The New Jersey Pinelands contains numerous populations of rare plants that are characteristic of this distinctive region. Some of these populations represent the global stronghold for the species. For several notable species, the Pinelands is the only place in the world where they can be found.
In 2008, the Pinelands Preservation Alliance (PPA) initiated a partnership with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to create an informal statewide committee of experts to focus on plant conservation, called the Partnerships for Plant Conservation. Using a list of priority sites developed by the DEP, PPA is organizing and implementing in situ management of several high priority rare plant populations. All of the sites require field visits and consultation with ONLM staff, state forest superintendents, and local experts. PPA will organize and supervise volunteers involved with monitoring, data collection and woody plant removal.
Several sites are in Wharton State Forest. Near Atsion, PPA will enhance the habitat for Croton willdenowii, Fimbristylis puberula, Gentiana autumnalis, Ludwigia hirtella, Muhlenbergia torreyana, and possibly Oldenlandia uniflora. Near the abandoned settlement of Friendship, the plan is to restore a dwindling population of Stylisma pickeringii. In both cases, the plan is to organize volunteers to thin the trees and shrubs that are encroaching on the habitat. In Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, in the Cedar Swamp Natural Area, PPA will enlarge the existing habitat for Aristida virgata, Gentiana autumnalis, Scleria minor, and Calamovilfa brevipilis. This will also require tree and shrub removal. In the Stafford Forge Wildlife Management Area (East Plains Natural Area) PPA will help with an existing DEP project on behalf of Corema conradii. Fire suppression over the last few decades has allowed trees and shrubs to outcompete the Crowberry population, so, again, removal of woody material is the primary goal.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Biological Diversity: Habitat-federal threatened/endangered species protection; Ecosystem restoration- invasive plant removal
Total Project Cost: $9,900
In 2009, CRI awarded the PPA a $3,500 grant for this project through its Franklin Parker Small Grants program.
Status: This project is in the initial stages of development. PPA is coordinating plans with experts in the field of rare plant conservation.
If you would like further information about this project, contact Conservation Resources Inc.
