Portage DMAP Area Strategy

This area is a part of the Allegheny Plateau that is deeply cut by steep valleys. Northern
Hardwood and Oak forests dominate, with some hemlock stands scattered throughout. Due to the maturity
of the forest in combination with tree insects and diseases, timber-harvesting operations are very common
in this area. Parcels were the overstory trees have been removed are scattered throughout the area.
Management goals for the area are to promote a diverse, healthy natural habitat, increase wildlife species
diversity, reduce the need for fencing to establish desirable regeneration, manage for a balanced deer sex
ratio (1:1 buck:doe), maintain or improve hunter satisfaction, reduce deer browsing on Threatened or
Endangered native wild plant species such as Trillium, Indian Cucumber Root, Toothwarts, Wild Violets
and Hepatica (see also plant species from Species of Special Concern List) and to reduce the deer pressure
to the point where the forest will persist and function into the future.