Orwell WMA Phase 1

Removal of invasive trees from prairie grassland/wetland habitats. The Orwell WMA has scattered trees throughout the entire uplands of the 2129 acre property, with some very dense pockets of trees. The habitats targeted in the restoration projects are devoid of trees in their native pristine conditions. The purpose of the project is to restore protected public prairie habitats through the removal of invasive trees that have taken over the habitat. Grasslands that breed migratory birds are the targeted beneficiaries of the restoration project. The program, however, positively impacts all native prairie life utilizing the Prairie Pothole Region Prairie. This area has experienced extensive wetland drainage and conversion of native grasslands to cropland. The remnant parcels of native prairie and other tame grasslands in this area on public and private land have been invaded by smooth bromegrass, Kentucky bluegrass and woody species such as the Russian olive and Siberian elm and are in need of intensive management. Restoration of these habitats will benefit several species of concern.