Management Plans

 

Bog turtles require sunny emergent wetlands to sustain a viable population. Natural succession slowly transforms emergent wetlands to shaded forested wetlands that are unsuitable for the species. Historically, emergent wetland habitats were likely created / sustained by large grazing animals, beaver activity and other natural events (storms, fires, etc.). More recently, cows and cattle were periodically grazed within wetlands and emergent habitats were maintained. With the gradual loss of livestock grazed wetlands, bog turtle wetlands are requiring active management. Aqua-Terra can conduct the necessary studies and prepare a bog turtle habitat management plan that meets the needs of your project. On several projects, we have also partnered with the Fish & Wildlife Service’s Partners for Wildlife Program to implement vegetative management activities at active bog turtle sites.