Manuel F. Correllus

Manuel F. Correllus State Forest encompasses 5,343 acres in the center of Martha's Vineyard, protecting the unique sandplain grassland and frost bottom ecosystems that support rare species found nowhere else in Massachusetts.

The forest provides critical habitat for rare species including the island's unique population of short-eared owls and northern harriers that hunt the grasslands. The varied habitats support diverse breeding birds.

The globally rare sandplain grassland and frost bottom communities support unique plant assemblages. Scrub oak barrens and pitch pine woodlands add diversity. Rare plants include species at the edge of their range.

The forest occupies the central sandplain of Martha's Vineyard, formed by glacial outwash deposits. The porous sandy soils and frost pocket topography create unique microclimates.

The island location produces moderate temperatures with maritime influence. Fog is common. The frost bottoms experience extreme temperature inversions.

Indigenous peoples utilized Martha's Vineyard for thousands of years. The forest preserves open character maintained historically by fire and grazing.

The state acquired the forest to protect the unique habitats and provide public recreation. The forest is named for Manuel F. Correllus, a state forester.

Miles of trails and fire roads provide hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The unique habitats offer exceptional nature observation. Cross-country skiing is popular in winter.

Multiple parking areas serve the forest. No developed facilities exist. The forest is accessible from West Tisbury via local roads. Ferry service connects Martha's Vineyard to the mainland.

Active habitat management including prescribed fire maintains the rare grassland communities. Deer management protects vegetation. The forest demonstrates conservation of globally rare ecosystems.