Vernal Pool and Rare Species Inventory at the Tully Lake Flood Control Project (Royalston, Massachusetts)
Biodrawversity LLC surveyed for obligate vernal pool species, Jefferson salamanders, four-toed salamanders, wood turtles, and freshwater mussels in the Tully Lake Flood Control Project area in Royalston, Massachusetts. Survey areas included approximately 75 potential vernal pools, forested swamps, two lakes, and several miles of streams. The survey documented 46 vernal pools and new populations of wood turtles, Jefferson salamanders, four-toed salamanders, but a low diversity of freshwater mussels. Overall, the Tully Lake property contains relatively undisturbed, high-quality habitat for many reptile and amphibian species and it is particularly rich in breeding habitats for vernal pool fauna and four-toed salamanders. The work was completed through a contract with the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, with the support of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Biodrawversity LLC has conducted similar inventories on other Army Corps properties throughout Massachusetts.
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