G. Wildlife Habitat. See § 160-4 OWPB
Preamble
The Commission encourages the preservation of indigenous vegetation for environmental protection and also because of its important function as wildlife habitat. Plants that are sometimes regarded as “trash” species are often used by wildlife for important functions such as nesting, feeding and protective cover sites. For example, fox grape and other vine-like plants are used as food sources and nesting sites by both native and migratory species. Dead trees, often considered undesirable, are used as nesting and perching sites for a variety of birds and mammals, and as a food source by insect-eating birds. Dense understory in wooded areas may provide nesting sites, travel corridors and protective cover for a wide variety of fauna. In addition to its aesthetic value, wildlife also serves to maintain a natural “checks and balances system” within various ecological communities. A well-known example of this balance is the predation of birds acting to control the populations of various insects.
Habitat improvement
Different groups of native plants make up various habitats, such as a sand plain grassland or pond shore shrub community. These native plant communities or habitats are often overrun with non- native and/or invasive species such as bittersweet, honeysuckle, bamboo, etc. Although these species may provide some cover and food for some animals, the native wildlife is dependent on the local native plant species that these are replacing. Removing non-native plants and replacing them with native species suitable for each habitat can improve the habitat. Within the 50-foot buffer zone only native non-invasive species may be planted (with the exception of Japanese rose [Rosa rugosa] on coastal banks). Non-native non-invasive plants may be used outside the 50-foot buffer zone, though the Commission emphasizes the advantages of using native species well adapted to Cape soils and weather conditions. Supporting a greater variety of wildlife is possible by increasing food sources and providing maximum protection. Both are achievable by providing a full range of plant species types for each vegetation layer: the lower level with groundcovers, grasses and wildflowers; the middle layer with shrubs and small trees; and the upper canopy with large trees. Removal of the shrub layer or lifting all the trees would eliminate food sources, reduce protection and prevent some species from nesting or denning on the site. However, the Commission encourages the removal and replacement of invasive species such as Bamboo, Phragmites, Bush Honeysuckle, Autumn Olive, etc. with native species if it can be shown that such removal and replacement will enhance or protect wildlife habitat.
No landscaping or vegetation plan associated with any application to the Conservation Commission should propose the use of plant species listed on the Orleans Prohibited Plant List, which is available in the Conservation Department. Planting of invasive plants anywhere within the 100-foot buffer is strictly prohibited.
Presumption of significance
- The Commission presumes that wildlife will be protected when sufficient open space is left in its natural state to support the indigenous populations of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
- The Commission maintains a list of plants recommended for landscaping.
