An increasingly large body of evidence indicates that the presence of trees results in avoidance and reduced nesting success by grassland birds in the Prairie Pothole Region.  Under the assumptions that the removal of shelterbelts and scattered trees will result in increased habitat quantity and quality for these species, Wetland Management Districts in Minnesota and Iowa have engaged in a significant effort to exclude trees from WPAs. 

The costs of doing so in terms of management funds and public controversy can be high.  The HAPET Office has partnered with the Morris and Litchfield Wetland Management Districts to evaluate the effects of tree removal on grassland birds to determine if removal has the expected, desired consequences. 

2005 was the first year of data collection.  The study is expect to continue for 1-2 more years and may expand in scope. 

For additional information contact Diane Granfors, Habitat and Population Evaluation Team, Fergus Fall, Minnesota.