Habitat conservation is the foundation of Pheasants Forever and is why we are known as “The Habitat Organization”.  One of the primary objectives of Chapter #642 is to improve local wildlife habitat.  The ultimate goal of our habitat program is to increase populations of game birds such as the pheasant and quail.  However, we support all habitat restoration regardless of size as it not only benefits game birds, but other local wildlife including songbirds and beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.  We have a habitat team that can provide technical assistance with restoration projects.  Contact Dan Wood for more information on how we can help you with your project.

GRASSLAND HABITAT

In order to stabilize and increase the population of pheasant, quail, and other animals, we must focus on protecting, improving, and increasing suitable habitat.  Grassland habitat consists of a mixture of native grasses and wildflowers.  This habitat provides needed nesting, brood rearing, feeding, and wintering areas for game birds and many other species of wildlife.  In addition, grassland habitat helps reduce soil erosion; helps control runoff of nitrogen, phosphorus, and pollutants; and provides a beautiful, natural landscape.  Therefore, we strongly support native grassland habitat restoration. 

Grassland habitat restoration can require specialized planting equipment.  Native warm season grasses are fluffy and will clog a standard seeder.  In addition, native wildflower seeds are oftentimes very small and will fall through a standard seeder.  Chapter #642 has a warm season grass drill which is designed to plant warm season grass and wildflower seeds.  The drill can be used by members in the restoration of grassland habitat.  The following forms must be completed prior to the use of the drill.

PF Habitat Instruction Sheet     USFW Habitat Development Agreement     Habitat Waiver     Habitat Agreement Form     PF Membership Enrollment Form

Pheasants Forever provides a variety of low cost seed mixes which can be used in grassland habitat projects.  In addition, Chapter #642 has developed Imazapic tolerant and bird/butterfly native wildflower mixes.  These mixes are available for purchase.

• PF Seed Mixes

• Imazapic Tolerant Wildflower Mix

• Bird & Butterfly Wildflower Mix

Grassland habitat can take three to five years to fully establish.  In addition, routine maintenance may be necessary.  For information on the establishment and maintenance of grassland habitat, refer to the following links:

• Indiana DNR fact sheets: establishment of native grasses and wildflowers

• Indiana DNR Wildlife Biologist

• Butler County Ohio Chapter grassland habitat restoration handbook

• Hamilton County Urban Conservation Association native habitat and native plant guide

• Hamilton County Urban Conservation Association weed control and maintenance

• Miami Valley Ohio Chapter quick guide to establishing native grassland habitat and planting small areas with the broadcast method

• Ridgefield Subdivision Prairie Project - chronological progress pictures

Due to the importance of wildlife habitat restoration and to the environmental benefits these practices provide, State and local cost share assistance may be available to reimburse the landowner for certain expenses associated with the restoration of a grassland habitat.