Naturally occurring grasslands, encompassing dunes, sandplains, fens, and grass-dominated marshes likely occurred in selected areas of coastal New England and after naturally occurring disturbances like hurricanes, fire, and influences from beaver activities. These habitat disturbances likely created temporary early successional habitats in an otherwise forested landscape. Extensive grassland communities in some areas of New England are also thought to have been managed by Native Americans for hunting and agricultural uses.

By providing technical assistance to private landowners, non-governmental organizations, and U. S. Department of Agriculture staff, the Partners Program has enhanced grassland and early successional forest habitats using late season brush-hogging and mowing. Both habitats have declined greatly in New England as farmland has reverted to forest causing significant declines in migratory bird species dependant of those habitat types.

   

     

                              

Tidal and Freshwater Wetlands

Dam Removal and River Restoration

Invasive Species

Grassland and Early Successional Habitats

Riparian Habitat Restoration