Woodstown-Pilesgrove Joint Environmental Commission

Final Report of the

Critical Habitat Survey and Educational Project May 10, 2012

www.w-pjec.org

This report was prepared with the assistance of a Smart Growth Planning G rant from the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions.

Woodstown-Pilesgrove Joint Environmental Commission www.w-pjec.org

Final Report of the

Critical Habitat Survey and Educational Project May 10, 2012 Respectfully submitted to: Pilesgrove Township Mayor & Committee Pilesgrove Township Planning Board Woodstown Borough Mayor & Council Woodstown Borough Land Use Board Woodstown-Pilesgrove Joint Environmental Commission Woodstown Representatives Shane Godshall, Chair Jean Jack, Secretary Paul Langley Ervin Parker Richard Pfeffer (alternate) Francis Rapa

Pilesgrove Representatives Debbie Duffield Andrew Grosik Bob Howell (alternate) Cheri Pettit John Ronafalvy, Vice-Chair Bill Stoms, Jr.

The Woodstown-Pilesgrove Joint Environmental Commission is pleased to present this report to the governing bodies and planning/land-use boards of Woodstown and Pilesgrove. The WPJEC would like to further thank the municipal leaders for their valuable support of this project. The Critical Habitat Survey and Education Project would not have been possible without the sponsorship of the two municipalities and other project partners. The WPJEC would like to thank the following individuals for their assistance with this project: Sandy Batty, Kerry Miller, Jody Carrara and Cheryl Reardon of ANJEC; Shaina Phillips, Philip Arsenault and Meredith Brown of the NJ Watershed Ambassador Program; Salvatore Mangiafico of Rutgers NJ Agricultural Extension Service; Christine Nolan and Michael Hogan of the South Jersey Land and Water Trust; Scott Angus of Amy Green Environmental; Steve Eisenhauer of the Natural lands Trust, Inc. and Brian Zarate of the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. This report was prepared with the assistance of a Smart Growth Planning Grant from the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions.

Cover photos: clockwise from upper left: Pilesgrove grassland habitat; State endangered savannah sparrow, Featherbed Lane; mountain laurel in bloom near Harrisonville Lake; East Lake bald eagle observation site. Savannah sparrow photo courtesy of Blaine Rothauser. Other photos, Francis Rapa.

WOODSTOWN & PILESGROVE OVERVIEW The Borough of Woodstown and the Township of Pilesgrove are located in Salem County, in southwestern New Jersey, 12 miles southeast of Wilmington, Delaware. The two municipalities have a long history of shared natural, cultural and community resources. Woodstown is a 1.6-square mile municipality that serves as a regional population center. Residential neighborhoods of varying densities, light industry, a downtown business district, a historic district, semi-rural environs and over 150 acres of preserved open space make Woodstown a diverse, balanced community. Woodstown is completely surrounded by 35-square-mile Pilesgrove Township. The two towns share many governmental and community services, including a regional school district, emergency services, library, post office, recreational park, youth sports programs, and numerous civic organizations, clubs and community events. Located within a one-hour drive of Philadelphia, Woodstown and Pilesgrove are traversed by US Route 40, the primary transportation artery connecting the metropolitan Baltimore-Washington DC areas with Atlantic City and Cape May on the southern New Jersey coast. More locally, Route 40 is also an important transportation link between the Delaware Memorial Bridges and the tri-city area of VinelandBridgeton-Millville in Cumberland County. The New Jersey Turnpike cuts across the northwestern corner of Pilesgrove Township. With a combined population of 7,521 people (2010 US Census), the greater Woodstown-Pilesgrove community can be described as both an agricultural and residential community. First settled in 1695 as a grist mill village, Woodstown has historically served as a rural services center to the surrounding farming community, and is still home to a number of businesses that provide direct services to local agriculture. Over the past 20 years, Pilesgrove has grown significantly as a rural residential community and limited highway-commercial development has expanded beyond Woodstown’s borders into neighboring portions of Pilesgrove. Despite these changes, agriculture remains economically important in Pilesgrove. Nearly three-quarters of the township features soils classified as “prime” or “soils of statewide importance” - the most productive agricultural soils in New Jersey. According to the NJ Department of Treasury Division of Taxation, 15,965 acres in Pilesgrove (or 71 percent of the entire township) were devoted to agricultural production in 2011. To date, 4,800 acres of Pilesgrove farmland have been permanently preserved through agricultural easements under the State-authorized farmland preservation program. Thus, 30 percent of Pilesgrove’s remaining farmland is now protected from development. Preservation funding and programs in Pilesgrove are administered cooperatively by municipal, non-profit, county, state and federal agencies. The Township has a diverse agricultural base, including grain crop, livestock, fruit, vegetables, sod, floral/horticulture and equine farms as well as an emerging viticulture and wineproducing sector. Pilesgrove is also home to Cowtown Rodeo, one of New Jersey’s leading agritourism destinations. Ecologically and geologically, Woodstown and Pilesgrove are located on the inner Coastal Plain of New Jersey, within a region that wildlife biologists call the southern Piedmont Plains of New Jersey (NJ Wildlife Action Plan). Part of the greater Delaware Bay Watershed, Woodstown and Pilesgrove are drained by the Salem River, Oldmans Creek and Alloway Creek sub-watersheds. The area’s rolling terrain ranges from sea level to 150 feet above sea level. Located within a vast agricultural region spanning much of three counties, Woodstown-Pilesgrove’s farmland is interspersed with upland and wetland deciduous forests of mixed oaks, beech, hickory, red maple and sweetgum trees. Nearly 1,000 acres within both towns are part of the Salem River Wildlife Management Area, managed by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. 1

THE WPJEC The Woodstown-Pilesgrove Joint Environmental Commission (WPJEC) was established in 2003 by the governing bodies of the two municipalities. Of nearly 400 environmental commissions throughout New Jersey, the WPJEC is only the second joint panel comprised of two towns. The WPJEC is an advocate for sound environmental measures and natural resource protection. It researches issues, reviews and reports on development plans and develops public education programs and environmental improvement projects. With six members from each of the two towns, the WPJEC serves in an advisory capacity to the two towns and their land-use boards.

PROJECT PURPOSE & NEED Since its establishment in 2003, the WPJEC has achieved some meaningful success in promoting and implementing measures to protect natural resources through sustainable planning. The WPJEC prepared an Environmental Resource Inventory (ERI) for both communities and developed a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement Worksheet that is required for all major site plans and subdivision applications in both communities. Among other accomplishments, it authored a comprehensive light pollution ordinance, adopted by Woodstown and adapted by Pilesgrove; was instrumental in the creation of Woodstown’s Open Space and Recreation Plan; and helped prepare Woodstown’s Conservation Zoning and Conservation Overlay District Ordinance as well as Pilesgrove’s Conservation Design Ordinance. In spite of this progress, the WPJEC believes that there are gaps between the current ERI data and existing conditions within the community. This has created a need to develop the tools to more closely examine the natural resources within the two towns. The information and guidance materials developed as part of this Critical Habitat Survey Project (Habitat Project) can be used to preserve biological diversity and ecological sustainability through more informed decision-making. This project is designed to build upon our successes and enhance our understanding of natural resources within our community, and to help protect these resources from degradation and eradication.

PROJECT OVERVIEW & BACKGROUND The WPJEC Habitat Project is a multi-pronged approach to identifying and documenting rare plant and animal species and their associated habitats, as well as other areas that feature high biological diversity and special environmental characteristics, throughout the greater Woodstown-Pilesgrove community. This project aims to: promote greater protection of rare species and important habitat; help prevent landscape fragmentation and the creation of unsustainable biological islands; and to advance smart growth principles by encouraging the integration of natural resource protection and land-use planning. In 2009, the WPJEC received a Smart Growth Planning Grant of $6,000 from the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC). This grant, which funded half the cost of an expert biologist, served as the foundation for building additional support of the project. A Conserve Wildlife grant of $3,500 was also provided by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife Endangered and Non-Game Species Program, granted through a local non-profit organization - the South Jersey Land and Water Trust. This grant also helped underwrite the cost a series of stream assessments, vernal pool surveys and public education programs, among other Habitat Project activities. 2

Both the Township of Pilesgrove and the Borough of Woodstown provided matching funds totaling $5,000. A cost-sharing agreement among the two municipal governments helped streamline the fiscal administration of the project by having Pilesgrove manage the Habitat Project account. Once funding was lined up, the WPJEC hired conservation biologist Blaine Rothauser of BR Environmental of Florham Park, New Jersey as the project consultant. Another highly recognized New Jersey ecologist, Michael Hogan, provided expert services for various activities funded through the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife grant. Both experts collaborated closely on the project. Other organizations that provided technical support to the Habitat Project include the Rutgers University Cooperative Extension Service’s Environmental and Resource Management Program, the NJDEP Americorps Watershed Ambassador Program and the New Jersey Conservation Foundation. The Habitat Project began with an exhaustive review of all known environmental inventories and databases as well as consultations with State, federal and private experts. From there, the Project Team developed a list of 12 threatened and endangered target species that are likely to occur in Woodstown and Pilesgrove. These species would serve as the focus of the Habitat Project educational materials and survey training activities. However, as additional data was obtained - and as a result of preliminary “phase one” field surveys – the list was eventually expanded to include a total of 37 species, including 18 species that may verify the presence of vernal pool habitat (see Table 1 below). Following the completion of the phase-one field surveys and analysis to identify rare species communities and areas of high biological diversity, the Project Team held a series of six field training sessions between September 2009 and June 2010. Training sessions conducted were:       

Stream assessment (September 2009) vernal pool habitat (March 2010) forested riparian corridor/migratory songbird walk (informal) (March 2010) bog turtle (October 2010) swamp pink (October 2010) barred owl, Coopers hawk, red-shouldered hawk (March 2011) grassland birds (June 2011)

For each of the target species and/or habitat type, project consultant Blaine Rothauser prepared detailed informational guidelines, natural histories and protocols for identifying and reporting sightings. All of the materials developed as part of the Habitat Project, as well as key supporting documents, have been posted on the WPJEC dedicated Habitat Project website for the public to access. The website can be found at www.w-pjec.org/HabitatProject.asp . BRE provided a total of 110 hours of field work service, including preliminary phase-one surveys, reconnaissance surveys, phase-two surveys and survey training sessions. In addition to the BRE-lead field work, 14 combined visual and biological stream assessments were conducted by Michael Hogan of the South Jersey Land and Water Trust and Shaina Philips of the New Jersey Watershed Ambassador Program. This resulted in a grant of 100 native trees and shrubs from the New Jersey Tree Foundation, which were planted for shoreline stabilization and habitat improvement around Memorial Lake in Woodstown. Although many of these plants were later lost to Hurricane Irene flooding in August 2011, plans are presently underway in cooperation with the current Watershed Ambassador, Meredith Brown, to replace and expand the planting to segments of the Salem River, Memorial Lake and Chestnut Run in the Spring of 2012.

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The WPJEC also contributed 215 hours of in-kind services, valued at $3,360, to the Habitat Project. These services included consultation with project consultants and other experts, preparation of field guides, preparing grant reporting forms and the final report, planning and advancing training sessions and other field work, website layout and maintenance, planning the public session, preparing press releases, record keeping and general research. On November 10, 2011, the WPJEC sponsored a public information session at the Pilesgrove Township municipal building to present the work and findings of the Habitat Project. The presentation consisted of a PowerPoint presentation by Blaine Rothauser demonstrating species and habitat types. Rothauser explained the tools available to help the public recognize and report important wildlife observations, and how this information can be used to plan for sustainable growth.

Table 1: WPJEC Habitat Project Focus Species & Conservation Status (NJ Threatened and Endangered Species List Adopted February 2012)

+ indicates species was original Habitat Project target species. FT Federally listed Threatened species SE State- listed Endangered species ST State-listed Threatened species SC State-listed Special Concern species -br breeding population only -nb non-breeding population only

Stand-Alone Species swamp pink Helonias bullata (plant) + FT, SE barred owl Stirx varia + ST bog turtle Gylptemys muhlenbergii + FT, SE Grassland Birds bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorous + ST-br brown thrasher Toxostoma rufum SC-br cattle egret Bubulcus ibis ST-br, SC-nb dickcissel Spiza Americana eastern meadowlark Sturnella magna SC grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum + ST-br horned lark Eremophila alpestris ST-br, SC-nb savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis + ST-br short eared owl Asio flammeus SE-br, SC-nb upland sandpiper Batramia longicauda + SE vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus + SE-br, SC-nb Other Important Species Considered bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalusi SE-br, ST-nb bobcat Lynx Rufus SE Cooper’s hawk Accipiter cooperii SC-br red-headed woodpecker Melanerpes erythrocephalus ST red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus SE breeding SE-br, SC-nb freshwater mussels (various species)

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Vernal Pool Indicator Species bull frog Rana catesbeiana cricket frog Acris crepitans carpenter frog Rana virqatipes SC Fowler's toad Bufo woodhousii fowlerii SC Green frog Rana clamitans grey tree frog Hyla versicolor New Jersey chorus frog Pseudacris triseriatus kalmi Pickerel frog Rana paulustirs southern leopard frog Rana Utricularia spadefoot toad Scaphiopus holbrookii spring peeper Pseudacris crucifera wood frog Rana sylyvatica four-toed salamander Hemidactylium scutatum marbled salamander Abystoma opacum SC red-spotted newt Notophthalmus viridescens painted turtle Chrysemmys picta picta snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina spotted turtle Clemmys guttata SC Note: This list does not represent all known rare or protected species found in Woodstown and Pilesgrove, but rather those species identified by the Habitat Project to correspond to critical and unique habitat mosaics in the greater Woodstown-Pilesgrove community.

SUMMARY FINDINGS & LESSONS LEARNED Pilesgrove contains some of the most extensive and ecologically important grassland habitat in the entire state. The region provides nesting and migratory habitat to several threatened and endangered grassland-dependent bird species as well as a host other animals that are designated as “species of conservation concern” due to habitat loss. However, in Pilesgrove, a small percentage of farmland (approximately 15 percent) is managed as viable grassland habitat by planting a mix of warm and cool season grasses for the nesting season. Nevertheless, these lands were found to be highly productive systems ecologically, especially as grassland bird habitat and corresponding meadow. Although limited, the WPJEC grassland bird survey field seminar and follow-up surveys showed that significant concentrations of threatened and endangered grassland birds are using these limited habitats. Despite its largely developed state, Woodstown has important bald eagle habitat. Both upper and lower portions of Memorial Lake serve as regular foraging areas for bald eagles. The preservation of land along the Salem River, by both the Borough and the State of New Jersey, has helped tremendously to protect eagle feeding and travel corridors. Undeveloped farmland in the northern reaches of the Borough also serves as important land-foraging habitat for bald eagles. These areas were appropriately designated as bald eagle habitat under the State’s Landscape Project database (Version 2.1), but are, regrettably, threatened by an approved development proposal. Pilesgrove is now home to at least three bald eagle nest sites. Adult and juvenile birds nesting and fledging from these nest sites have been observed foraging and resting throughout both communities, often in pairs or small groups. This reinforces the need to protect bald eagle habitat and provide adequate buffers from development activities and other disturbance. During February 2012, the State of New Jersey upgraded the conservation status of the bald eagle to threatened for non-breeding birds, while the status of breeding birds remained as “endangered.” The breeding status of bald eagles refers to all eagles that are present in New Jersey during the breeding season. In 2007, the bald eagle was removed from the federal Endangered Species List altogether. However, it is important to note that bald eagles are afforded strict protections from disturbance and other acts under the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

Land use changes in Woodstown and Pilesgrove have been relatively slow when compared to other parts of the State, but not insignificant. According to a 2010 study by Rutgers and Rowan Universities (Hasse, Lathrop), 910 acres in Pilesgrove were converted to urban land cover between 1986 and 2002. During the same period, Woodstown urban development grew by 72 acres. The vast majority of this growth resulted from development of farmland. Pilesgrove lost 1,222 acres of agricultural land, while Woodstown lost 76 acres. At the same time forested lands, including forested wetlands, increased by 339 acres in Pilesgrove and 12 acres in Woodstown. Since 2002, the most notable urban growth has occurred in Woodstown, where the construction of the High Bridge subdivision, Freedom Village, the Catholic Parish Center and the Woodstown portions of Bailey’s Corner and Friends Village have converted approximately 41 acres of undeveloped land to urban.

Landscape fragmentation has occurred throughout Pilesgrove Township largely due to minor subdivision growth and historic clearing for agriculture. As a result, some of the most intact, functioning ecosystems are confined to riparian corridors, wetlands and floodplains. The forest edges of these areas are often degraded, resulting in habitat loss for some species. One of the more common disadvantages of this “forest edge effect” is the introduction and proliferation of invasive plant species, such as bamboo, multiflora rose and Japanese honeysuckle. These changes can greatly diminish habitat quality for animal species that depend on the forest edge for feeding and nesting.

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Woodstown and Pilesgrove’s ecological “hot spots” include the habitats associated with several riparian corridors, particularly along the Salem River, Oldmans Creek, Indian Run, Nichomas Run and Majors Run. Red-shouldered hawk, barred owl, red-headed woodpecker and swamp pink - all species found in riparian habitat such as flood plains and forested wetlands- have a high probability of occurrence in these systems. These waterways and their wetlands and forests feature high biological diversity and are worthy of thorough surveys and meaningful protection, through preservation as well as planning and zoning measures.

Unprotected upland forests are an extremely limited and threatened resource in Woodstown and Pilesgrove. Much of the remaining forests within the community are wetland forests that were not historically suitable for clearing or draining for agriculture. In the past ten years, one of Pilesgrove’s largest remaining upland forests was developed into the approximately 90-acre Woods at Laurel Hills subdivision on the Oldmans Creek. In contrast, a 180-acre forest about seven miles upstream was preserved by the State of New Jersey as part of the Harrisonville Lake Wildlife Management Area. Today, the remaining unprotected upland forests are smaller patches (under 50 acres), usually along riparian corridors and other wetlands. These remaining upland forests are the rarest ecological commodity in Woodstown-Pilesgrove and are the most vulnerable to development. Upland forests also provide some of the most efficient ecological services, such as groundwater recharge, erosion control and carbon sequestration, while providing some of the most critical wildlife habitat. The Habitat Project research and data review phase revealed a need for research data on the presence of some rare species. For example, the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife has established policy objectives to expand surveying for State-endangered bobcats in South Jersey. However, despite good evidence of bobcats in Salem County, budgetary and resource constraints as well as the intensive nature of such work have kept state biologists from conducting surveys. As another example, bat species pose the need for more scientific data on their diversity and abundance. New Jersey’s Wildlife Action Plan suggests that there is a need to survey southwestern New Jersey woods for summer populations of Indiana Bat, a federally endangered species that is known in northern New Jersey. Despite some deficiencies in available data, a strong body of data exists on the presence and abundance of many other species, particularly certain bird species. Because Woodstown-Pilesgrove is a regular destination for bird watchers, the Habitat Project Team was able to search archives of the New Jersey Audubon Society’s sightings reports to gather information on rare and other noteworthy birds reported in Woodstown and Pilesgrove. This has yielded valuable data, although many of these sightings do not get properly reported to the State’s rare species database. The New Jersey DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife also maintains a respectable body of documented species data supporting its Landscape Project habitat database and maps. Other DEP reports and databases which provided meaningful information to the Habitat Project include the Natural Heritage Program database, State endangered wildlife grant progress reports, annual NJ Bald Eagle Project reports and the NJ Wildlife Action Plan.

Recruiting landowner participation in the Habitat Project proved more challenging than expected. The habitat survey project team anticipated that there would, understandably, be some apprehension on the part of landowners to participate in the habitat survey project. A common concern among landowners is whether or not habitat designations could adversely impact future development potential and land values. While many variables will ultimately play into this equation, the WPJEC recognizes that participation in the project will not be viewed favorably by some landowners. For prospective participants, the WPJEC must work to ensure that the objectives of the project are fully and accurately represented up front and throughout the process to all landowners. It should be further stressed that this cooperative project is completely voluntary on the part of landowners, and that landowners have the final say regarding access to their properties. In the long-term, the WPJEC is prepared to continue the work of the habitat survey project for conservation-minded landowners who wish to participate in survey work. Building trust and confidence in the project is a long-term goal that will extend far beyond the grant phase of the project. 6

Habitat Project Team reviews of NJDEP endangered species research reports have revealed that, in recent years, surveys of local waterways for rare mollusks have shown promising results. In 2004, State biologists discovered Lilliput in the Salem River, a freshwater mussel species that has never been recorded in New Jersey. That same year, the Salem River demonstrated the highest species richness in the entire State with five freshwater mussel species present, including the State-threatened triangle floater. The following year, both Salem River and Oldmans Creek shared the distinction of having the greatest diversity of freshwater mussel species statewide, with five each, including the triangle floater. It should also be noted that the triangle floater has been documented within Woodstown Borough. The Oldmans Creek also has documented creeper, a “special concern” species. These discoveries further illustrate the high biological diversity of riverine habitats in Woodstown and Pilesgrove, as well as the importance of protecting aquatic and riparian corridor habitat through adequate buffers and other zoning and conservation measures. Early evening surveys for barred owls in March 2011 resulted in the unexpected discovery of American woodcock activity in southern Pilesgrove. The WPJEC habitat Project Team observed extensive woodcock calling and observed multiple birds in flight at dusk around woods and brushy fields. The American woodcock is a small game bird that has suffered from major population declines due to habitat loss. South Jersey has seen some of the greatest loss of both woodcock habitat and population in the entire nation. Scientific surveys of signing male woodcocks show a local decline from historic levels of over 20,600 birds to current levels of less than 3,000 (Kelley et.al.). However, it believed that South Jersey supports scattered densities of woodcock, including wintering populations. Given this, the presence of woodcock and suitable habitat in Pilesgrove is a positive sign in efforts to understand and protect this species. During grassland bird surveys, the project team observed spot mowing of optimal grassland habitat for control of thistle and other invasive weeds that compete with quality forage for livestock. Invasive thistle can also eliminate grassland nesting habitat. Mowing performed during the peak nesting periods for threatened and endangered grassland birds reveals a need for a practical and cost-effective solution that protects nesting birds while controlling invasive weed species. The WPJEC Critical habitat project resulted in various logistical needs that were largely unanticipated at the outset of the project. For example, surveying of bog turtle habitat, required authorization by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, including prior registration of all participants. As a federally listed species, this was required to protect the project team from being charged with harassing or taking a protected species. Another logistic, an event waiver was developed for field training events that explains the risks, and releases the environmental commission from any liability for claims, injuries or damages resulting from participation. In addition, the project team recommends the use of a landowner waiver letter to be signed prior to environmental commission members accessing private lands. This letter not only grants permission to access the property, but also explains the types of activities that will take place, and explains that New Jersey law specifically exempts landowners of any liability for any volunteer on their property. South Jersey is a global stronghold for the federally protected plant swamp pink. Habitat Project field surveys determined that Woodstown and Pilesgrove feature riparian forests that demonstrate typical swamp pink conditions. While no swamp pink was discovered during the Project Team’s limited searches, there’s a high degree of confidence that this rare plant exists within the two towns. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has identified both Woodstown and Pilesgrove as potential locations of swamp pink. Because much of the suitable locations for swamp pink searches are on private lands, this emphasizes the need to work cooperatively with landowners to determine if and where swamp pink exists within Woodstown and Pilesgrove. 7

Pilesgrove Township has several documented locations of bog turtle populations. However, there is clearly a need to better determine the true extent of local populations and viable habitat. According to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, New Jersey lost 65 percent of its known bog turtle populations between 1978 and 1989, largely due to habitat loss from development (Klemens). In its literature, USFWS states: More than 50% of the historic bog turtle populations in New Jersey are estimated to have been lost... Bog turtles are extremely sensitive to habitat changes and have suffered greatly from habitat loss and degradation through wetland filling, fragmentation and drainage... The groundwater influences in bog turtle habitats are often particularly susceptible to alteration from nearby upland development. The protection of a large buffer area around the wetlands is often necessary to protect the hydrology of the habitat. A study commissioned by the NJDEP suggested that out of 75 known bog turtle wetlands, only 24 continued to feature suitable habitat. Many of these sites were believed victims of development, stormwater discharge and/or natural successions (Torok, Tesauro). A search by State biologists between 1993 and 2000 identified 72 viable bog turtle populations throughout New Jersey. It’s estimated that 90 percent of all bog turtle habitat in New Jersey is on private land. In Pilesgrove, one of the State’s most important bog turtle populations on Oldmans Creek is located in a residential zoning district where at least one residential subdivision proposal threatens the long-term viability of the population. An effort to better identify and protect bog turtle sites could prevent local populations from becoming geographically and genetically isolated, as well as from adverse habitat impacts, and from ultimately vanishing altogether. Pilesgrove supports good vernal habitat. In the extensive wetland forest complex of the Nichomas Run sub-watershed of southern Pilesgrove, there are approximately 66 vernal pools, including 16 that have been certified by the NJDEP/Rutgers University vernal pool mapping project. That study has identified this area as one of New Jersey’s vernal pool “hot spots.” In the Oldmans Creek watershed of northern Pilesgrove, there are 31 potential vernal pools, of which some 16 are along Indian Run creek. Another dozen potential vernal pools are in the Alloway Creek watershed of southeastern Pilesgrove, and a complex of about 15 vernal pools is located at the headwaters of Chestnut Run near East Lake Road. Habitat Project field work found good vernal pool habitat for all species identified in the vernal habitat guidelines produced for Woodstown and Pilesgrove. In addition to the above referenced pools, Habitat Project surveys discovered eight previously undocumented vernal pools in Pilesgrove. The Woodstown-Pilesgrove area is a State and regional stronghold for several protected species. The State- listed Coopers hawk (which was upgraded from “threatened” to “special concern” status in February 2012) has adapted to living in and around residential neighborhoods of Woodstown, particularly in the Candlelight Village subdivision, where Coopers hawks are observed year-round, and at least one nest is possibly located. Spring and fall Habitat Project field surveys revealed numerous Coopers hawks as well as healthy numbers of the special-concern species sharp-shinned hawk in Pilesgrove as well. Salem County, and the Salem River corridor in particular, are a stronghold for the American bald eagle. Eagles are year-round residents that depend heavily on the availability of quality habitat and relative freedom from human disturbance throughout both Woodstown and Pilesgrove. Two other rare raptor species, the State endangered northern Harrier and the State threatened American kestrel, are not uncommon here. Because local residents may occasionally observe these species, it could easily be concluded that the species are abundant and widespread, and therefore not worthy of special protection. However, their presence in Woodstown and Pilesgrove attests to the fact the region offers good habitat which should be preserved for the long-term viability of the species. 8

RECOMMENDATIONS Continue the advancement of the Habitat Project – While the initial grant phase of the Habitat Project is concluding, the WPJEC must advance the project implementation. The development and training components of the Habitat Project reaffirmed that it is a work-in-progress, which will require refinement and adaptation to changing conditions and new information. A concerted effort should be made to employ the survey protocols and guides compiled by the project consultant, BRE, and conduct intensive field surveys. This will greatly help the WPJEC work toward the project goals of developing a better understanding of the environmental infrastructure within Woodstown and Pilesgrove, and to build upon the baseline natural resource data established by the 2005 Woodstown-Pilesgrove Environmental Resource Inventory. To help achieve these objectives, the WPJEC can establish a Habitat Project Committee to guide advancement of the project. Without this effort, an effective protection strategy for rare species and critical habitat will never be realized. In turn, ecological systems will fail due to poorly sited development, landscape fragmentation and growth that exceed the ecological carrying capacity.

Update the Woodstown-Pilesgrove ERI to incorporate the habitat project information – In 2005, the WPJEC completed an Environmental Resource Inventory (ERI), which takes stock of all natural resources within the two municipalities as well as an analysis of the built environment and its impact on natural resources. Since the report was completed, much new data has become available from government agencies, scientific research and other sources, for example soils information, land-use and Landscape Project (wildlife habitat) mapping data. An update of the ERI would not only be timely, but would also provide the opportunity to incorporate the wildlife survey protocols and other Habitat Project work products into the ERI. This would help to facilitate continued use of these tools into the future by integrating this information into municipal planning and guidance documents.

Develop educational tools for landowners about Category One Waterway protections – The Woodstown-Pilesgrove Area contains several Category One Waterways, which are afforded stricter protection from development impacts than typical rivers and streams. Of note, Category One waterway segments and all upstream tributaries are subject to 300-foot buffers from construction activities. In Woodstown and Pilesgrove, waterways designated as Category One include Oldmans Creek, Indian Run, Nichomus Run, and Majors Run. Uncommon in South Jersey, the Category One designations in this area are based on the presence of federally listed bog turtles as well as rare freshwater mussel species. The WPJEC can develop an educational handbook to alert landowners to the presence of Category One waters, and inform them of their responsibilities under various State laws and regulations, as well as land management and conservation options. A grant should be sought to produce the handbook, and it can also be made available to the public on the WPJEC website.

Implement a freshwater mussel training and survey component of the habitat project - Some of the newest and most significant information obtained by the Habitat Project team is data regarding the importance of the Woodstown-Pilesgrove waterways as habitat for freshwater mussels. As a top priority, the WPJEC should begin planning for training and survey work to search for freshwater mussels at the earliest possible time. The WPJEC can enlist the assistance of State and academic experts on these species, including biologists from the NJ Endangered and Non-Game Species Program and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey. Other organizations that could support this work are the South Jersey Land and Water Trust, New Jersey Watershed Ambassador Program and the Natural Lands Trust, Inc.. Following proper training, the WPJEC can establish a cooperative partnership with the State and freshwater mussel surveys can be incorporated into WPJEC stream assessment work. Freshwater mussel searches are biological surveys that can yield a better understanding of water quality. 9

Establish a survey schedule for swamp pink – The WPJEC Habitat Project as well as the US Fish and Wildlife Service have determined that there is a high probability that federally listed swamp pink populations exist in Woodstown and Pilesgrove. Beginning in 2012, the WPJEC should arrange a schedule for swamp pink surveys on both private and public lands. Spring surveys – when plants are flowering - are typically the most practical. In addition to land-based surveys, the WPJEC could employ the use of canoes and kayaks to survey from waterways. The WPJEC can team up with the Woodstownbased SPLASH youth paddling club to conduct such surveys. Swamp pink surveys can be incorporated into ongoing stream assessment and vernal habitat surveys as well. The Project Team could begin identifying potential survey sites and conducting landowner outreach in early 2012.

Cooperate with the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey’s acoustic bat survey project While little data is available on the abundance and species of bats in the Woodstown-Pilesgrove area, these important animals are under increasing threats from the construction of wind turbines and the disease White-Nose Syndrome. Now, more than ever, there is a need for better bat population data. Such data can now be obtained through the use of acoustic detector technology, which allows users to collect data on the abundance and species diversity of bats from a moving vehicle. The WPJEC can partner with the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey to survey the local bat population through a volunteer program that provides the equipment and technical support to local organizations.

Work to connect landowners with voluntary conservation programs - The WPJEC can help connect farmers and other landowners with conservation funding programs to expand viable grassland bird habitat. Such programs help enhance agricultural viability by promoting mixed crop production and long-term soil fertility, while enhancing the region’s ecotourism values as a birding destination. Birders often observe grassland birds from the roadside, with minimal impacts on farming activities. The WPJEC can partner with the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service to hold informational sessions on conservation programs such as the Grassland Reserve Program, or simply help build bridges between landowners and conservation programs through personal contacts. Another program, the Wetlands Reserve Program, funds the restoration of land to wetland habitat, and pays respectable prices for temporary and permanent easements on restored lands. This program offers a viable alternative to conventional farmland preservation programs.

Consider appropriate conservation planning and zoning measures – Faced with the greatest challenges to protecting habitat, Pilesgrove Township can explore various planning and zoning options to better protect critical wildlife and habitat from inappropriately planned development. Woodstown has implemented an innovative zoning measure to protect important wildlife habitat and other natural resources. In 2006, the Borough adopted a conservation overlay district ordinance that protects natural resources along portions of the Salem River, including upland areas. The ordinance specifically aims to protect not only rare, threatened and endangered species, but also those species that are deemed locally important. The Environmental Impact Statement worksheet (developed by the WPJEC and adopted by both Woodstown and Pilesgrove) also provides some clarity regarding how applicants check for rare species on proposed development sites. However, applicants continue to submit Environmental Impact Statements with vague generalizations about the presence of threatened and endangered species. Millstone Township, in Monmouth County, adopted a threatened and endangered species ordinance in 2010 that sets clear criteria for evaluating the impact of proposed developments on rare species and habitat. Other measures worthy of exploration include protection of enhanced riparian corridors through zoning district designations.

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Designate important habitat areas as Critical Environmental Sites - The current (2001 version) State Development and Redevelopment Plan provides for the designation of Critical Environmental Sites (CES) through the cross acceptance and plan endorsement processes. However, as the State of New Jersey is presently revising the State Plan, the future of the CES provisions is highly uncertain. Where the scientific data is available to support such designations, Woodstown and Pilesgrove should continue to CES designation as a conservation planning tool for the protection of rare species and their critical habitat. At present potential sites include:   

Natural Heritage Sites where rare and endangered plants and plant communities exist; Riparian corridors where rivers and streams have received Category One designations due to threatened and endangered species; Critical Wildlife Habitat (assigned Rank 3, 4 or 5) under the NJ Landscape Project Version 3.1.

Contrary to claims by the regulated community, these designations are supported by verified sightings of rare species, an extensive body of scientific research and science-based standards for site designation. Therefore, use of these designations for local planning and zoning purposes is fully justified and legally defensible.

Seek wider use of conservation easements - Local planners and the WPJEC can seek opportunities to work with landowners to place donated conservation easements on important natural areas, riparian corridors and buffers. To some extent, this already happens as a condition of some development approvals. Enhanced opportunities will also arise from the implementation of Pilesgrove’s new Conservation Design Ordinance. However, efforts should also focus on seeking voluntary easements on important habitat and buffers. The WPJEC can work with local officials to help conduct landowner outreach, review offers, facilitate agreements, and monitor easements. The municipal governing bodies may also consider designating greater authority to the WPJEC to acquire and hold conservation easements. State legislation enabling the creation of municipal environmental commissions (N.J.S.A. 40:56A) authorizes commissions, subject to the approval of the governing bodies, to acquire properties on behalf of municipalities. The Pilesgrove Township Agricultural Advisory Committee and the Woodstown Open Space Advisory Committee may also play a role in maintaining easement inventories and conducting inspections. In Chatham Township, Morris County, the environmental Commission developed an inventory of conservation easements, including a website with easement information for landowners and descriptions of the benefits of selling or donating an easement to the township or a land trust.

Woodstown should attentively uphold its conservation overlay ordinance – In 2006, Woodstown passed one of New Jersey’s first comprehensive conservation overlay ordinances designed to preserve important natural resources and wildlife habitat within its conservation-oriented zoning districts. The ordinance was recognized by the New Jersey Audubon Society when the town received the prestigious Richard Kane Conservation Award. This was the first time in the award’s entire 60-year history that a government entity received the honor. Nevertheless, steadfast implementation, monitoring and enforcement are critical to the ordinance’s true success. The Woodstown Land-Use Board should also be cognizant that development threats within the Conservation and ConservationResidential Zoning Districts will eventually arise in the form of development applications and variance requests as well as applications for construction activities such as single family homes and pole barns. To avoid undermining the environmental integrity of the natural resources and habitat, development proposals must be carefully considered in the full context of the conservation overlay ordinance. Woodstown construction officials must also ensure that building permits, which do not require land-use and zoning approvals, are not inconsistent with the intent and letter of the ordinance. 11

WPJEC-assisted habitat restoration projects – The WPJEC can identify, organize and participate in restoration projects on private and public lands that will protect, create and enhance wildlife habitat, control and eradicate invasive plant species, improve water quality, and alleviate problems caused by flooding and erosion. With the assistance of the NJ Watershed Ambassador program, the WPJEC is presently planning stream clean-ups and streamside plantings along the Salem River and Chestnut Run. The WPJEC can work with the South Jersey Land and Water Trust and conservation agencies to identify conservation assistance and grant programs to expand this effort. Other potential partners include the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, the New Jersey Audubon Society, local WoodstownPilesgrove civic clubs and Woodstown High School Environmental Club.

Establish a grassland reserve site in Woodstown – In 2008, the Borough of Woodstown partnered with the New Jersey Green Acres Program to preserve 93 acres in Woodstown’s ConservationResidential Zone as an expansion of the Salem River Wildlife Management Area. Acquisition funding included a contribution from Woodstown’s Open Space Fund. Therefore, Woodstown holds an interest in the management of this State property. This presents Woodstown with an excellent opportunity to facilitate needed improvements to the property that would restore habitat, mitigate water quality problems and enhance economic development in the Borough. Specifically, the western portion of the acquisition property includes a widespread area of stormwater runoff channels that have adversely impacted Memorial Lake with sedimentation over the course of many years. This portion of the property also has a marginal forested buffer along Memorial Lake that should be expanded to improve riparian wildlife habitat, protect bald eagle foraging habitat from disturbance and better protect the quality of Salem River. As a solution, the western portion of the property could be restored to a grassland habitat preserve, to include a small unpaved parking area on South Main Street, with an interpretive kiosk, and grassland trails that could serve to bolster Woodstown’s position as a birding and wildlife watching destination. Establishment of a grassland preserve in Woodstown would link Memorial Lake and the East Lake eagle observation sites, thereby enhancing the NJ Audubon Birding and Wildlife Trail, which already highlights Memorial Lake as a destination. The WPJEC can work with the Borough, the State and NJ Audubon representatives to plan this project, as well as help seek conservation funding and other assistance.

Survey for bog turtle habitat – As Woodstown-Pilesgrove’s most threatened and protected species, the Habitat Project can work with State and federal wildlife agencies to identify all suitable bog turtle habitat – both existing and potential – based on the survey protocols developed under the habitat Project. This effort should also include identification of groundwater recharge areas that support bog turtle habitat. Using this information, the WPJEC can work with local planners to implement planning and zoning measure to protect the species, and work cooperatively with landowners to encourage conservation easements, best management practices and other measures to help ensure the long-term survival of bog turtles.

Promote the conservation of Woodstown-Pilesgrove’s remaining forests – The WPJEC can inventory the remaining privately-owned and unpreserved forests within Woodstown and Pilesgrove, and work with landowners to encourage protection of forest habitat through best management practices and landowner incentive programs. Emphasis should be placed on upland forests, as these are the most vulnerable to development and fragmentation. Efforts should also focus on protecting larger forests patches and those that maintain greenway connectivity, such as woodlands connected by riparian corridors or upland forests connected to wetland forests. Commercial logging should especially be discouraged where mature forests and significantly old trees are present. Forests on preserved farmland are not protected from forestry practices of logging old trees and clearing. The WPJEC should seek options to provide landowners with incentives to protect mature forests. Wildlife objectives of this effort include: protecting nesting and foraging habitat for cavity nesting species, forest passerines and raptors, and interior forest songbirds; maintaining adequate travel corridors and cover habitat for large wildlife such as bobcat and black bear; and protecting summer bat habitat. 12

Support and cooperate with the Wildlife Action Plan – The New Jersey Wildlife Action Plan is a comprehensive strategic plan for protecting New Jersey’s wildlife species of the greatest conservation concern. The Plan identifies species within ecological regions, called “landscapes,” and sets goals, actions and priorities to guide the work of the Division of Fish and Wildlife and its many partner organizations. Woodstown and Pilesgrove are solidly located within the Southern Piedmont Plains landscape region, and there are numerous conservation actions that are fully consistent with the findings and recommendations of the Habitat Project. For example, it promotes the use of Landscape Project critical habitat mapping to guide local land use planning and zoning decisions (page 383 and 402). The Plan also calls for surveys to determine the distribution of bobcats (page 390) and barred owls (page 387), and to identify suitable habitat for American woodcock (page 402) within the region. It recommends utilizing citizen science volunteers to survey and monitor species (page 390), and lays out multiple actions for protection of bog turtles, grassland birds, and freshwater mussels, among others. And like the Habitat Project, the Wildlife Action Plan stresses the importance of working cooperatively with landowners and encouraging the use of landowner incentives for conservation. Especially consistent with the Habitat Project, the Wildlife Action Plan encourages local governments to work with the NJDEP to cooperatively map significant natural communities in the Southern Piedmont Plains. There will be many opportunities for the WPJEC to work collaboratively to accomplish the mutual goals of the Wildlife Action Plan and the WPJEC Habitat Project.

Require NJDEP wetlands LOIs prior to granting development approvals - The protection of wetlands is a habitat-protection priority for the WPJEC. Woodstown-Pilesgrove’s most threatened and endangered species are highly dependent on wetland habitat for their survival, and wetlands protect a host of other connected habitats and natural systems. However, a common practice by major site plan and subdivision applicants is to request Planning Board approval prior to receiving an NJDEP Letter of Interpretation (LOI), the document which establishes the exact extent of wetlands on and near a development property, the ecological value of the wetlands and the extent of permitted buffers. This is not a desirable situation because Planning Boards may grant approvals for plans that encroach upon wetlands and/or wetlands transition areas (buffers). It is difficult for Planning Boards to make fully informed decisions without the LOIs in hand, especially in cases where the applicant is not providing accurate information to a Board regarding the presence or location of wetlands. Often times, if inconsistencies exist between the Planning Board approval and a subsequent LOI, the applicant will use the Board approval to plea for relaxation of the rules from the State DEP. To avoid these conflicts, the WPJEC has consistently appealed to both the Woodstown and Pilesgrove Planning Boards to require that applicants provide the NJDEP LOIs as a condition of preliminary and final approvals, as well as application completeness. Since only the NJDEP has the authority to determine if wetlands are present or absent on or near a property, this is necessary to ensure that no violation of the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act occurs. To support this position, amendments to the New Jersey Freshwater Wetlands Protection regulations, adopted on October 6, 2008, now authorize municipal planning boards to require the submission of a freshwater wetland LOI as a condition of application completeness or as a condition of approval (N.J.A.C. 7:7A-3.1(b) 1.). With regard to applicants reporting off-site wetlands in close proximity to a development property, the NJDEP Wetlands Protection Act rules state: The outside boundary of a transition area is determined solely by reference to the freshwater wetlands boundary and is not affected by property lines. Therefore, a property within 150 feet of a freshwater wetlands may contain a transition area that arises from a freshwater wetlands on another property. Every property containing a transition area is subject to this chapter, even if the freshwater wetland that causes the transition area is located on another property. (N.J.A.C. 7:7A-2.7(a)) In consideration of the importance of wetlands LOIs to protecting critical wildlife resources within Woodstown and Pilesgrove, the WPJEC urges the Planning Boards to require wetlands LOIs to the greatest extent possible, before granting development approvals. 13

Partner with New Jersey invasive Species Strike Team – Established in 2008, the New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team is a statewide cooperative effort to prevent the spread of emerging invasive species across the state. To date, the organization has worked primarily in the northern counties, but is expanding efforts south and is developing partnerships with several organizations, including the South Jersey Land and Water Trust (one of the Habitat Project’s lead partner organizations). The Strike Team offers training and resources to assist partners in conducting early detection and response projects for emerging invasive species. Currently, the Strike Team has formal partnerships with a dozen municipalities and environmental commissions in northern New Jersey. Working with the South Jersey Land and Water Trust, the WPJEC should enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Strike Team to receive educational support and coordinate invasive species prevention, detection and control activities. An MOU would not impose any legal obligations on the WPJEC or require it to complete a pre-designated amount of work.

Habitat Project in support of Sustainable Jersey certification - Sustainable Jersey is a voluntary municipal certification program aimed at helping towns to achieve higher economic and environmental sustainability through direct technical and financial support. Some 359 municipalities (63%), including Pilesgrove Township, have registered to become Sustainable Jersey certified, and 108 (19%) have received full certification. As part of its certification process, Sustainable Jersey allocates points to towns for their sustainability actions. Natural resource actions eligible for points include establishing Environmental Commissions, having Open Space Plans and enacting clustering, tree protection, or natural resource protection ordinances. Of particular note, Sustainable Jersey gives points for enactment of habitat conservation ordinances, of which Woodstown is a recognized statewide leader. Pilesgrove’s conservation design and clustering option ordinances also support Sustainable Jersey certification. Since Sustainable Jersey requires that Environmental Resource Inventories must be completed or revised in the past six years to be eligible for points, the Habitat Project contribution to an ERI update would further support Sustainable Jersey certification. The WPJEC plans to initiate an ERI update in early 2013. Woodstown should also register to begin the Sustainable Jersey certification process.

Support Implementation of the Salem County Open Space Plan – Salem County’s 2006 Open Space Plan provides guidance for establishing open space preservation priorities and goals. The plan includes detailed analysis of the county’s natural resources, including wildlife habitat and rare species. Consistent with the findings of the Habitat project, the Salem County Open Space Plan identifies several areas of important wildlife habitat in Woodstown and Pilesgrove, such as grassland in western Pilesgrove, shrub-scrub habitat south of East Lake and forested lands south of Woodstown. As one of its primary goals, the Salem County Open Space Plan calls for protection of the County’s remaining forested land from the harmful impacts of landscape fragmentation. The Plan establishes a network of project areas that are most appropriate for land acquisition based on natural resource values. Three of the project areas cover portions of Woodstown and Pilesgrove: 

Swedes Run Greenway – Beginning just south of Woodstown, this project area includes the forests and forested wetlands that provide critical plant and wildlife habitat in southern Pilesgrove and adjacent portions of Mannington and Alloway.

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Salem River Blueway – This project area extending along the Salem River was identified as one of the most significant water features in the County. Preservation of the Salem River will protect the health of the waterway and its surrounding natural areas, as well as the water supply that is critical to local agriculture.

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Oldmans Creek Blueway – Similar to the Salem River, the Open Space Plan identifies a project area to facilitate protection of land along the Oldmans Creek based on high natural resource values 14

The findings and recommendations of the Salem County Open Space Plan can support the work of the WPJEC Habitat Project, especially within the three project areas discussed above. Conversely, the Habitat Project Team‘s work will support the County Open Space Plan by providing the data to support preservation.

WPJEC can budget for survey tools. As the WPJEC prepares to independently conduct wildlife surveys, it may consider requesting adequate funding from the two governing bodies for necessary, tools and equipment. Some of the items that would help the WPJEC to effectively survey for wildlife are: mini/portable amplified speakers systems for MP3 or iPod-type devices (to broadcast bird calls); rubber boots or waders; buckets, nets; diameter tape (to measure diameter of trees); tally counter (to count objects in large numbers like plant colonies or birds in flocks); trail camera (to photograph wildlife movement in remote locations); and a rowboat and/or canoe (to survey rivers and lakes and access remote sites via waterways).

Share this report with the following organizations:          

Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey Natural Lands Trust, Inc. NJ Audubon Society NJ Conservation Foundation NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Non-game Species Program NJ Watershed Ambassador Program Rutgers Agricultural Experiment Station, Environmental and Resource Management Program Salem County Lakes and Waterways Advisory Committee South Jersey Land and Water Trust

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LITERATURE CITED & SELECTED REFERENCES Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey. 2012. New Jersey Threatened and Endangered Species Field Guide. Internet resource. http://www.conservewildlifenj.org/species/fieldguide/. Cordeiro, Jay and Jeanette Bowers-Altman. 2003. Freshwater Mussels of the New York Metropolitan Region and New Jersey. Center for Biodiversity and Conservation. American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY. eBird. 2012. eBird: An online database of bird distribution and abundance Version 2. eBird. Internet resource : http://www.ebird.org. Ithaca, New York. Golden, David M and Vicki Schwartz. 2002. Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of New Jersey. New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, Trenton, NJ. Groth, Julie Lange. 2010. Innovative ordinance protects threatened and endangered species. ANJEC Report. Autumn 2010. Hasse, John and Richard Lathrop. 2010. Changing Landscapes in the Garden State. Geospatial Research Laboratory, Rowan University and the Grant F. Walton Center for Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis, Rutgers University. Glassboro, NJ and New Brunswick, NJ. Honigfeld, Harriet B. 1997. Charting a Course for the Delaware Bay Watershed. New Jersey Conservation Foundation. Far Hills, NJ. Kane, Rich, Paul Kerlinger and Karl Anderson. 1992. Delaware Bay and River Tributaries Habitat and Wildlife Inventory. New Jersey Audubon Society and New Jersey Conservation Foundation, Far Hills, NJ. Kelley, James, Scot Williamson and Thomas R. Cooper, editors. 2008. American Woodcock Conservation Plan. Wildlife Management Institute. Klemens, Michael. 2001. Bog Turtle (Clemmys muhlenbergii) Northern Population Recovery Plan. Wildlife Conservation Society for US Fish and Wildlife Service. Hadley MA. New Jersey Audubon Society. 1990-2012. Voice of New Jersey Audubon. Internet Resource. http://www.njaudubon.org/Tools.Net/Sightings/VoiceOf.aspx. New Jersey DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Non-Game Species Program. 2008. New Jersey Wildlife Action Plan for Species of the Greatest Conservation Need. Trenton, NJ. New Jersey DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Non-Game Species Program. 2012. Landscape Project Database, Version 3.1. Trenton, NJ. New Jersey DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Non-Game Species Program. State Wildlife Grants annual progress reports for project years 2004-2010. Trenton, NJ. New Jersey DEP Division of Land Use Regulation. 2008. List of Threatened and Endangered Species that are Critically Dependent on Regulated Waters for Survival. Trenton, NJ.

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New Jersey Invasive Species Council. 2009. New Jersey Strategic Management Plan for Invasive Species. Trenton, NJ. New Jersey DEP Natural Heritage Program. 2008. Rare Plant Species and Ecological Communities Presently Recorded in the NJ Natural Heritage Database – Salem County. Trenton, NJ. Rutgers University, Cooperative Research & Extension Water Resources Program & the CumberlandSalem Conservation District. 2007. Watershed Restoration Plan for the Upper Salem River Watershed: Phase 1. New Brunswick, NJ. Rutgers University, Cooperative Research & Extension Water Resources Program. 2005. Watershed Restoration Plan for the Upper Salem River Watershed, Scope of Work. New Brunswick, NJ. Rutgers University, NJ Agricultural Experiment Station, Cooperative Extension, Water Resources Program. 2009. Oldmans Creek Watershed Restoration and Protection Program. New Brunswick, NJ Salem County Open Space Advisory Committee. 2006. County of Salem Open Space and Farmland Preservation Plan, Vol . 1: Open Space and Recreation Plan. Morris Land Conservancy. Boonton, NJ. Snyder, David and Sylvan R. Kaufman. 2004. An overview of the nonindigenous plant species in New Jersey. NJDEP Division of Parks and Forestry, Office of natural Lands Management, Natural Heritage Program. Trenton, NJ. Torok, Larry and Jason Tesauro. 2004. Protocols for the Establishment of Exceptional Resource Value Wetlands Pursuant to the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act (N.J.S.A. 13:9-ET SEQ.) Based on Documentation of State or Federal Endangered or Threatened Species. NJDEP Land Use Regulation Program, Office of Natural Lands Management and the Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Trenton, NJ. US Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services. 2004. The Bog Turtle (Clemmys muhlenbergii): Protecting New Jersey’s Rarest Turtle. USFWS New Jersey Field Office, Pleasantville, NJ. US Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007. National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines. US Fish and Wildlife Service. 1991. Swamp Pink (Helonias bullata) Recovery Plan. Newton Corner, MA. Woodstown Planning Board, Borough of. 2006. Woodstown Conservation Zoning Project, Report of the Woodstown Planning Board Re-Zoning Committee. Woodstown, NJ. Woodstown-Pilesgrove Joint Environmental Commission. 2005. Environmental Resource Inventory for the Borough of Woodstown, Salem County, New Jersey and for the Township of Pilesgrove, Salem County New Jersey. Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, Philadelphia, PA.

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HABITAT PROJECT IMAGES

Featherbed Lane, shown here, is considered to be one of New Jersey’s best grassland habitats. Photo by Francis Rapa

An extremely rare visitor to New Jersey, this Dickcessel nested near Featherbed Lane in 2011. This is one of the most unexpected discoveries of the Habitat Project. Photo courtesy of Blaine Rothauser

Much of Woodstown-Pilesgrove’s remaining woodlands are found on steep slopes along riparian corridors, this one along Oldmans Creek. Photo by Francis Rapa

These woods, with ferns, slope to the Oldmans Creek, upstream from Harrisonville Lake. Photo by Francis Rapa

Swamp pink flowers blooming among the early spring skunk cabbage in nearby Quinton Township. This federally protected plant may occur in Pilesgrove and Woodstown. Note the purple-streaked swamp pink leaves in the lower-right portion of the photo. Photo by Francis Rapa

Habitat Project Team field training for bog turtle surveys by recognized bog turtle expert Scott Angus (at right) Photo by Francis Rapa

An ecologically rich emergent wetland habitat along Oldmans Creek in Pilesgrove. Among the species observed here by the Habitat Project Team are indigo bunting, glossy ibis, mink, marsh wren, great white egret, yellow rumped warbler, yellow throat vireo and green wing teal. Photo by Francis Rapa

Habitat Project Team members discuss grazing and land management with local farmer Grant Harris. Photo by Francis Rapa

This Pilesgrove farm includes an area of hedgerows and meadow to provide wildlife cover habitat. Photo by Francis Rapa

Invasive plant species are a common problem with the “forest edge effect.” Here, bamboo has colonized the edge of a riparian forest along Oldmans Creek in Pilesgrove. Photo by Francis Rapa

Cattle Egrets, shown here on Featherbed Lane, were once abundant but have declined significantly, possibly from loss of agricultural lands. In 2012, the State of New Jersey downgraded the conservation status of Cattle Egret from “special concern” to “threatened.” Photo by Francis Rapa

This indigo bunting was discovered nesting along Indian Run in Pilesgrove in 2010. Indian Run is one of the region’s ecological “hot spots” due to its high biological diversity. Photo courtesy of Blaine Rothauser.