Renville County WMA Tree Removal

This project addresses the limiting factor for pheasants and other game and non-game grassland species; quality nesting and brood rearing cover. In the pheasant range of Minnesota, quality grassland habitat is the limiting factor for higher pheasant populations. The Long Range Pheasant Plan states " pheasant densities increase as the proportion of undisturbed grass in the landscape increases, up to a maximum of about 50% grass". In addition to creating and enhancing grassland habitat, this proposal also addresses a perception that Minnesotans need to manage the public land we have more effectively. It is well documented that wildlife responds better to well managed habitat. Both the Schmaltz and Chetombe Creek WMA sites are in need of woody vegetation removal. Both of these sites currently contain undesirable trees that will take over the native prairie if left untreated. Unwanted woody vegetation will be cut, piled and the stumps will be treated with chemicals. Many upland grassland species benefit from these sites, but if left untreated the site will be taken over by woody vegetation pushing upland games species off the site making it less enjoyable for the public.