Manuel F. Correllus State Forest

Manuel F. Correllus State Forest is a Massachusetts state forest located on Martha's Vineyard. The forest borders Martha's Vineyard Airport on three sides. The park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

Description

Correllus State Forest is a 5,100-acre (21 km²) forest principally used for biking and hiking.

Situated in the center of Martha's Vineyard, the park is the focus of one of the largest environmental restoration projects in the country as the DCR is working to bring back the park's native ecosystem.

Terrain within the park includes grasslands, heathlands, pine barrens, and woodlands. Oak and pine are the dominant trees within the park. Many rare species may also be located here.

History

Created in 1908 as the "Heath Hen Reserve", the original purpose of the reservation was to prevent the extinction of the heath hen, a type of grouse that lived in the pine barrens of New England. Unfortunately, by late 1938 the last heath hen had disappeared from the forest and the species was officially classified as extinct.

Despite widespread land clearing for farming and other purposes across Martha's Vineyard throughout its history, much of the area within Correllus State Forest did not suffer this fate. However, due to forest fires and other natural processes, the forest is not considered old-growth.

Recreational opportunities

• Bike Paths
• Hiking
• Horseback Riding Trails
• Hunting (restricted)
• Mountain Biking
• Skiing (Cross-Country)
• Walking Trails

External links

• Park Website: http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/southeast/corr.htm
• Trail Map: http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/trails/corellus600.gif