4.3 Wetland Natural Communities
• Perform genetic studies to determine the degree of gene fow or degree of isolation between populations and to assess overall population health for species restricted to this habitat. • Document how priority species are utilizing the habitat and whether specifc hydrologi- cal and biological requirements are being met under current management regimes. 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. • Specifc management needs include the control of woody encroachment and succes- sion, the maintenance (and where necessary, restoration) of natural surface water and groundwater hydrology (using ditch plugs, temporary dams, level spreaders, or other engineering devices), the restoration of herbaceous vegetation, and the prohibition of take of rare bog-related species (e.g., Bog Turtle). 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.
• Actively pursue acquisition of conservation ownership of mountain bogs in concert with state and federal agency partners as well as private conservation partners.
4.3.11 Wet Pine Savannas 4.3.11.1 Ecosystem Description
Te communities in wet pine savannas are Coastal Plain mineral soil wetlands that under natural conditions were frequently burned. With frequent fre, they have an open canopy dominated by longleaf or pond pine over a grassy herb layer. Shrubs are short and sparse with frequent fre, but become dense if fre is suppressed for more than a couple of years. Tere are three community types in this ecosystem group: pine savanna, sandhill seeps, and wet pine fatwoods. • Te pine savanna type occurs in fat areas that are saturated or even slightly fooded during the wetter parts of the year. Te herb layer is dominated by grasses and sedges and a variety of low shrubs may be present, but are low and open if the savanna is fre- quently burned. Te herb layer usually contains many showy composites, orchids, and
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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