Tree Planting on Baraga Plains

The Keweenaw Bay Cutters chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation recently teamed up with the Department of Natural Resources to plant 100 crab apple trees and improve upland game bird habitat on state land in Baraga County, the DNR announced today.

The KBC chapter of NWTF provided both funding and volunteer manpower, along with their privately-owned equipment, to accomplish this Upland Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Project, with guidance from DNR wildlife biologists in choosing the three planting sites near the Baraga Plains State Wildlife Management Area. DNR staff also provided hands-on help and additional necessary equipment during the planting event on Saturday, April 14.

The habitat project will benefit many wildlife species including ruffed grouse, deer, bear, and Baraga County’s growing turkey population. DNR wildlife staff will build upon the improvements begun by the KBC volunteers by planting several new wildlife openings in the near future with a mix of small grains and clovers to complement the fruit-bearing crab apple seedlings.

“As hunting license revenues continue to decline, so does our budget for habitat improvement projects, making partnerships like this increasingly valuable in managing our natural resources,” said DNR wildlife biologist Bill Scullon. “This is a great example of the key role our partners play in working towards the common goal of successful wildlife management in Michigan.”

A sign identifying the planting sites and recognizing the partnership project will be provided and placed in the vicinity by the KBC volunteers.

“I would like to thank all who helped plant the trees, as well as the businesses and members that support our group financially throughout the year,” said KBC chapter president Nick Lindemann.

Conservation groups with habitat improvement partnership proposals are encouraged to approach their local DNR wildlife biologist for assistance in project development.

For more information about the Baraga County tree planting project, contact Bill Scullon at 906-563-9077. To learn more about the DNR’s work to improve habitat statewide, go online to www.michigan.gov/wildlife.