Projects

Project	Completion Date
Assessment of the Invasion of the Asian Swamp Eels in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area	December 2018	The objective of this agreement is to support the study of an invasive fish species, Asian Swamp Eel (Monopterus albus) that occurs adjacent to and within management boundaries of Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA). CRNRA manages, protects, and interprets the biota and landscape of the Chattahoochee River corridor and the Asian Swamp Eel is an invasive species that threatens the resources essential to the purposes of the park. Working with state and non-federal partners, this project will assess the invasion extent and reproduction-emigration potential of this species at CRNRA.	The objective of this agreement is to support the study of an invasive fish species, Asian Swamp Eel (Monopterus albus) that occurs adjacent to and within management boundaries of Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA). CRNRA manages, protects, and interprets the biota and landscape of the Chattahoochee River corridor and the Asian Swamp Eel is an invasive species that threatens the resources essential to the purposes of the park. Working with state and non-federal partners, this project will assess the invasion extent and reproduction-emigration potential of this species at CRNRA. Having these results will enable NPS managers to conserve the natural resources under their management.
Determination of geomorphological and landscape factors contributing to diverse Unionoid mussel communities in Missouri River systems, with particular emphasis on the Meramec River Drainage	June 2019	The Missouri Department of Conservation is frequently queried regarding the general status of endangered and threatened mussels in Missouri, a question that will remain incompletely answered until a sufficiently rigorous and comprehensive assessment and monitoring framework is implemented in Missouri. This implementation is complicated by the diverse nature of Missouri’s mussel fauna and the limited personnel devoted to its conservation and assessment. A Conservation Assessment of Missouri’s fauna will allow for statewide, strategic, and spatially explicit monitoring that maximizes probability of detection of population and/or distributional changes in mussel species, while minimizing costs and man-hours dedicated to monitoring programs. The creation of this program requires several steps in the research process to come to fruition, and this proposal represents one of those key steps (Figure 1). Our long-term goal is to give rise to a decision support monitoring framework specifically designed to maximize the probability of detecting species or assemblage expansions or declines in key areas of the state that are the strongholds of mussel diversity, followed by a comprehensive conservation assessment of mussels in the state, identified as High Priority Objectives (1.3, 2.1, and 2.2) in the MDC Statewide Mussel Plan. Monitoring timing and frequency will be based on probability of detection with known habitat preferences, magnitude of risk, and sampling efficiency. The first step in attaining that goal, funded in FY14, was to develop standardized sampling methods for freshwater mussels and identify factors that affect mussel capture and detection probability or affect measures of assemblage characteristics. This proposal describes the second step in a conservation assessment with a strategic monitoring protocol: identification of the fundamental properties of habitats that support diverse mussel assemblages (our biological unit of interest), with particular emphasis on geomorphological and landscape factors that best predict core areas of mussel diversity in the state (Figure 1). Both of these steps are components required in identifying biological units of interest for conservation purposes.	The Missouri Department of Conservation is frequently queried regarding the general status of endangered and threatened mussels in Missouri, a question that will remain incompletely answered until a sufficiently rigorous and comprehensive assessment and monitoring framework is implemented in Missouri. This implementation is complicated by the diverse nature of Missouri’s mussel fauna and the limited personnel devoted to its conservation and assessment. A Conservation Assessment of Missouri’s fauna will allow for statewide, strategic, and spatially explicit monitoring that maximizes probability of detection of population and/or distributional changes in mussel species, while minimizing costs and man-hours dedicated to monitoring programs. The creation of this program requires several steps in the research process to come to fruition, and this proposal represents one of those key steps (Figure 1). Our long-term goal is to give rise to a decision support monitoring framework specifically designed to maximize the probability of detecting species or assemblage expansions or declines in key areas of the state that are the strongholds of mussel diversity, followed by a comprehensive conservation assessment of mussels in the state, identified as High Priority Objectives (1.3, 2.1, and 2.2) in the MDC Statewide Mussel Plan. Monitoring timing and frequency will be based on probability of detection with known habitat preferences, magnitude of risk, and sampling efficiency. The first step in attaining that goal, funded in FY14, was to develop standardized sampling methods for freshwater mussels and identify factors that affect mussel capture and detection probability or affect measures of assemblage characteristics. This proposal describes the second step in a conservation assessment with a strategic monitoring protocol: identification of the fundamental properties of habitats that support diverse mussel assemblages (our biological unit of interest), with particular emphasis on geomorphological and landscape factors that best predict core areas of mussel diversity in the state (Figure 1). Both of these steps are components required in identifying biological units of interest for conservation purposes.
Intra-guild predator dynamics: the effects of recolonizing gray wolf populations on cougars in northeast Oregon.	June 2019	Since the reintroduction of wolves in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming in 1996, recovering wolf populations have expanded their distributions into Oregon, and other western states where they have largely be extirpated (since 1940's in Oregon). Consistent wolf sign was observed in northeastern Oregon in 2006 and now 8-10 packs exist in this region. Since near extirpation of cougars in Oregon in the 1960's, cougar populations have now recovered to stable levels throughout the state and their ecology and population dynamics prior to the arrival of wolves is well studied. The recolonization of wolves into Oregon raises important questions regarding their impacts on prey populations (deer and elk), livestock depredation, and interspecific competition with cougars.<br><br>Within this context, we will address the following objectives:<br>1) Determine prey selection of wolves in multiple packs in Oregon where prey availability differs among packs.<br>2) Determine effects of presence of wolf pack(s) on population dynamics and habitat use of cougars in the Mt. Emily Wildlife Management Unit. <br>3) Evaluate factors which may influence elk and deer populations in a mixed carnivore system with wolves. <br>	Since the reintroduction of wolves in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming in 1996, recovering wolf populations have expanded their distributions into Oregon, and other western states where they have largely been extirpated (since 1940's in Oregon). Consistent wolf sign was observed in northeastern Oregon in 2006 and now 8-10 packs exist in this region. Since near extirpation of cougars in Oregon in the 1960's, cougar populations have now recovered to stable levels throughout the state and their ecology and population dynamics prior to the arrival of wolves is well studied. The recolonization of wolves into Oregon raises important questions regarding their impacts on prey populations (deer and elk), livestock depredation, and interspecific competition with cougars. Within this context, and in collaboration with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife this study will investigate prey selection of co-occurring wolves and cougars, and the impact of wolves on the demographics, habitat use, and movement patterns of cougar. The results from this study will provide information that will aide in the management of these two large carnivores in Oregon.
Intra-guild predator dynamics: the effects of recolonizing gray wolf populations on cougars in northeast Oregon.	June 2019	Since the reintroduction of wolves in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming in 1996, recovering wolf populations have expanded their distributions into Oregon, and other western states where they have largely be extirpated (since 1940's in Oregon). Consistent wolf sign was observed in northeastern Oregon in 2006 and now 8-10 packs exist in this region. Since near extirpation of cougars in Oregon in the 1960's, cougar populations have now recovered to stable levels throughout the state and their ecology and population dynamics prior to the arrival of wolves is well studied. The recolonization of wolves into Oregon raises important questions regarding their impacts on prey populations (deer and elk), livestock depredation, and interspecific competition with cougars.<br><br>Within this context, we will address the following objectives:<br>1) Determine prey selection of wolves in multiple packs in Oregon where prey availability differs among packs.<br>2) Determine effects of presence of wolf pack(s) on population dynamics and habitat use of cougars in the Mt. Emily Wildlife Management Unit. <br>3) Evaluate factors which may influence elk and deer populations in a mixed carnivore system with wolves.	Since the reintroduction of wolves in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming in 1996, recovering wolf populations have expanded their distributions into Oregon, and other western states where they have largely been extirpated (since 1940's in Oregon). Consistent wolf sign was observed in northeastern Oregon in 2006 and now 8-10 packs exist in this region. Since near extirpation of cougars in Oregon in the 1960's, cougar populations have now recovered to stable levels throughout the state and their ecology and population dynamics prior to the arrival of wolves is well studied. The recolonization of wolves into Oregon raises important questions regarding their impacts on prey populations (deer and elk), livestock depredation, and interspecific competition with cougars. Within this context, and in collaboration with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife this study will investigate prey selection of co-occurring wolves and cougars, and the impact of wolves on the demographics, habitat use, and movement patterns of cougar. The results from this study will provide information that will aide in the management of these two large carnivores in Oregon.
Adaptive Management for Turkey Harvest in Alabama	September 2020	The Alabama Units is conducting long-term research project for Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to inform science-based (adaptive) management of Eastern Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallapavo; hereafter Turkey) populations across the state. Applying AM requires a decision tool based on region-specific vital rates for turkey populations. Current, region-specific vital rates and harvest rates are unavailable, except as expert opinion. The tool will employ a population model that predicts the dynamics of Turkey populations based on vital rates and a management model that predicts the effects of harvest regulations on vital rates. This research will estimate the temporal and spatial variation in vital rates, update the recently developed expert-driven model, test methods for monitoring decision criteria, and provide the agency with a method for incorporating the best available information in decisions regarding Turkey harvest.
Movement dynamics, distribution, habitat use, and species associations of juvenile burbot in tributaries of the Kootenai River	December 2024	The purpose of this project is to evaluate survival, movement, and habitat use of burbot in Deep Creek, a major tributary to the Kootenai River. Results of this research will be used to guide stocking practices associated with the management and conservation of burbot in western river systems.	The purpose of this project is to evaluate survival, movement, and habitat use of burbot in Deep Creek, a major tributary to the Kootenai River. Results of this research will be used to guide stocking practices associated with the management and conservation of burbot in western river systems.
Klamath Basin S3 Model	September 2019	The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has been working in close collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey Columbia River Research Laboratory and Dr. Thomas Hardy from Watershed Systems Group, Inc. and Texas State University to develop Decision Support Systems such as the Stream Salmonid Simulator or S3 model. The S3 model currently under development for the Klamath River represents an integrated set of sub models that predict the effects of water management alternatives on the production of juvenile Chinook Salmon. This synchronized series of sub-models reflects the array of physical and biological processes that interact to affect the growth, movement, and survival of fish at a given lifestage. A benefit to this method of model construction lies in the ability to update sub-models as new data, new analyses, or new scientific discoveries arise. The current S3 model in development for the Klamath River tracks causes of mortality throughout the sub-adult life history of Chinook Salmon (redd scour, habitat limitations, disease, water quality, etc.) over time within 233-mile section of the mainstem Klamath River spanning from Keno Dam in Oregon to its confluence with the Pacific Ocean in California. The model is also being extended into the Trinity Basin, with the addition of an ocean component and IBM-type upstream adult migration sub module. These improvements will transform the S3 model into a basin-wide, full life cycle model. Future development of the S3 model will also include its expansion to incorporate Coho Salmon, as requested by NOAA Fisheries and the Bureau of Reclamation.	Research objectives are two-fold: 1. to evaluate the best practices for assigning flow-to-habitat relationships for large river systems; and 2. to extend the Klamath River stream salmonid simulator model, which was developed to track population dynamics of juvenile Chinook Salmon as they move from tributary to the main channel; to apply to juvenile Coho salmon.
Wildlife-Livestock Disease Transmission in a Changing Climate	September 2018	The goal of this project is to develop a framework for understanding the ecology of elk-cattle commingling, particularly with regards to how annual forage conditions and weather patterns influence elk movement during the critical spring/summer brucellosis transmission period. Elk habitat use and cattle grazing regimes are largely determined by the changing distribution of high-quality forage throughout the year.	...
Landscape genetic structure of the western continental golden eagle population	July 2019	Studies of golden eagle mortality linked to wind energy facilities are cause for concern especially when coupled with the knowledge that golden eagles move great distances between breeding and wintering areas. Thus, mortalities that occur at a particular wind energy facility may not only impact a local breeding population of golden eagles but could also impact breeding populations on a continent-wide scale. Understanding the movement ecology and landscape genetic structure of golden eagles in the western US would be critically important toward understanding the potential risks wind energy facilities pose to the continental population of golden eagles. This information is essential to understanding the distribution of breeding populations of eagles, the level of connectivity that exists among them and where individuals from these populations migrate to in the winter. Thus our objectives are to assess the relationship of western golden eagle populations using molecular genetic and stable isotope methods.	Studies of golden eagle mortality linked to wind energy facilities are cause for concern especially when coupled with the knowledge that golden eagles move great distances between breeding and wintering areas. Thus, mortalities that occur at a particular wind energy facility may not only impact a local breeding population of golden eagles but could also impact breeding populations on a continent-wide scale. Understanding the movement ecology and landscape genetic structure of golden eagles in the western US would be critically important toward understanding the potential risks wind energy facilities pose to the continental population of golden eagles. The goal of this project is to assess the landscape genetic structure of golden eagles in the U.S. in efforts to understand the distribution of breeding populations of eagles, the level of connectivity that exists among them and where individuals from these populations migrate to in the winter. This information will allow for more informed management of golden eagles on a continent-wide scale. This project is a collaboration with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Ecology at New Mexico State University.
Population characteristics and movements of smallmouth bass in the Menominee River	June 2019	The Menominee River supports popular, high-quality fisheries for smallmouth bass. Maintaining these fisheries is an important goal of the Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources which jointly manage these fisheries. Below Sturgeon Falls, the Menominee River is divided into a series of relatively riverine impoundments by several hydropower facilities. These facilities currently prevent upstream movement of fish and probably limit downstream movements for some species. Additionally, some of these impoundments are relatively long (> 20 river miles) and some contain natural features (i.e., falls or rapids) that could limit movements of smallmouth bass. Consequently, population characteristics of smallmouth bass could vary among sections of river within the same impoundment. This spatial separation could result in situations where smallmouth bass inhabiting upstream portions of the impoundment represent important sources of recruitment for lower portions of the impoundment. Additionally, previous studies have shown that in response to falling water temperatures in fall, smallmouth bass in riverine systems move towards deeper water where they spend the winter period. During this fall-winter period, smallmouth bass could occupy relatively small, overlapping home ranges if preferred habitat is limited, making them potentially more vulnerable to anglers. Harvest of smallmouth bass during fall could negatively affect smallmouth bass fisheries in the Menominee River, but it is not known if smallmouth bass are exhibiting this behavior or if angler harvest during this period could be a problem. Recently, a few anglers have begun to voice concern over this issue and biologists are interested in determining if harvest during fall represents an important management issue. Furthermore, it is not known if current harvest regulations are sufficient to maintain the quality of these fisheries, or if more stringent regulations could improve the number of relatively large bass available to anglers. Lastly, at a larger scale, black bass (smallmouth and largemouth bass) abundance has increased in many bodies of water in the Upper Midwest and there are concerns that black bass can negatively affect walleye populations, possibly through predation or competition for available prey, consequently changes in smallmouth abundance within the Menominee River could affect other species, including walleyes. However, few studies have examined diet interactions between the two species. The Menominee River offers an excellent opportunity to evaluate dietary interactions between smallmouth bass and walleyes in a system that supports healthy populations of both species. Examining diets will also allow biologists to better understand which prey species are important to smallmouth bass and walleyes within the river. The Wisconsin and Michigan DNR rarely conduct sampling on the Menominee River that specifically targets smallmouth bass, so only limited information is available for these species. More information is needed to determine if current management strategies are appropriate for maintaining the quality of these smallmouth bass fisheries in the future. Furthermore, our proposed study will compliment similar research that will be conducted by the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and Wisconsin DNR in the impoundment between Grand Rapids and Park Mill dams, providing a rare opportunity to complete a comprehensive evaluation of smallmouth bass populations within the Menominee River.	The Menominee River supports popular, high-quality fisheries for smallmouth bass that attract anglers from all over North America and the popularity of these fisheries has continued to increase, leading to increased fishing effort. Maintaining these fisheries is an important goal of the Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources, but little information is available to help guide management decisions.<br><br>Population characteristics and movement patterns of smallmouth bass could vary among impoundments on the Menominee River, such that the effectiveness and feasibility of additional management actions (e.g., changes to harvest regulations, fish passage) could also vary among river segments.<br><br>This study is a collaboration between the Michigan and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources and We Energies Mitigation and Enhancement Fund.<br><br>Our primary goal is to use mark-recapture population assessments to describe population characteristics and movements of smallmouth bass in multiple segments of the Menominee River to determine if current harvest regulations are sufficient to maintain the quality of these fisheries. Our secondary goal is to use acoustic telemetry to determine if seasonal movements could result in increased vulnerability to angling or suggest that future fish passage is warranted.<br><br>
Population characteristics and movements of smallmouth bass in the Menominee River	June 2019	The Menominee River supports popular, high-quality fisheries for smallmouth bass. Maintaining these fisheries is an important goal of the Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources which jointly manage these fisheries. Below Sturgeon Falls, the Menominee River is divided into a series of relatively riverine impoundments by several hydropower facilities. These facilities currently prevent upstream movement of fish and probably limit downstream movements for some species. Additionally, some of these impoundments are relatively long (> 20 river miles) and some contain natural features (i.e., falls or rapids) that could limit movements of smallmouth bass. Consequently, population characteristics of smallmouth bass could vary among sections of river within the same impoundment. This spatial separation could result in situations where smallmouth bass inhabiting upstream portions of the impoundment represent important sources of recruitment for lower portions of the impoundment. Additionally, previous studies have shown that in response to falling water temperatures in fall, smallmouth bass in riverine systems move towards deeper water where they spend the winter period. During this fall-winter period, smallmouth bass could occupy relatively small, overlapping home ranges if preferred habitat is limited, making them potentially more vulnerable to anglers. Harvest of smallmouth bass during fall could negatively affect smallmouth bass fisheries in the Menominee River, but it is not known if smallmouth bass are exhibiting this behavior or if angler harvest during this period could be a problem. Recently, a few anglers have begun to voice concern over this issue and biologists are interested in determining if harvest during fall represents an important management issue. Furthermore, it is not known if current harvest regulations are sufficient to maintain the quality of these fisheries, or if more stringent regulations could improve the number of relatively large bass available to anglers. Lastly, at a larger scale, black bass (smallmouth and largemouth bass) abundance has increased in many bodies of water in the Upper Midwest and there are concerns that black bass can negatively affect walleye populations, possibly through predation or competition for available prey, consequently changes in smallmouth abundance within the Menominee River could affect other species, including walleyes. However, few studies have examined diet interactions between the two species. The Menominee River offers an excellent opportunity to evaluate dietary interactions between smallmouth bass and walleyes in a system that supports healthy populations of both species. Examining diets will also allow biologists to better understand which prey species are important to smallmouth bass and walleyes within the river. The Wisconsin and Michigan DNR rarely conduct sampling on the Menominee River that specifically targets smallmouth bass, so only limited information is available for these species. More information is needed to determine if current management strategies are appropriate for maintaining the quality of these smallmouth bass fisheries in the future. Furthermore, our proposed study will compliment similar research that will be conducted by the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and Wisconsin DNR in the impoundment between Grand Rapids and Park Mill dams, providing a rare opportunity to complete a comprehensive evaluation of smallmouth bass populations within the Menominee River.	The Menominee River supports popular, high-quality fisheries for smallmouth bass that attract anglers from all over North America and the popularity of these fisheries has continued to increase, leading to increased fishing effort. Maintaining these fisheries is an important goal of the Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources, but little information is available to help guide management decisions.<br><br>Population characteristics and movement patterns of smallmouth bass could vary among impoundments on the Menominee River, such that the effectiveness and feasibility of additional management actions (e.g., changes to harvest regulations, fish passage) could also vary among river segments.<br><br>This study is a collaboration between the Michigan and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources and We Energies Mitigation and Enhancement Fund.<br><br>Our primary goal is to use mark-recapture population assessments to describe population characteristics and movements of smallmouth bass in multiple segments of the Menominee River to determine if current harvest regulations are sufficient to maintain the quality of these fisheries. Our secondary goal is to use acoustic telemetry to determine if seasonal movements could result in increased vulnerability to angling or suggest that future fish passage is warranted.
Population Dynamics in Moose in the Snowy Range	December 2018	Snowy Range moose are at a crossroads. Managers have considered the population to be performing well because it is recently introduced and has had abundant forage, however, the current status of the population and the influence of harvest, remain uncertain. This has created considerable uncertainty in how these moose should be manged (i.e., harvest levels) over the long term, and what can be done to maintain productivity and reduce the probabilility of a population decline which has become the norm for Shiras moose across much of their range. The overall goal of the proposed project is to characterize the population trajectory of moose in the Snowy Range to determine if the population is increasing or decreasing under current management. We also seek to understand the primary factors influencing population performance (especially nutrition), and to develop cost-effective tools to aid in the long-term monitoring and management.
Phenology Tracking in Migratory Mule Deer	December 2018	In terrestrial ecosystems, there is critical need to understand the influence of climate change on the spatial and temporal heterogeneity in forage conditions and the wildlife species that depend on it. We aim to address the Green Wave hypothesis as it relates to phenological tracking along migration routes and summer ranges of migratory mule deer in western Wyoming
Phase II: Monitoring the endangered Tidewater Goby using environmental DNA in water samples: Field tests	June 2019	This project proposes to assess the potential of using environmental DNA in water samples as a tool for monitoring the endangered Tidewater Goby in lagoon and bay habitats. Environmental DNA is a cost-effective and noninvasive technique that has been successfully applied to a broad range of taxonomic groups, including fishes. Studies show that environmental DNA can closely track presence/absence and can be useful for monitoring species that cannot be detected using conventional field approaches. Despite apparent promise, insufficient testing has been conducted to determine the suitability of environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches for monitoring Tidewater Goby. This project has two major phases: 1. develop and test eDNA techniques, and 2. apply eDNA techniques for presence/absence detection in natural settings. This proposal is for the second phase. During this second phase, Humboldt State University and USFWS will collaborate to survey 15 water bodies in northern California to 1. employ traditional field surveys techniques for Tidewater Goby, 2. collect 1-5 water samples from each site and test water samples for tidewater presence/absence of Tidewater Goby DNA, and 3. evaluate suitability of QPCR for determining the presence/absence and/or relative abundance of Tidewater Goby.	This project proposes to assess the potential of using environmental DNA in water samples as a tool for monitoring the endangered Tidewater Goby in lagoon and bay habitats. Environmental DNA is a cost-effective and noninvasive technique that has been successfully applied to a broad range of taxonomic groups, including fishes. Studies show that environmental DNA can closely track presence/absence and can be useful for monitoring species that cannot be detected using conventional field approaches. Despite apparent promise, insufficient testing has been conducted to determine the suitability of environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches for monitoring Tidewater Goby. This project has two major phases: 1. develop and test eDNA techniques, and 2. apply eDNA techniques for presence/absence detection in natural settings. This proposal is for the second phase. During this second phase, Humboldt State University and USFWS will collaborate to survey 15 water bodies in northern California to 1. employ traditional field surveys techniques for Tidewater Goby, 2. collect 1-5 water samples from each site and test water samples for tidewater presence/absence of Tidewater Goby DNA, and 3. evaluate suitability of QPCR for determining the presence/absence and/or relative abundance of Tidewater Goby.
Using environmental DNA (eDNA) to assess the presence of cave-fish and crayfish populations in caves of the Ozark Highlands	December 2018	The goal of the project is to use eDNA to verify presence of cave organisms while developing the foundation for monitoring methods that may be used in the future to documenting abundance. The proposed project will support recovery and monitoring efforts of the FWS and various conservation partners and help inform conservation decisions.	Several cave species are also known to occur within the Ozark region including several federally-listed endangered or petitioned species. The distribution and abundance of these cave crayfish are largely unknown: some species are thought to be very rare and endemic to only one or a few caves. Our research investigates new techniques for studying cave fish and cave crayfish populations in the Ozark Highlands ecoregion of Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Our objective is to assess the usefulness of environmental DNA sampling to determine the presence of these rare cave fauna. This project is a collaborative effort across multiple agencies including the Missouri Department of Conservation, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (funding agency), and The U.S. Forest Service. We will develop a model using our results to determine detection probability of traditional cave surveys along with use of eDNA. We will also provide surveillance of more than 30 caves, springs, and wells across the area that should provide useful information to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and partner agencies to base protection and recovery actions.
Angler behavior in response to management actions on Nebraska reservoirs -- Part 2	December 2018	There exists interplay between angler participation and quality of fish in a lake. Variability in recruitment of fish among lakes should increase dispersion in densities of fish across a region, whereas movement of anglers among lakes should decrease dispersion in densities of fish across a region. Unlike fishery management efforts that in general operate on a local scale (i.e., single lake), these counteractive forces are likely stronger on a regional scale. Thus, incorporation of spatial and temporal patterns in angler participation into fishery management likely will require a shift in focus from lake-specific management to regional management. This shift in focus would be facilitated by an understanding of angler-participation patterns. The goals of this study are to understand 1) the participation patterns of anglers on multiple spatial and temporal scales; 2) how participation patterns of anglers’ influence fish populations and associated communities; 3) how management actions influence angler participation patterns and, in turn, fish communities; and 4) interactions and feedback mechanisms between and among angler groups and fish communities. Study findings should help biologists better determine appropriate lake-specific management objectives given the dynamic nature of angler participation and its interrelationship with fish populations.	Recreational fishing is the most influential factor structuring fish populations, especially in inland systems with intensive fishing pressure. Anglers often target apex predators such as largemouth bass and walleye, which can have important consequences for fish communities in lakes and reservoirs via top-down controls. To complicate matters, predator dynamics among fishes vary spatially (e.g., within and among reservoirs) and temporally (e.g., within and among years), as does angler participation. Even so, inland fishery biologists rarely incorporate spatial and temporal patterns, which also occur in angler participation and catches, into management strategies, possibly because little is understood about angler decisions to participate in the sport. Incorporation of spatial and temporal patterns in angler participation into fishery management likely will require a shift in focus from lake-specific management to regional management. This shift in focus would be facilitated by better understanding of factors affecting angler participation and harvest decisions. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Nebraska—Lincoln and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Information gained on angler behavior will be important for increased effectiveness of fishery management, as well as increased effectiveness of angler recruitment and retention activities.
Identifying recruitment bottlenecks for walleyes in northern Wisconsin lakes	December 2018	Recruitment failure has been observed in some northern Wisconsin walleye Sander vitreus populations that formerly supported moderate to high levels of recruitment. Recruitment is measured using catch-per-effort of age-0 walleyes in fall electrofishing surveys, so recruitment bottlenecks are occurring in the first year of life. Recruitment failure could be linked to a variety of factors, including changes in habitat availability and fish communities within these lakes. Initially, predation by largemouth bass (a species that has experienced widespread increases in abundance) was thought to be a potential factor regulating walleye recruitment. Previous work conducted by the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and others has demonstrated that largemouth bass predation is probably not a limiting factor in the walleye recruitment process. However, other species may have also experienced increases in abundance (e.g., black crappies, bluegills) and modeling conducted by Center for Limnology at UW-Madison suggests that the time at which walleyes enter the littoral zone after a pelagic larval stage could determine the degree to which predation affects recruitment. Furthermore, recent work from Ontario and Wisconsin has indicated that loss of suitable optical and thermal habitat may be affecting survival and recruitment of young walleyes. In collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, we are initiating an intensive study of walleye early life history. This work will encompass a range of walleye populations, including those that have exhibited recent recruitment failure and populations that exhibit high levels of recruitment on a relatively consistent basis. Our primary objectives are to determine if: 1) larval and juvenile walleye abundance, survival, foraging success, diet composition, and growth vary among populations; 2) predation by northern pike, black crappies, bluegill, and yellow perch could affect walleye recruitment; 3) availability of suitable optical and thermal habitat varies among lakes in relation to walleye recruitment patterns and 4) zooplankton abundance, community composition, and size structure varies in relation to larval growth and survival and subsequent recruitment. Additionally, we will identify when age-0 walleyes enter the littoral zone to improve model projections regarding the effects of predation on walleye year class strength.	Project in development for January 2019
Conservation of the Critically Endangered Chinese Crested Tern: Restoration of a Lost Breeding Colony	March 2019	In the latter half of the 20th Century, Chinese Crested Terns (Sterna bernsteini) were presumed to be extinct, with no documented observations after 1937. In 2000, however, Chinese Crested Terns were rediscovered nesting in the Matzu Islands of the Taiwan Strait. Subsequent surveys by Chinese ornithologists revealed an additional breeding site in the Jiushan Islands of Xiangshan County, Zhejiang Province. Human disturbance – fisherman collecting eggs - later caused the abandonment of this colony. Despite their recent rediscovery, Chinese Crested Terns are still considered one of the most endangered seabird species in the world and one of the most critically endangered vertebrate species. Recovery of this species is possible, however, if nesting habitat can be established and protected. The goal of this project is to restore the Chinese Crested Tern to the Jiushan Islands, using techniques of social attraction and colony monitoring successfully applied to seabird restoration projects throughout the world. The specific proposal to the Wildlife Without Borders program was to fund the manufacture of Chinese Crested Tern decoys and solar-powered audio playback systems to play recordings of Chinese Crested Tern calls. Terns are highly gregarious colonial-nesting species which can be attracted to sites with suitable nesting habitat using decoys and recorded calls. This equipment would play an important role in the effort to restore Chinese Crested Terns to a former nesting area. The restoration project is a collaborative effort of several Chinese and American institutions (Xiangshan County Marine and Fishery Bureau, Zhejiang Natural History Museum, Oregon State University, and the U.S. Geological Survey – Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit). Support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Wildlife Without Borders program has furthered this international collaboration to save one of the world’s most critically endangered animals.	Chinese Crested Terns are likely the most endangered seabird species in eastern Asia, and a flagship species for seabird conservation in China. The estimated global population of breeding adult Chinese Crested Terns is barely 100. The main threats to the species are illegal egg harvest and the increasing intensity and frequency of typhoons in the East China Sea. This restoration project seeks to establish a dispersed network of safe, protected breeding colony sites for the common colony associate species for Chinese Crested Terns, the Greater Crested Tern, as a means to provide nesting habitat and enhance reproductive success of Chinese Crested Terns. The project is a collaboration since 2010 with the Zhejiang Museum of Natural History, Hangzhou, PR China, and a variety of bird conservation NGOs in China. The research project seeks to identify those factors currently limiting the reproductive success and population size of Chinese Crested Terns, their migratory routes, and over-wintering range using a combination of satellite telemetry and field readable leg band technologies.
Evaluation of Caspian tern management to reduce predation on ESA-listed salmonids in the Columbia Plateau region	March 2019	This study is designed to evaluate the foraging behavior and colony connectivity of Caspian terns (Hydroprogne caspia) nesting on Goose Island in Potholes Reservoir, with particular emphasis on predation by terns from this colony on ESA-listed juvenile salmonids (Oncorhynchus spp.) from the upper Columbia River.	Caspian terns nesting at the two largest breeding colonies for the species on the Columbia Plateau have been shown to cause significant mortality to out-migrating juvenile salmonids in the Columbia and Snake rivers.
Demographics and habitat use of Greater Sage-Grouse in wildfire-affected habitats in Oregon.	June 2025	Southeast Oregon contains part of one of the largest contiguous sage-brush steppe habitats remaining within the extant range of greater sage-grouse. During the summer of 2012, several large wildfires included more than 1 million acres of Oregon sage-grouse habitat within their perimeters. In collaboration with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife we designed a long-term study to evaluate acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) effects of large-scale wildfire on female greater sage-grouse demographics and habitat use and selection. Accomplishing these objectives will inform the prioritization of areas for post-fire habitat rehabilitation and restoration, and help identify areas requiring further protection and/or active management to reduce risk of wildfire and ensure sage-grouse population persistence.	Southeast Oregon contains part of one of the largest contiguous sage-brush steppe habitats remaining within the extant range of greater sage-grouse. During the summer of 2012, several large wildfires included more than 1 million acres of Oregon sage-grouse habitat within their perimeters. In collaboration with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife we designed a long-term study to evaluate acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) effects of large-scale wildfire on female greater sage-grouse demographics and habitat use and selection. Accomplishing these objectives will inform the prioritization of areas for post-fire habitat rehabilitation and restoration, and help identify areas requiring further protection and/or active management to reduce risk of wildfire and ensure sage-grouse population persistence.
CNH: Coupled Climate, Cultivation and Culture in the Great Plains: Understanding Water Supply and Water Quality in a Fragile Landscape.	May 2019	Humans adversely impact aquatic resources through land use, water removal, dam building, and altered biodiversity. In this research, we developed a coupled human-landscape model that incorporates the linkages and feedbacks among atmospheric, terrestrial, aquatic, and social processes to predict the potential impact of climate variability, climate change, land use, and human activity on water resources. This component of the project addresses both how fish communities are affected by natural and anthropogenic drivers, as well as, how these biotic effects interact with social science drivers and policy options. This research matters because without considering both natural and human systems, environmental professionals will never be able to attain sustainable resource conservation plans. The partners for the fish component of this research were the National Science Foundation (CNH) and Ecological Services Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism. This research informs decisions. Specifically, our aquatic ecology results showed that drivers of watershed scale fish biodiversity vary regionally. Urbanization reduced fish biodiversity in the lower river. Disturbed conditions (low grassland, low flow) associated with a reduction in the desired historical condition (high grassland, high mean flow) reduced fish biodiversity in the middle and upper regions of the watershed. In the integrated model, these results were linked to policies that protect land and water resources. This project has high impact because successful conservation demands that natural patterns of biodiversity and human behavior be considered together, as we do in this project.	Humans adversely impact aquatic resources through land use, water removal, dam building, and altered biodiversity. In this research, we developed a coupled human-landscape model that incorporates the linkages and feedbacks among atmospheric, terrestrial, aquatic, and social processes to predict the potential impact of climate variability, climate change, land use, and human activity on water resources. This component of the project addresses both how fish communities are affected by natural and anthropogenic drivers, as well as, how these biotic effects interact with social science drivers and policy options. This research matters because without considering both natural and human systems, environmental professionals will never be able to attain sustainable resource conservation plans. The partners for the fish component of this research were the National Science Foundation (CNH) and Ecological Services Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism. This research informs decisions. Specifically, our aquatic ecology results showed that drivers of watershed scale fish biodiversity vary regionally. Urbanization reduced fish biodiversity in the lower river. Disturbed conditions (low grassland, low flow) associated with a reduction in the desired historical condition (high grassland, high mean flow) reduced fish biodiversity in the middle and upper regions of the watershed. In the integrated model, these results were linked to policies that protect land and water resources. This project has high impact because successful conservation demands that natural patterns of biodiversity and human behavior be considered together, as we do in this project.
Sampling designs and population dynamics of burbot in the Green River system: tools for management	December 2018	Although burbot are a species of high conservation concern over much of their distribution, they are an invasive species in the Green River, Wyoming, where they were illegally introduced. The purpose of this research is to provide managers with information on the distribution, habitat associations, and population dynamics of burbot in the Green River. In addition, the project is evaluating a number of different sampling gears across multiple systems and habitat to determine the best methods for removing burbot from the system.	Although burbot are a species of high conservation concern over much of their distribution, they are an invasive species in the Green River, Wyoming, where they were illegally introduced. The purpose of this research is to provide managers with information on the distribution, habitat associations, and population dynamics of burbot in the Green River. In addition, the project is evaluating a number of different sampling gears across multiple systems and habitat to determine the best methods for removing burbot from the system.
Long-Term Logan River Trout Viability Study and Monitoring	September 2021	While the importance of reducing the impacts of non-native species is increasingly recognized in conservation, the feasibility of such actions is highly dependent upon several key uncertainties including the stage of invasion, the size of the ecosystem being restored, and the magnitude of the restoration activity. Here, we present the results of a multi-year, non-native brown trout (<i>Salmo trutta</i>) removal and native Bonneville cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii utah</i>) recovery in a small tributary in the Intermountain West, USA. We monitored trout populations for seven years prior to the onset of eradication efforts, which included two years of mechanical removal followed by two years of chemical treatment. Cutthroat trout populations were then seeded with low numbers of both eggs and juvenile trout. We monitored population demographics and estimated population growth rates and carrying capacities for both populations from long-term depletion estimate data, assuming logistic growth. Prior to eradication, brown trout populations fluctuated around their carrying capacity. Following brown trout eradication and initial seeding efforts, cutthroat trout populations have demonstrated exponential growth. Within five years, cutthroat trout have approached their estimated carrying capacity. Population projections suggest a 50% probability that cutthroat trout are currently at or above 90% of their carrying capacity, and that there is an 80 to 90% probability they will be at or above 90% of their carrying capacity within 10 years. Additionally, at least four age-classes are present including adults large enough to satisfy angling demand. This project is a collaboration of biologists, academics, and anglers and includes the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources , U.S. Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station, the local chapter of Trout Unlimited – Cache Anglers, and the Ecology Center at Utah State University. These results demonstrate native trout species have substantial capacity to rapidly recover following the removal of invasive species in otherwise minimally altered habitats. While these locations are likely limited in extent individually, collectively they may serve as source populations for larger connected systems. In such cases, these source populations may provide additional conservation potential through biotic resistance.	While the importance of reducing the impacts of non-native species is increasingly recognized in conservation, the feasibility of such actions is highly dependent upon several key uncertainties including the stage of invasion, the size of the ecosystem being restored, and the magnitude of the restoration activity. Here, we present the results of a multi-year, non-native brown trout (<i>Salmo trutta</i>) removal and native Bonneville cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii utah</i>) recovery in a small tributary in the Intermountain West, USA. We monitored trout populations for seven years prior to the onset of eradication efforts, which included two years of mechanical removal followed by two years of chemical treatment. Cutthroat trout populations were then seeded with low numbers of both eggs and juvenile trout. We monitored population demographics and estimated population growth rates and carrying capacities for both populations from long-term depletion estimate data, assuming logistic growth. Prior to eradication, brown trout populations fluctuated around their carrying capacity. Following brown trout eradication and initial seeding efforts, cutthroat trout populations have demonstrated exponential growth. Within five years, cutthroat trout have approached their estimated carrying capacity. Population projections suggest a 50% probability that cutthroat trout are currently at or above 90% of their carrying capacity, and that there is an 80 to 90% probability they will be at or above 90% of their carrying capacity within 10 years. Additionally, at least four age-classes are present including adults large enough to satisfy angling demand. This project is a collaboration of biologists, academics, and anglers and includes the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources , U.S. Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station, the local chapter of Trout Unlimited – Cache Anglers, and the Ecology Center at Utah State University. These results demonstrate native trout species have substantial capacity to rapidly recover following the removal of invasive species in otherwise minimally altered habitats. While these locations are likely limited in extent individually, collectively they may serve as source populations for larger connected systems. In such cases, these source populations may provide additional conservation potential through biotic resistance.
FWS: Pyramid Lake Fishery Evaluation to evaluate Lahontan cutthroat trout performance and identify limiting factors for the native fish community	December 2019	Pyramid Lake, Nevada is one of the last remaining strongholds for lacustrine Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi; LCT); almost all other large lake populations have undergone population declines or extirpation as a result of habitat degradation, over-harvest, and water diversions, all compunded by the stocking of non-native species. In 2015, we completed a comprehensive research project driven by critical uncertainties surrounding the performance of the fishery and stocked LCT across space and time, the role of exotic Sacramento perch (Archioplites interruptus), the potential for native forage fish recovery, and the link between fish performance and lake productivity and carrying capacity. The goals of this latter body of work were to analyze and synthesize all available data possible (primarily available LCT mark-recapture, creel, and stocking data), including any new data for recent years, to estimate critical performance and vital rates for LCT including but not limited to those outlined below as tasks. Projct partners include: Utah State University (USU), Pyramid Lake Fisheries (PLF, the Tribe), and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The overall goal of this part of our multi-year study is to provide a draft framework for adaptive management of the fishery and ecosystem of Pyramid Lake	Pyramid Lake, Nevada is one of the last remaining strongholds for lacustrine Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi; LCT); almost all other large lake populations have undergone population declines or extirpation as a result of habitat degradation, over-harvest, and water diversions, all compunded by the stocking of non-native species. In 2015, we completed a comprehensive research project driven by critical uncertainties surrounding the performance of the fishery and stocked LCT across space and time, the role of exotic Sacramento perch (Archioplites interruptus), the potential for native forage fish recovery, and the link between fish performance and lake productivity and carrying capacity. The goals of this latter body of work were to analyze and synthesize all available data possible (primarily available LCT mark-recapture, creel, and stocking data), including any new data for recent years, to estimate critical performance and vital rates for LCT including but not limited to those outlined below as tasks. Projct partners include: Utah State University (USU), Pyramid Lake Fisheries (PLF, the Tribe), and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The overall goal of this part of our multi-year study is to provide a draft framework for adaptive management of the fishery and ecosystem of Pyramid Lake
Conservation and Management of Missouri’s Mid-Sized Rivers: Development of Sampling Protocols and Application to Priority Watershed Rivers	June 2019	This study will help MDC determine the ecological role of mid sized rivers.	Substantial monitoring and research has and is currently conducted on mainstem big rivers and on smaller, wadeable streams but little information exists for the mid-sized rivers in Missouri. However, these rivers can be important for fisheries management and conservation as they may provide refuge and inter-basin movement corridors for smaller-stream fishes during drought, possess unique habitats and resources for larger-river fishes moving into these systems during floods, and offer buffer capacity because their floodplains may be less modified than big rivers and thus create substantial productivity and refuge for downstream systems. Knowing how mid-sized rivers are used by big river and smaller-stream fishes, and to what degree these rivers have their own unique fish communities, will help the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) identify important rivers to target for conservation and restoration. The methods developed and data collected by this project would provide a tool for developing standardized sampling protocols for fish communities in rivers from MDC priority watersheds and other watersheds, and help DNR in the development of fish biocriteria for large rivers.
Ecology of swift fox in Nebraska	December 2018	Swift fox, (Vulpes velox) is a small species of fox native to short- and mixed- grass prairies of the Great Plains, including Western Nebraska where they are listed as a Tier-1 at-risk species. Habitat loss is a major contributor to population declines with only 40% of Nebraska still containing suitable grassland habitat. Still, swift fox do not occupy all suitable habitat. Why might a species fail to use seemingly good habitat? Coyotes might be the answer. Unlike swift fox, coyotes are highly adaptable, and, as their bigger cousin, can displace swift fox from otherwise suitable habitat. Coyotes may gain further advantages when grasslands are converted for agricultural and energy development. Thus, swift fox conservation requires understanding where swift fox roam and how they interact with coyotes and people. It isn't easy surveying the entire western third of Nebraska for a nocturnal species that spends much of its time hidden in dens. Because most swift fox habitat is on private land, our efforts to study where swift fox live, and why, require us to collaborate with privates landowners throughout western Nebraska, as well as students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Chadron State College. Together, we work to understand how best to conserve swift fox in the face of change.	In Nebraska, the loss and degradation of grasslands has significantly impacted many grassland species, including the swift fox (Vulpes velox). A Nebraska Natural Legacy Plan Tier-1 at risk species, swift fox are estimated to occupy as little as 20-25% of their historic range; however, despite their Tier-1 status, little is known about the true distribution of swift fox. With increasing interest in developing infrastructure in Western Nebraska for gas, oil, and wind energy there is a clear need to document the distribution of swift fox, and identify threats to swift fox populations. Traditional studies of species distribution focus on identifying the habitat attributes, most notably vegetation, that best predict the spatial patterns observed in nature. However, in canid systems, there is clear evidence that intraguild interactions play an important role in predicting species distribution and habitat use, especially for smaller canid species. As the largest extant canid in the shortgrass prairie, coyote are dominant to swift fox and often cited as an important source of mortality. As such, increases in the abundance and distribution of coyote following the development of the western Nebraska may have inadvertently restricted the range of swift fox despite the availability of suitable vegetative conditions. Starting in 2013, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, the Nebraska Department of Roads, the Nebraska Environmental Trust, and the U.S. Forest Service - Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands working in collaboration with the Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Chadron State College began a five year project to document the occurrence of swift fox in Western Nebraska and identify the anthropogenic and ecological factors that limit swift fox distribution. Our goal is to identify where swift fox are located and identify the ecological mechanisms shaping the distribution of canid communities in Nebraska by developing and testing a series of species distribution models based on the habitat requirements and intraguild interactions of Nebraska’s canid community
The Gulf of Maine coastal ecosystem survey: an integrated, multidisciplinary effort to map biological hotspots in the waters of Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts (Collaborators: C. Loftin, S. McKinney, A. McKnight, A. Allyn, J. Runge, MDIFW, UMass, USFWS, BRI)	December 2018	The Gulf of Maine (GoM) coastal marine ecosystem is one of the most ecologically and economically productive ecosystems in the world.This coastal marine ecosystem currently faces threats on multiple levels, including climate change, wind energy development, and numerous competing uses of the system's natural resources. This study will collect data needed to inform these immediate management needs and increase our understanding of the GoM coastal marine ecosystem. We will conduct a multidisciplinary GoM coastal marine ecosystem survey, combined with focal research on life history parameters of target species, to acquire detailed measurements of the physical characteristics of the system and the distribution and abundance of organisms across all trophic levels. We will use these data to build habitat use models for SGCN in the coastal zone and calculate overall biological hotspot index values for locations throughout the coastal zone. This information will support spatial planning efforts and on-the-ground habitat management by delineating ecologically important areas. Detailed and repeatable measures of physical and biological factors within the coastal zone will also provide critical baseline data for monitoring and evaluating future changes to the region archived in open-source existing databases, to be used in long-term monitoring as well as for evaluating the effects of future changes.	The Gulf of Maine (GoM) coastal marine ecosystem is one of the most ecologically and economically productive ecosystems in the world.This coastal marine ecosystem currently faces threats on multiple levels, including climate change, wind energy development, and numerous competing uses of the system's natural resources. This study is collecting data needed to inform these immediate management needs and increase our understanding of the GoM coastal marine ecosystem. We will conduct a multidisciplinary GoM coastal marine ecosystem survey, combined with focal research on life history parameters of target species, to acquire detailed measurements of the physical characteristics of the system and the distribution and abundance of organisms across all trophic levels. We will use these data to build habitat use models for SGCN in the coastal zone and calculate overall biological hotspot index values for locations throughout the coastal zone. The project is a collaboration of the US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Maine, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the Biodiversity Research Institute, and the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. This information gathered and developed in the project will support spatial planning efforts and on-the-ground habitat management by delineating ecologically important areas. Detailed and repeatable measures of physical and biological factors within the coastal zone will also provide critical baseline data for monitoring and evaluating future changes to the region archived in open-source existing databases, to be used in long-term monitoring as well as for evaluating the effects of future changes.
Of Pools and People: Small natural features with large ecosystem functions in urbanizing landscapes (Collaborators: A.Calhoun, M.Hunter, K. Bell, M. Kinnison, C. Loftin, K. Capps, D. Bauer, E. Nelson)	December 2019	The value of natural landscape features is not necessarily reflective in their size, and some small features play a significant role in maintaining biodiversity or providing ecosystem services. Conserving these features and the functions they provide while developing tools that help reconcile property rights and rules of environmental protection across scales and jurisdictions provides novel opportunities for resource management. Seasonally inundated wetlands (vernal pools) are a model system to study the dynamics of small natural feature management. This project is a collaboration of the University of Maine, US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Clark University, and Bowdoin College. This project brings together a team of ecologists and economists from multiple sub-disciplines and institutions to explore the biophysical and socioeconomic components of one type of small natural feature, vernal pools, as a coupled-systems model for management of these features; improve strategies for conserving vernal pools and other small natural features with large significance; and create novel and cutting-edge research, training, and educational experiences.	The value of natural landscape features is not necessarily reflective in their size, and some small features play a significant role in maintaining biodiversity or providing ecosystem services. Conserving these features and the functions they provide while developing tools that help reconcile property rights and rules of environmental protection across scales and jurisdictions provides novel opportunities for resource management. Seasonally inundated wetlands (vernal pools) are a model system to study the dynamics of small natural feature management. This project is a collaboration of the University of Maine, US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Clark University, and Bowdoin College. This project brings together a team of ecologists and economists from multiple sub-disciplines and institutions to explore the biophysical and socioeconomic components of one type of small natural feature, vernal pools, as a coupled-systems model for management of these features; improve strategies for conserving vernal pools and other small natural features with large significance; and create novel and cutting-edge research, training, and educational experiences.
Occurrence and variation in submersed aquatic vegetation along the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico	August 2020	Submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) communities are highly productive ecosystems that provide significant ecological benefits within coastal areas, including support for many important species of fish and wildlife. Despite their critical importance, and loss globally, we lack consistent baseline data on SAV resources across the coastal salinity gradient. This project will provide data on the occurrence and abundance of SAV resources (e.g., coverage, composition, seed resources) within the northern Gulf of Mexico, quantitatively assess environmental factors affecting its spatial and temporal variation and develop a conceptual model of factors influencing SAV resources. These data are critical in identifying empirical relationships between SAV resources and environmental variables, and will enable predictive modeling of SAV resources under different scenarios of landscape and climate change.	Submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) communities are highly productive ecosystems that provide significant ecological benefits within coastal areas, including support for many important species of fish and wildlife. Despite their critical importance, and loss globally, we lack consistent baseline data on SAV resources across the coastal salinity gradient. This project will provide data on the occurrence and abundance of SAV resources (e.g., coverage, composition, seed resources) within the northern Gulf of Mexico, quantitatively assess environmental factors affecting its spatial and temporal variation and develop a conceptual model of factors influencing SAV resources. These data are critical in identifying empirical relationships between SAV resources and environmental variables, and will enable predictive modeling of SAV resources under different scenarios of landscape and climate change. This work will contribute to the refinement of existing models of ecosystem change and directly benefit efforts of the Gulf Coast Joint Venture (GCJV), Gulf Coast Prairies (GCP) Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC), and Gulf Coastal Plains and Ozarks (GCPO) LCC in forecasting the effects of these changes on distribution, abundance, and diversity of SAV resources and the priority fish and wildlife populations that depend upon them.
Evaluating the Influence of Beetle Kill on Sierra Madre Elk	June 2019	This project will provide information on how hunters and elk change their use of the forest as trees die, as dead trees begin to fall and beetle kill management is implemented. Most of the beetle killed trees in our study area of the Sierra Madre mountains are infected and dying, but have not yet fallen over. Thus, this study will provide an assessment of elk movement and forest use prior to, during, and after massive tree fall. We are also documenting how hunters change their use of the forest and where they choose to hunt elk throughout all stages of the beetle kill and tree fall, and evaluating any change in elk and elk hunters caused by beetle-kill management activities	...
Monitoring Elk Migrations with Remote Photography	December 2018	Most elk population estimates are based largely on data collected from aerial classification surveys. Although aerial surveys are an excellent source of data, they are costly and dangerous. Recent wildlife underpass projects and pilot projects to monitor migratory elk populations suggest there may be potential to obtain accurate estimate of annual elk trend from digital cameras as animals move through migration bottlenecks during their spring and fall migrations. This project is evaluating the use of remote cameras to monitor population dynamics and migration patterns of elk in northwest Wyoming.	...
Carnivore Occupancy and Intraguild Interactions Across New York State	March 2020	The distribution and abundance of carnivore species can have significant impacts on ecological communities through top-down and cascading trophic effects. Several carnivore species occur in New York, and in addition to their ecological importance, they have economic and recreational value to humans as fur-bearing species. Understanding the factors that influence their spatial distribution can help managers ensure the maintenance of sustainable populations. These factors can include environmental variables that determine the suitability of habitat for a particular species or their main prey, as well as the potential for negative interspecific interactions arising from competition and intraguild predation in areas where they occur in sympatry. Occupancy models are a useful tool to determine the occurrence of species as a function of environmental covariates across the landscape, while accounting for imperfect detection. In addition, more recently developed multispecies occupancy models can elucidate the effects of interspecific interactions on species occupancy. From 2013-2015, we collaborated with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) to conduct a non-invasive survey across western portions of New York. Results from the fisher survey resulted in the opening of conservative trapping seasons (6 days) in new wildlife management units (WMU) previously closed to trapping, based on a minimum threshold predicted occupancy level of 0.41. We are using the same fisher detection data, along with additional data on bobcats, coyotes, and red foxes in multispecies occupancy models to explore hypotheses regarding interspecific interactions and environmental correlates in determining species occupancy. These studies demonstrate the efficiency and value of large-scale camera-trapping surveys, which can detect multiple species at once. Both single-species and multispecies occupancy models can provide managers with useful information that can be used to guide decisions on harvest, conservation of habitat, and population management.	We will estimate density of American marten and develop occupancy models for a suite of carnivore species (marten, fisher, bobcat, coyote, red fox) in New York. The project will involve 1) Marten Density Estimation: estimate density and landscape connectivity of American marten using a spatial capture-recapture model by integrating non-invasive genetic data (collected over 4 years), live trapping data, and telemetry data (>100 individuals); 2) Co-occurrence Models: investigate regional patterns in co-occurrence of carnivore species in New York using occupancy modeling with camera trapping data (collected at over 700 sites in New York). .
Investigating Impacts of Winter Lake Drawdowns on Littoral Ecosystems	December 2019	In Massachusetts, there are about 200 small reservoirs that are drawn down in the fall and refilled in the spring as an approach to kill aquatic vegetation. Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is interested in understanding the effects of these drawdowns on fish and wildlife that use the lakes. The project will begin with a literature review of the effects of lake drawdowns on fish and wildlife, and an assessment of the scope (location, timing, amount, rate, etc.) of drawdowns in Massachusetts. This will be followed by a field project assessing the impacts of drawdowns on lake fauna.	Anthropogenic alteration of water levels in lakes is a major stressor to the ecological integrity of littoral zones, which provide critical heterogenous resources that support diverse biological communities. Annual winter drawdowns have used in Massachusetts (MA) for several decades as a macrophyte control technique, among other purposes; however, few studies have estimated impacts to littoral zone habitat and biological communities, particularly at relatively mild magnitudes (i.e., <2 m). This collaborative project with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife will characterize winter drawdown hydrological regimes and estimate responses of physical habitat (macrophytes, sediment texture, coarse wood), macroinvertebrate assemblages, and mussel assemblages to variable levels of drawdown magnitude. Results are critical for understanding the scope of drawdowns in Massachusetts and will more broadly assist agencies in evaluating lake management techniques and determining management options that minimize losses to lake ecosystem integrity.
Deer abundance and its relationship to factors that affect forest vegetation conditions	June 2026	In the last decade, deer densities were reduced in many Wildlife Management Units (WMU) in Pennsylvania. These decisions to reduce deer densities were based on the assumption that forest conditions, especially regeneration, would improve with lower deer populations. Primarily anecdotal observations suggest forest regeneration has improved but the large-scale, quantitative Forest Inventory Analysis (FIA) monitoring program has failed to provide strong evidence for changes in tree regeneration. Consequently, the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) has developed a decision model for deer harvest allocations based on deer browsing impact as measured by the FIA in addition to estimates of tree seedling density.<br><br>The ability to explain the lack of change in tree regeneration despite deer population reductions is critical to the credibility of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s deer management program. In recent years, deer population reductions have caused the deer program to be sued by a sportsmen's group and audited by the legislature. Additionally, the application of the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) on state forest lands has been questioned because DMAP has been used by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry (BOF) to attempt to reduce the effect of deer browsing on forest vegetation.<br><br>The PGC needs a better understanding of how the deer browsing impact measure is related to deer densities and whether this measure is valuable for making deer harvest decisions. Similarly, the BOF needs to better understand how the application of the DMAP affects deer harvest and hunter behavior. Both agencies require a better understanding of how vegetation responds to changes in deer density in the context of existing monitoring programs and management activities.<br><br>This research proposes to stabilize deer populations at different densities on four study areas and quantify changes in vegetation with respect to other forest conditions (seed production, advanced tree regeneration, etc.) and management actions (e.g., herbicide to remove competing vegetation).<br>	The forests of Pennsylvania have problems with tree regeneration and a lack of diversity in understory plant species. White-tailed deer herbivory has been identified as one problem source. However, other factors such as insect outbreaks, acid deposition, competitive effects among plant species, and lack of fire have been identified as other potential causes. <br><br>Deer populations were reduced by about 23% during 2002-2005 yet problems with forest plant diversity remains. An important question is whether deer populations require further reduction or other factors may be playing an important role in affecting forested ecosystems.<br><br>This study is a collaboration of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, and the USGS Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at The Pennsylvania State University.<br><br>In this study we are monitoring changes in deer density and the response in forest understory vegetation. In addition, we are conducting experiments to study the relative importance of liming and using herbicide to reduce interspecific plant competition. The results of this research will inform the Pennsylvania Game Commission on how their habitat metrics used to make deer harvest recommendations respond to changes in deer density. In addition, this study will help the Bureau of Forestry refine their monitoring program on state forest lands used to make deer management decisions.
Deer abundance and its relationship to factors that affect forest vegetation conditions	June 2026	In the last decade, deer densities were reduced in many Wildlife Management Units (WMU) in Pennsylvania. These decisions to reduce deer densities were based on the assumption that forest conditions, especially regeneration, would improve with lower deer populations. Primarily anecdotal observations suggest forest regeneration has improved but the large-scale, quantitative Forest Inventory Analysis (FIA) monitoring program has failed to provide strong evidence for changes in tree regeneration. Consequently, the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) has developed a decision model for deer harvest allocations based on deer browsing impact as measured by the FIA in addition to estimates of tree seedling density.<br><br>The ability to explain the lack of change in tree regeneration despite deer population reductions is critical to the credibility of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s deer management program. In recent years, deer population reductions have caused the deer program to be sued by a sportsmen's group and audited by the legislature. Additionally, the application of the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) on state forest lands has been questioned because DMAP has been used by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry (BOF) to attempt to reduce the effect of deer browsing on forest vegetation.<br><br>The PGC needs a better understanding of how the deer browsing impact measure is related to deer densities and whether this measure is valuable for making deer harvest decisions. Similarly, the BOF needs to better understand how the application of the DMAP affects deer harvest and hunter behavior. Both agencies require a better understanding of how vegetation responds to changes in deer density in the context of existing monitoring programs and management activities.<br><br>This research proposes to stabilize deer populations at different densities on four study areas and quantify changes in vegetation with respect to other forest conditions (seed production, advanced tree regeneration, etc.) and management actions (e.g., herbicide to remove competing vegetation).	The forests of Pennsylvania have problems with tree regeneration and a lack of diversity in understory plant species. White-tailed deer herbivory has been identified as one problem source. However, other factors such as insect outbreaks, acid deposition, competitive effects among plant species, and lack of fire have been identified as other potential causes. <br><br>Deer populations were reduced by about 23% during 2002-2005 yet problems with forest plant diversity remains. An important question is whether deer populations require further reduction or other factors may be playing an important role in affecting forested ecosystems.<br><br>This study is a collaboration of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, and the USGS Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at The Pennsylvania State University.<br><br>In this study we are monitoring changes in deer density and the response in forest understory vegetation. In addition, we are conducting experiments to study the relative importance of liming and using herbicide to reduce interspecific plant competition. The results of this research will inform the Pennsylvania Game Commission on how their habitat metrics used to make deer harvest recommendations respond to changes in deer density. In addition, this study will help the Bureau of Forestry refine their monitoring program on state forest lands used to make deer management decisions.
Avian Predation on Juvenile Salmonids in the Lower Columbia River	January 2019	Long-term research, monitoring, and evaluation project investigating the impact of piscivorous colonial waterbirds on survival of ESA-listed salmonids from the Columbia River basin.	Avian predation on juvenile salmonids has been identified as a limiting factor for restoration of a number of ESA-listed salmonid species in the Columbia River basin. In particular, several species of piscivorous colonial waterbirds, including Caspian terns, double-crested cormorants, California gulls, and ring-billed gulls, have been found to consume more than 2% of out-migrating smolts in some listed populations. The research, monitoring, and evaluation funded by this project is intended to quantify the magnitude of smolt losses to avian predators, design and in some cases implement management actions, when warranted, to reduce avian predation rates on ESA-listed salmonids, and evaluate the efficacy of management actions for enhancing survival of juvenile salmonids. The RM&E that is part of this project is supported by the Bonneville Power Administration, the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NOAA Fisheries, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The research results from this project have been used to design and implement three different management plans to reduce avian predation rates on Columbia Basin salmonid smolts, including two management plans in the Columbia River estuary and one in the Columbia Plateau region. These management plans have substantially reduced predation rates by Caspian terns and double-crested cormorants on some populations of Columbia Basin salmonids.
Wyoming Range Native Fish and Energy Development	June 2021	The rapid expansion of natural gas development has raised concerns about potential effects of energy development for fish and wildlife. An understanding of the effects of oil and natural gas development is required to balance the expansion of development with the protection of natural areas. In collaboration with the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative we are addressing the effects of oil and natural gas development for native fish communities. Our research provides insight into the responses of fish populations and the potential mechanisms underlying the effects. These results can be used to develop monitoring and mitigation strategies for fish most at risk from oil and gas development.	The rapid expansion of natural gas development has raised concerns about potential effects of energy development for fish and wildlife. An understanding of the effects of oil and natural gas development is required to balance the expansion of development with the protection of natural areas. In collaboration with the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative we are addressing the effects of oil and natural gas development for native fish communities. Our research provides insight into the responses of fish populations and the potential mechanisms underlying the effects. These results can be used to develop monitoring and mitigation strategies for fish most at risk from oil and gas development.
Wyoming Migration Initiative	December 2023	Wyoming's ungulate migrations, like the vast landscapes on which they occur, are a vital part of the state's cultural heritage. But corridors are facing new and ongoing threats, and their conservation is constrained by a still-incomplete understanding of migration ecology and by misconceptions among public stakeholders. In 2012, we created the Wyoming Migration Initiative (WMI) to enhance our research program, translate our research into actionable conservation tools, and expand our education and outreach to public and agency cooperators. The WMI has a broad goal of understanding and conserving ungulate migration routes through 1) migration research, 2) the development of conservation tools, 3) and public outreach and education. We conduct this work in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in addition to a wide variety of other state and federal partners and conservation groups. Current research is focused on mapping undocumented corridors and studying the benefits and challenges of long-distance migration. Our work on conservation tools focuses on creating a powerful archive of corridor data that can guide on-the-ground conservation and policy. Our outreach and education programs continue to tell the story of migration to a broad audience, focusing on "live" tracking of migrations, compelling new videos, storytelling, and resources for K-12 instructors.	Wyoming's ungulate migrations, like the vast landscapes on which they occur, are a vital part of the state's cultural heritage. But corridors are facing new and ongoing threats, and their conservation is constrained by a still-incomplete understanding of migration ecology and by misconceptions among public stakeholders. In 2012, we created the Wyoming Migration Initiative (WMI) to enhance our research program, translate our research into actionable conservation tools, and expand our education and outreach to public and agency cooperators. The WMI has a broad goal of understanding and conserving ungulate migration routes through 1) migration research, 2) the development of conservation tools, 3) and public outreach and education. We conduct this work in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in addition to a wide variety of other state and federal partners and conservation groups. Current research is focused on mapping undocumented corridors and studying the benefits and challenges of long-distance migration. Our work on conservation tools focuses on creating a powerful archive of corridor data that can guide on-the-ground conservation and policy. Our outreach and education programs continue to tell the story of migration to a broad audience, focusing on "live" tracking of migrations, compelling new videos, storytelling, and resources for K-12 instructors.
Wyoming Range Mule Deer Project	December 2019	The overall goal of this research project is to address important research and management needs indentified by the Mule Deer Working Group in the MDI and WRMDI. Overall, we seek to investigate the nutritional relationships between mule deer population dynamics, energy development and disturbance, habitat conditions, and climate to provide a mechanistic approach to monitoring and management of mule deer.
Stable Isotopes to Delineate Seasonal Range Use for Wyoming Ungulates	June 2019	For over a century, wildlife ecologists have sought to describe animal movements and differentiate populations across the vast landscapes they occupy. Understanding the movement biology of terrestrial mammals, especially large ungulates, is important for conserving migratory corridors, understanding interchange of individuals among herds, and understanding how landscape characteristics shape animal movement patterns. Knowing when, how, and where animals use the landscape is important for the successful management of wildlife populations.	...

Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources

Projects

Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program
Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources