4.3 Wetland Natural Communities
determine vulnerability of SGCN and other priority species to specifc threats and studies should provide recommendations for mitigation and restoration.
• Conduct home-range and movement research on Timber (Canebrake) and Pigmy Rattlesnakes (possibly on other snakes of conservation concern as well).
• Conduct genetics research to determine if the Coastal Worm-eating Warbler is a sepa- rate sub-species.
• Explore alternatives (herbicides or mechanical) to using fre for the initial restoration of severely fre suppressed non-alluvial wetlands. • Determine why some priority species use this habitat on the coast, when the same species primarily is found in the Mountains using completely diferent habitats (e.g . , Wayne’s Black-throated Green Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Wood Frog). Management Practices. Management practices that reduce impacts and work synergis- tically with other conservation actions are needed to enhance the resilience of natural resources. Particular needs include preserving biodiversity, protecting native populations and their habitats, and improving degraded habitats.
• Reintroduction of fre to unconverted nonalluvial mineral wetland sites is the single most important factor to restore these sites.
• Plowed frelines along transition zones between habitats should be rehabilitated (smoothed over) where possible. New frelines should be constructed when necessary. Tese areas should be maintained as a permanent narrow opening by discing with a tractor or by wetting with water or foam prior to a burn.
• Control tide water penetration and saltwater intrusion with tide gates where feasible.
• Where fre cannot be introduced back into the site for smoke management or other rea- sons, the use of a hydro-ax or other chipping machinery should be considered to control midstory. Conservation Programs and Partnerships. Conservation programs, incentives, and partnerships should be utilized to the fullest extent to preserve high-quality resources and protect important natural communities. Protective measures that utilize existing regula- tory frameworks to protect habitats and species should be incorporated where applicable. Land conservation or preservation can serve numerous purposes in the face of anticipated climate change, but above all, it promotes ecosystem resilience.
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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