Grassland birds are an important part of Indiana’s ecosystem, and many have attempted to nest for several years in County Line Orchard’s overflow parking lot in Hobart, Indiana. As of last week, 12 pairs of nesting Dickcissels, 6 pairs of nesting Bobolinks, and 4 pairs of nesting Savannah Sparrows were spotted in this area. 
Unfortunately, if we do not achieve proper action, these nests could be senselessly destroyed at the hands of County Line Orchard in the name of profit and greed — they plan on mowing the lot in the middle of breeding season to make way for parking. There has been a public outcry about this issue and many have reached out to County Line without an adequate response. Additionally, wild birds are protected by state and federal law. We are asking County Line to consider delaying mowing this lot until breeding season is over, as this impacts bird populations in the area and is simply cruel. 

County Line Orchard has long been a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors each year for its amazing donuts and apple picking and more and countless individuals have fond memories of this place. However, their lack of action could prove to tarnish these memories and their reputation forever.  Please help save grassland birds, and keep County Line’s memory as it should be. 

Why are grasslands and its fauna important? 

Quoting the Indiana Department of Natural Resources:

“Grasslands are declining across Indiana and throughout the nation. The 2015 Indiana State Wildlife Action Plan identified the percentage of grassland habitat loss as the largest habitat decline in Indiana. Many grassland bird populations are already showing significant decline. The loss of pollinating insects and the plants they depend are also a growing concern addressed by this program. Pollinators are important not only for wildlife, but for the health of human populations. Estimates suggest that one in three bites of food consumed worldwide are directly linked to pollination from floral/faunal relationships.“

More info on how supporting ground nesting birds is good for the ecosystem/grasslands:

https://www.noble.org/regenerative-agriculture/wildlife/wildlife-watch-abundant-ground-nesting-birds-sign-of-healthy-grasslands/