NWTF Connecticut State Chapter Improves Wild Turkey Habitat
Video of NWTF Volunteers conducting habitat work for the wild turkey Click image for print quality version
WOODSTOCK, Conn. — Members and volunteers from the National Wild Turkey Federation's Connecticut State Chapter recently helped complete a wildlife habitat restoration project in the Nipmuck State Forest.
White pine trees had almost completely taken over a 10-acre area of the forest, significantly reducing feeding and nesting areas for wild turkeys and other wildlife, including many songbirds.
NWTF members and the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (CDEP) cleared the overgrowth with tractors, chainsaws and other power equipment while JAKES and Boy Scout Cub members from Local Pack 29 in North Grosvenordale, Conn., used pruners to take down limbs and brush.
"Teaming up with the NWTF was part of a service project that these Scouts are completing to obtain a special Conservation Patch," said Pack Leader Maureen Marcoux. "It was great to be out here on a sunny Saturday morning showing these Scouts first-hand why conservation is important. This will stay with them longer than just learning about wild turkeys from a book in a classroom."
According to NWTF Regional Biologist Doug Little, giving bushes, shrubs and other low-growing plants a place to thrive will provide plenty of insects and berries for wild turkeys to feed on, especially hens raising poults.
CDEP Biologist Mike Gregonis agreed with Little, and noted that, "improving brood habitat, particularly here in eastern Connecticut, is a priority as we work to make New England an even better region for wild turkeys."
NWTF Connecticut State Chapter President Rich Lockery thanked everyone involved in the project, and said he looks forward to more successful projects like this in the future.
"Hunters and wildlife watchers alike, as well as wild turkeys, songbirds and other wildlife will benefit from today's work," said Lockery. "It was great to get the youth involved, and it just goes to show that here in Connecticut, the NWTF has some of the most enthusiastic members and volunteers of anywhere in the country."
