FISH AND WILDLIFE

Within the St. John Valley there exist several habitat types of significant ecological importance. The majority of these habitat types can be classified as either upland or wetland in nature.  In the former, upland ecosystems, open grasslands, old fields and cropland remain critical habitat for such species as Spruce and Ruffed Grouse, Woodcock, White-tailed Deer, a variety of songbirds including the Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark, as well as a few predator species such as the Northern Harrier.  The wetland ecosystems, on the other hand, include such critical habitat types as vernal pools and waterfowl breeding sites.  Target species within these habitats include Wood Frogs, Spotted Salamanders, Fairy Shrimp, and several species of migratory waterfowl such as the Blue Winged Teal and Heron.  In addition, issues concerning threatened and endangered species such as the Upland Sandpiper and Lynx have also recently come to the forefront, prompting a reevaluation of wildlife management.  Not only do many of these wildlife species contribute to the recreational aspects of the Valley through tourism in general, they are also essential components of the larger ecosystem that is unique to the Valley.  The Districts objective in Fish and Wildlife is to, "Maintain or improve the conservation of critical species and their habitats, native to the Valley."