Natural Resources

The Plan

The purpose of this document is to serve as a “Master Plan” for forest management activities at Hartman Reserve Nature Center. This plan is also a working document which means it needs to be able to reflect the ongoing changes of the natural environment and forest community. Active woodland management can improve the quality & diversity of forest habitat for wildlife while optimizing other forest benefits such as recreation, beauty, environmental health, and forest products. Overall goals for wildlife habitat & forest resources were established by County Conservation and Nature Center Staff. This plan compliments the goals and recommendations identified in the Hartman Reserve Nature Center Management Plan (revised 2010) and the Hartman Bluff State Preserve Plan (2003). The Wildlife Conservationist performed field surveys to develop an inventory (stand map) of the current species composition and habitat structure of the forested portions of the nature center property. The DNR District Forester reviewed this plan and added input. The stand survey provides the basis for recommended forest management practices
which could be used to achieve the desired goals & objectives identified in the HRNC Management Plan and in this Forest Resource Plan.

HRNC Natural Resource Plan.pdf
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Flora

Hartman has at least 451 species of plants. Many of these are protected within the 46 acre Hartman Bluff State Preserve. Burning of prairie, planting oaks, and removal of non-native invasives has restored much of Hartman to a more natural state. We are home to some rare and unusual plants, Assinoboine sedge, glade mallow, and green dragon for example. Please see the the botanical survey for a list of plants within Hartman Reserve.

Botanical Survey.pdf
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Fauna

Hartman has been involved with animal re-introductions, nesting areas, and habitat improvement since the 1970's. We have released osprey and otters and now we are working on a blue spotted salamander release. For over 20 years we have worked to manage our deer population with the help of many local partners through the Deer Management Zone program.

Water

Water quality and storm water management are some of our most difficult issues. Halting erosion on bluffs and trails has been one of our top priorities. The parking lot rain garden has had a major effect on slowing erosion. Future plans are to capture more storm water from our impervious surfaces such as buildings and roads.

Please contact us if you would like to get involved in a natural resource project. Opportunities such as caring for and installing nest boxes, invasive species detection and removal, and tree planting are available. Contact our staff to find out more.