WMA #16

The small Fulling Mill Extension property forms part of a large forest complex that supports habiat for several state threatened and endangered species including the Barred Owl, Red-shouldered Hawk and the Southern Gray Treefrog. The entire site is also identified as a critical migratory raptor concentration site.

The wetlands on site have also been designated as exceptional resource value due to the documented presence of threatened and endangered species or their habitat.  The wetlands are part of the headwaters area of the Fulling Mill Creek, which drains into the Fishing Creek and empties into the Delaware River.

The Fulling Mill Extension Property abuts the Audubon Society’s’ Fulling Mill Sanctuary and is very close to the Bayshore Sportsman Club.  It is located in the Villas neighborhood of Lower Township.

The entire site is wooded, with the majority comprised of oak pine and hardwood swamp communities. Based onfield investigations, the site habitat is consistent with and contiguous to the wooded upland and wetland communities east and south of the site, specifically associated with the airport, which is the area in which the Barred Owl and Red-shouldered Hawk were previously documented.  Both avian species favor a mix of upland and wetland habitat, which this site exhibits.  The property is located within a State Plan Area 5, Environmentally Sensitive Area.

The Trust for Public Land is seeking $396,000 to help purchase this critical habitat.