The biodiversity of the southeastern U.S. is rich but imperiled. Our remaining natural lands need ecologically sound management if the rare and sensitive species they support are to survive.

Resource managers often lack staff and equipment to manage and monitor non-game species and natural communities. Since 1998, we have assisted landowners, government agencies, corporations, and organizations in planning and achieving conservation objectives.

Working with the US Forest Service, Conservation Southeast is conducting a comprehensive study of Gopher Tortoise populations on the Desoto National Forest in Mississippi. This project requires 100% coverage of nearly 10,000 acres of xeric sandhills on National Forest Lands within the federally-protected part of the species' western range. For more infomation about Gopher Tortoise conservation, visit www.gophertortoisecouncil.org.

Conservation Southeast continues to work with Alabama Power and other private landowners to enhance habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers.

Working with Alabama Forest Resources Center, Conservation Southeast is working on conservation easements for numerous private landowners. For more information about the advantages of conservation easements visit the Land Trust Alliance.

Conservation Southeast scientists Mark Bailey and Jeff Holmes were lead co-authors on the recently (May 2006) published PARC Habitat Management Guidelines for Amphibians and Reptiles of the Southeastern United States. For more information and to order, visit the PARC website.