In Rich s work area, there are 14 State Wildlife Management Areas comprising a total of approximately 15,000 acres. The State Wildlife Management Areas are open to the public for nature study, hunting, and trapping. They are managed to optimize wildlife protection and to protect key habitats. They are more restricted than State Forests. For instance, permanent deer stands and motorized vehicles are not allowed in WMAs but are allowed in State Forests.
Different species require different habitat management practices.
For example, the sharp tailed grouse is best suited to an open area of short brush and grass. In the wild, these areas would be naturally created as the result of wildfires. To maintain this type of habitat, Rich and his staff shear the brush from the designated area in the winter. Then, in the spring, they use the prescribed burns to burn the rest of the brush. By shearing and burning, an open area of short brush and grass is created providing the ideal setting for the sharp-tailed grouse.