This research primarily studies the health and number of plants in the woods with a focus on the native species that deer are most likely to consume. A research-based monitoring program, designed and implemented by Roger Latham of Continental Conservation (and former Swarthmore biology professor), is assessing the forest ecosystem's response to the reduced number of deer in the woods. Response: Extensive efforts are underway to measure the effect of the diminished deer population on the health and vitality of the overall forest ecosystem. Question: What is being done to monitor the results of deer population management measures? Unfortunately, the overabundant deer population has impacted these initiatives. The College has also pursued grants to support the management of the Crum Woods. Swarthmore College and the Scott Arboretum have actively engaged in invasive plant remediation, and have planted native species in the Crum Woods. Non-native plant species that are not part of the natural deer diet are replacing the native species in the woods. As old oak trees age and die, there are few younger trees left to grow and fill in the canopy, and to provide habitat for other animals. For example, deer are consuming nearly all of the native oak saplings. Response: Excessive deer browsing is severely limiting the ability of the forest to regenerate naturally and altering the structure and composition of the forest. Question: What type of long-term damage is being done to the woods by the deer? Additionally, there is a long-term ecological research project being conducted in the woods by Swarthmore students and faculty which furthers our understanding of the impact that the deer are having. (NRC Inc.) and an aerial infrared deer count supported the conclusion that managing the deer population was a priority for maintaining a healthy ecosystem in Crum Woods. That report, published in 2003, concluded that the effect of overpopulation of deer in the woods was "profound." Further research done by Natural Resource Consultants Inc. Response: Swarthmore College has been studying the long term effects of an overabundance of deer since 2001 when it commissioned Natural Lands Trust and Continental Conservation to prepare a Conservation and Stewardship Plan to secure the long-term viability of the woods and identify any potential risks or hazards. Question: Why is the College planning to conduct a deer cull? Send an email to crumwoods Frequently Asked Questions
0 kommentar(er)
