Energy companies are working with the NWTF to develop wildlife habitat in their new construction rights of way and on older corridors. We are planting native warm season grasses and native plants to provide nesting and brood cover for grassland birds and useful habitat for other upland wildlife. These strips of habitat add diversity to the overall landscape and can greatly enhance wildlife benefits.

Food Plot in a Power Line

Photo by P.J. Perea

Golden-winged warbler populations are decreasing at an alarming rate because their habitat is dwindling. The birds prefer a shrubby type of early forest growth that usually emerges after an area is clearcut and hardwood forests begin to regenerate. Particularly in the Northeast, where there has been a marked decrease in this type of forestry practice, populations of warblers, as well as ruffed grouse and woodcock, are suffering.

Warbler

Photo by RickyLayson@bugwood.org

Photo by Matt Lindler

Survey says

For many of us who grew up on family farms and left to pursue our goals and dreams elsewhere, there is a yearning to return to our rural roots and again consider ourselves farmers or landowners. Many others have moved to the country for the first time for a better quality of life.

One of the challenges for new landowners (and sometimes long-time landowners) is how to manage their land, especially for wildlife. They may have an interest, but lack the knowledge, resources or equipment necessary to be successful.

Most states have district wildlife biologists and foresters who are available to private landowners for consultation. However with budget restrictions, reduced staffs and heavy workloads, it is sometimes difficult for landowners to find information or help.

Another good source of information are USDA Farm Service Centers on the county level. The office hosts the Natural Resources and Conservation Service and Farm Services Agency which offer a multitude of landowner programs, many of which provide financial assistance for conservation and wildlife management projects. However, sometimes landowners are overwhelmed by the multitude of programs, the amount of forms and the apparent complexity to participate.

Enter: the NWTF

The Federation's conservation department is particularly interested in our members who own land and how they manage their properties. We're on a fact finding mission to learn more and invite you to take a few minutes to complete a landowner survey. We'll use the information to create and improve our products and services for private landowners through Project HELP.

We want to hear from new landowners and folks who have been farming their entire lives. The survey will only take a few minutes, and those who participate will be entered into a drawing for prizes.

Find a link to the online survey at www.turkeycountrymagazine.com and let us know a little about you and the land you work. And stay tuned for improved services based on your responses. — Donnie Buckland, NWTF director of upland game programs