Projects and Research

Grassland Restoration

Refuge staff restored historic grassland areas by removing young red cedar and oak trees in former grassland areas using a low-ground pressure mower.  Removal of red cedar and oak allows native grasses and other plants to grow in these areas, as well as reducing hazardous fuels and decreasing the possibility of wildfires on the refuge. Grassland restoration provides improved habitat for grassland birds such as eastern meadowlark, bobolink, and savannah sparrow, as well as rare plants and animals.