facilitate monitoring, but it will allow access to the managed area at the site's discretion. Sites can create a trail map which marks the exact location of each box. To involve the maximum number of people, some sites have allowed individuals or groups to "adopt" a nest box and take on the responsibility of monitoring it each week and reporting the data to a central location. This type of program would also allow for school and community groups to participate in the program. A bluebird trail could be started as a precursor to a more elaborate nature trail planned for the future. Figure 5 shows an example of how an eastern bluebird trail might look. You must insure when establishing the trail that boxes are spaced at a proper distance and that all other habitat requirements are met. Figure 5 also shows a technique for walking to the boxes. This method is designed to reduce the presence of human scent and thus minimize the threat of predators discovering the boxes. - 7 100 yards ______\ Figure 5. Walking to the nest boxes by an indirect route may help to reduce predation. Avoid walking to and from the box on the same path. As is evident from the information provided in this pamphlet, humans can play an important role in the restoration of eastern bluebird populations. By preserving habitat and developing active management plans, the future of this species can be secured. NEST MONITORING PROGRAM RESULTS EASTERN BLUEBIRDS PRODUCED IN NEST BOXES AT WHC MEMBER SITES 1991 ...... 774 1992 ...... „...,.....,.,,..1428 1994...... 2141993...... 1760 AR309831* References Anonymous, Snag and Den Tree Habitats for Wildlife. Wyoming Game and Fishing Department. Bull, John and John Farrand, Jr. 1977. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds, Eastern Region. Alfred A, Knopf, New York. 784 pp. Ehrlich, Paul R., David S. Dobkin, and Darryl Wheye. 1988. The Birder's Handbook: A Field Guide to the Natural History of North American Birds. Simon & Schuster Inc., New York. 785 pp. Gourlay, V.M. 1979. A sheltered feeder for bluebirds. Sialia. 1: 144-145. Patterson, R.M. 1981. Protecting nesting boxes from climbing predators. Sialia. 3: 133-135. Pinkouski, B.C 1977. Foraging behavior of the eastern bluebird. Wilson Bulletin. 89: 404-414. Robbins, Chandler S., Bertel Bruun, and Herbert S. Zim. 1983. Birds of North America. Western Publishing Company, foe., Racine, Wisconsin. 360 pp. Shalaway, Scott. 1994. Conservation trails. Wild, Bird, March:32-35. Solem, Joanne K. and Mark D. Wallace. 1992. Bluebird Handbook for Howard County, Maryland. Maryland Ornithological Society. Howard County, Maryland 28 pp. Stokes, Donald and Lilian. 1989. A. Guide to Bird Behavior, Volume HI. Little, Brown, and Company. Boston, Massachusetts. 397 pp. Stokes, Donald and Lilian. 1990. The Easy Guide to Attracting Nesting Birds: The Complete Birdhouse Book. Little, Brown, and Company. Boston, Massachusetts. 95 pp. Terres, John K. 1991".'.The Audubon Society Encyclopedia ofNorth American Birds. Wings Books, New York. 1110 pp. Zeleny, L. 1976! The Bluebird. Indiana University Press, Bloomington, Indiana. 170 pp. Wildlife Habitat Council 1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 920 Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301)588-8994 Printrt on Recycled Paptr February IV. 4 flR309835 Site Inventory U lit/life Habitat Council Management Series ' Introduction One of the greatest advantages of having a wildlife program is the opportunity it provides to be outside. WHC recommends starting your wildlife program with a site inventory. An inventory includes a listing of the variety of habitats_and wildlife on your site. Conducting an inventory is an excellent way to promote employee interaction and interest in the program. Experienced birders, amateur naturalists, and wildflower gardeners, for example, can provide the expertise for leading surveys of the area. Less experienced but interested people can be teamed with leaders to increase their own identification" skills and wildlife knowledge. This can be a great way to introduce employees to the wildlife team and get them involved. Community groups such as the Audubon Society, ornithological societies, volunteer naturalists at nearby parks or local nature centers, and biology or ecology departments at local universities may also be of assistance. Children are also big fans of wildlife and enjoy identifying species. If you are able to include local school or scout groups on some of your inventory dutingl, by all means do so. By briefing children first and taking them in small groups, you will keep them interested and focussed on the wildlife. Keep in mind that wildlife includes plants as well as animals. An ecosystem, by definition, is a community of plants and animals together with its environment. By understanding the basic interrelationships that occur in an ecosystem between the physical world (i.e. soil, topography, weather), plants, wildlife, and humans, you will easily develop a framework for your project and understand the diversity potential of your site. Since an inventory is an ongoing project that should be repealed seasonally, you will never completely finish. However, you will continue to add species as enhancement projects generate greater diversity on site and your species identification skills improve. - -- - ._...... -_ WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL- 1010 Wiyne Ave.Suite 920 Sflvnr Spring.MD 20910(301)38B-8S94 AR309836 Before You Start There are a few things you should keep in mind before you start your inventory. Take Small Groups By taking small groups of two or three you will reduce the amount of disturbance to wildlife. The quieter you are, the more wildlife you will see and the less you wfll trample. Bring the Right Gear It is important to have the proper gear, field glasses, field guides (Appendix 1 lists a number of good field guides), note pads, pencils, a site map, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, a first aid kit, and a hat are important to take along on your outing. You can pare down the list as you see fit, but the right equipment will make your inventory go smoothly. Be Aware Keep In mind that plants arc wildlife and provide essential food and cover for animal species. Plan your route to minimize impact on vegetation. Be aware of dangers that may exist on site. Each site has its own particular set of potential hazards, and it is very important to identify these before starting your inventory or wildlife program. In addition, familiarize yourself with plants such as poison ivy, and be cautious around any animals you encounter. Vary Times When planning your outings, keep in mind that animals are not always active during the day. Some species are most active at dusk and dawn, whereas others only appear at night Ponds, waterways, and edges between fields and woodlands are great places to look. A good strategy is to plan outings at varying times of day: one in the early morning, one at mid-day, and one in the evening. A nightrime walk is a great way hear the night sounds on your site and identify their sources. Elements of an Inventory T. Physical Characteristics The best way to start your inventory is to record some of the physical characteristics of your site. Your record should include topography, soil type, weather and climate data, and land use information. A. Topography Describe the topography of your site in terms of rolling, fiat, or mountainous. Note any cliffs. caves, marshes or open water on your site. All of these aspects can have effects on the structure and composition of the vegetation and the unique habitats that exist on your site. You may obtain information on the geology of your site from the United States Geological Survey*. B. Soils Plants species growth, and composition are directly affected by soil characteristics. One way to estimate the soil types on your site is to obtain and use United States Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service (USDA SCS) soil survey maps. Soil type can also be determined by the types of vegetation found on site and their preferences. You may wish to have your soil tested by a local nursery or the SCS. See Appendix 2 for a list of SCS Offices. Soil structure, texture, and erosional potential can be identified through a soil test. * The US, Geological Survey National Center is located in Reslon, VA, 22092, phone (703) 648-4000. The USGS has two major regional centers in Denver, CO, and Menio Park, CA, as well as 300 field offices. AR309837 C. Weather and Climate jasonal and annual precipitation, temperature, and solar radiation are important to consider. These factors will determine lat wildlife species are able to inhabit your site. Contact your local weather service for the information. D. Land Use Land use on surrounding areas as well as historical land use (e.g. farmland) of your site may reveal hints for identifying the types of species you can expect to see. You can obtain this infonnation through zoning records, other government records, • or by talking to your neighbors. IL^Vegetation Site vegetation and landscape structure essentially determine habitat suitability and potential for wildlife. Classify areas of your site as habitats (e.g. meadow, wetland, woodland, transitional etc.). When you are conducting your plant inventory, look for species composition, diversity, height, percent cover, and available and preferred food. In basic terms, this means: • What types of plants occur? • Is one species dominant or are there many species? • How tall and dense is the vegetation? « How much of the ground is under vegetative cover? • Are the plant species food sources for wildlife? » Are there plant species wJoich are particularly attractive food sources (fruit, seeds, buds, flowers, browse, herbage) ? A. Sampling Techniques — - WHEC recommends using one of the following sampling techniques when doing your plant inventory. These techniques are often used by biologists to model community structure and to statistically compare sites based on foliar density, species diversity, etc. Your objective is much simpler, but using a sampling technique will result in accurate data for your inventory. Identify and list the plant species you encounter, and get a feel for diversity by comparing relative abundance of each plant species you find. The puipose of using a sampling method is to ensure that you get an objective and accurate look at the vegetation on your site. Otherwise, you may only be drawn to the. showy flowers or large tree species on your site. Another advantage to using a sampling technique which ensures random and unbiased results, is to be able to compare results before and after enhancement projects. If you are able to estimate the diversity on your site prior to enhancement, you will be able to more clearly see your successes when projects are in place. 1. Line Transect The line transect method is conducted by placing lines randomly across your study site. Identify and record the species that your lines intercept. The transect length, distance between transects, and number of transects per acre are arbitrary. To ensure accurate results, though, keep these three variables constant for all acres sampled. AR309838 2. Sample Plots The sample plot method consists of designating circular, square, or rectangular sample areas with tape or line and identifying and recording all the species within each plot Plots can be randomly or systematically placed. Sizes of plots vary per site size, but good ranges are: • lOraX 10m to 45m X 45m (up to 1/2 acre) for trees, • 4 m X 4 m to 12 m X 12 m for woody undergrowth up to 3 m in height, and • lmXlmto6mX6m for herbaceous vegetation. The number of plots you choose to sample is up to you and the time you have available. The more sample plots you study the more accurate your inventory will be. B. Identification Think about your site in terms of ecosystems and habitats. In an ecosystem, there are numerous intricate relationships occurring, not just individual species existing independently. Proper identification of a particular ecosystem can provide valuable information on the types of plants and animals which may exist on site. For example, if you identify an ecosystem (e.g. river, flood plain, prairie, northern hardwood forest) you will know what species to expect in the area. You will also be able to determine species whichshould be present but are not. This information may give you clues as to how you may enhance your site's habitats and increase your site's diversity. Before you set out to do your sampling and identification, familiarize yourself with your field guides, so that you can easily refer to them once you are in the field. Use a sampling technique to get an accurate record of the vegetation on site. Take note of any species you see along the way to improve your identification skills. Dead or dying trees, known as snags, are important habitat components. Record any snags on your site. In addition, fallen logs on site, as they provide cover and moist microclimatic conditions for wildlife. While you arc Identifying the vegetation on site, look for signs of animal and insect wildlife. Note partially eaten vegetation, holes in the ground and trees, bird orsquirrel nests, scratches orothermarks on trees, tracks, dropping, and any other indications of use by wildlife. Take note of plants as large as trees and as small as lichens. In between these two extremes are forbs, grasses, shrubs, and more. The following identification tips may be helpful to you: 1. Trees and Shrubs: Identify by looking at leaves, flowers, fruits (pine cones, acorns, berries, etc.), bark, buds, and shape, 2. WHdflowers/Forbs: A wildfloweror forb is are flowering herbaceous plants that is native to specific regions and able to grow and reproduce in nature without human assistance. Identify by color, size, and structure. Structure includes how flowers are clustered. number of petals or petal-like parts, and shape of flowers and leaves. 3. Grasses, Rushes, Sedges: These plants are often difficult to distinguish from each other. A grass is a plant with long, narrow leaves that enwrap a hollow jointed stem. A rush is a grasslike plant with solid round stems. A sedge is a plant with triangular stems and clustered fiowerhead, usually found growing in a wetland. 4. Ferns: A fern is a leafy delicate plant with divide leaves. Identify by structure, shape, and habitat. 5. Mosses, Liverworts, Hornworts: These plants are usually less than an inch tall and often grow in clusters 6. Lichens: Small mosslike plants growing on rocks, trees, soil, and numerous other surfaces. Lichens are remarkably adaptable and are able to live where many other plants cannot. Identify by color, structure, and habitat. AR309839 Appendix 2. United States-Tlerforttrierit of Agrimmire. Soil Conservhtinn Service Offices for Soil Alabama - -Georgia Maine Nevada d - Federal.Building . ,. 444 Stillwater Ave ' 5301 LongLey Lane , Al 36830 .. _._.——355. E..Hancock Ave Bangor, ME 04401 Building F, Suite 201 (205) 8218070 ;"Athens~ , GA" 3060" 1 ' (207) 942 034" 2 - " ~~ Reno- *™895U Alaska Maryland M „ ,. c -, -jfvi -rt - •• T L rr « . New Hampshire Suite 3CO Hawau John Hanson Business Federal Building 201 E. 9th Ave 300 Ala Moana Blvd. Center Durham, NH 03824 Anchorage, AK 99501-3687 Room 4316 ; 339 Busch's Frontage Rd . (603)8687581 (907)2712424 __..______;_Honolulu,HI96850_ Suite301 (808) 5412600 Annapolis, MD 21401 New Jersey Arizona _ •-_•--_• (301)7570861 1370 Hamilton St Suite200. • ..---::.__. . rildaho " "" " " ~" ~ """-""' " " Somerset,NJ08873 201 East Indianola 3244 Elder St Michigan (201) 2461662 Phoenix, A2 85012 Room 124 . 1405 Soutii Harrison Rd v M . (602) 2612247 . ~ ~ Bofse, ID 83705 ' . Room 101 517 <^d\ve SW (208)3341601 ' . East Lansing, MI 48823 Room 3301 Arkansas .-._„..: .._.—. .... _ .. ..-(517)3376701 Albuquerque,NM87102 Federal Office's uilding Illinois (505)7663277 Room 5404 .,= —l9DZPox Dr . _ .__.__. .Minnesota. _ 700 W. Capitol St. " Champaign, H 61320 .. 600 Farm Credit Building New York Little Rock. AR 72201 (217)T98 5267 ..... 37_5 Jackson St" JaiTles M- HanleyFed- (501)3785445 ...... _.„.__ . ....____ "siPaul,MN55101-1854 Room771 Indiana ... : (612)2903675 1™^^™% ..California 6013 Lakeside Blvd j VT3CUS*„ S *P -„i Y. 1J ZtrtJ U21-C2nd St., Suite 102 . --'iHdfanapolis, IN 46278 ... . . -Mississippi J 'Davis.CA 95516 : _1~ " (317_) 2903200. ."'?:. '"^..... Federal Building, Suite North Carolina (916)4492848 ... __...,.- _ .,.. .,...... „-_ . _, ;r_ . __ 1321 4405 Bland Rd, Suite 205 Iowa"" ~ --.;——— - 100 West Capitol St Raleigh, NC 27609 Colorado . 693 Federal-Building Jackson, MS 39269 (919) 790 2888 655ParfetSt .. . . 210 Walnut St . (601)9655205 RoomE200C. ——;-.— - Ses'Momes, IA 50309 ^ ;------. North Dakota Lakewood, CO 80215-5517 (515)'284 4261 Missouri ' Federal Building, Room 278 ,~n^T*£-->QQt - --- - .._..;. 220 East Rosser Ave (jOo)2jp255D -. -^.T^,- -_^^.,-,-^ .....;-, .: ^,-,..^._-^_..^,.,.^-Parkad—— e Center- , Suite 25-U Bismarck, NDvm<2^pr 58502 t Kansas • .;-...... 601 Business Loop, 70 (701)^504421 Connecticut. _.;.._ ..__. 760 Souch Broadway West 16 Professional Park . .. Salina.KS 67401 Columbia, MO 65203 . Qhio Storrs, CT 06268-1.295,...:"-T-.- (913) 823 4565" . " .... :... :.:(314)T76"09V 1 Room 522 . (203)4874011 ...... ____._____._.__...... _.__ 200 North High St Kentucky Montana Columbus, OH 43215 Delaware 77.1.Corporate Dr, Suite 110 Federal Building, Room 443 (614)4696962 1203.College Paik Drive " " LexlngtonTKY 40503 10 "East Babcock Suite A " r^nfiY7^47364 - Bozeman, KT"59715 Oklahoma ^UUDovere *, DE1990. OQn1i ...(606). 2- 4 13M - T- -. -- - •^ .-(406)^58 > 7 6813. " ~ ^ AgriculturaRoad ^l CenteBmmler Buildiny St g (302)6784160. . _.._ :__;Louisiana Nebraska Stillwater, OK74074 3737 Government S_t______...._Federal Building, Room 345 (405)6244360 Florida .— - Alexandria, LA 71302 100 Centennial Mall, North Federal Building - (318) 473 7751 Lincoln, NE 68508 40lSElstAve .....___._._.._ .... _ ...... _.. (402) 437 5300 Gainesville,FL32601 . .._. ._.___! ~'~.^. \ ".. .. ._. ..",.."...: . , ". ... "_,. ." (904)377.0946. """.".--_-.-_-.,__:_;_-,—.._-. ....:./ ,,..",_...... ;:..,. . ".".;..../-.. ,. , .. AR3098UO Oregon Virginia National Technical Centers Federal Building, 16th Floor Federal Building, Room 9201 1220 SW Third Ave 400 Norrh Sth St Portland, OR 97204 Richmond, V A 23240 Midwest (503) 326 2751 (804) 771 2475 Midwest National Technical Center Pennsylvania Washington Federal Building 1 Credit Union Place 316 Boone Ave, Suite 450 10° Centennial Mall. North Suite 340 Spofcane, WA 99201 Lincoln, NE 68508-3866 Wildwood Center (509) 353 2336 C4^2) W5346 Hamsburg,PA17UO (717) 782 2202 West Virginia Northeast 75 High St, Room 301 Northeast National Technical Rhode Island Morgantown, WV 26505 Center 60 Quaker Lane, Suite 46 (304) 2914151 160 Ean7th St West Warwick, RI02886 Chester, PA 19013 (401) 8281300 Wisconsin (215) 499 3903 6515 Wans Rd, Suite 200 South Carolina Madison, WI53719 South SmxnThurmond Federal (608)2645577 . South National Technical Bldg. Center 1835 Assembly St, Room 950 Wyoming Fort Wonh Federai Center Columbia, SC 29201 Federal Office Building BldS-23'Room ® (803)7655681 100 East B St • Felix and HemphiU Streets Caspar, WY 82601 Fort Worth, TX 76115 South Dakota (307) 261 5201 C817) 334 5253 Federal Building ZOO 4th St, SW West Huron, SD 57350 Wes: Nanonal Technical (605) 353 1783 . ^nter Federai Building Tennessee 511NW Broadway US Courthouse, Room 675 Portiand A. Birds Bird walks are popular outings among people of all ages. The best time to look for birds is from dawn to mid-morning, since most avian species arc active during that time. Regardless of other equipment you choose to bring, binoculars and a field guide are essentiaL Regularly scheduled bird walks on your site may have the following benefits: • improve identification skills of your wildlife team, • stimulate interest in wildlife and wildlife programs among employees and in the community, and • increase your inventory of birds. When identifying birds, it is often helpful to determine the general type of bird it is, and then use your guide to narrow down the species. Familiarize yourself with the set-up of your field guide. This will allow you to quickly refer to the appropriate section when you see a bird. For example, most field guides have sections on waterfowl, birds of prey, woodpeckers, etc. Descriptive elements that arc helpful in identification are: • coloration and patterns on tail, eyes, back, and wings; - bird size (can be relative, e.g. smaller than a pigeon, bigger than a wren); • body, wing, tail, and bill shapes; • behavior (perching, darting, wagging tail, climbing, etc.); • flight pattern (soaring, dipping, etc.); and • song. - —— .... - -...._...... _..._ B. Mammals Habitat, range, and behavior will help you identify mammals. Mice, shrews, voles, and other small mammals may be caught in live capture traps which allow you to identify species and release them unharmed. In order to minimize the time the animal is captured, check the traps at least twice daily. Setting traps in the evening and checking in the morning is a good strategy, since many small mammals are nocturnal. Animal tracks and scat can help you identify mammals. Conducting a survey after a rain or snow will increase your chances of sighting and identifying animal tracks. Note that handling animal scat can be dangerous, as it may contain parasites and diseases which are harmful to humans. Overturned rocks and stumps, marks on trees, and other visual disruptions may be signs of medium and large mammals. Bears d raccoons will turn over rocks and stumps looking forgrubs and other food. Deer will browse in woodlands and along field- odland edges, leaving marks on the lower branches of trees. Bucks will rub their antlers on young trees, leaving marks. Black bears mark trees by clawing them at the highest point they can reach. AR3098142 C. Reptiles Snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators, and crocodiles are all reptiles. Often people arc apprehensive about reptiles. In fact, once you familiarize yourself with the many different species of reptiles and improve your identification skills. you will become fascinated by them. Reptiles are ectoiherms (cold-blooded); their body temperatures fluctuate with environmental temperatures. Because of this characteristic, reptiles are often seen on exposed rocks or blacktop sunning themselves, absorbing heat from the environment Therefore, the best time to look for reptiles on most sites is in the middle of the day. Identify snakes and lizards by coloration, patterns, size, and behavior. Identify turtles by shell shape, size, coloration, habitat, and behavior. Usually, land tortoises have domed shells, hard undersides, and are able to pull theirheads inside their shells. Water turtle cannot retreat inside their shells. Identify alligators and crocodiles by a pointed or rounded snout, color, size, and location. Like all wild animals, reptiles do not like to be surprised or handled by humans. Although many snakes and lizards are poisonous, some snakes and lizards, and many turtles are safe to handle and examine. Before approaching a reptile, though, make sure you know what it is and that it is safe to handle. If you arc unsure of the exact species you have found, it is usually best to view the species from a safe distance and retreat slowly. Most reptiles lay leathery eggs on land. If you see any eggs on your site, do not disturb them but do try to identify them by size, number, and location. D. Amphibians Salamanders, toads, and frogs are ail amphibians. Amphibians differ from reptiles in that amphibians spend the first part of their lives in aquatic habitats equipped with gills to breath. Eventually the young grow legs, develops lungs, and breaths air. A difference which may help you distinguish between amphibians and reptiles is that amphibians have moist skin, whereas most reptiles have dry, scaly skin. Many salamanders and frogs live in or near ponds, marshes, and lakes. By quietly approaching such habitats and looking carefully at the water's surface, you may spot individuals emerging. Toads, trcefrogs, and some salamanders live in upland areas. By looking under logs in a woodland, you may discover them, but be sure to carefully replace logs as they were found. Identify species by color, size, and habitat It is very important to note that amphibians have sensitive, moist, glandular skin that is easily damaged by human hands. To avoid harming species, make sure your hands are relatively dean and wet before touching amphibians. Another way to enjoy and identify amphibians is through a night walk on your site. Chorus frogs, such as the spring peeper, arc famous for their night sounds, and the more familiar bullfrog is well-known for its bass notes that say "jug-o'-rum." Children arc particularly fascinated by salamanders, toads, and frogs. If possible, include children in your search fc| amphibians on. site, AR3098U3 Fish and Mollusks A good way to inventory the fish on your site is to go fishing! This can be done with a pole, fly rod, or net Be sure to abide by fishing regulations and release what you catch. Identify by body and head shape, fins, coloration, patterns, size, and habitat. Mollusks include univalves (e.g. conch), bivalves (e.g. clam), and species without shells such as squid and octopus. Look along the water's edge for living mollusks or just their shells. Identify by shape, size, color, and habitat Note that many birds that feed on shellfish will drop mollusk shells quite a distance from where they found the mollusks. F. Insects Insects are an important part of any ecosystem. Most flowers rely on insects for pollination, and many bird species feed solely on insects. There arc at least 100,000 insect species~in North America. Subsequently, identifying the exact species of an insect is difficult Determining to which group an insect belongs is often adequate and enough of a challenge. Examples of such groups are: ladybug beetles, milkweed butterflies, swallowtails, honeybees, and dragonflies. fcts' bodies arc made up of three parts: the head, the thorax, and the abdomen. Identify insects by the color, size, and shape lese three parts, as well as wings, eyes, and habitat. Keep in mind that caterpillars are young insects. Identify by size, coloration, and habitat _•_:. _ . ._ . .._.__.__._ •_..__._... Conclusion An ongoing inventory of the wildlife on your site is a fun .arid exciting way to record the effects of your habitat enhancement programs. Not only will your identification skills improve immensely, but, hopefully, the species diversity on your site will increase continuously. Inventory outings are wonderful opportunities to attract employees to your wildlife projects and to get the word out on the projects going on"at your site, thereby improving community relations. At first, the information in this pamphlet may seem overwhelming and time consuming, but with experience, your team will be able to identify the flora and fauna on your site with ease, improve enhancement projects, and, ultimately, increase the biodiversity on your site. AR3098t»U Appendix 1. References Bookhout, Theodore, ed. 1994. ResearchandManagementTechniquesforWildlifeandHabitats. The Wildlife Society, Inc., Washington, DC Boiror and White. Peterson Field Guides - Insects of America North of Mexico. Hougfaton Mifflin Co., New York. Brown, Laurcn. 1979. Grasses - An Identification Guide. Houghton Mifflin Co., New York. 240pp. Burt, William H. and Richard P. Grossenheide. 1980. Peterson Field Guide — Mammals. Houghton Mifflin Co., NY. 289 pp. Collins, Henry Hill, Jr., assembled by. 1981. Harper and Row's Complete Field Guide to North American Wildlife - Eastern Edition. Harper and Row Publishers, NY. 714 pp. Conant Roger and Joseph T. Collins. 1991. Peterson Field Guide—Reptiles and Amphibians—Eastern/Central North America. Houghton Mifflin Co., NY. 450pp. Coombes, AJlen J. 1992. Eyewimess Handbooks - Trees. Dorling Kindersley, Inc., NY. 320pp. Knobel, Edward. 1980. Field Guide to Grasses, Sedges, and Rushes of the United States. Dover Publications, Inc., NY. S3 pp. Murie. Peterson Field Guides - Animal Tracks. Houghton Mifflin Co., NY. Peterson, Roger Tory. 1980. Pererson Field Guides-—Eastern Birds. Houghton Mifflin Co., NY. 384pp. Peterson, Roger Tory. 1990. Peterson Field Guides-Western Birds. Houghton Mifflin Co., NY. 432pp. Preston, Richard J. 1976. North American Trees. Iowa University Press, Ames, IA. 399pp. Ransom, Jay Ellis, assembled by. 1981. Harper and Row's Complete Field Guide to North American Wildlife - Western Edition. Harper and Row Publishers, NY. 809pp. Reader's Digest 1982. North American Wildlife: An Illustrated Guide to 2,000 Plants and Animals. The Reader's Digest Association, Inc., Pleasantville, NY. 559 pp. Schemnitz, Sanford D,, ed. 1980. Wildlife Management Techniques Manual. The Wildlife Society, Inc., Washington, DC. Stcbbins, Robert C. 1985. Peterson Field Guides-Western Reptiles and Amphibians. Houghton Mifflin Co., NY. 336pp. Westman, Walter E. 1985. Ecology, Impact Assessment, and Environmental Planning. John Wiley and Sons, NY. 532 pp. AR3098U5 Nest Monitoring Monitoring is a crucial part of any nest box, nesting platform, or ground nesting area program. It enables you to track the success of your program asrwell as identify potential problems such as predation, bad weather, parasites, and' undesirable introduced species. Monitoring allows you to measure the effectiveness of the program and avoid problems. It also allows your site to receive public recognition as" the benefits to wildlife can be clearly demonstrated. Placing boxes or platforms along a trail allows a systematic review and facilitates monitoring. Generally, nesting structures should be accessible with a ladder or placed at a level where the monitor can easily look inside. Nest monitors do not need to be experts at bird identification, they simply walk along the trail and check the assigned nests. To be a monitor you should enjoy observing birds and be willing to devote some time to the wildlife project. Nests should be monitored once a week during the breeding season. The season will vary from species to species: great- homed owls begin nestmfln January in the Northeast, while wrens nest from late April through August in the same region. It is only with regular monitoring that problems can be identified..and minimized, and the success of your program documented. Not monitoring leaves your program vulnerable to criticism of being a public image activity lacking credibility. NEST EXAMINATION Contrary to popular belief, birds rarely desert nests or abandon eggs because of disturbance. The easiest, most effective way of monitormg iteft" boxes is to life up the top and look inside. Opening the boxes briefly will enable you to obtain accurate counts of eggs and nestlings for certain songbirds (eg., bluebirds, wrens, chickadees, and titmice). It only takes a few minutes at each nest box to open the box and record the information on a data sheet (sample sheet is included for your review). You should: ._._... • Check the nests every week... _ _. .. _.. .._._„___.._... ..„ „,... , . : * Initially make some'soft noise as you approach the box.to give the female a chance to fly away. •Tap gently on the bqxj.efore opening to warn the female_of your approach. • Only open the box briefly to count eggs". "~ " * Make the final egg count after the female has begun to incubate. Songbirds do not generally incubate until the clutch is complete (i.e., until all the eggs have been laid). • Remove the old nest from box shortly after the young have fledged to allow the adults to reuse the box for another brood. Several species, including bluebirds and house wrens, will raise more than one clutch each breeding season. • Clean out all nest boxes each year. Only a few bird species will nest in a box that already contains a nest. • Record the infomation o"ri"a"data sheet. . .,_ _ You should not open the nest box if: • The weather is cold or rainy. * The young are about to. leave .the nest. - -_ - :- -___-— ______. . * The nest box.contains screech owls, barred owls, kestrels, great-crested flycatchers, or other species that should not be disturbed during the nesting cycle. ,-;.:...... :-_. - __ ._ . -..„-— ... - WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL'- 1010 Wayne Ave. Suite 920 SitverSpring, MD 20910 (301158$-SW4 £K 1301) 533-1692 By understanding the normal nesting cycle for individual species', you can anticipate the activity at the box. Regular monitoring allows indentification of problems if the expected activity is not observed. A bluebird nesting schedule is as follows: ....._. . . _. ._...... :_-_ :. . • Nest building 3 days -Egg lay ing 5 days • Incubation period 13-15 days • Fledglings leave nest 16-19 days • Parents feed fledglings 7-10 days WHC can provide nesting cycle information for all your managed species. OBSERVING PLATFORM AND LEDGE NESTERS Monitoring platform nesters such as herons, ospreys, and great horned owls should also be done on a weekly basis. Monitoring information should be gathered by observation from below as raptors are often protective of their nests. The nests should be left on the platform for the next breeding season as these birds will repair and add to existing nests. Pioneering adults also seem to be attracted to sites that include old nests. If monitoring mourning dove nests, however. remove the nest after the young have left. Nests on ledges/shelves should be managed according to species. Recent research has indicated that nests of eastern phoebes and barn swallows should be left undisturbed between seasons. Robin nests, on the other hand, should be removed after the young have left the nest. OBSERVING GROUND NESTERS Monitoring ground nesting birds such as least terns, killdeer, nighthawks, and black skimmers should be limited to observing the nesting site from a distance. Try to avoid disturbances in the nesting area as the eggs and young are vulnerable to predation when the adults leave [he site. It is still important to check the nests weekly and record your observations. Field glasses or spotting scopes are especially helpful when observing activities of the nesting pairs, monitoring the nesting cycle, and counting nestlings from a distance. Egg counts can be inferred and hatching success estimated. A sample record sheet for ground nesting species is included for your reference. POTENTIAL PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS ——— ' " " ~ grejaiors: Cats, raccoons, snakes, and red squirrels are all predators. Evening raids on nest boxes by raccoons suggest that these animals may learn to use human scent as a guide for locating nests that contain eggs and young. The nests can be protected by using post baffles/guards and/or post coatings such as Tanglefoot. Predators may be thrown off your scent by walking indirectly to each nest site. When approaching a box, continue 8 to 10 feet beyond it and retrace your steps taking a last large step sideways to the box. Other Cavity Nesters: Other unwanted birds may compete for the box. going as far as to destroy or puncture eggs. House (English) sparrows are the greatest threat. They are messy nest builders, using bits of plastic, string, and loose vegetation. Bluebirds on the other hand, make neat grass cups. If you discover a house sparrow nest, remove it from the box and take it out of the immediate area. Do not build a perch on the box as this encourages sparrows and is not necessary for songbirds. Trapping and eliminating English sparrows and European starlings is more effective ;han simply removing their nests. If you are uncomfortable with removing the nests or the birds, another option is to shake the sparrow or starling eggs and leave them in the nest so that they will not hatch. The adults will continue to incubate the eggs and not attempt to build another nest. . _ _. _.. _. It is against the law to remove nests or eggs of birds other than sparrows or starlings. Monitors need to be positive of bird and egg identification before taking action to remove them. A brief description of different species' nests and eggs is included as an insert to this document. - ._..... flR3098l*7 Recognizing Bird Nests and Eggs Introduced or_Pest Species Canada Goose: Ground nester. usually near water. Nests are of dry grass, forbs, moss, slicks, and aquatic vegetation. Down English Sparrow: Cavity nestef,~will use almost any cavity added when incubation begins. 4-7 eggs; white/neststained;74- including bird boxes. Messy nests of grasses, weeds, and trash, 90 mm. in length. lined with feathers, hair, and string. 3-7 eggs; white to greenish white, dotted and spotted with greys and browns; av. 23 mm. in. Red Tailed Hawk: Nest in deciduous tree. Bulky nest of sacks length. and twigs, lined with bark strips, evergreen sprigs, and green leaves. 2-3 eggs; white/bluish white, occasionally spotted with European Starling: Cavity riesterT will use nest boxes if brown; av. 60 mm. in length. entrance is large enough. Cavity filled with mass of material; grasses, weed stems, twigs, corn husks, etc. Nest slovenly built American Kestrel: Cavity nester, will use nest boxes. Little, if and carelessly kept; cup lined with fine grass and feathers. 4-5 any nesting material is used. 4-5 eggs; white/pinkish- white, eggs; pale bluish or greenish white, unmarked; av. 30 mm. in marked with browns, occasionally they are lavendar or length. unmarked; av. 35 mm in length. Killdeer: Ground nester, in open with gravel, stones, and Native species pebbles; unlined or lined with local materials. 4 eggs; buff, ;" "" marked with blackish/brown; 37 mm. in length. Eastern Bluebird: Cavity nester, will use nest boxes. Nest is „ VT loosely built cup of fine grasses and weed-talks. 4-5 eggs; MaUard' Ground nester, usually near water. Nest of cattails. unmarked, glossy pale blue, sometimes white; av. 21 mm. in *"**• and ^s. 7-10 eggs greenish buff, grayish buff, or -whitish; 58 mm. in length. Northern Bobwhite: Ground nester, in tall grasslands, brushy *"-*> Martin: Cavi^ nester' wil1 use apartment type bird- fields, open woodlands. Nest is a shallow depression lined with houses.Loos.elymadenestofgrasses,twigs,bark.Paper,stnng; grass, concealed by. a wpven-arch of vegetation. 12^6 eggs: «gg cup lined with fine grasses and decorated wuh fresh leaves, unmarked white to cream; av.' 30 mm! in length. "" " ' ^ eS8* pure white, slightly glossy; av. 24 mm. in length. Chickadee: Cavity nested will use ne.sffeoxes. Lines cavities White Breasted Nuthatch: Cavity nester, will use nest boxes. with wooi,hair,fur(rabbit),moss, feathers, insect cocoons, and Cavi[y lined WIth bark shreds' twISs- $™s rootlets' fur- and cottony fibers. 6-8 eggs; white, evenly spotted with reddish hair- 5'10 W whlle heavily marked Wlth hSht brown and brown dots; av. 16 mm m length. ' . [avendar sPots; av" I9 mm* in len§lh- .Mourning Dove: Nests in trees orshrubs. Nest is a platform of OsPrey: Nests in deciduous or coniferous trees or on erected sticks sparsely lined with grass and rootlets; eggs can often be P^nns. Nest is built of sticks, sod, cow dung, seaweed, etc., seen through nest from the ground. 2 eggs; white, unmarked and is reused each ^ WIth constant addltlons of aaamL 2' - with slight gloss; av. 28 mm. in length.. . - - ' " 4 e^s; white or buff, marked with olive brown; av. .61 mm in ...... length. Wood Duck: Cavity neTterrwill readily use nest boxes. Nest cavity is fined with wood chips and down. 6-15 eggs;'soHd Eastern Screech Owl: Cavity nester, will use nest boxes. Nest creamy white with no markings; av. 62 mm. in length. "' made from remnanl linin§ matenal- feathers> and fur debns from food. 2-7 eggs; solid white, no markings; av. 34 mm in Common Flicker: Cavity nester,' will use" nest b"oxs.~Use"s ~len§tn- sawdust if provided in nest 3aQX.6-8.eggs; pure white, brilliant , , , , ,, , -o - - Black Skimmer: Ground nester, on coastal beach, shell bank. gloss; av. 28 mm...... • _ gravelle••-,,.,.--,-**d parking lot. Nest is. an unhne,- dj scrap e among shells,_ M . 3---, Great Crested Flycatcher: Cavity nester, .will use nest boxes, 5 eggs; buff with brown blotches; av. 34 mm in length. Nests are" bulky masses of twigs, leaves, hair, feathers, bark fibers, rope, sometimes cast off snakeskins, and. pieces of cellophane. 5^8 eggs; yellowish or pinkish white steaked with dark brown; av. 23 mm. in length. Local natural History museums often have, nest and egg exhibits:. This provides a good visual basis for learning nes: and egg uieniificari Over AR3098U8 Barn Swallow: Nests on buildings or bridges, may use a nesting shelf. Nest is placed on ledge or rafter, made of mud and grass lined with feathers. 4-6 eggs; white with reddish brown spots; av. 19 mm. in length. Tree Swallow: Cavity nester, "will use nest boxes. Cup- shaped nest is built of grass and is often lined with feathers. 4-6 eggs; white, unmarked; av. 19 mm in length. Tufted Titmouse: Cavity nester, will use nest boxes. Bottom of cavity lined with bark strips, leaves, moss, grass; cup padded with hair, fur. and string. 5-6 eggs; white or creamy, speckled with small brown dots; av. 18 mm, in length. Downy Woodpecker: Cavity nester but prefers to exca- vate its own hole in trees. Eggs laid on bottom of cavity, no nesting material used. 4-5 eggs; pure white, little or no gloss; av. 19 mm. in length. House Wren: Cavity nester, will use nest boxes. Nest is made with a base of twigs and lined with grasses, plant fiber, hair, and feathers. 6-7 eggs; white deeply speckled with reddish or cinnamon-brown dots; av. 16 mm, in length. Parasilfis; Blowfly larvae a'ttach themselves to the feet, jegs, underside of wings, and beaks of newly hatched fledglings and draw out blood and other fluids. The female blowfly will lay 50:200 eggs in a grass nest. If the infestation is severe, fledglings may be killed or seriously weakened. A_wire.rn_esh. screen placed in_the bottom of the nest box will prevent the larvae from travelling back up through the nest once they have fallen through the screen. Parasites can transfer from one nest to the next, and it is therefore essential that the old nest is removed after the young fledge. Wear gloves when removing infested nests. . T -;;-:-,-...... -.,,,. . .-.-_ ^.-_ . .._": _:._ - --.^._._^-- -- Bad Weather Continued rain for several days may cause the nest to become very wet and young nestlings may die - especially if it is before their feathers develop. Native cavity nesting songbirds have a very poor sense of smell, and therefore, will not object to the wet nest being removed and replaced with dry grass clippings from the area. Especially hot weather can also be detrimental to nesting success. It is important that nest boxes contain ventilation openings on the bottom as well as the top of the box. A new technique to improve air flow and protect the box from bad weather is placing a dark shingle on the lid of the box. The shingle absorbs heat, creating wanner conditions near the top of the box. This, in effect, creates an air flow from'the bottom ventilation openings to the top openings. Certain sites have found this increased ventilation to be effective at combating extreme heat and humidity. SIGNS AND SIGNALS If you have more time, you may enjoy observing the acti.vitiespfjthe nesting pairs from a distance as well as when close ly monitoring the nest. Plan to spend about 5 minutes/nest every week and record the activities you see. Typical activities that may be observed include: • males singinglin and around the nest to . • incubating. proclaim territory, ------,-.-.- -• adults feeding young, • male and female birds examining"the nest, • adults removing fecal sacs (white sacs that • nest building, enclose young excrement), •egg-laying, _ . . ;":" ="__ "• young fledging. HELP WITH MONITORING You may find that time is sfrqrt.ancleyejT the_ couple of minutes a week needed to monitor each nest and record your observations is difficult )LO_find._.There_are_a.nuTnber of ways to solve this problem. • Local Audubon groups or ornithological societies"afe"6ften willing to help with monitoring. An arrangement can sometimes be made to have these groups monitor and manage your boxes and provide you with the results at the end of the breeding season. .:." ~.'" ~i~~~- -. ------_-._.....__..__;;-._ r_._^_._ • Partnerships can be set up with schools in the area. Students monitoring the nests will learn about the nesting cycle of different bird species and the habitats in which they live. • One method to involve both employees, and the local community is an "Adopt a BIuebird/Nestbox" program. Boxes can be put up for adoption and marketed as "real estate". Dow Chemical in Granville, Ohio successfully set up such a program as a contest. Obligations of the adoptive "parents" includes weekly monitoringand yearly maintenance of their box. Inforrnati6rFcbrTtairLrh"gl:he_.lpcatio.n.pf.the..boxes.and contest guidelines were distributed to all buildings to encourage employees-and their families to participate. A team-monitoring system was implemented with two people per box. This allows one person to be responsible if the other is on vacation or tied up in meetings. • Other incentive programs could inciu.de a small prize for monitoring a nest for one month. For example, Delhi Gas in Canton", Texas, rewarded participants with a Delhi hat embroidered with a bluebird! - Do not install more boxes than you can realistically, monitor. It is preferable to erect a smaller number of boxes and monitor them weekly, than to leave a large number unmanaged. If you have problems monitoring your boxes regularly, WHC is able to provide guidance. .. Remember monitoring is an essential part of your nest monitoring program. It only takes a jfe w minutes at each nest ever^y/ ...... _...... _.week to observ. e an. _.d. recor..— —.——...d .th _ __e. birds . .. . ' activities. AR3Q9850 References Bull, John and John Farrand. Jr. 1985. Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds. Alfred A. Knopf Inc., New York, 784 pp. Ehrlich, Paul R., David S. Dobkin, and Darryl Wheye. 1988, The Birder's Handbook; A Field Guide To the Natural History of North American Birds. Simon & Schuster Inc., New York, 785 pp. Harrison, Hal H. 1975. A Field Guide to Birds Nests. The Peterson Field Guide Series. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, 250 pp. Henderson, Carrol L. 1992. Woodworking for Wildlife; Homes for Birds and Mammals. Minne- sota Department of Natural Resources, St Paul, Minnesota, 111 pp. Mahnken, Jan. 1989. Hosting the Birds; How to Attract Birds to Nest in Your Yard. Storey Communications, Pownal, Vermont, 208 pp. McElroy, Thomas P. Jr, 1974. The Habitat Guide To Birding. Lyons & Burford, New York, 257 pp. Proctor, Dr. Noble. 1985. Garden Birds; How to Attract Birds to Your Garden._ Rodale Press, Emmaus, Pennsylvania, 160pp. Stokes, Donald and Lillian, 1990. The Complete Birdhouse Book; The Easy Guide to Attracting Nesting Birds. Little, Brown and Co., Boston, 93 pp. Wernert, Susan J., ed. 1982. North American Wildlife. The Reader's Digest Association, Inc., Pleasantville, New York, 559 pp. BR30985 Raptor Perches Wildlife Habitat Ctmncu Management Series Geral Raptors (birds of prey) are majestic birds and important members of all terrestrial ecosystems. They are at the top of the food chain and are therefore both biologicaly important and ecologically sensitive. Contrary to popular belief, they are not a major threat to livestock and need not be seen as varmints. Raptors often assist in rodent control; one family of barn owls can consume as many as 100 mice in one week. Hunting Raptors feed on a variety of species, including small mammals, insects, amphibians, reptiles, -and even small birds. Rodents, such as mice and voles, as well as insectivorous shrews, are especially popular. Hunting styles vary, but four basic methods can be described: • Flying over fields, scanning for prey and pouncing (eg.golden eagle); • Swooping down on flying targets (eg. peregrine falcon); • Hovering over an area and .quickly diving to snatch prey (eg. American kestrel); and most commonly, • Perching on snags (dead trees) or open trees at the edge of a field, then swooping down onto the moving animals (eg. red tailed hawk and screech owl). The Neqd for Perches As with many of our native species, habitat loss is a contributing facror to the decrease in population size and distribution of raptors. Maintaining important habitat types, such as open fields, will help provide the prey base and optimal hunting conditions. However, even if hunting areas are available, the area may not be used hy raptors due to the absence :of snags and open trees. These are necessary for hunting and as a safe, place co consume prey. The provision of artificial perches can supply a necessary -'and often 'needed - habitat component to the raptor population. WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL'* W10 WJJM Are. Suite 9M S2«rSprin$.MD3mQ (301)3*199. /1R309852 Artificial Perches To replace missing habitat components, such as snags and open trees, tall posts with crossbeams or large limbs, placed along the edge of fields, can approximate the location and function of natural perches! Alternatively, existing vertical structures on site can be used. Aspen and pine snags provide ideal hunting perches because of their growth form. A suitable tree near open habitat (at the edge of woodland) can be topped, creating a very natural looking perch. For existing snags, remove ail branches except those near the top; the remaining branches should extend no more than 16 inches from the mink. perch Construction If erecting poles, a 16XZQ' 4"x4" treated post or an old telegraph pole, buried 3-4 feet into the ground is best. Depending on the terrain and soil conditions, you may need to brace the base of the post with struts, however, setting the base in concrete will suffice. The crossbeam at the top should be no less than 2"x4" to ensure adequate hold for the raptor. It can be supported by diagonal struts. Without creosote treatment, the base of this type of perch can be expected to last at least 5 years. Portioning Your Perch Perches should be situated approximately 25 feet tan brush piles as these provide a home for small mammals and other raptor prey. (WHC can provide information on brush pile construction and maintenance.) Proper positioning will provide hunting raptors with a visual range, or cone of coverage, that includes brush piles, maintenance trails, and adjacent fields. Commonly used perches can be identified by the presence of pellets (indigestible items such as bones and fur, which are regurgitated) and "whitewashed" vegetation at the base of the post It is important to remember that a perch is only as useful as the surrounding habitat. Provision and management of open habitat are essential if breeding and hunting grounds for raptors are to be maintained or created. . and Raptors are basically opportunistic and will utilize power lines and support structures tor both hunting and nesting. These structures may even be preferred perches due to their considerable elevation, which provides the birds with a wide visual range, easy takeoff, and greater attack speed when hunting. To avoid electrocution, adequate separation of energized wires, ground wires, and other electrical hardware is vital. Two simple and economical methods for making existing problem lines safe involve encouraging birds to perch on less dangerous parts of the power line support structures: • Install wooden perches I4"-16" above energized wires/objects, so that the raptor can sit out of danger; • Place perch guards in dangerous areas to encourage raptors to perch in non-lethal positions. A perch guard is an invened "V" shape made of wood, fiberglass or PVC pipe (see figure I). For areas with a considerable number of powerimes, WHC can provide additional information. AR309853 •= I J r^r> > ' 1 ^^1* - . ...._ T-ar . /._ r^t O O cn i-^^L^>T o O o c a -=- > tit — _g Q—•. o en sc. Q 5 C H. < £ cO *.c ; o cc Q. ~ UJ J L. 3. AR30985I* References Ehrfich Paul P., Dofakin, David S. and Wheye, Danyl. 19SS. The Birder's Handbook. Simon and Schuster, Inc., New York. 785 pp. ^ Kress, Stephen W. 1985. The Audubon. Sociery Guide to Awacting Birds. Charles Scrifaner . Sons, New York. 377 pp. Olendorff, Richardt R^ 1981. Suggested practices for raptor protection on power lines - the sate or me art 1981. Raptor Research Foundation. University of Minnesota, Minnesota 110pp. Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commisison. 1991. A Wildlife Habitat Managemen Plan for The General Electric Company. Medical Systems Group, Lands. 51 pp. AR309855 Wetlands Invaders Wildlife Habitat Council Management Series ^**Tfr~-' f 1/plfJ •/y General Information ...... __ - - - - - After years of diking, draining, and filling wetlands, we have finally come to recognize that they are critical to ecosystem functioning." Wetlands provide habitat for a large number of wildlife species, prevent flooding by holding runoff, and prevent"pollutants and sediments from being_deposited in rivers, lakes, and oceans. Humans also benefit from the recreation and environmental education opportunities unique to wetlands. Today, nearly 50% "of America's ongmll .wetlands have been destroyed. Remaining wetlands, while protected by laws, are still threatened. Dams and flood control projects have changed the water level and flow of many wetlands while pollution from streams and rivers has taken a heavy toll on wetland wildlife. These disturbances have created conditions favorable for invasive" plants which flourish in impacted areas. Once these invasive species~s6me~exotic~(not native to North America) and others native, gain a foothold, they may outcompete other plants, to the overall detriment of the wetland. This pamphlet discusses control of invasive wetland plants in North America and includes step-by-step methods forplanning and implementing an invasive control program. Invasion fay these species need not be permanent; with s.ome effort, any wetland can be restored tp=_s_more_naty_nil, diverse state to provide benefits for wildlife and people. .. - One word of caution: nearly ail wetlands in the United Stales are protected by local, state, and federal agencies. Under the federal Clean Water Act and other laws, a permit may be required for modification of a -wetland. In general, however, the permitting process goes smoothly_for sites attempting to enhance wetlands. Before initidnngany welland enhancements, you should contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and your state's environmental regulatory_agency. ~F#r mare infp.rmationt_calj, the EPA's toll-free Wetlands Hotline at (800) 832-73282.-.Also, the '~U~.S.~Fish and'Wlldlife:. Service offers,.cost sharing and technical asistance for enhancement projects in wetlands and other sensitive habitats. To get more information about this program and to find oiit if your site may be eligible, contact WHC at the numbner below. WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL" 1010 Wjyne Aw.Suite33i SflxrSpriiijMDM91Q .MU58WW. flR309856 STEP 1. GATHER INFORMATION Forethought and good planning are requirements for a successful invasive plant control program. Adequate preparation will help to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of control programs and will allow you to foresee the avoidable problems that occur when working with wetlands. A, Inventory the site Planning should be based on knowledge of the affected area. There is no substitute for doing your homework and gathering critical information about the following aspects of your site: • Invasive Plant-Which plant species is causing the problem? How large is the affected area? How dense is the plant growth? How long has the invasive plant been present? • Plant Community- What other plants grow near the affected area? Do any beneficial plants grow interspersed with the invader? Is there diverse plant growth in places where the invader does not grow? « Wildlife- What species of wildlife use the wetland? Do migratory birds stop at the wetland for part of the year? Are fish present in open water or ponds? Do any wildlife species feed, nest, or find shelter within stands of the invasive plant? • "Water Flow- What is the source and ultimate destination of water flowing through the wetlands? Are there any regular fluctuations hi water flow such as annual floods, drawdowns, or freezes? Is there any artificial control over water levels? • Landscape Features- Are there any topographic features which would limit site access by people or machinery? Potential obstacles include steep slopes, rivers or other bodies of water, and extremely moist or muddy areas. B. Contact regulatory agencies State and federal laws regulate activities on wetlands, including use of herbicides and water level changes. At an early stage in the planning process, contact regulatory officials with the Army Corps of Engineers and your state's environmental agency to determine what, if any, permits may be necessary and how to acquire them. The permitting process may be time-consuming, but projects designed to enhance wetlands are usually approved, £. Determine available resources The time, money, and labor necessary for each control technique will differ. You should try to determine approximately what resources will be available before initiating control projects; a project should not be initiated if all costs, including the cost of monitoring after activities are complete, cannot be u-ct. AR309857 STEP 2. CHOOSE CONTROL METHODS Based on information about die biological and physical features of your site, yqn.can choose the appropriate control technique for your specific situation. Following is injfpmyition about precautions and considerations to be taken when attempting to control invaders. Each technique has advantages and disadvantages that must be weighed when choosing control methods. A. tVfowing ._. ..___.____, ^ The goal of mowing is to weaken the invasive plant's roots by starving them of oxygen and exhausting their energy stores, so that regeneration of the above-ground plant becomes impossible. Therefore, unwanted plants should mowed as close to the ground as possible,whether growing on shorelines or out of the water. The specific technique used to mow an area will depend upon the characteristics of the affected area. 1. Equipment and Techniques Mowing with machinery is Umitedby the physical characteristics of the land. The smallest site may be mowed using a weed-eater or hand-held trimmer. In shallow water, such equipment can be used to cut plants that would otherwise be inaccessible to mowing equipment (electric trimmers should not be used near water to reduce the risk of electric shock). On sites which are dry or frozen at the time of mowing, a tractor-towed mower may be used. With any heavy equipment, however, one should be careful not to-destroy useful vegetation and to minimize wheel ruts which are excellent places for invasive plant growth. Sites with standing water or saturated soils cannot be mowed by standard equipment. In these areas, use .of floating equipment or mowers operating from the shoreline may be necessary. Equipment such as "cookie cutters" (boats which chop up aquatic vegetation), boat-mounted sawbars, or sawboats may be used to cut emergent vegetation in water at least 1 foot deep. 2. Collecting Cut Material All cut materials should be collected and disposed of at a suitable upland site. As plant material decomposes, the water loses oxygen-arid becomes unsuitable for subsurface plants, aquatic invertebrates, and fish. This is especially true in cooler climates.. Also, cut stems may take root again or contain seedheads that can " regenerate the plants. If removal of cut. vegetation is not possible, mow an;area in sections to decrease the amount of plant material decomposing at any one time. B. Handpulling __._,.._,---- ..._.—— Although labor intensive and time consuming, manual removal of plants may be effective on small sites. In general, recently established stands of vegetation will be easier to remove than older ones. With most invasive plants, however, failure to remove the entire root/rhizome system will let the plant regenerate within one year. Also, disturbing the soil by removing large root masses makes reinvasion likely. Care should be taken to limit soil disturbance while pulling plants. C. Controlled Burns _ ... .,„..„„_™ ....™-,-, ——, -,,.,,-.,,: ,.-.., When used properly, fire can be an effective'way to control invasive plants. Working with fire is always dangerous; the risks involved make careful planning and monitoring extremely important. Only experienced or professional fire personnel should implement a burn, so before executing any burn, seek advice from experts who can help make plans for your site. Also, be_sure to contact state and local officials about permits or regulations. To avofiTcornmunity_ relations problems, you may want to warn local residents who could be affected by smoke from the fire. AR309858 The first step in planning a fire is to determine the exact area to be burned. Plowed fire breaks, at least twice as wide as the vegetation is tall, should be established around the burn site. Weather conditions should be amenable to a burn. Ideal weather would include mild temperatures, low, steady winds, and relative humidity greater than 40 percent with no immediate change in conditions expected. Burning a test patch before the actual fire is set will allow determination of how the fire may burn. A hot, fast fire is best to destroy stalks and injure root systems. If a test plot burns too rapidly or slowly, consider postponing the bum until conditions improve. A fire that is too hot will allow complete consumption ofthe roots, resulting in sagging ground which may aherthe landscape. A fire which is too cool will not significantly affect" the targeted plants. The wind direction will determine exactly how die burn progresses. Begin by lighting a fire on the downwind side of the burn plot, which moves slowly into the wind. This will act as a break for the main fire, which is lit at the upwind end of the area to be burned. Again, constant, careful monitoring of a fire is necessary at all times. D. Water-level Manipulation For wetlands in which control of water levels is possible, flooding mowed or burned stands of invasive plants may be an inexpensive control method. Hooding is best used as a compliment to mowing, burning, or using herbicides, as an increase in water level may deliver a "final blow" to stands of plants that are weakened by other methods. Used alone, however, flooding will not have a significant effect on an invasive plant except perhaps to limit Its ability to spread further. Floodwaters should be at least 1 foot above the tops of cut plants to prevent regrowth. Areas should remain flooded for at least one complete growing season (spring to fall) to be effective. Changing the water level does have some drawbacks. Flooding a marsh will affect both beneficial and invasive plant species. In some cases, the benefits of killing invasives may be outweighed by the loss of more beneficial plants. Individual plant species respond to flooding in different ways, so the site manager should research how beneficial plants may be affected by a flood before changing the water level. E, Herbicides Use of chemicals in a wetland may seem contrary to good environmental stewardship; however, proper use of certain herbicides can fae safe and effective. Also, herbicides may be the only way to control large, dense stands of some invasive plant species. Because of their potential danger to the environment, herbicides should be considered a last resort for invasive plant control. Before attempting to use any herbicide in a wetland, contact state and federal regulatory agencies to determine policy regarding the chemicals to be used. Many states strictly limit the application of herbicides in wetlands. In most states, only licensed applicators may legally dispense herbicides. Also, each state and municipality has its own rules regarding disposal of containers and .equipment used with herbicides. Safe herbicide application requires avoiding spraying in windy or rainy weather, avoiding waters used for fishing, agriculture, or drinking, and avoiding spraying on nesting birds and other wildlife. The most important safety consideration, however, is to follow the directions provided by the herbicide manufacturer. Herbicide application for large areas may be done aerially, from a helicopter or airplane. Before spraying, the area to be treated should be visibly marked so that only affected areas are treated. Backpack sprayers are a less expensive method used to apply herbicides on smaller areas. AR309859 Time of application is crucial for herbicide success. The herbicides discussed below are designed to be translocated by the plant from the leaves into the roots. Plants actively transport nutrients from their leaves into the roots during the end of the growing season (August, or September). If the herbicides do not reach the roots due to poor timing or stenfbreakage, ji "plant may_,grow again"the following spring. The two biggest drawbacks.to herbicide use are effects on non-target species and concerns about public and wildlife health. Spraying a non-selective herbicide, such as glyphosate, will kill all plants that are contacted, beneficial or invasive. As with flooding, the.Joss of beneficial plants should be weighed against the elimination of unwanted invasives. Use of aselective herbicide will prevent some losses of beneficial plants. Threats to human and wildlife health are also important factors to consider. Consider using a different control method if wildlife are present or if humans are using a wetland area. I, Glyphosate This herbicide, the active ingredient inRodeo®, is non-selective and will affect all types of plants. Glyphosate is applied by spraying on the foliage of growing plants, and the chemical is then transported down into the roots. Generally, this chemical is mixed with water and applied with a surfactant or wetting agent, to improve herbicide absorption by plants. Glyphosate's effects should become visible within one to four weeks after spraying. - -...... ,-—=- --.- =-• - •-•• Glyphosate may be toxic to fish atliigh concentrations, so spraying fish ponds should be avoided if possible. Birds and mammals show almost no apparent response to this chemical, but safety requires avoiding spraying in the presence of people or wildlife. In water, most of the,herbicide is.deactivated by adhesion to particles and breaks down soon after spraying. The herbicide does not persist on dry soil. 2. 2,4-D (2,4-dichoIprphenoxy acetic acid) ....._..- This chemical is generally considered less desirable than giyphosate because of its greater toxicity to fish. However, 2,4-D is one of a small number, of herbicides that may be effective on purple loosestrife, one of the most difficult invasive plants to eradicate. Another advantage of this chemical is that it destroys broad-leafed plants while having little effect on grasses' and grass-like plants. To preserve beneficial rushes and sedges growing near unwanted vegetation, use_2,4^Dratherthan glyphosate. 2,4-D's toxicity is relatively short-lived; most of the herbicide will break down in water within several weeks. This herbicide is available in several different formulations includingEsreron 99and Weedar64. Regulations, directions for usage, an"d toxicity differ for each formulation. Therefore, potential users of this herbicide should obtain information about federal and state regulations for each specific formulation. Tissue damage of sprayed vegetation should become noticeable within 2 weeks or less. Use of treated water for agricultural or human supplies should be avoided for 3 weeks after spraying. This chemical should not be used in areas with high wildlife populations or in areas used for fishing, swimming, or other water contact activities. " ~" - : ....-- STEP 3: DEVELOP A PLAN Once you~have decided how to control the invasive plant, the next step is to determine when and where you will apply the chosen technique..Establishing a specific plan in advance will help to organize your program and ensure there is adequate time to prepare for implementation. AR309860 A. Timing The effectiveness of control techniques is largely dependent on timing. For instance, burning a reed stand in late summer may reduce the density of new shoots, but burning in early spring could actually increase the density of the invader. Following the recommended dates for a particular technique is veryimportant, but the exact timing of any activities will depend upon your geographic location andclimate. Within the range of dates given for each technique, sites further north should plan control activities nearer to mid-summer, and sites further south should choose the portion of a given range nearest to mid-winter. B, Location , _ Ideally, control programs would seek to completely eliminate an invasive plant. However, constraints on resources and the ability of these plant species to spread rapidly may make this impossible. As an alternative to whole-area treatments, apply control techniques to the perimeter of the affected area in order to prevent further spread of the invasive plant. STEP 4. CREATE NATIVE WETLANDS COMMUNITIES The long-term goal of invasive plant control programs should be to create healthy, native plant communities. Following are some recommendations for establishing productive wetlands once control programs are under way, A. Monitor and Evaluate Control Programs One application of any individual plant-control technique is not likely to afford complete control. After all, these plants wouldn't be invasive if they weren't persistent. Therefore, initial control methods should always be followed up with monitoring of treated areas to determine if control is successful or if further treatment is necessary. Monitoring is especially important during the first spring after control programs begin. At this time, any regrowth of the invasive plant will become noticeable. Taking action before plants are well established will allow the easiest opportunities for control. Follow-up techniques to control regrowth may include mowing, handpulling, or localized spraying of herbicides. . .. — Given the hardiness ofmvaders, control programs are not always successful. In some cases, invaders will survive your best efforts to eliminate them. With physical techniques like mowing, for instance, persistence often pays off. Repeating a procedure over a few years will weaken the root structures until they finally die. Another potentially effective alternative is to combine herbicide application with other treatments. Sometimes, however, falling tactics should be replaced. Invasive plant control is an inexact science, and techniques that work well in one case may not be effective everywhere. To reduce risks, you may want to experiment on small plots before implementing large-scale control programs. B. Plant New Vegetation Planting wetland vegetation to replace undesirable plants is the next step in re-establishing healthy wetlands. A typical wetland is comprised of three zones—floating and submerged plants grow in water at least I foot deep; emergent plants grow in shallow wateroron the shoreline; and upland plants, including shrubs and trees, grow on higher, drier ground. Any of the three zones which lack diverse plant cover should be enhanced with plantings. - ...... -.. _.. AR30986I Species selected for planting will depend upon the geographic location, the type of wetland (salt marsh, peat bog, etc.), and local characteristics such as flood regimes. A general, listing of wetland plants for your region has been included in Table 1 to serve as a starting point for plantings. These include good sources of food and cover for wildlife. ... -._'.*!".=*; " •""* .=-*." --.,., -=-- Instructions for planting will differ for each species, so you should contact a wetland nursery before beginning the revegetation process. In general, however, a few rules apply to all wetland plantings. • Useyoungtransplants or tubers to propagate wetland plants. Planting seeds is much less effective than planting sprouted plugs because seeds have very specific requirements for water level-and may float away or drown if flooded. * Avoid planting and seeding underwater or in saturated soils for most species. If possible, do plantings with water levels lowered or during dry seasons. • Many wetland plants require full sunlight to grow, so tall shrubs and trees should not be planted where they may shade new plantings. Exceptions to this are when shade cover is used to control growth of an invasive plant or in wooded swamps. • When planting sprouts of wetland vegetation in areas with geese or muskrats, place a 1-foot fence around the area to keep wildlife from eating the young shoots. The fence can be removed once the plants are mature. * Try to use stock that comes from an area near your site. Plants from distant regions, though of the same species, may not be adapted to local conditions and may have trouble surviving. As with control techniques, plantings should also be followed by regular, frequent monitoring to ensure success and identify continuing problems with invasive plants or planting failure. AR3Q9862 References Benyus, Janine M. The Field Guide to Wildlife Habitats of the Eastern United States. Simon &. Schuster New York, New York. 336 pp. Baltezore, James F., Jay A. Leitch, and George M. Linz. 1994. The economics of cattail management: assessing the trade-offs. Agricultural Economics Report No. 320. North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota. Cross, Diana H. and Karen L. Fleming. 1989. Control of phragmites or common reed. Fish and Wildlife Leaflet 13.4.12. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, DC. 5pp. Eggers, Steve D. and Donald M. Reed. 1987. Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota & Wisconsin. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District 201pp. Malecki, Richard A. and Thomas J. Rawinski. 1985. New methods for controlling purple loosestrife. New York Fish and Game Journal. 32:9-19. Niering, William A. 1992, The Audubon Society Nature Guides: Wetlands. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York. 638pp. Payne, NeilF. 1992, Techniques for Wildlife Habitat Management of Wetlands. McGraw-Hill, Inc., New York. 549 pp. Pieterse, Arnold H, and Kevin J. Murphy. 1993. Aquatic Weeds: The Ecology and Management of Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation. Oxford University Press, Oxford, U.K. 593 pp. Thunhorst, Gwendolyn A. 1993. Wetlands Planting Guide for the Northeastern UnitedStates. Environmental Concern, Inc., Maryland. 179 pp. Welling, Charles H. and Roger L. Becker. 1993, Reduction of purple loosestrife estab lishment in Minnesota wetlands. Wildlife Society Bulletin. 21:56-64. _ " Westerdahl, Howard E. and Kurt D. Getsinger, eds. Aquatic Plant Identification and Herbicide Use Guide. Vot II: Aquatic Plants and Susceptibility to Herbicides. Technical Report A-88-9, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi. William, Ray D., l~C Burrill. et al. 1994. 1994 Pacific Northwest Weed Control Handbook, Extension Services of Oregon State University, Washington State University, and the University of Idaho. Wildlife Habitat Council 1010 Wayne Avenue. Suite 920 Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 588-8994 OB R*C7d*4 Paper March IV9S AR309863 COMMON REED GRASS (Phragmites australis} I. Ecology and Life History Common reed grass, or phragmites. is an invasive grass common throughout the United States and Canada. This perennial is recognizable by its stalks which cangrow up to 13 feet tall and its feathery inflorescence. The reed is common in brackish and freshwater wetlands but-may be found in roadside ditches or other wet areas. Any area with stable water levels and moist soil may be suitable for common reed. Common reed is difficult to control because it spreads by rhizomes (root- like structures) which allow the plant to survive freezes, bums, and cutting of stalks. Once established, the reed can rapidly spread throughout a wetland, at rates up to one foot per day! While widespread, common reed has little value to wildlife. Birds are only able to nest on the edges of dense reed stands, and the plant's tough stalks are inedible to most animals. Adapted from A Beachcomber's Botany. Used..with permission of The Chatham Conservation Foundation. Inc. II. Control Techniques Fortunately, several options"are available to control common reed grass. Reports of success in eradicating the plant vary for each technique, so a flexible approach may be necessary, changing or combining methods based on successes or failures. Specific techniques are discussed below. • Burning - Controlled burns of reed stands may be effective. Burning between winter and mid- summer has no effect on stand size, as new stalks will grow from rhizomes before the summer ends. B urns done in late summer or early fall, however, may be effective because at this time the rhizomes have little stored fuel with which to grow new shoots. If the plants are dry, they may bum down into the rhizomes, completely destroying the plant. Overall, bums are best used in combination with water-level manipulation or herbicide application. • Mowing - Cutting p'hragmites close to the ground (or waterlevel) inlate June or July may reduce stand viability aftertwo or more successive years... For large, dense stands, annual mowing of 50-foot wide strips through reed beds will open edge habitat that may be used for nesting by birds. • Water-level manipulation - Where control of water levels is possible, flooding has been proven very effecuVe. "Raising water levels will not harm established stands, but new shoots cannot grow in water deeper than 12 inches. Mowing very close to theground followed by flooding (at least 1 foot over the cut stems) of mowed areas will allow, nearly complete control of common reed. Flooded areas should be kept underwater for at least one entire growing season. • Shading- Common reed requires full sunlight to grow, so mowing or burning followed by planting shade plants may prevent the growth of young plants.. _ _ ...... AR30986U Herbicides - A glyphosate herbicide can be very effective for control of this plant. .The herbicide should be applied by spraying directly onto the plants. The chemical will then be translocated down into the rhizomes. Spraying should be done in late summer, after birds have finished nesting but while plants are still transporting chemicals into their roots. Care should be taken not to break stems during treatment, as this would prevent herbicide from reaching the rhizomes and killing the entire plant. Large reed stands (several acres or more) should be treated by two aerial applications of herbicide, each at 2 Ibs/acre, with 15 to 30 days between treatments. If resources only allow one spraying, it should be done at 4 Ibs/acre. To eliminate common reed in a smaller area, use a backpack sprayer to deliver two applications (with 15-30 days between treatments) of 2-3 Ibs/acre or one treatment of 4- 6 Ibs/acre. • Combined Methods - Because common reed grass is so difficult to eradicate, combined methods may be more effective than individual ones. One strategy that has been shown effective is to burn or mow phragmites stands 6 to 8 weeks after spraying herbicides. This will remove dead, standing vegetation so that new vegetation may be planted or grow naturally. Summary of Control Methods for Phragmites Method Appro*. Date Effectiveness Follow-Up Methods Notes Controlled late summer moderate (alone) flood Bum to early fall excellent (w/flooding) Mowing late June-Jul y moderate (alone) flood or mow do not mow in spring or very good (w/flooding) annually for 2+ years very early summer Flooding spring through good only used to prevent fall expansion of stands Shade year round good any effective for seedlings Cover Herbicide late summer excellent burn/mow/flood or use glyphosate to early fall repeat herbicide app. Combined varies best any apply herbicide followed Methods by burning or mowing 6 to 8 weeks later AR309865 Wildflower Meadow Wildlife Habitat Council Management Series reneral Information dairies and meadows were once common ecosystems throughout much of the United States. Conversion of land for levelopment and agriculture, as well as the suppression of the natural fires that once maintained prairie and meadow :cosystems, caused the steady decline in acreage of prairies and meadows. Only 1 % of native prairie acreage remains today. •lowever, there is growing interest in the re-establishment of these valuable, attractive habitats. The traditional monoculture >f a mown lawn is recognized increasingly as being ecologically and economically unsound. Vast expanses of mowed lawn xe not only biological deserts, lacking both floristic_and wildlife diversity, but also require large expenditures of time, energy, nd money to maintain. Fertilizers and pesticides used to maintain lawns can cause large environmental costs to local waterways, sunounding communities, and wildlife. Now more than ever, land owners and managers are replacing expanses f Ifcvithmeadow orprajrie habitat, and nurseries and greenhouses are supplying the growing trend with more native seeds, , and plant stock. - ..-..-— ~ —-— "he creation or restoration of a wildflowermeadowprovides a colorful, aesthetically pleasing habitat for a variety of wildlife. nsects, seeds, flowers, and lush vegetation form the basis of this habitat's complex food web. Bird species such as the bobolink, sd-winged blackbird, meadowlaik, pipit, various sparrows, and numerous other species utilize the abundant food, nesting. id protective cover oppornuiities"f(.un'd in these grasslands. Meadows provide habitat for several rodent species on which >ecies such as red-tailed hawk and fox prey. us pamphlet provides management information for meadow establishment and maintenance. It is an introduction to assist nd managers in the development of a wildflower meadow management plan. Once established, a wildflower meadow quires very little maintenance, but it is important to_realize that .there is no "cookbook" formula for creating such a habitat. .ie success of any meadow project is dependent on: site choice and environmental conditions site preparation plant species selection • planting method, and maintenance and management techniques. jur wildflower meadow management plan should address all of these issues. Although a wildflower meadow may take some le and work initially, once established, a meadow will be essentially_self-sustaining requiring minimal yearly maintenance Jt will save your site time and money in the long run. WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL" . ,»—-,— *• Introduction I. Meadows vs. Prairies Meadows and prairies are similar plant communities that contain herbaceous (non-woody) annual, biennial, and perennial plants. The differences between the two are significant, however, and can have important implications on the management techniques used to maintain a prairie or meadow. • Meadows. Meadows are a collection of cool-season plants; species which grow best in the spring and fall, when ground temperatures are cool. Most meadows are transitional communities in a forest ecosystem that appear in open areas resulting from fire, windfall, or after disturbance. Meadows can also be found as stable, climax communities in alpine areas, such as Canada, or in wet, marshy areas, such as the expansive fens of Siberia. In these areas there Is some limiting factor restraining the area from becoming a woodland. • Prairies. The word "prairie" is the French word for meadow. The prairies of the midwestem U.S. were named by the early pioneers when they saw the vast expanses of open grasslands. Prairies of the Midwest are usually climax communities that survive best in dry climates, where drought and fire are common and resistant plants out-compete tree and shrub seedlings. Prairies are primarily composed of warm-season grasses and plants; species which grow better in the summer, when ground temperatures are warm. Although prairies once covered millions of acres in this country, original prairie communities have disappeared at an alarming rate. Geologists and botanists have begun several prairie restoration projects, and WHC is able to provide a separate prairie management plan as part of the WHC Management Series. IT. Definitions The following definitions are provided, to familiarize your site with terms commonly used when discussing wildflowej meadows. - Herbaceous Plant. Reshy or non-woody plant. • Native Plant. Plants that exist in a particular region through non-human introduction. • Grass. Plant with long, narrow leaves, jointed stems, and seed-like fruit • Reed. Tall, slender grass. • Rush. Grasslike marsh plant with round stems. • WHdflo wer / Forb. Flowering herbaceous plant that is native to a specific region or habitat and is able to grow and reproduce in nature without human assistance. • Exotic / Non-native Plant. Plant out of its natural range. It has been introduced from another area, Insomecascs, exotics can exist in balance with native vegetation, while, in other cases, exotics are aggressive and invasive, having detrimental effects on native flora and ecosystems. • Perennial. Plant that has a root or bulb system that allows the plant to live for many years, reappearing each spring. • Annual, Plant that blooms, sets seed, and dies in the same year. AR30.9867 • Biennial. Plant that blooms, sets seed, and dies in two years and often does not bloom in the first year. • Wildflower Meadow. Your wildflower meadow may be any size and any combination of wildflowers and grasses. Using species native to your region will enhance wildlife habitat and the integrity of the ecosystem of which your site isapart. "- T~~~r--~ __—._------ HI. Site Choice When determining the location of your wildflower meadow, keep in mind two important factors: environmental conditions and design. Environmental conditions will determine if a meadow may be established on your site and, if so, which plant species to include in the meadow. The design of yourmeadow will be influenced by the potential site location, size, and purpose of your meadow project. _> ""." <- A. Environmental Conditions Pertinent environmental conditions include the amount of sunlight the site receives, air circulation, soil structure, and climate. A meadow habitat requires at least one half day of full sunlight to survive. In the northern hemisphere, optimum conditions are most likely found on the south side of trees, hedgerows, and buildings, where sunlight is more prominent and intense. Areas with little air circulation promote fungal diseases on thejierbaceous plants of a meadow. Choosing an open site with good air circulation will prevent fungal disease and promote wildflower seed dispersal. S WKructure, moisture, and pH (acidity or alkalinity) will determine which plants will thrive in your meadow. Soil structure determines soil drainage. Good sblldrainage is a growth requirement for most meadow wildflowers. Although sandy soils are easy to work with, they drain quickly, dry out fast, and leach nutrients from the soil profile. Soils having a high clay content are difficult to woricand drain pooriy. The best type of soil for a wildflower meadow is a loam, containing relatively equal parts of sand, silt, and clay with a high proportion of organic matter. This soil drains well and is said to be friable; easily crumbled yet holdingitsshape. ItisanexceUentideatohaveyoursoU.teste^ of Agriculture, Soil ConservatiQaService (USDA, SCS), when selecting yoursite_-iipp e'ndix I lists SCS offices throughout thecountry. ._.._.— ——- _.._:^.-..-.-,. ___....___...... Climatic conditions such as"tem^ranire"i^ges^idj)recipitation are important to'consider in designing your wildflower meadow. These factors wilTbe important in determining when to plant and what types of plants to choose. B. Design If your site is near buildings, establish yourmeadow beyond the formal landscape. Fence-lines and hedgerows provide good borders for wildflower meadows. Choose wildflowers and grasses that fit the scale of yourmeadow. If yourmeadow is going to be in a small area, short to medium height vegetation_wilj look best. _Lj large open meadows, larger vegetation will be attractive and benefit wildlife. Establishing a meadow that borders wooded.areas or open water will provide excellent habitat for numerous wildlife. Walking paths, observation stations, and/or benches may be included for enjoyment of the meadow and the wildlife in it. ~~ ' -"" AR309868 Meadow Establishment I. Site Preparation Site preparation is an important factor that will determine the success or failure of any meadow planting. The two major functions of site preparation are to control weeds and create a site where wildflower seed germination will be successful. Once weeds take hold in anareathey are difftcultto eradicate, so itis important to rid the site of unwanted plant species before planting any wildflowers or grasses. The general prescription for preparing the site follows: • Till or plow the soil to a depth of approximately six inches; • Wait three weeks after tilling, and spray with a non-persistent, broad spectrum herbicide, such as Roundup made by Monsanto; • If you suspect abundant weeds on your site, spray the soil a secotui or even third time at three week intervals; • After the final application of herbicide, create an even seed bed by raking or dragging the site; • Two weeks after last herbicide application, plant wildflower and grass seeds. If you are convening a lawn to a wildflower meadow, you may skip the initial plowing and apply herbicide first. Plow or disk after vegetation has turned brown. If your site is an old field with numerous weed species, especially perennial weeds, it may be necessary to apply the herbicide over a longer period of time. Instead of applying at three week intervals, apply herbicide once in mid-spring, once in mid- summer, and once in early fall If you would like to avoid the use of herbicides, you may use cultivation only. Depending on the size of your site, such as a sod-cutter, rototOler, plow, or disk may be needed. To prepare a small site: • Remove three inches of grass and soil from the site surface using a sod-cutter; • Cultivate the site two or three times at one week intervals; • Five to seven days after a good rain, disk, drag, or till the soil to one inch deep; • Seed immediately. On a larger site, cultivate at a depth of 4-5 inches from the beginning of spring through late fell at two to three week intervals. If your site is prone to erosion, repeated cultivation is not recommended. A second non-herbicide approach is called soil solarization. This approach is particularly useful for small sites in areas receiving a lot of direct sunlight. • Cultivate to a depth of 4-5 inches; • Rake and wet the soil to a depth of 12 inches; • Spread a sheet of clearplastic smoothly over the site; • Anchor the plastic by tucking and burying the edges into a prepared trench around the site; - Leave the plastic in place for four to eight weeks. Solar energy trapped under the plastic will kill the weeds as well as bacteria, fungi, and insects which are harmful to plants. Note, though, that many insects and microorganisms, which are helpful to plants may also be killed by solarization. AR309869 Table 7. Native Wild/lowers for Meadows in the Pacific Northwest Common Name Scientific Name Blooming Season Color Soil Moisture Preference annual coreopsis* Coreopsis tinctoria Su yellow/red dry baby blue eyes Nemophila menziesii W, Sp blue dry bird's eye giliad Gilia tricolor W, Sp yellow & purple dry-moist blue flax - Linumperenne lewisii Sp, Su blue dry blue thimble flower Gilia capitaia Sp blue dry bluebelld Campanula rotundifoUa Su blue medium blue-eyed grass Sisyrinchiwn bellum W, Sp blue/violet moist bicolored linanthus Linanthus bicolor Sp white/pink & yellow dry California goldenrod Solidago californicd Su, F .; yellow dry California poppy* Eschscholzia California Sp^ Su, F orange/yellow dry-medium camas Camassid quamdsh Sp, Su '"blue moist-wet checker bloomd Sidalcea malvaeflora W, Sp pink medium Chinese houses* Collinsia heterophylla Sp white/purple dry-moist coast sanicle Sanicula laciniata _ - - Sp yellow moist common gold fieldsd Baeria chrysostoma W, Sp yellow dry-moist common linanthusd Linanthus androsaceus Sp, Su white/yellow/pink dry-moist sacsd Onhocarpus tithospermoides Sp - - white dry 'arf owl's cloverd Onhocarpus pusillus Sp red-purple dry elegant clarkia Clarkia unguiculata ...„_.. .._..__ Sp, Su pink/purple . dry evening snow Linanthus'dichotomous ... Sp _ white dry farewell to spring Clarkia amoena - . - Su pink/purple/white dry fawn Illyd Erythronium grandiflorwn ... . Su _ .._. yellow/white/both moist fireweed- . Epilobium angustifolium Su . pink moist five spot* ' ~~^Nemop~hilamacculata Sp white &puiple dry-wet footsteps of spring Sanicula arctopoides W, Sp yellow moist-medium fragrant fritillaryd Fritillaria liliacea _ . . ,.... Sp white dry golden lupine Lupinus densijjorus .____._._Sp yellow dry gumbo lily* Oenothera caepitosa Su, F = yellow dry harebell Campanula carpaticaa -'"- Su, F blue/white dry-moist Indian blanketd Gaillardia aristata ' Su ~ "yellow dry-moist Ithuriel's spear1 Brodicaea laxa__._. '.:.. . Sp blue-violet dry-moist layia - .--Layidspp. Sp, Su . .. yellow & white dry-moist meadow foamd Limnanthes douglasii Sp white wet monolopia Monolopia major W, Sp yellow dry mountain phlox* Linanthus grandiflorus Sp, Su white/purple/pink dry Oregon fleabane Erigeron speclosus .__.._... Su ._ white/blue/purple dry owl's clover Onhocarpus densiflorus Sp .red/purple dry-medium corn flowerd Plagiobothrys nothofulvus W, Sp white dry-moist (OVER) ~ AR3G987Q Common Name Scientific Name Blooming Season Color Soil Moisture Preference prairie smoked Geum mflorum Sp purple/pink dry-moist purple owl's clover Onhocarpus purpurascens Sp purple dry purple sanicle Sanicula bipinnatifida W, Sp purple medium red ribbons4*1 Clarkia concinna Su pink dry scarlet larkspur Delphinium cardinale Sp, Su red medium serpentine linanthusd Linanthus ambiguus Sp, Su pink/blue dry sneezeweed* Heleniianaurumnale Su, F yellow wet-medium spring beauty Claytonia lanceolata Sp white/pink moist-dry sunflower Helianthus annuus Su, F yellow dry-medium tough leaf iris Iris tenax Sp, Su purple moist-dry valley tasselsd Onhocarpus attenuatus Sp white/purple dry-medium western shooting star Dodecatheon pulchellum Sp, Su pink moist white mariposa lily Calochortus venustus S p, S u white/yellow dry wind poppy* Stylomecon heterophylla Sp yellow-orange medium yellow bell Fritillariapudica Sp yellow dry yellow columbine Aqidlegiaflavescens Sp yellow dry * Species that are adaptable, reliable, hardy, and easily grown from seed in this region. d Species that are either dwarf or naturally low-growing species. These plants generally do not grow above 24 inches and may be useful in small meadows or areas with community restrictions on lawn height. 5 Species that will bloom in semi-shade. Plant a selection of these spec!es~in transition areas between a meadow and a woodland or any other partially shaded areas of the meadow. Blooming seasons Sp: spring; Su: summer; F: fall; W: winter Soil moisture preferences dry: well drained upland or sandy soils. moist: soil with tendency to stay damp most of the season. wet: soils that are usually wet, adjacent to streams, ponds, drainage ways. medium: soil typically neither wet nor dry, somewhere in between. AR30987 USPA Soil Alabama Florida Kentucky Montana 665 Opelifca Rd Federal Building 771 Corporate Dr, Suite 110 Federal Building, Room 443 purn, Al 36830 401 SE 1st Ave Lexington, KY 40503 10 East Bafacock !05) 821 8070 Gainesvffle, FL 32601 (606) 224 7364 . Bozeman, MT 59715 (904)3770946" " -"-""- "-"-- (406)5876813 Alaska Georgia Louisiana Nebraska Suite 300 Federal Building 3737 Government St Federal Building, Room 345 201E 9th Ave 355 E, Hancock Ave Alexandria, LA 71302 100 Centennial Mall North Anchorage, AK 99501-3687 Athens, GA 30601 (318) 473 7751 Lincoln, NE 68508 (907) 2712424 - (404) 546 2272 (402) 437 5300 Arizona Hawaii Maine Nevada Suite200 300 Ala Moana Blvd 444StfllwaierAve 5301 Longley Lane 201 East Indianola Room 4316 Bangor, ME 04401 Building F, Suite 201 Phoenix, AZ 85012 Honolulu, HI 96850 (207)9420342 Reno,NV 89511 (602) 2612247 (808) 5412600 (702) 784 5863 Arkansas Idaho Maryland New Hampshire Federal Office Building 3244 Elder St John Hanson Business Center Federal B uilding Room 5404 Room 124 . 339 Busch's Frontage Rd Durham, NH 03824 700 W. Capital St. Boise, ID 83705 . Suite 301 (603) 868 7581 , Little Rock, AR 72201 (208)3341601 Annapolis, MD 21401 (501) 378 5445 (301) 757 0861 •wnia Illinois Michigan New Jersey C 2nd SL, Suite 102 1902 Fox Dr _. r_ _....._ .._ 1405-_S_outh Hairison Rd 1370 Hamilton St Davis. CA 95616 Champaign, H 61820 Room 101 Somerset, NJ 08873 (916)4492848 (217)3985267 East Lansing, MI 48823' (201)2461662 (517)3376701 Colorado Indiana Minnesota _ New Mexico 655 Parfet St 6013 Lakeside Blvd 600 Farm Credit Building 517 Gold Ave, SW Room E200C Indianapolis, IN 46278 375 Jackson St Room 3301 Lakewood, CO 80215-5517 (317)2903200- '. , . - St. Paul, MN 55101-1854 Albuquerque, NM 87102 (303)2362886 -- "-"" --: ------'- (612)2903675 (505)7663277 Connecticut Iowa Mississippi New York 16 Professional Park 693 Federal Building Federal Building, Suite 1321 James M. Hanley Fed. Bldg.. Storrs, CT 06268-1299 210 Walnut St _ 100 West Capitol St Room 771 (203)4874011 ' Des Moines, IA 50309 Jackson, MS 39269 , , 100 South Clinton St (515)2844261 . .: . (601)9655205 Syracuse,NY 13260 (315)4235521 Delaware . Kansas Missouri 1203 College Park Drive 760 South Broadway Parkade Center, Suite 250 Suite A Salina, KS 67401 _ 601 Business Loop, 70 West Dover,DE19901 (9i3)8234565~_ ;. Columbia,MO65203 . 160 """ ' " (314)8760911 •AR309872 North Carolina South Dakota Wisconsin 4405 Bland Rd, Suite 205 Federal Building 6515 Watts Rd, Suite 200 Raleigh, NC 27609 200 4th St, SW Madison, WI53719 (919) 790 2888 Huron. SD 57350 (608) 264 5577 (605) 353 1783 North Dakota Tennessee Wyoming Federal Building, Room 278 US Courthouse, Room 675 Federal Office Building 220 East Rosser Ave 801 Broadway St 100 East B St Bismarck, ND 58502 Nashville, TN 37203 Caspar, WY 82601 (701)2504421 (615)7365471 (307)2615201 Ohio Texas Room 522 WJLPoage Federal Bldg 200 North High St 101 South Main St National Technical Centers Columbus, OH 43215 Temple, TX 76501-7682 (614) 469 6962 (817) 774 1214 Midwest Midwest National Tachnical Center Federal Building Oklahoma Utah 100 Centennial Mall, North Agricultural Center Building Wallace F. Beimett Fed. Bldg. Lincoln. NE 68508-3866 Farm Road and BrumleySi Room 4402 (402)4375346 Stillwater, OK 74074 125 South State St (405)6244360 Salt Lake City.UT 84138 Northeast (801) 524 5050 Northeast National Techinical Center 160 East 7th St Oregon Vermont Chester, PA 19013 Federal Building, 16di HOOT 69 Union St (215) 499 3903 1220 SW Third Ave Winooski. VT 05404 Portland. OR 97204 (802) 951 6795 (503) 326 2751 South South National Technical Center Fort Worth Federal Center Pennsylvania Virginia Bldg. 23, Room 60 1 Credit Union Place Federal Building, Room 9201 Felix and Hemphill Streets Suitfi340 400 North 8th St Fort Worth, TX76115 Wildwood Center Richmond, VA 23240 (817) 334 5253 Hamsburg, PA 17110 (804) 771 2475 (717) 782 2202 West West National Technical Center Rhode Island Washington Federal Building 60 Quaker Lane, Suite 46 316 Boone Ave, Suite 450 511 NW Broadway West Warwick, RJ 02886 Spokane, WA 99201 Portland, OR 97209-3489 (401) 828 1300 (509) 353 2336 (503) 221 2824 South Carolina West Virginia Strom Thunnond Federal Bldg. 75 High St. Room 301 1835 Assembly St, Room 950 Mbrgantown, WV 26505 Columbia, SC 29201 (304) 2914151 (803)7655681 AR309873 Appendix 2. References n, Laura C. 1986. The Wildflower Meadow Boo^—^ Gardener's Guide. Fast and McMillan Publishers, Inc., Charlotte, NC. 303pp. "'""'_: The National Wildflower Research Center. 1992. Wildflower Handbook. A Resource for Native Plant Landscapes, 2nd ed. Voyageur Press, Inc., Stillwater, MN. 304pp. Reader's Digest. 1982. North American Wildlife: An Illustrated Guide to 2,000 Plants and Animals. The Reader's Digest Association. Inc., Pleasantvifle, NY. 559pp. Sperka, Marie. 1973. Growing WUdJlowers—A Gardener's Guide. Harper and Row, Publishers, NY. 277pp. Taylor, KathrynS. and Stephen F.Hamblin. 1963. Handbook of Wildflower Cultivation. The Macmillan Company, NY. 304pp. Appendix 3. Additional References Brooklyn Botanic Garden Record. 1992. The Environmental Gardener. Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Inc., Brooklyn, NY. 96pp. Jones, Samuel B., Jr., and Leonard E. Foote. 1990. Gardening with Native Wild Flowers. Timber Press, Inc., Portland, OR. 195pp. , Roger Tory and Margaret McKenny. 1968. The Peterson Field Guide Series: A Field Guide toWildfiowers— Northeastern and North-central North America. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston. 420pp. Prairie Nursery. Native Wlldjlowers and Grasses—1994 Catalog and Growing Guide. 1994. Prairie Nursery, Inc. .P.O.Box 306, Westfield-WI. 47pp. Sanchez, John H. 1992. Soil solarizatioa Horticulture. 5/92. pp. 38^40. Sharsmith, Helen K. 1965. Spring V/iidflbwers of the San Francisco Bay Region. University of California Press, Berkeley, CA. 192pp. Wasowski, Sally. 1988. Native Texas Plants—Landscaping Region by Region. Texas Monthly Press, Austin, TX. 405pp. AR30987U A third non-herbicide option that results in a site with minimal weeds follows: • Plow or till the site to a depth of 6 to 8 inches in early spring; • Sow large amounts of buckwheat or another cover crop immediately; • Before buckwheat goes to seed, plow it under and immediately sow another large crop of buckwheat; • Plow under buckwheat, once again, before it goes to seed (mid-fall); • Rake or drag to create an even seed bed, and plant wildflower and grass seeds immediately. n. Plant Species Choice When planning your meadow, WHC recommends that you choose plants native to your region as the core of your meadow mix. Non-native or exotic species can become aggressive and destroy the balance of plant communities and disrupt the ecological functions of the habitat. If you want to include exotics, include them sparingly and with caution. Native species will provide the following ecological, economic, and aesthetic benefits: • Native plants attract native insects and microorganisms that keep the plants healthy. This relationship means the meadow can flourish without the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in the future; • Reestablishing native species adds natural habitat for wildlife and preserves native biodiversity; • Native plants can survive in the regional climate; in drought-prone areas, native plant species are adapted to dealing with a dry climate, whereas exotics may perish without extensive watering. Choose plants which are suited to the sunlight, climate, soil type, pH, and moisture of your site. You can save time and money by doing a soil analysis prior to species selection, and then form a seed mix to suit your area. This will maximize success of a planting and minimize maintenance once the meadow is established. A. Wildflowers Select flowers and grasses based on growth height, blooming season, and color to design a creative and colorful meadow habitat. Select species of varying heights to provide habitat for numerous species. If your meadow will be viewed predominantly from one location, plant taller vegetation and big, bold flowers in the background. Create patches of color and texture throughout the meadow and in the foreground areas or along paths. You may wish to establ ish the meadow with a general mix and add the finishing touches in future seasons. There are many commercial wildflower and meadow mixes on the market. If you elect to use a commercial mix, it is important to determine the contents of the mixture, as many commercial mixes contain exotics and spreading grasses. By visiting local nurseries or botanical gardens, you may be able to determine species to avoid planting in your area. Choosing plants individually, rather than using a commercial seed mix, can be ftin and educational! Table 1, a list of wildflowers native co your region, is included to assist you. B. Grasses In addition to adding texture and color, grasses can enhance your meadow habitat by providing food and cover for wildlife. Grasses also benefit the soil and wildflowers on site by controlling erosion, crowding out weeds, and providing support and protection for tall flowers. RR3Q9875 There are two types of grasses: sod grasses" and bunch grasses. If you plant sod grasses, choose non-aggressive native species «jrow in loose matrices. This type of sod grassiwii^ aliow room /or wildflowers to grow. B unch grasses have openings een clumps and favor wildflower development. Choose shorter, non-aggressive bunch grasses. Commercial meadow mixes may include inappropriate grasses ;as filler. TheJbJlowing grasses tend to spread and should be avoided: tall fescue, annual rye, orchard grass, Tiinothy grass, and blue grass. Table 2 offers a regional selection of native grasses that may be planted to diversify the texture, color, and habitat of your meadow. IIT. Planting Method After preparing your site by removing the weeds and creating an even seed bed, you are ready to plant. Depending on your region of the country you may plant in fall or early spring. Decide when to plant based on the following information and through consultation with a local, reputable nursery or seed company. Many native wildflowers do best when planted in the fall, since this provides the conditions needed to break seed dormancy. The warm, wet spring will then induce germination. One drawback of planting in the fall is that seeds may germinate in the fall and be killed by frost. Fall planting is not recommended for areas with high credibility or where snow-melt runs off quickly. These conditions may cause the loss of numerous seeds. Planting in the spring during the wet season can promote seed germination, but some seed preparation may be needed to ensure germination. In most southern areas, a fall planting will provide the best results. In northern areas, there are advantages to planting at either time. Spring planting will remedy losses to winter rains, runoff, and consumption by birds and mammals. Whether you plant in fall or spring, it is important that you plant when there is ample precipitation. may plant seeds or plants or a combination of the two. Using seeds is the less expensive, less time consuming, and easier method. Using plants may be advantageous if yourmeadow covers a small area. Do not transplant wildflowers from the wild, as this diminishes naturally occurring wildflowers. Ensure that the nursery or seed source you use is reputable. Plant 40 to 60' seeds per square foot, 8'to" 12 pounds per acre, or what is recommended by your nursery or seed source. Grasses should be included, but the proportion of grass seeds to wildflower seeds is your choice (4:1, 1:1, etc.)- Native perennial wildflowers should comprise the bulk of the wildflower seed proportion of the mix. If you include annuals and biennials, do not count them in the 40 to 60 seeds per square fooC Annuals will put on a good show the first year but will not be a lasting pan of you meadow unless you re-plant yearly. Never plant high rates of invasive species or exotics. On a relatively windless day when the ground is moist, broadcast the seeds. By mixing the seeds with two parts of clean, dry sand, a uniform broadcast is ensured. You may broadcast the seeds by hand on a small site or with a mechanical seeder attached to a tractor on a large site. Finally, rake and then roll the site to promote soil-seed contact. Note that it may take two to three years for your meadow to reach full bloom, since perennials often grow an extensive root system in the first two years before maturing upward. Do not be discouraged if your meadow is slow to flourish. flR309876 Meadow Maintenance and Management f. Initial Maintenance The following maintenance techniques are recommended for the first two or three years of your meadow's development. B y ensuring that your meadow gets o ff to a good start, long term maintenance and management will be kept to a mini- mum. A. Water After seeding or planting, keep the area moist until seedlings or plants are established. Most species require moisture for germination. By planting when a rainy period Is expected, the meadow will not require watering. Once established, your meadow will only need watering during severe droughts or if the species you have planted require more moisture than the environment and soil can provide. By choosing native species adapted to the environment of your site, you will keep maintenance to a minimum. B. Weeds During the meadow's first two to three years, weeds will need to be controlled. This is particularly important. Once weeds spread you will have trouble getting rid of them. Weed carefully, as it is often difficult to distinguish between wildflower seedlings and weeds. Pull weeds by hand, or selectively apply a non-persistent herbicide, such as Roundup, to the weed stems. Make sure to control weeds before they have flowered. C. Fertilizer In most cases it is not necessary to fertilize the soil on your site before planting seeds. Fertilizer may only be needed on that are completely infertile. If the soil on site has poor drainage, additions of organic material may improve draina conditions. H. Ongoing Maintenance WHC recommends the following management techniques to keep your meadow a low maintenance, colorful, healthy habitat for wildlife. A. Rotational Management A great way to manage your meadow and minimize disruption to meadow wildlife is to divide your meadow into two or three sections, depending on size. Each year, leave one section alone and mow orbum the other section(s). The unmanaged section will be a haven for over-wintering butterfly eggs and pupae and will provide protection for wildlife during mows or burns on other units. A given section should be left unmanaged for only one year. This management method will enhance species diversity and result in varying levels of vegetative cover for wildlife. B. Mow or Burn The decision whether to mow or bum your meadow will depend on your preferences and site or community restrictions. Meadows and especially prairies were historically maintained by wild fires. These bums benefited meadow and prairie habitats by increasing the variety of native plants, deterring the invasion of exotic species, removing the previous season's dead plant naterial, and warming the soil. To maintain yourmeadow, you will need to mimic these events on a periodic basis (once two years). AR309877 If you do choose to conduct a controlled bum, keep in mind weather and air quality constraints. Burns cannot be conducted during periods of rain or drought Regulations and permits maybe required by state and local authorities. Burning in the very arly spring will favor early blooming plants and should be conducted early enough that it precedes any wildlife nesting that ay be occurring on site. Burning in the late summerorfall wiHensure minimal disturbance to nests, but results in the removal of winter cover for wildlife. Choose late summer, fall, or early spring to conduct your yearly burn, depending on your location. If fire is not a viable option for your site, WHC recommends mowing as a good alternative. Mow to a height of about 4 inches and remove the cut material. Mowing close to the ground and removing thatch mimics burning and promotes soil warming. Rotational mowing will also maintain a diversity of growth stages in your meadow. Mowing in late summer will avoid disruption of nests and is most successful hi controlling woody plants. Summary WHC realizes that the initial preparation for and establishment of a wildflower meadow may seem complicated and time consuming, but designing a wildflower meadow can be a fun and creative experience. Once established, your meadow will be essentially self-sustaining, requiring very low-cost maintenance. Your meadow will provide habitat for numerous wildlife species and can be a place for nature walks, wildlife photography, or a quiet retreat for lunch hour. Quickly you will see that the benefits outweigh the initial costs. If you are interested in learning more about wildflower meadows and landscaping with wildflowers, Appendix 2 provides a list of excellent references. AR309873 Brush Piles for Wildlife \\ildlife Habitat Council Management Series General Information: Brush piles are an important habitat component for small mammals, birds, and reptiles. They provide shelter from harsh weaker and predators throughout the seasons. The brush pile is a medium for seed germination and young plant growth. Small mammals burrow into the brush pile and construct nests in the crevices. The top branches provide nest sites and perches for songbirds. The smaller animals attract predators to the brushpile, widening the existing prey base. Different wildlife species will use the brushpile throughout its lifetime. Soon after construction, when it is still tall and relatively airy, the brush pile will attract many birds. As the brush pile matures and settles, small mammals will begin to occupy many of its differentspaces. The loosely compacted material is ideal for burrowers. Rodents can easily excavate nests in the decaying wood and collecting soil. The intertwining branches and logs help protect smaller species from larger predators. Throughout the life of the brush pile, the dead wood and leaves slowly decay to form a mound of rich organic material. In its Inst stage, the brush pile will support a population of insects and the animals that prey upon them. Ants, worms, various insect larva, and numerous beetles will live and feed in the newiy forming soils beneath the pile. These invertebrates are the food source for most of the smaller mammal species in the community. __!? WILDLIFE HABITAT COUNCIL" 1010 Wayne Are. Suite 920 SUva Spring MD 20910 IJCD-8W9M AR309879 Management Plan Management Objective: To enhance the whole community in which the brush pile is located by providing cover and nesting opportunities for birds, small mammals, reptiles and amphibians, Materials Needed: Trimmed Boughs or Logs Coarse Branches with or without Leaves Optional: Cylindrical Tiles or Concrete Blocks Location of Brush Pile: Build the brush pile near food and water sources where there is a lack of cover. Travel lanes - paths animals frequently follow - such as fence corners, woodland borders, and meadow edges are ideal sites for brush piles. Areas where two habitats meet (e.g. a forest next to a meadow) support the species which would receive the greatest benefit of the brush piles. For the brush piles located near a wetland, place one end in the water to provide habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Brush Pile Construction: * -Lay the coarse boughs directly on the ground. The base of the brush pile should be twice as wide as the brush pile is high. Generally this means about 8'VSr. Stack layers of logs upon each other, criss-crossing alternate levels. Within a level, the logs should be six inches apart. This provides space near the bottom of the pile for wildlife. Lay down about five layers of logs until the pile rises to knee level or above. Between the first layer of logs, 6 to 8 inch cylindrical tiles or concrete blocks can be placed to provide additional cover. » Place smaller branches on top of the base in a tepee fashion, rising to a point near the center of the brush pile. Branches with leaves or needles attached are recommended, but not required. Be sure that the brush pile is dense but not tightly packed. _ • Plant species for a living brush pile: After your pile is finished, you may wish to plant some vines to trail over and through it. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinqiiefotia), Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens), Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens.), and Wild-Grapes (Vitis spp.) all provide fruit and enhance the available cover. Scan after its construction, grasses and wildflowers will grow in and around the brush pile. flR309880 Brush Pile Construction The Base A solid base with thick branches or minks should be created. This will extend the life of the brush pile and it will also provide cover and nesting areas for additional species. TILE The Crowr. Smaller branches should be piled on the top and should make the brush pile half as tall as it is wide. This will create a brush pile that can to be used by larger mammals. _ AR30988 Brush Pile Maintenance: A well constructed brush pile, such as the one described in this plan, will last as long as ten years with the correct maintenance. As rime passes, the brush pile will settle. If at any time the base is exposed, branches should be added to cover it. These shouldnot prohibit access to the center of the pile, but merely limit it to the smaller animals for which you are supplying cover. As the top branches collapse, add new branches. Try to keep a consistent ratio between the base and the height. If you add branches to the top, also expand the base. The best cover for most creatures is at the bottom of the brush pile so building a taller brush pile will not provide additional benefits. Discarded Christmas trees can provide a seasonal addition to the brush pile and will provide cover for two or three years. Use of a Brush Pile: Songbirds; Field Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Harris' Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Brown Thrasher. Rufous-sided Towfiee, Cardinal, Winter Wren, and Catbird. Gamebirds; The young of most ground nesting birds such as Bobwhite .Quail, Ruffed Grouse, Wild Turkey, and Ring-necked Pheasant will use brusjipiles for cover depending on location. Mammals: ConontailRabbit,LongtailWeasel,.Woodchuck,_StripedSkunk,RedFox, Eastern Chipmunks, Deer Mouse, White-footed Mouse, and certain species of Ground Squirrels and Voles. Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fish: Snakes, toads, and lizards will use meadow and woodland brush piles. Salamanders, frogs, and small fish, such as bluegill and young bass, will use partially submerged brush piles for cover while the amphibians will also lay their eggs on branches and twigs within the pile. . . -...... —.- ... An animal need not live in a brush pile to benefit from its presence. Raptors do not nest in brush piles, but they prey on many things that do. An important component in the diets of hawks and owls are the voles, mice, and rabbits.that_are protected by the brush piles. If the prey populations can be increased, this can only help the predators. AR309882 References Dove. Louise E. 1985. Urban wildlife manager's noteboofc-9 brushpiles and rockpiles: small habitats for backyard wildlife. Urban Wildlife News. Vol. ix, No. 1, Winter 1985-86. Kress, Stephen W. 1985. The Audubon Society Guide to Attracting Birds, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York. 377 pp.. Mause, Marilyn. 1991. Guidelines for brushpiles. TreeTalk. Vol 3:No.l. Baltimore County Forest Conservancy District Board. Shomon, JJ., B J-. Ashbaugh, and CD. Tolman. 1966. Wildlife Habitat Improvement. National Audubon Society, New York. 96 pp. The Upland Habitat Restoration Project. 1990. Address to Prince Georges, Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, and St. Marys Counties. Maryland DNR. Warwick, CW. 1976. Artificial brushpiles. USDI Bureau of Land Management. Tech. Note 290, Denver, CO. 5 pp. AR309883