Northeastern forests provide essential habitat for a large suite of birds and mammals that occur in no other setting. This group includes several habitat specialists listed as species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) in multiple states. Their vulnerability to various stressors has prompted the formation of several species-­‐level conservation and research initiatives. We propose to work with these focused partnerships and with key forest stewards to integrate current ecological and biogeographic information into on-­‐ the-­‐ground habitat enhancement. This collaboration will produce spatially explicit management and conservation support for five regional SGCN whose combined ranges encompass thirteen northeastern states. The focal species are: Bicknell’s Thrush, Wood Thrush, Canada Warbler, Rusty Blackbird, and American Marten. By engaging both experts and end users, we will produce scientifically sound and practical guidelines for conserving these species and other SGCN in their guilds. In addition, we will use available occurrence data, distribution models, and stakeholder input to delineate and prioritize areas that exhibit high management and conservation potential. To promote uptake, we will upload the best practices and GIS layers to online information networks and mapping platforms. Furthermore, we will work directly with habitat stewards to ensure that the recommended practices are implemented in management and conservation opportunity areas. This two-­‐year project will focus on the analysis and exchange of information in year one, followed by dissemination and application of habitat guidelines and maps in year two. Bridging wildlife science and forest stewardship in a deliberate, inclusive process will expedite tangible results for these and other SGCN.

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Update: March 2017

This project has closed and the final products provided below