A proposal to decrease fragmentation on UMBS property through road closure.

Abstract

We made forest measurements at a UMBS two-track road to assess its impact on surrounding habitat. A visual evalution of vegetation and road condition also was done. We feel that the UMBS, as a scientific study institution devoted to the protection of the environment, has an inherent need to decrease forest fragmentation. The removal of this road, and subsequent regeneration of vegetation, would provide a continuous habitat unit three times the size of the current largest unfragmented unit at UMBS. Our recommendation is to remove this edge on UMBS property to create a larger reserve within the area, provide suitable habitat for edge sensitive species currently unable to find adequate habitat, and to provide an area for unfragmented research opportunities.