This project will include removal of encroaching woody vegetation, focusing on mesquite in order to help restore the native grasslands of the mescalero sands in eastern new mexico where the lesser…

This project will include removal of encroaching woody vegetation, focusing on mesquite in order to help restore the native grasslands of the mescalero sands in eastern new mexico where the lesser prairie chickens (LPC) core habitat is located. Research conducted by united states geological survey (USGS) and new mexico state university has shown that LPC avoid all vertical structures in native grasslands. This research also shows an avoidance of any mesquite cover over 5 density by the LPC. Aerial herbicide application will be utilized for the initial treatment of the honey mesquite during year one, along with spot treatments of regrowth on previous treatment areas. Through the approved treatment method, we can expect at least a 70 reduction of live mesquite. In year two, spot treatments will be applied by hand to maximize a 100 reduction of mesquite within the LPC priority habitat. Archeological clearances will be completed after year two clearing work sites for mastication of mesquite to initiate. Year three and four spot treatments will be applied to any regrowth and mastication of all standing dead mesquite will begin. Year five will be the final stages of spot treatment and mastication along with a wrap up of monitoring and reporting.rangeland improvement projects will produce a healthy ecosystem by providing landscape scale restoration on public and private lands to ensure species survival for future generations.