Michigan 2023 - Kirtland's Warbler Jack Pine Planting

PROJECT REPORT

MICHIGAN 2023KIRTLAND'S WARBLER JACK PINE PLANTING

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Dear friend,

Thanks to your support, a total of 201,000 trees were planted to restore 72 hectares of land in Michigan.

Planting trees in areas that have been degraded or deforested helps the environment by accelerating and assuring the re-establishment of healthy forests. Through reforestation, the canopy is restored, ecosystems are made whole, and biodiversity can thrive.

None of this would be possible without you. On behalf of everyone at One Tree Planted, thank you!

What follows is a report outlining the project you supported in Michigan. I hope you enjoy reading it and truly feel the impact you have made.

OVERVIEW

The objective of the Michigan 2023 - Kirtland's Warbler Jack Pine Planting project was to revitalize the habitat of the Kirtland's Warbler (Pinus banksiana), a cherished inhabitant of Hiawatha National Forest. Through the strategic planting of 201,000 Jack pine trees, the goal is to not only restore but enhance vital wildlife habitat. In doing so, this project fosters opportunities for outdoor recreation, all while while helping to safeguard a diverse array of ecosystem services crucial for thewell-beingofbothnatureandhumanity.

TREES PLANTED

201,000

TREE SPECIES PLANTED

TREE SPECIES PLANTED

For this project, a strategic decision was made to focus exclusively on one native species to reforest 178 acres: Jack pine (Pinusbanksiana). This deliberate choice wasmadenottoreplicateamonoculture,butrathertocomplementandenrichthe existingbiodiversityandtreediversitywithinHiawathaNationalForest.

Contrary to the notion of monoculture, planting solely Jack pine in Hiawatha National Forest contributes to the region's rich tapestry of species rather than detracting from it. Hiawatha National Forest already hosts a diverse array of tree species, including Red pine (Pinus resinosa), White pine (Pinus strobus), Black spruce (Picea mariana), and various hardwood species. By introducing Jack pine, we further enhance this diversity, contributing to a more resilient and ecologically balancedforestecosystem.

Jack pine's suitability for this region lies in its adaptability to the harsh environmental conditions prevalent in northern Michigan. Thriving in sandy soils and capable of withstanding drought and fire, Jack pine is well-suited to the challenging terrain and climate of Hiawatha National Forest. Its role as a primary breeding habitat for the endangered Kirtland's Warbler further underscores its importanceinthisecosystem.

In summary, this planting of Jack pine in Hiawatha National Forest represents a strategic initiative aimed at enriching the forest landscape. By adding to the existing biodiversity and complementing the existing ecological characteristics of theregion,thisworkseekstopromotelong-termhealthandresilienceoftheforest ecosystem.

SPECIES PLANTED THROUGH THIS PROJECT

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana)

TREE SPECIES IDENTIFICATION & USE

Jack Pine, scientifically known as Pinus banksiana, is a native North American species found primarily in the boreal forests of Canada and extending into the Great Lakes region, including Michigan. Its distinctive features include short, twisted needles grouped in pairs and slender cones that typically remain closed until exposed to fire. With grayish-brown, deeply furrowed bark, Jack pine trees standatheightsrangingfrom50to80feet,oftenwithirregularlyshapedcrowns.

Jack pine serves as a vital resource for wildlife, offering both food and nesting habitat. Particularly crucial is its role in supporting the Kirtland's Warbler, an endangered bird species exclusively nesting in young Jack pine forests. The abundant foliage and intricate branches of Jack pine provide ideal shelter and nesting sites for various bird species, including warblers, finches, and nuthatches. Additionally,theseedsofJackpineserveasessentialsustenanceforwildlifesuch assquirrels,chipmunks,andvariousbirdspecies.

Beyond its significance to wildlife, the species contributes essential ecosystem services. Its extensive root system helps stabilize soil, preventing erosion and promotingsoilhealth.Jackpineforestsactasvaluablecarbonsinks,sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and aiding in climate change mitigation. Moreover,theseforestsprovidevitalhabitatforadiversearrayofplantandanimal species,enhancingoverallbiodiversityandecosystemresilience.

In the Michigan landscape, Jack pine stands as a testament to resilience and adaptation, thriving in sandy soils and harsh environmental conditions. Its multifaceted contributions to wildlife habitat and ecosystem health underscore its importance in the ecological fabric of the region, playing a crucial role in maintainingecologicalbalance.

YOUR IMPACT ON THE MAP

The Michigan 2023 - Kirtland’s Warbler Jack Pine Planting project has left a lasting mark, with 201,000 Jack pine trees taking root across 178 acres in Hiawatha National Forest. This effort isn't just about planting trees, though; it's about restoring vital wildlife habitat, specifically tailored to support the breeding needsoftheKirtland'sWarbler (Setophagakirtlandii).

TheKirtland’sWarblerisknownasahabitatspecialist,meaningitwillonlynestin very specific areas or under precise conditions. Astonishingly, over 90 percent of these birds nest within a narrow band spanning northern Michigan, covering approximately 70 miles from north to south and 90 miles from east to west. If you’re wondering why the species gravitates toward young Jack pine forests, the answer lies in the intricate harmony of nature. Young Jack pines boast a canopy of low-hanging, intertwining branches, creating a cozy haven for ground-nesting birds. Paired with sandy, well-draining soil that minimizes flooding risks, these conditionsofferanidealsanctuaryforthisbirdspeciestothrive.

Whether through deliberate planting initiatives or the regenerative power of natural fires, the creation of the young stands ensures the preservation of the warbler's primary breeding grounds. By continuing endeavors like this project, we not only bolster the population of this iconic species, but enhance their quality of lifeand safeguardthebalanceofournaturalecosystems.

BIODIVERSITY BENEFITS

The journey of the Kirtland's warbler (Setophaga kirtlandii) from the brink of extinction to its remarkable recovery is a testament to the power of conservation efforts. In 1967, with only 167 breeding pairs identified, this striking bird faced a dismal future, eventually being placed on the nation's inaugural endangered species list. Against the odds, dedicated conservationists set a target of 1,000 breedingpairsasthemeasureofsuccessforitsrecoveryandgottowork.

In a triumph of persistence and commitment, this milestone was surpassed in 2001. Today, the Kirtland’s warbler population has soared to over 2,300 breeding pairs, marking an extraordinary conservation success story. Such remarkable progress prompted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife to consider removing the bird from theendangeredspecieslistlastyear.

However, despite surpassing the initial goal, the Kirtland’s warbler remains listed as an endangered species. This is because it is deemed a "conservation-reliant species," reliant on continuous habitat creation for its survival. Without ongoing efforts to nurture and expand its habitat, its achieved success could slip away, threateningtheexistenceofthespecies.

Thebeaconofhopeisthatweholdtheblueprintforitssuccessinourhands.With ongoing support and dedication, we can ensure the continued expansion of the Kirtland’swarblerandsafeguarditsplaceinournaturalheritage.

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

In Hiawatha National Forest, each acre holds unique significance, contributing to the rich tapestry of experiences cherished by visitors and locals alike. As the only National Forest with lands touching Lakes Superior, Huron, and Michigan, Hiawatha earns its nickname as "the Great Lakes National Forest." The lakeside setting creates a distinct atmosphere, fostering diverse wetland habitats, offering unparalleled lakeside recreation opportunities, and showcasing Great Lakesinfluenced resources such as islands, heritage sites, and lighthouses. The reforestation efforts undertaken in this project serve as a testament to our commitment to enhancing this cherished natural haven, attracting more visitors andbolsteringsupportforthelocaleconomyforgenerationstocome.

Spanning nearly 1 million acres, the east and west units of Hiawatha National Forest play a vital role in enriching the quality of life enjoyed in the Upper Peninsula. Hiawatha National Forest serves as a pioneer of ecological health, sustaining diverse ecosystems that support a multitude of integrated natural and cultural resource purposes. From timber production to wildlife habitat preservation, wild and scenic rivers, and developed recreational amenities, these forests provide a lifeline for both the environment and the livelihoods of local families. This projects contribution to the health and resilience of the forest ecosystem only reinforces its pivotal role in sustaining the well-being of surroundingcommunities.

U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

THIS PROJECT CONTRIBUTED TO THE FOLLOWING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:

WHAT ARE SDGS?

Sustainable development entails seeking out solutions that not only boost the economic outcomes of developing and poorer nations, but also work to limit (or eliminate)ourimpactontheplanet.Treesareonesuchsolution.

From creating jobs and reducing hunger to improving gender equality, cleaning air and water, absorbing carbon, protecting life on land and water, and more, planting treescanaddressall17sustainabledevelopmentgoals.

"It's truly inspiring to see how tree planting transcends mere action, becoming a driver for ecological change. Preserving the habitat of the Kirtland’s warbler, an endangered species, is not just a responsibility; it's a privilege and an honor. In a world increasingly challenged by the impacts of climate change, safeguarding the natural habitats of vulnerable species like the Kirtland’s warbler remains paramount. This endeavor stands as a testament to the transformative power of collective restoration efforts, and the incredible impact they have on our terrestrialecosystems."

Danny Global Projects Support Specialist

Stephanie Rochemont Project Manager Canada & Northeast US

Meghan