NWTF and NYDEC Bolster Forests and Flocks with Habitat Enhancement Project

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is preparing to use NWTF Super Fund dollars to mow invasive woody shrubs and plant fruit tree saplings on 11 acres of land in the Margaret Burke Wildlife Management Area in Albany County, contributing to the NWTF’s Forests and Flocks Initiative.

This 245-acre parcel of land was donated to the NYSDEC in 1958 and lies within the Helderberg Bird Conservation area, which is managed to create optimal habitat for several different bird species. Currently, 16% of the management area is early successional forest, which is a habitat that supports many beloved species, including wild turkey, American woodcock and ruffed grouse, among others. Wild turkeys use the brushy cover that is provided by young forests for nesting cover and rely on the easily accessible buds of young trees for a winter food source. 

To create more food for wild turkeys in the Margaret Burke Wildlife Management Area, NYSDEC staff are hand planting a diverse assortment of fruit trees like persimmon, black gum, mulberry and pear.  

The NYSDEC Saratoga Tree Nursery is also going to be donating some trees to the planting.  

“In particular, the Granddad Pear cultivar, which ripens in late fall through November, will provide late-season forage for wildlife,” said Joe Ermeti, NYSDEC Wildlife Technician. “The Granddad Pear is grafted and thus self-fertile.” 

Not only do the trees provide fruit, but they also attract pollinators and other insects for poults to grow and survive. Having ample pollinator species in the area will also result in better fruit production. 

This project aims to plant over 100 fruit trees and clear around two and a half acres of invasive buckthorn to provide more areas for toms to strut their stuff. The project is scheduled to take place this month.  

“The NYSDEC is committed to continuously improving the quality of state lands in ways that benefit local wildlife,” Ermeti said. “One way that the DEC does this is by working with organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation. Every year NWTF provides funds for projects or equipment that will benefit wild turkeys.” 

“NWTF partners have really embraced the Forests and Flock Initiative, and the fruit tree planting on Margret Burke WMA is a great example,” said Mitch Blake, NWTF district biologist. “I’m excited for more projects to kick-off and create great wild turkey nesting and brood-rearing habitat.”