Sharing and improving best management practices – Talented and experienced managers from throughout the region have already made great strides fine-tuning management techniques and developing best practices.  There is a need, however, for more communication, coordination, and knowledge sharing—a major objective of this proposal. Specifically, we propose to establish a regional steering committee to guide this project and work groups to address monitoring protocol development and adaptive management study design.  During the first two years of the project, we will also compile information about ongoing xeric habitat management efforts throughout the region, existing best practices, and case studies, and disseminate this information.  Best management practices and recommendations will continue to be refined over time, in particular through the information collected at adaptive management sites.      

The project will be guided by a steering committee with representatives from throughout the region, and, at least initially, three Work Groups: (1) Habitat Management Sites and Practices, (2) Pollinator Sampling, and (3) Vegetation Sampling.  Although identification of habitat management sites is ongoing, it is currently anticipated that pilot sites will include Albany Pine Bush in New York, Concord Pine Barrens in New Hampshire, and Frances Crane Wildlife Management Area in Massachusetts.

More information on Xeric Habitats for Pollinators can be found at NortheastBarrens.org