Baraga Plains

Important Jack Pine barrens.

Ornithological Summary

A sandy jack pine plain supporting significant populations of Spruce Grouse and Black-backed Woodpeckers, as well as occasional Kirtland's Warblers.

Conservation Issues

Loss of habitat due to lack of fire is a potential threat to Black-backed Woodpeckers, which utilize burns for about 2 years prior to dispersing.

Ownership

Baraga State Forest, Ottawa National Forest, Michigan College of Mining and Technology, and private.

Habitat

Sandy plain dominated by jack pine, with smaller amounts of northern hardwoods, herbaceous openland, and shrubland.

Land Use

Varied. Primarily forestry and nature conservation, with hunting and recreation as secondary uses.