Pine Barren

We can understand from looking at Mass GIS data, there are no records of endangered species sited directly in the Pine Barrens.  However, because a Pine Barren is known to typically have more than a few endangered species thriving in it, how can we be for certain there are no endangered species in this area?  Shouldn't there need to be a full study of the site, on site, to be certain before it is destroyed?  There is one certified vernal pool in the vicinity of connecting wetlands and there are 8 potential vernal pools in abutting wetlands, whereby demonstating the presence of species that are threatened.  The signs of possibility are too high to ignore.


Another question is that an arborist has helped identify unique trees not common in Mass. These trees have been planted here from different parts of the world filling 200 acres and are still thriving. We need to report these uncommon trees that enrich the Pine Barrens and the rest of the region.


A third question is, sightings of hawks and vultures are increasing in these woods year after year. The habitat conditions here of ecological diversity include a mix of dry pine barrens and wetlands on high hill tops and low valleys, with tall trees in unfragmented woodland by a lakelet. We have found a few downy feathers and site of a large nest in the area. Doesn't this increase the importance of saving the largest Pine Barren in Salem?  Pine Barrens offer a unique habitat community, and is severely threatened in Massachusetts by development.  I've also read a Pine Barren helps filter water.  I wonder if it does help filter water before reaching Spring Pond?  


This map shows locations of wetlands, certified and potential vernal pools along the hilly topography... overlain by the proposed threat of a new Lowe's and expanded Super Wal-mart.  As observed, the proposed Lowe's is siting over a wetland marked having a potential vernal pool, and the access road and basins are too near (if not over) wetlands and surface water protection areas.

This map was created in the software Vectorworks Designer: Architect/ Landmark/ Renderworks, using data extracted from Mass GIS, and an overlay of the proposed 'development'.  For analysis of the existing conditions of the site see OLIVER, Mass GIS.


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