Bird Clubs and MassWildlife: A Symbiotic Relationship Andrew Vitz
Main Priority – conservation of native animal and plant species listed as Endangered, Threatened or Special Concern under Massachusetts Endangered Species Act 11/7/2018 The goal of the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program is to ensure the conservation and protection of the Commonwealth’s biodiversity. Our main focus in our efforts is on the 442 plant and animal species that are listed as Special Concern, Threatened, or Endangered in the state, pursuant to the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act. 29 species of breeding birds (15% of our breeding birds)
Conservation Tools for Rare Species 11/7/2018 Monitoring Research Land Protection Habitat Management Regulations (MESA) Education The Core of our Program is the Natural Heritage Database. This Database tracks current and historical observations, watch list species, exemplary natural communities, and certified vernal pools. At this time, it contains over 18,000 records which can be geographically referenced.
How You Can Help Us Become familiar with state list Submit records (VPRS) Review list every 3 years Propose species for listing
How You Can Help Us Encourage trips that target State-listed species Wildlife Management Areas (Southwick, Bolton Flats, Frances Crane, Burrage Pond) Brookline Bird Club Volunteer opportunities
How You Can Help Us Support NHESP through tax check-off Public/political support for MassWildlife & bird conservation Grassland management sites Endangered Species Acts Migratory Bird Treat Act
What Would You Like to See from MassWildlife?