Adaptive Management for Turkey Harvest in Alabama
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September 2020
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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.
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Demographics and habitat use of Greater Sage-Grouse in wildfire-affected habitats in Oregon.
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June 2025
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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.
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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.
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Long-Term Logan River Trout Viability Study and Monitoring
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September 2021
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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.
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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.
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FWS: Pyramid Lake Fishery Evaluation to evaluate Lahontan cutthroat trout performance and identify limiting factors for the native fish community
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December 2019
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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
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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
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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)
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December 2019
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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.
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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.
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Occurrence and variation in submersed aquatic vegetation along the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico
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August 2020
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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.
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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.
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Carnivore Occupancy and Intraguild Interactions Across New York State
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March 2020
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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.
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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).
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Investigating Impacts of Winter Lake Drawdowns on Littoral Ecosystems
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December 2019
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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.
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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.
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Deer abundance and its relationship to factors that affect forest vegetation conditions
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June 2026
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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).
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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. 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.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.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.
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Wyoming Range Native Fish and Energy Development
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June 2021
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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.
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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.
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Wyoming Migration Initiative
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December 2023
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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.
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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.
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Wyoming Range Mule Deer Project
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December 2019
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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.
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Identifying Migratory Routes and Wintering Grounds of Burrowing Owls throughout North America
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September 2024
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Project Synopsis:<br>We propose to attach “Geolocators” to 200 burrowing owls on numerous DoD installations throughout the western U.S. to identify their migratory routes and wintering grounds. This information will improve management for an At-Risk species that breeds on many DoD installations in the west. This is the first year of a 3-year project and one that builds upon a past Legacy project to address a critical need that was identified at a recent DoD-sponsored workshop in Oregon. The project represents a large collaborative partnership among 17 organizations including working closely with the Canadian Department of Defense and the Canadian Wildlife Service on this project. The use of this exciting new technology on this declining species will undoubtedly generate substantial positive media coverage that will benefit DoD and the Legacy program. The results will identify priority management needs for this declining species and help reduce conflict with the military mission on DoD installations.<br><br>Benefits to the DoD:<br>The project will benefit the DoD in general and also the 6 (or more) participating DoD installations throughout the western U.S. by providing explicit detailed information on the migratory timing, migratory routes, and wintering locations of burrowing owls that breed on DoD lands. This information is an important benefit, because without this knowledge, DoD will likely be expected to assume more and more of the management responsibility (or blame) for ensuring the persistence of burrowing owls in the U.S. as populations continue to decline. Without any knowledge of where owls on DoD installations migrate and overwinter, the only entity that can be made responsible for burrowing owls breeding on installations is DoD. Hence, greater knowledge of where “DoD owls” go during the migratory and wintering seasons will help spread the responsibility among the appropriate agencies, landowners, and countries. The project will also benefit the DoD because identifying the routes that burrowing owls take as they leave from (and return to) each participating installation during the spring and fall migratory seasons will help DoD personnel develop plans to minimize BASH problems. Knowing the migratory routes (and timing) that owls take as they leave the base each fall and return each spring will help guide practical decisions such as where NOT to install artificial burrows relative to runways (to avoid bird strikes). This knowledge will also help identify problems related to towers that are causing unnecessary mortality during migratory movements. And identifying the specific migratory corridors/routes will allow military commanders greater flexibility in using DoD lands that are outside of these corridors. The results may also help prevent burrowing owls from being listed as threatened or endangered by state and federal agencies in the U.S. Burrowing owls are already listed as federally endangered in Canada, and are listed as state endangered in several U.S. states. They have been petitioned for listing in several other U.S. states in recent years. Identifying migratory patterns and potential causes of decline on the wintering grounds will allow us to potentially reverse declines sooner and thereby prevent this species from being listed federally in the U.S. The results of this project will also identify critical areas along important migratory routes that need to be preserved and thereby identify key areas to target for habitat protection and restoration efforts. Finally, the project will benefit the DoD because it will help further identify DoD as a leader in the conservation of burrowing owls. As populations decline and more aggressive conservation measures are taken to ensure burrowing owl persistence, regulatory agencies will be able to see that DoD was funding projects to help conserve this high-profile species from the outset. Use of this exciting, new technology (Geolocators) to identify migratory patterns and wintering areas of a high-profile species-at-risk will undoubtedly generate substantial media interest. Indeed, we have already been contacted by the National Geographic Society who learned about our plans and want to help fund the project so that they can highlight it in their media outlets. The DoD and the Legacy program would benefit from such positive media coverage and would be identified as the leader of this effort. This project is a good example of integrating the goals of DoD's Integrated Natural Resource Management Plans (INRMPs) with those of the State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs) because burrowing owls are listed in INRMPs on many installations in the western U.S. and in the SWAPs of many western states. Moreover, most regional management planning efforts in the western U.S. (e.g., multi-species conservation plans such as the Sonoran Desert Ecosystem Initiative) include burrowing owl as a focal species. The proposed effort will undoubtedly be viewed as a crosscutting project using cutting-edge technology with partners in 3 countries to identify migratory pathways and wintering grounds of a high-profile species of international conservation concern. Burrowing owls appear to be changing their migratory behavior in response to global change (Macias-Duarte 2011); this project will provide the piece of the puzzle currently missing (exact wintering locations) that would allow us to fully evaluate the extent of those changes. DoD would benefit from participating as a leader in this national and international conservation initiative on burrowing owls, and would help ensure that DoD interests are given proper consideration in future conservation plans. This project will be run through the Desert Southwest Cooperative Ecosystems Studies Unit (DSCESU). Hence, the project will further demonstrate DoD’s commitment to the CESU program and will help encourage additional partners to contribute to the project.
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Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) were once a common breeder in grasslands throughout North America but are now listed as a Species of National Conservation Concern in the U.S. Despite population declines, burrowing owls are present on many DoD installations throughout the western U.S. This project will identify wintering grounds and migratory routes of burrowing owls nesting on DoD lands through the use of geolocators. The project represents a large collaborative partnership among 17 organizations including USGS, DoD, the Canadian Department of Defense, and the Canadian Wildlife Service. Identifying migratory routes and wintering grounds for burrowing owls that breed on DoD installations will help determine shared management responsibility and allow for the development of the most cost-effective management plans for recovery. The results will identify priority management needs for this declining species and help reduce conflict with the military mission on DoD installations.
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Effectiveness of Forest Restoration Treatments on Demography of a Federally Listed Ground Squirrel
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April 2028
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Fire suppression over the past century has caused widespread changes to the structure and function of coniferous forests in the western U.S. Forest restoration efforts to reverse these changes must ensure that restoration prescriptions will not adversely impact federally listed species. Northern Idaho Ground Squirrels are federally threatened and have a very small range in central Idaho. We are comparing the effects of 2 forest treatments on Northern Idaho Ground Squirrels : 1) mechanical thinning followed by a fall-season burn (past prescription used by USFS); and 2) no treatment (control). We are using a Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) design with field sampling >5 years prior to treatment and for >4 years post-treatment. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game. The results will help determine whether thinning and fire treatments can be used to improve habitat suitability for Northern Idaho Ground Squirrels.
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Fire suppression over the past century has caused widespread changes to the structure and function of coniferous forests in the western U.S. Forest restoration efforts to reverse these changes must ensure that restoration prescriptions will not adversely impact federally listed species. Northern Idaho Ground Squirrels are federally threatened and have a very small range in central Idaho. We are comparing the effects of 2 forest treatments on Northern Idaho Ground Squirrels : 1) mechanical thinning followed by a fall-season burn (past prescription used by USFS); and 2) no treatment (control). We are using a Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) design with field sampling >5 years prior to treatment and for >4 years post-treatment. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game. The results will help determine whether thinning and fire treatments can be used to improve habitat suitability for Northern Idaho Ground Squirrels.
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Assessing the Importance of Wetlands on DoD Installations for the Persistence of Wetland-dependent Birds
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December 2019
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This project will develop detailed habitat models for rare and endangered wetland birds. We will then use the models to rank the importance of over 600 DoD installations to wetland birds and conduct wetland bird surveys on a random subset of DoD installations to verify the models and provide estimates of abundance for these rare species. We will also rank non-DoD wetlands that are within the breeding range of the numerous state and federally endangered wetland birds to document the value of DoD wetlands to the preservation of these species. The project will contribute to a large partnership of agencies and organizations in North America that are conducting marsh bird surveys following a standardized protocol written by the project POC. The project will produce a first-of-its-kind inventory of the biological value of wetlands on DoD lands, detailed habitat models for each species (which are not currently available), and baseline survey data of secretive marsh birds at a large subset of DoD installations.
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This project will develop detailed habitat models for rare and endangered wetland birds. We will then use the models to rank the importance of over 600 DoD installations to wetland birds and conduct wetland bird surveys on a random subset of DoD installations to verify the models and provide estimates of abundance for these rare species. We will also rank non-DoD wetlands that are within the breeding range of the numerous state and federally endangered wetland birds to document the value of DoD wetlands to the preservation of these species. The project will contribute to a large partnership of agencies and organizations in North America that are conducting marsh bird surveys following a standardized protocol written by the project POC. The project will produce a first-of-its-kind inventory of the biological value of wetlands on DoD lands, detailed habitat models for each species (which are not currently available), and baseline survey data of secretive marsh birds at a large subset of DoD installations.
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Impacts of Surface Water Supply Reservoirs on Stream Flow and Biota
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June 2024
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In 2010, the Massachusetts Sustainable Water Management Initiative (SWMI) was created to develop a water allocation program that satisfies human water needs while protecting aquatic ecosystem health. The current framework includes a safe yield approach to allocation, biological categorization of streams using fish communities as a surrogate for aquatic integrity, and streamflow criteria (http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/eea/water/framework-draft-feb03-2012.pdf). The approach for setting streamflow standards was based on estimates of flow alteration indicators (based on groundwater withdrawals and discharges), and relationships between estimated flow alteration and fluvial fish assemblages. Although the SWMI process is continuing with existing data, researchers identified the lack of information about flow alteration due to surface water withdrawals from reservoirs as a major information gap.<br><br>The overall goal of this research is to quantify flow alteration due to surface water withdrawals from reservoirs and the relationship between in-stream flow and biotic assemblages downstream of water supply reservoirs. This project involves collecting stream stage, fishes, and macroinvertebrates downstream of water supply reservoirs, and comparing that to non-supply reservoirs and unimpounded streams. We will select streams with similar size watersheds, but varying levels of water withdrawal. Streams will be continuously gaged with pressure transducers, and we will compare actual flows with the monthly withdrawals reported by the water suppliers. We will also investigate relationships between flow and temperature alteration, fish assemblages, and macroinvertebrate assemblages to determine the aspects of the flow and temperature regime that predict biotic assemblages.
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Surface water reservoirs used for public water supply are common throughout the landscape and can greatly disrupt stream flow regimes. Predicting effects of water withdrawals on downstream flows and aquatic ecosystems is particularly challenging due to variation in withdrawal and dam management and characteristics of the watershed, reservoir, and streams. This project is a collaboration with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. Our hydrologic monitoring in streams will help to understand variability in flow alteration and directly link hydrology to biotic responses, which is critical for making decisions on how to manage water supply while protecting stream ecosystems.
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Landscape-scale management of forest wildlife populations in Wisconsin
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July 2024
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Conservation of species has shifted from single site efforts to landscape-scale approaches due to the scale at which forest management operates. US Forest Service national forest managers conduct monitoring activities on populations according to the Forest Plan but lack time and expertise to analyze the data to help inform their management actions. The project is a collaboration of researchers and managers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, US Forest Service Northern Research Station, and managers from the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The project will evaluate several long-term wildlife monitoring programs to provide science-based information to support inventory and monitoring efforts that contribute to the management of ecosystems and activities on the national forests in Wisconsin.
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Conservation of species has shifted from single site efforts to landscape-scale approaches due to the scale at which forest management operates. US Forest Service national forest managers conduct monitoring activities on populations according to the Forest Plan but lack time and expertise to analyze the data to help inform their management actions. The project is a collaboration of researchers and managers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, US Forest Service Northern Research Station, and managers from the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The project will evaluate several long-term wildlife monitoring programs to provide science-based information to support inventory and monitoring efforts that contribute to the management of ecosystems and activities on the national forests in Wisconsin.
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Landscape-scale management of grassland birds in Wisconsin
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April 2022
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It is widely recognized that grassland obligate birds are declining faster than any other bird community in the Upper Midwest. Recently, conservation delivery has changed from focusing on individual sites at the local scale to focusing on landscape-scale conservation areas. This project is a collaboration across the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and state natural resource managers in the Midwest. State-level densities will be estimated for a suite of grassland birds in the Midwest and then used to evaluate the importance of current landscape-scale conservation areas in Wisconsin for grassland bird populations.
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It is widely recognized that grassland obligate birds are declining faster than any other bird community in the Upper Midwest. Recently, conservation delivery has changed from focusing on individual sites at the local scale to focusing on landscape-scale conservation areas. This project is a collaboration across the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and state natural resource managers in the Midwest. State-level densities will be estimated for a suite of grassland birds in the Midwest and then used to evaluate the importance of current landscape-scale conservation areas in Wisconsin for grassland bird populations.
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The demography of Northern Spotted Owls in Oregon and Washington
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June 2024
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The Northern Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) is listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act, primarily because of the loss of old growth forest habitat due to timber harvest. The Northwest Forest Plan was developed in the mid-1990's to conserve the owl and other old growth species, while allowing greatly reduced levels of commercial timber harvest on federal land. The Plan required the implementation of a regional effectiveness monitoring program for the spotted owl. This research project collects and analyzes data from 5 of the 7 spotted owl effectiveness monitoring program study areas across the owl's range. Data from this work is used to regularly evaluate population trends of spotted owls, as well as increase our understanding of owl ecology, including dispersal, diet, nest site selection, behavior, genetics, and response to a recent, congeneric invader, the Barred Owl (Strix varia).
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The Northern Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) is listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act, primarily because of the loss of old growth forest habitat due to timber harvest. The Northwest Forest Plan was developed in the mid-1990's to conserve the owl and other old growth species, while allowing greatly reduced levels of commercial timber harvest on federal land. The Plan required the implementation of a regional effectiveness monitoring program for the spotted owl. In collaboration with USDA FS - PNW, this research project collects and analyzes data from 5 of the 7 spotted owl effectiveness monitoring program study areas across the owl's range. Data from this work is used to regularly evaluate population trends of spotted owls, as well as increase our understanding of owl ecology, including dispersal, diet, nest site selection, behavior, genetics, and response to a recent, congeneric invader, the Barred Owl (Strix varia).
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Long-term meta-population demographics of Adélie penguins on Ross island, Antarctica
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September 2025
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The Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) is a sea-ice obligate species so ocean habitats in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica are crucial during all stages of the species annual cycle. Changes in wind, temperature, and associated sea ice patterns in some of the more northern regions of the species range in are causing reductions in the size and distribution of Adélie penguin breeding colonies. In collaboration with Point Blue Conservation Science and HT Harvey and Associates, this NSF-funded study is designed to investigate the effects of environmental variation on vital rates and population size for Adélie penguins at 3 colonies within a metapopulation in the Southern Ross Sea. The core of our research is a long-term data set (24th season in 2019) on individually marked, known-age, known-breeding history penguins at these 3 colonies. With these data we can estimate population-level vital rates that produce population change, and attempt to understand the ecological factors that affect these vital rates. The southern Ross Sea has experienced a much smaller human footprint than other regions on the planet, so this project provides a unique and invaluable opportunity to disentangle climate change effects from anthropogenic influences for a species sensitive to predicted environmental changes.
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The Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) is a sea-ice obligate species so ocean habitats in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica are crucial during all stages of the species annual cycle. Changes in wind, temperature, and associated sea ice patterns in some of the more northern regions of the species range in are causing reductions in the size and distribution of Adélie penguin breeding colonies. In collaboration with Point Blue Conservation Science and HT Harvey and Associates, this NSF-funded study is designed to investigate the effects of environmental variation on vital rates and population size for Adélie penguins at 3 colonies within a metapopulation in the Southern Ross Sea. The core of our research is a long-term data set (24th season in 2019) on individually marked, known-age, known-breeding history penguins at these 3 colonies. With these data we can estimate population-level vital rates that produce population change, and attempt to understand the ecological factors that affect these vital rates. The southern Ross Sea has experienced a much smaller human footprint than other regions on the planet, so this project provides a unique and invaluable opportunity to disentangle climate change effects from anthropogenic influences for a species sensitive to predicted environmental changes.
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Understanding downstream migratory survival of Atlantic salmon smolts in the Penobscot River Maine; effects of dams and restoration
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September 2020
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The downstream migration of Atlantic salmon juveniles is a critical stage in their life cycle. During this stage, individuals undergo a series of morphological, physiological and behavioral changes that prepare them for the migration and for life at sea. Survival of juveniles in the Penobscot River has been studied since 2005, using acoustic and radio telemetry. Several areas of high concern, have been recognized - namely dams and the estuary. The system-wide survival of smolts in the Penobscot River has been consistently low throughout the years, but the influence of stocking timing, flow and delays are being revealed. Together with NOAA, USFWS, Penobscot Nation, we are working to understand how the range of conditions in the river can influence the odds of restoration success. These data are being used to inform both stocking strategies and stimulate innovative restoration techniques.
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The downstream migration of Atlantic salmon juveniles is a critical stage in their life cycle. During this stage, individuals undergo a series of morphological, physiological and behavioral changes that prepare them for the migration and for life at sea. Survival of juveniles in the Penobscot River has been studied since 2005, using acoustic and radio telemetry. Several areas of high concern, have been recognized - namely dams and the estuary. The system-wide survival of smolts in the Penobscot River has been consistently low throughout the years, but the influence of stocking timing, flow and delays are being revealed. Together with NOAA, USFWS, Penobscot Nation, we are working to understand how the range of conditions in the river can influence the odds of restoration success. These data are being used to inform both stocking strategies and stimulate innovative restoration techniques.
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Passage of adult Atlantic salmon in the Penobscot River before and after dam removal
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January 2022
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The Penobscot River has experienced two main-stem dam removals and other engineering changes, including the installation of a fish lift at Milford Dam (the lowest dam in the system) with hopes of restoring Atlantic salmon. Efforts to restore these federally endangered fish will rely on safe and effective fish passage. We sought to use acoustic, radio telemetry and PIT tag technology are being used to characterize migration patterns and passage efficiency of adult Atlantic salmon. This work in the Penobscot River, Maine, necessitating effective collaboration with USFWS, NOAA, Penobsot Nation, Maine Department of Marine Resources, Brookfield Power, TNC and the Penobscot River Restoration Trust. Characterizing migration patterns and passage efficiency in the Penobscot River, Maine can inform restoration strategies into the future.
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The Penobscot River has experienced two main-stem dam removals and other engineering changes, including the installation of a fish lift at Milford Dam (the lowest dam in the system) with hopes of restoring Atlantic salmon. Efforts to restore these federally endangered fish will rely on safe and effective fish passage. We sought to use acoustic, radio telemetry and PIT tag technology are being used to characterize migration patterns and passage efficiency of adult Atlantic salmon. This work in the Penobscot River, Maine, necessitating effective collaboration with USFWS, NOAA, Penobsot Nation, Maine Department of Marine Resources, Brookfield Power, TNC and the Penobscot River Restoration Trust. Characterizing migration patterns and passage efficiency in the Penobscot River, Maine can inform restoration strategies into the future.
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Web-Accessible Database of Standard Fish Sampling Data
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December 2024
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In 2009, the American Fisheries Society developed standard methods to sample freshwater fish populations, publishing them in the book <i>Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fishes</i>. The Arizona Unit leader was project lead, which involved over 280 biologists from the United States, Canada and Mexico from over 100 agencies, organization, and universities. This project was supported in part through partnership with the USGS Cooperative Research Units System, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and eight other agency and private partners. In 2019, the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and the American Fisheries Society funded a second edition of the book. The 2009 book’s final chapter included summaries of growth, condition, length frequency, and catch per unit effort for fifteen of the most common North American fishes; averaged by ecoregion and rangewide and collected using standard gears. Protection and management of freshwater fishes was enhanced by these data which provided managers with baselines for examination of population trends, population health and other indicators. However, further work was needed – these data were inconvenient to access and use. Therefore, we developed a website and database that accompanied Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fishes. This website (1) has an online expandable database of standard sampling data for comparison, (2) provides an overview of the standard sampling project, and (3) serves as a repository of comments on the published standard sampling procedures, and (4) uses the PHP-based Drupal framework to make it relatively easy to modify the web application to meet initial application needs and the needs that arise as users test and interact with the system.<br>The initial database (1) provided on-line summaries of 4,092 data sets of condition, length-frequency, CPUE and growth indices of common freshwater fishes, collected using standard gears, from 42 states and provinces across North America, (2) allowed entry of new data collected using standardized methods, so averages of commonly-used fishery indices can be updated in the future, (3) allowed queries, graphical, and tabular output of the data summaries so they can be easily accessed and integrated into projects across North America. Users are able to compare condition, growth and abundance of fish collected in a particular waterbody with regional and rangewide averages and percentiles, thus increasing resource information in a variety of areas. Generated broad-scale knowledge is useful in the enhancement of fish habitat and populations on both public and private lands. This database served as a small demonstration project by USGS, the USGS Cooperative Research Units and other sponsors, and helped demonstrate the usefulness of other larger efforts to provide continental fisheries data. Now the database tool is being updated through support from AFWA, the University of Arizona and the American Fisheries Society. The update will provide the user with more species to compare, significantly more data, and improved function, with the ability to perform summaries by U.S. state and Canadian province. Programming on the database is currently underway. This data tool is being updated in conjunction with the development of the 2nd edition of <i>Standard Sampling of North American Freshwater Fishes.</i>
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In 2009, the American Fisheries Society developed standard methods to sample freshwater fish populations, publishing them in the book Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fishes. The Arizona Unit leader was project lead, which involved over 280 biologists from the United States, Canada and Mexico from over 100 agencies, organization, and universities. This project was supported in part through partnership with the USGS Cooperative Research Units System, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and eight other agency and private partners. In 2019, the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and the American Fisheries Society funded a second edition of the book. The 2009 book’s final chapter included summaries of growth, condition, length frequency, and catch per unit effort for fifteen of the most common North American fishes; averaged by ecoregion and rangewide and collected using standard gears. Protection and management of freshwater fishes was enhanced by these data which provided managers with baselines for examination of population trends, population health and other indicators. However, further work was needed – these data were inconvenient to access and use. Therefore, we developed a website and database that accompanied Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fishes. This website (1) has an online expandable database of standard sampling data for comparison, (2) provides an overview of the standard sampling project, and (3) serves as a repository of comments on the published standard sampling procedures, and (4) uses the PHP-based Drupal framework to make it relatively easy to modify the web application to meet initial application needs and the needs that arise as users test and interact with the system.The initial database (1) provided on-line summaries of 4,092 data sets of condition, length-frequency, CPUE and growth indices of common freshwater fishes, collected using standard gears, from 42 states and provinces across North America, (2) allowed entry of new data collected using standardized methods, so averages of commonly-used fishery indices can be updated in the future, (3) allowed queries, graphical, and tabular output of the data summaries so they can be easily accessed and integrated into projects across North America. Users are able to compare condition, growth and abundance of fish collected in a particular waterbody with regional and rangewide averages and percentiles, thus increasing resource information in a variety of areas. Generated broad-scale knowledge is useful in the enhancement of fish habitat and populations on both public and private lands. This database served as a small demonstration project by USGS, the USGS Cooperative Research Units and other sponsors, and helped demonstrate the usefulness of other larger efforts to provide continental fisheries data. Now the database tool is being updated through support from AFWA, the University of Arizona and the American Fisheries Society. The update will provide the user with more species to compare, significantly more data, and improved function. Programming on the database is currently underway. This data tool is being updated in conjunction with the development of the 2nd edition of Standard Sampling of North American Freshwater Fishes.
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Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fishes
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October 2023
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Standardization in industry, medicine and science has led to great advances. However, despite its benefits, freshwater fish sampling was generally unstandardized, or at most standardized locally. Standardization across large regions allows for measurement of large-scale effects of climate or geography on fish populations; larger sample sizes to evaluate management techniques, reliable means to document rare species; easier communication; and simpler data sharing. With increased interaction among fisheries professionals worldwide, reasons for wide-scale standardization were more compelling than ever. The Fish Management Section of the American Fisheries Society in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, USGS Cooperative Research Units Program, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, AFS Education and Computer User’s Sections, and Arizona Game and Fish Department developed standard sampling methods for North America. This was the largest such project in the history of fisheries science. Almost 50 United States, Canadian and Mexican fish sampling experts authored a book on the subject. These methods were reviewed by 54 representatives from 33 North American agencies and by biologists from six European and one African country. Final drafts were reviewed by an additional 36 sampling experts. In total 284 biologists from 107 agencies and organizations contributed as authors, reviewers, data providers and sponsors. Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fishes, was published in 2009, and described standard methods to sample fish in specific environments so population indices can be more easily compared across regions and time. Environments include ponds, reservoirs, natural lakes, streams and rivers containing cold and warmwater fishes. This book provides rangewide and regional averages; calculated from over 4000 data sets from 42 states and provinces; of size structure, CPUE, growth, and condition for common fishes collected using methods discussed. Biologists can use these data to determine if fish from their waterbody are below, above, or at average for an index. These procedures will be useful to those hoping to benefit from standard sampling programs in their regions. Since publication, these methods are being increasingly adopted across North America. Three symposiums at the North American meeting of the American Fisheries Society have been held; and numerous presentations on the techniques throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada have been given. Furthermore, keynotes have also been invited and presented in the United Kingdom, South Korea and the Czech Republic discussing the techniques. Publications concerning this work since 2016 have been published in Fisheries, Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries, and Freshwater, Fish and the Future: Proceedings of the Global Cross-Sectoral Conference at FAO, United Nations, Rome. Now a 2nd edition is underway with unanimous support from the Fisheries Management Section of the American Fisheries Society, and funding from the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Currently design and writing of the book is underway and publication date is slated at 2021-2022.
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Standardization in industry, medicine and science has led to great advances. However, despite its benefits, freshwater fish sampling was generally unstandardized, or at most standardized locally. Standardization across large regions allows for measurement of large-scale effects of climate or geography on fish populations; larger sample sizes to evaluate management techniques, reliable means to document rare species; easier communication; and simpler data sharing. With increased interaction among fisheries professionals worldwide, reasons for wide-scale standardization were more compelling than ever. The Fish Management Section of the American Fisheries Society in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, USGS Cooperative Research Units Program, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, AFS Education and Computer User’s Sections, and Arizona Game and Fish Department developed standard sampling methods for North America. This was the largest such project in the history of fisheries science. Almost 50 United States, Canadian and Mexican fish sampling experts authored a book on the subject. These methods were reviewed by 54 representatives from 33 North American agencies and by biologists from six European and one African country. Final drafts were reviewed by an additional 36 sampling experts. In total 284 biologists from 107 agencies and organizations contributed as authors, reviewers, data providers and sponsors. Standard Methods for Sampling North American Freshwater Fishes, was published in 2009, and described standard methods to sample fish in specific environments so population indices can be more easily compared across regions and time. Environments include ponds, reservoirs, natural lakes, streams and rivers containing cold and warmwater fishes. This book provides rangewide and regional averages; calculated from over 4000 data sets from 42 states and provinces; of size structure, CPUE, growth, and condition for common fishes collected using methods discussed. Biologists can use these data to determine if fish from their waterbody are below, above, or at average for an index. These procedures will be useful to those hoping to benefit from standard sampling programs in their regions. Since publication, these methods are being increasingly adopted across North America. Three symposiums at the North American meeting of the American Fisheries Society have been held; and numerous presentations on the techniques throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada have been given. Furthermore, keynotes have also been invited and presented in the United Kingdom, South Korea and the Czech Republic discussing the techniques. Publications concerning this work since 2016 have been published in Fisheries, Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries, and Freshwater, Fish and the Future: Proceedings of the Global Cross-Sectoral Conference at FAO, United Nations, Rome. Now a 2nd edition is underway with unanimous support from the Fisheries Management Section of the American Fisheries Society, and funding from the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Currently design and writing of the book is underway and publication date is slated at 2021-2022.
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Regeneration of Forest Vegetation in Response to Browsing by Moose and Deer: An Experimental Approach Using Exclosures
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December 2027
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In cooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Harvard Forest, and several other groups, we have built 16 sets of experimental exclosures to monitor the response of forest vegetation in relation to browsing by moose and deer. Each site has two 20x20 m fenced treatments (full exclosure with fencing to the ground, and a partial exclosure with fencing two feet off the ground to allow access to deer but not moose) and an unfenced control. We have documented varying responses of woody vegetation based on treatment in the first few years of the experiment. Our goal is to see that this experiment continues for at least the next few decades.
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Moose (Alces americanus) returned to southern New England in the late 20th century after a 1-2 century absence. Moose are generalist browsers and, coupled with white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), can have long-term influences on the structure and composition of forest ecosystems. We set out to understand these relationships by constructing 15 20 x 20 m exclosures in a randomized block design with 3 treatment levels: (1) no-ungulates (full exclosure), (2) deer only (partial exclosure), and (3) deer + moose (control, i.e., no fence). During the first phase of this research, we discovered that in logged forests, moose and deer used the cuts at roughly the same frequency despite moose densities being much lower than deer densities. Moose were the dominant browser and after 6–7 years of browsing, deer + moose reduced stem densities and basal area by 2-3-fold, cherry and oak recruitment by 3–6 fold, and species richness by 1.7 species (19%). Browsing resulted in greater herbaceous species richness and greater woody species richness than ungulate exclusion and deer alone. Our initial results illustrate the complex interactions that two native browser can have on forests, with implications for understanding forest ecological dynamics and timber management. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Harvard University, Highstead Foundation, and U. S. Forest Service collaborated on this research. We will continue with this long-term study through various stages of forest development. The information will be used by conservation and management agencies to further understand wildlife-forest habitat relationships and the role they play in forest ecology, animal community dynamics, watershed management, and production of timber and other forest products.
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Responses of large mammals to forest restoration treatments and wildfire in the southwest Jemez Mountains, New Mexico
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August 2025
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Decades of fire suppression, overgrazing, and logging in the western U.S. have resulted in increased tree densities, altered habitat conditions for many wildlife species, and increased risk of stand-replacing wildfires. Land managers are currently implementing landscape-scale treatments in efforts to mitigate catastrophic wildfires and to restore historical forest conditions. The goals of this project are to monitor the responses of mule deer, elk, black bear, and mountain lion to forest restoration treatments and wildfires as part of the Southwest Jemez Mountains Collaborative Forest Restoration Project. Specifically, we are assessing changes in forage conditions, movements, and resource selection of mule deer, elk, black bear and mountain lion in relation to prescribed fires, restoration thinning, and previous wildfires. The results of this project will allow for more informed design and implementation of restoration treatments that simultaneously mitigate wildfire risk and enhance habitat conditions for mule deer, elk, black bears and mountain lions. This research is in collaboration between the New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Natural Resources Management at Texas Tech University, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Jemez Pueblo, and New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.
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Decades of fire suppression, overgrazing, and logging in the western U.S. have resulted in increased tree densities, altered habitat conditions for many wildlife species, and increased risk of stand-replacing wildfires. Land managers are currently implementing landscape-scale treatments in efforts to mitigate catastrophic wildfires and to restore historical forest conditions. The goals of this project are to monitor the responses of mule deer, elk, black bear, and mountain lion to forest restoration treatments and wildfires as part of the Southwest Jemez Mountains Collaborative Forest Restoration Project. Specifically, we are assessing changes in forage conditions, movements, and resource selection of mule deer, elk, black bear and mountain lion in relation to prescribed fires, restoration thinning, and previous wildfires. The results of this project will allow for more informed design and implementation of restoration treatments that simultaneously mitigate wildfire risk and enhance habitat conditions for mule deer, elk, black bears and mountain lions. This research is in collaboration between the New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Natural Resources Management at Texas Tech University, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Jemez Pueblo, and New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.
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Big solar on abandoned agricultural lands: Testing ecosystem restoration for biodiversity, raptor conservation, and social benefits
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September 2029
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<b>Ecological restoration from solar energy development</b>: In partnership with Intersect Power, we are studying, for the first time, potential for ecological restoration via development of solar energy on vast abandoned ag lands at a 9,000 photovoltaic solar facility in central California; we will conduct research centered on these core themes: 1) wildlife—threatened raptor species and their foraging habitat and prey base, 2) ecosystem services—possible improvements in soil health for agriculture, dust control, and reduction of invasive species, and 3) biodiversity writ large—before-after-control-impact design to compare spatiotemporal trends in biodiversity across landscapes (restored solar facilities, abandoned ag land, active orchards).
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Non-lead ammunition distribution program for eagle conservation in New York State
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March 2027
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<b>Social interactions with animal conservation</b>: In partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, we are elucidating the spatial ecology of eagle-gut pile interactions and testing the efficacy and informing the implementation of a non-lead ammunition distribution program to promote eagle conservation and to serve as a means of compensatory mitigation for eagle take at wind facilities, which currently is limited to power-pole retrofits.
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Estimating survival and tag retention of cave amphipods and the Comal Springs Riffle Beetle
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June 2024
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Recovery of endangered species commonly includes interests in population numbers. Aquatic species in Comal Springs are of concern due to the pressures placed on the aquifer. This project aims to identify tags that may be useful for individually marking this and related species and estimating survival of tagged and untagged beetles.
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Evaluating Tennessee Sport Fisheries
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June 2027
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Evaluating introgression of Alabama Bass into Tennessee waters and threats to native Smallmouth Bass. Informing state hatcheries about stocking timing to maintain trout fisheries.
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Identifying areas of abundance and species richness overlap to prioritize renewable energy exclusion zones.
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June 2027
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The Colorado state legislature has set a goal to transition to 100% renewable electricity generation by 2040, with an intermediate goal of 50% by 2030. This project will provide information and a spatial planning tool of renewable energy that minimizes impacts on avian species throughout the state.
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Modeling population dynamics of Mearns’ Quail
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June 2026
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Mearns' quail are a popular and iconic game bird in the American Southwest, including southeast Arizona. Little information currently exists on Mearns' quail population dynamics in southeast Arizona. Information on Mearns' quail population ecology is needed to help inform the setting of harvest regulations and identify additional data that can be collected through research or monitoring to help better estimate Mearns' quail abundance and monitor population trends. This project is a collaboration between the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), and the University of Arizona. We will use age- and sex-at-harvest data collected by AZGFD to evaluate Mearns' quail population dynamics and determine how those dynamics are related to harvest and environmental conditions. We will also explore the feasibility of using statistical reconstruction population models to estimate Mearns’ quail abundance. Finally, we will provide recommendations for future research and monitoring. This information can be used to guide future management decisions related Mearns' quail.
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Understanding movement ecology of waterfowl to inform avian influenza risk
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December 2025
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Among the many drivers of infectious disease dynamics, animal movements contribute to the spread of infectious diseases, including multi-host and potentially zoonotic diseases such as avian influenza. Understanding the drivers of waterfowl movements, and how they change across species, seasons, and geographies, is therefore important for estimating disease risk and predicting disease spread. This project compiles waterfowl telemetry data sets globally to analyze similarities and differences in the environmental drivers of waterfowl movements. These results can inform expectations for how management decisions, climate, and human development will affect waterfowl movements and disease dynamics.
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Berkeley Springs bypass monitoring program
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November 2028
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Aquatic community indices will be determined from macroinvertebrate data, providing input and monitoring requirements toward environmental assessments associated with road construction.
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Assessment of Rocky Shiner populations in southeast Oklahoma
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June 2027
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The Rocky Shiner (<i>Notropis suttkusi) </i>is a Tier II Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Oklahoma and is under consideration for listing as threatened or endangered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This study will provide a habitat-suitability map for Rocky Shiner in Oklahoma and an updated field-verified georeferenced database of occurrences. Such products will help inform state and federal agencies regarding the present status of Rocky Shiner in Oklahoma. Working in concert with biologists from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and US Fish and Wildlife Service, this project will survey for Rocky Shiners throughout their range in Oklahoma. A species status assessment is currently underway for this species and the results of this study will be immediately applicable to that process.
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Assessment of mussel community in Blue River
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June 2027
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The Blue River, Oklahoma has historically supported 23 species of freshwater mussels, but the latest assessment is dated (more than 30 years old) and found that the lower portion of the river was devoid of mussels. Whereas declines in abundance is disconcerting, a complete extirpation is alarming. To understand the current state of mussels in the Blue River, a new survey is necessary; one that can document the abundance and diversity of mussels that still exist as well as assess the status of mussel occurrence in the lower reaches where they have been thought extirpated. Working with biologists from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC), we will be using several different survey types, such as snorkeling, quadrat sampling, eDNA, and side-scan sonar to evaluate the state of the mussel community. In the lower portion of the river, this study will provide evidence to help conclude if mussels are truly extirpated with rapid, non-invasive techniques. In the upper portion of the river, this study will update the species composition, relative abundance, and size structure of extant native mussels.
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Assessment of connectivity among Alligator Gar populations in the Red River
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June 2027
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Alligator Gar (<i>Atractosteus spatula</i>) in Oklahoma persist mostly in the Red River system. Fragmentation by Denison Dam has arguably had the largest effect on the Lake Texoma population, but information from the Red River below the dam is needed to better understand how fragmentation, including that by distance alone, relates to the population ecology of Alligator Gar. The Red River system is the main system remaining in Oklahoma where Alligator Gar (<i>Atractosteus spatula</i>) populations persist, but no comprehensive studies exist to determine how fragmentation may be affecting these populations currently. As interest in angling for Alligator Gar has increased in recent years, a better understanding connectivity of populations throughout the Red River is important for management and conservation. This study is a collaboration between biologists with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Together, we will be tagging fish and monitoring their movement with a series of acoustic receivers deployed throughout the river. The results of this study will inform ODWC to better manage Alligator Gar populations beyond Lake Texoma. Genetic results will help USFWS with brood stock capture efforts to inform conservation stocking.
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Assessment of salmonid habitat improvements associated with structure placement in Wolf Creek
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June 2025
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The Wolf Creek watershed, a key tributary to the Umpqua River, is a recognized area of conservation concern that supports significant habitat for fish and wildlife. Major restoration efforts were conducted between 2008 and 2012 to benefit salmonids and other conservation-reliant species. Despite extensive monitoring through the U.S. Forest Service’s Aquatic and Riparian Effectiveness Monitoring Program (AREMP) and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Aquatic Inventories Program (AQI), substantial gaps remain regarding the effectiveness of these restoration actions. To address this issue, we will analyze nearly 17 years of in-stream monitoring data collected in the Wolf Creek watershed. Our research will leverage AREMP and AQI data to investigate the effects of large wood and boulder weir placements on habitat features and how these changes correlate with the rearing capacity and abundance of target salmonid species. By comprehensively analyzing these high-quality monitoring data, this project will enhance our understanding of the long-term impacts of widely used stream restoration techniques and will inform private and public land management strategies. Furthermore, our findings will facilitate advancements in stream restoration practices throughout the Umpqua River basin and across Oregon.
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Forecasting tools to inform the management of native fishes and their habitats in a drought sensitive endorheic basin
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July 2027
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Climate change poses a significant threat to desert ecosystems and their aquatic habitats. In the western United States, severe droughts, reduced snowpack, rising temperatures, and the increased frequency and intensity of wildfires are rapidly altering streams and wetlands. As a result, the availability of water and habitat quality are becoming critical concerns for the fish and wildlife that inhabit these environments. While managers are planning for climate change, they often lack the necessary information to inform effective management strategies, as high desert aquatic ecosystems are frequently understudied. To address this critical knowledge gap, we are conducting a comprehensive study of fish species and their stream habitats in the Goose Lake Basin in southern Oregon. This basin is a terminal lake system, meaning that water availability is particularly limited. As drought conditions worsen, habitat quality and the movement of native species—including trout, lamprey, and minnows—are likely to be further restricted, especially during the hot summer months when they rely on cool freshwater sources. To enhance our understanding of how climate change impacts habitat quality for these native fish, we are employing stable isotopes to evaluate stream habitat connectivity and flow provenance under varying seasonal and environmental conditions. This data will be integrated with existing fish abundance and water temperature information (from project A7) to model where native and non-native fish are likely to thrive under different climate change scenarios. The outcomes of this project will provide vital information for our partners, enabling them to identify ideal habitats for restoration and enhancement. This will support climate-informed management and decision-making related to species and habitat conservation, ensuring that we can effectively safeguard these vulnerable aquatic ecosystems in the face of ongoing climate challenges.
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Evaluation of otolith development in Paddlefish (Acipenseriformes): an ancient lineage of bony fishes
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June 2025
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To aid the goal of using otoliths to document early life history of Paddlefish, a new approach is necessary; one that can characterize the in situ arrangement of the otoliths and document their morphology and development. Therefore, are addressing the following objectives: 1) document the timing of otolith development in post-larval Paddlefish, and 2) document the morphology of the otoliths, including the fusion of otoconia. A better understanding of Paddlefish otolith formation and morphology will be directly transferrable to other Acipenseriformes fishes, such as sturgeons distributed across the globe.
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Filling in the Gaps for the Federally Endangered Cracking Pearlymussel Hemistena lata: Habitat Use, Life History, Distribution, and Validation of Sampling Approaches
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January 2030
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The Tennessee Cooperative Fishery Research Unit is studying the endangered Cracking Pearlymussel, a unique species now found in only three river reaches. This 3-4 year research effort combines field surveys, habitat assessments, and population studies to guide species recovery. Working with federal and state partners, researchers are developing monitoring protocols, mapping current distribution, and identifying potential reintroduction sites.
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The Global Initiative on Ungulate Migration: Advancing Mapping and Conservation of the World’s Ungulate Migrations
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December 2028
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Most of the world’s large terrestrial mammals are ungulates, and many migrate seasonally to sustain their massive herds. The abundance that migration supports in turn connects systems and promotes the resilience of the ecosystems that sustain subsistence hunting, rural economies, and provides the primary prey base for many of the world's top carnivores. Today, the slow and steady spread of our human footprint represents a common threat to ungulate migrations. Global projections estimate 22 million kilometers of new roads will be needed by 2050 to support growing economies. The wild landscapes that migrations require are increasingly fragmented by roads, fences, agriculture, energy development, and human settlements. <br><br>The Global Initiative on Ungulate Migrations was founded by researchers from the USGS; Universities of Wyoming, Montana, Glasgow, and Olso; Fondazione Edmund Mach; Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, CNRS; UN Environmental Program, Convention on Migratory Species; Senckenberg Nature Research Society; and the Bavarian State Institute of Forestry, in partnership with the Secretariat of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (UNEP/CMS). In 2021, we created a new Global Initiative on Ungulate Migration (www.cms.int/gium). <br><br>The main aim of the initiative is to work collaboratively to 1) create a Global Atlas of Ungulate Migration using tracking data and expert knowledge; and 2) stimulate research on drivers, mechanisms, threats, and conservation solutions common to ungulate migration worldwide. The Atlas will provide the first set of detailed migration maps to guide conservation and development globally.
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Habitat associations for native aquatic species in a spring-fed prairie system
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June 2027
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Prairie streams are threatened by fragmentation and drying with many prairie fish species experiencing population declines. An understanding of fish-habitat associations in intermittent prairie streams is needed to better target management actions. Lower Lodgepole Creek is an intermittent prairie stream that has been designated as a SWAP Aquatic Conservation Area due to its diverse assemblage of native aquatic species. Lower Lodgepole Creek has one NSS2 (CPM) mussel species and four NSS3 (IDT, ODT, PKF, PTM) and two NSS4 (BMN, CSH) fish species. This work is a collaborative effort between the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Our goal is to assess SGCN fish and mussel species distribution and habitat associations in Lower Lodegepole Creek and predict the impact of proposed grazing strategies and aquatic habitat projects by species. A detailed understanding of spatial and temporal variability in habitat use of aquatic SGCNs in Lower Lodgepole Creek will allow habitat projects to be targeted effectively.
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Habitat and Climatic Factors Influencing Pygmy Rabbit Distribution in Wyoming
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June 2026
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The pygmy rabbit is a sagebrush-obligate with specialized habitat requirements(deep soils, high cover) within landscapes. Moreover, they are sensitive to heat which is concerning given a warming climate. Finally, a recent outbreak of rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHDV2) in 2020 caused further concern. As such the pygmy rabbit is listed as an SGCN in the Wyoming SWAP and in March 2023 was petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act. A detailed assessment of multi-scale pygmy rabbit habitat relationships in Wyoming is lacking which could hinder habitat prioritization plans in light of the pending listing. Moreover, the relative importance of habitat elements that promote burrowing and refugia from predators versus suitable microclimates remains unclear. This project is a collaborate effort between the USGS Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Pygmy rabbit occupancy surveys will be conducted using previously developed protocols and survey grid cells. Results will be compared to surveys from past years to quantify and illustrate population trends. Results will also be incorporated into regional datasets to evaluate pygmy rabbit population status and to contribute to ESA listing determinations.
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Keystone Habitat Elements as a Tool in the Conservation of Wildlife Biodiversity and Abundance
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December 2026
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Amidst the ongoing loss and fragmentation of native habitats worldwide, determining the extent to which fine-scale, keystone habitat elements can disproportionately influence patterns of species richness and abundance is essential to developing effective habitat prioritization strategies within threatened systems. The ever-expanding footprint of human-induced habitat alteration has precipitated a rapid decline in biodiversity throughout the world (Cardinale et al. 2012). Given limited resources, maintaining resilient and functional ecosystems that support robust wildlife populations amidst ongoing and widespread habitat loss, fragmentation, and alteration necessitates identifying how to most efficiently and effectively conserve local species of concern. This study is conducted by the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. This work will address many knowledge gaps needs articulated in the 2017 Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan by informing the prioritization of habitats and determining how energy development influences multiple SGCNs, including the Greater Sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), Brewer’s Sparrow (Spizella brewerii), Sagebrush Sparrow (Artemisiospiza nevadensis), Sage Thrashers (Oreoscoptes montanus), Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus), and pygmy rabbit (Brachylagus idahoensis).
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Mechanisms underlying forest songbird declines in Wyoming
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June 2026
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Many of the songbirds that inhabit Wyoming’s forest habitats are demonstrating steep but enigmatic population declines. Declining species include both resident and migratory species, and Wyoming SGCN and non-SGCN. For example, red crossbills declined by an average of 1.7% per year since 1968, and evening grosbeaks were proclaimed one of the fastest declining North American landbirds by Partners in Flight. These declines are part of a larger trend of billions of birds lost in North America since 1970. Considerable attention has been paid recently to similar declines in grassland and sagebrush passerines, whereas no published synthesis exists that codifies trends in western forest birds, or explores the potential mechanisms. This study is conducted in collaboration between the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the U.S. Forest Service. We propose to use existing avian monitoring data (BBS, IMBCR, eBIRD) to quantify the population trends in Wyoming’s forest songbirds across different spatial and temporal extents, and explore potential mechanisms underlying population declines and whether multiple stressors may be at play.
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How do elk learn to migrate?
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May 2026
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Ungulate migration is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring animal behaviors, and it has important ecological benefits for the migrating species, as well as cascading effects throughout terrestrial food webs. Yet, ungulate migrations have been declining globally due to factors such as anthropogenic disturbances and environmental change. Elk are an iconic species of the western United States with many of the populations being migratory. Understanding how elk migration persists over time within a population is an important step to protecting migratory populations.<br><br>It has recently been shown that many migratory ungulates use memory from previous years’ migrations to re-create these movements year after year. We are studying how juvenile elk learn to migrate and acquire the memories that they will rely on to migrate throughout their lifetime. We are assessing this question by GPS tracking elk mother-offspring pairs, monitoring the calves from birth until adulthood. This will allow us to evaluate what the calves learn in their first year of life and then compare this to what they do as adults. This work will help us understand how migratory elk will be able to adapt to a changing environment (land-use, barriers, new development, etc.) as well as inform the re-establishment of historical migrations.
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The Influence of Stream Flow Patterns on Juvenile Salmon Foraging and Growth in Southeast Alaska
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December 2026
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In the Gulf of Alaska, streams will experience more dramatic low water events, interspersed with larger and potentially more frequent high flow events in the coming decades. Reduced stream flows are likely to occur due to diminished snowpack and seasonal droughts, while higher flow events are likely to occur with more frequent storms and rain-on-snow events. These changes are likely to influence the growth trajectories of juvenile salmon, such as Coho Salmon and Chinook Salmon, that live up to two years in freshwater before migrating to the ocean. Stream flows can influence juvenile salmon growth by modifying food availability, water clarity, temperature, and predation risk. This high-resolution study will examine how the sequence of high and low flow events that a watershed experiences influences foraging and growth conditions for juvenile Coho Salmon. Data collected from this study will help develop hypotheses regarding how on-going and future changes in stream flows in Gulf of Alaska rivers may reshape the trajectories of fish growth, which can inform broader-scale studies and monitoring. This information could be used to further develop salmon life cycle models that link stream flow to population dynamics. Results from this study will allow future modeling to predict how changes in the sequence, magnitude and duration of high and low stream flows may influence the growth trajectories (and survival) of juvenile salmon.
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Southwest Montana Fish Mortality Study
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December 2028
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The purpose of this project is to determine the causes of adult trout mortality, and the specific objective is to quantify how environmental conditions and angling affect adult trout survival.
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Recruitment of Trout to Southwest Montana Rivers
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December 2028
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Rainbow and brown trout populations in sections of the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Madison, and Ruby rivers have declined to near historic lows in recent years, and recruitment may be a reason for this decline. However, the relative contributions of fish spawned in tributaries or specific sections of rivers are poorly understood. This effort will provide insight into the major factors responsible for juvenile trout recruitment in the upper Missouri River basin. Identifying productive spawning and rearing habitats will allow a focus habitat restoration and enhancement in areas most responsible for supporting popular mainstem fisheries. The purpose of this project is to determine the natal origins of fish in the mainstem rivers. Our specific objectives are to quantify the proportions of mainstem trout originating in tributaries, and identify important spawning and rearing habitats throughout each of the major drainages. This information can also be used to focus water conservation efforts on specific tributaries, mainstem reaches, or migration corridors that are important for various life stages of rainbow and brown trout in the study area.
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Quantifying Recreational Use of Montana Rivers
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December 2028
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Trout fisheries in Montana are valued at more than $750 million/year representing more than 20% of tourism spending in Montana. Southwestern Montana, including the upper Missouri and upper Yellowstone River basins, supports some of the most well-known rainbow and brown trout fisheries in the world and provide a significant portion of the statewide economic benefits to the economy. This project will lead to the development of a method for estimating different types of river use. That information will be used to inform public processes related to managing recreation to balance trout population management with recreational opportunity. Concerns exist over accurately quantifying recreational use on these rivers. The objective of this project is to develop methods to estimate the quantity of use by different recreational user groups, and apply these methods on the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Madison, Ruby, and upper Yellowstone rivers. This information will be used to inform public processes related to managing recreation to balance trout population management with recreational opportunity.
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Effects of habitat fragmentation by Toston Dam on genetic structure and movement of Brown Trout in the upper Missouri River
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December 2024
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The effects that Toston Dam has had on Brown Trout in the Upper Missouri River drainage by impeding upstream passage for 83 years are not well understood. During autumn, upstream movement by spawning Brown Trout is halted by the dam. Local fishery managers have questioned whether these fish are inclined to return to their natal origins within the headwaters of the Missouri River or the upstream tributary, Sixteenmile Creek. The researchers are assessing the effect of Toston Dam on Brown Trout spawning migrations in the Missouri River and its headwaters using integrated genetics, otolith microchemistry, and telemetry. Physically moving fish up or downstream to reconnect sub-populations might be warranted.
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Influence of the Conservation Reserve Program on Population Structure, Demography, and Space Use by Greater Prairie-Chickens in Kansas and Nebraska
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September 2028
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is considered the most effective large-scale conservation effort affecting wildlife species in the United States. In the Great Plains, 4.18 million acres of CRP occurs in Kansas and Nebraska, potentially affecting a large number of wildlife species, including many grassland species that may rely on these landscapes for persistence and resilience to dynamic environments. Few studies have assessed the response of the greater prairie-chicken to the establishment of CRP, a species which has lost much of its historical range and is in decline. Kansas and Nebraska support the majority of extant greater prairie-chickens, though populations face multiple threats which may limit movement among remnant populations. The project will hierarchically evaluate the influence of CRP on greater prairie-chicken populations thought the collection of movement, vegetation, and genomic data sets and produce science that will form management actions on CRP enrollment as well as the species in the region.
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Effects of snag and release on survival and reproductive success of paddlefish in the upper Missouri River, Montana
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December 2026
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Paddlefish (<i>Polyodon spathula) </i>are native to the Missouri River in Montana and classified as a species of special concern. Although populations remain stable, populations are intensively managed to ensure that recreational harvest is sustainable. Population monitoring has been ongoing since the 1990s and the data collected is used to generate population estimates, age structure of the spawning stock, age and sex distribution of harvest, angler catch rates, harvest details, fish movement, habitat use, spawning, and recruitment dynamics. Exploitation rates for this population have been shown to be low; however, the snag and release component of this fishery continues to grow in popularity. Studies indicate that mortality associated with the snag and release event is low under relatively controlled field conditions. However, due to growing interest in snag and release and the relative uncontrolled nature of this activity in the upper Missouri River system, additional investigation is necessary to address the question of mortality associated with snag and release. As the popularity of the fishery increases the use of boats increases. Thus, a subcomponent of this study will be to quantify incidence and mortality associated with boat propeller strikes on paddlefish. Results will be used to guide paddlefish management and provide important information relative to regulation and or season structure changes. Additionally, information collected will be used to educate anglers on proper handling and care of paddlefish to minimize mortality on snagged and released paddlefish.
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Population genomics and genetic connectivity of lowland leopard frogs in southeast Arizona
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December 2025
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Lowland leopard frogs are an imperiled native species that historically occurred throughout much of central and southern Arizona. However, this species has declined throughout its range due to aquatic habitat degradation, invasive species, and disease. Translocation has been proposed as a management tool to recovery declining or extirpated lowland leopard frog populations particularly in the region around the Catalina and Rincon Mountains of southeast Arizona where robust populations of lowland leopard frogs still persist and can serve as source populations. However, information on the genetic relatedness and connectivity among populations is needed to guide translocation efforts. This project is being led by co-principal investigators Dr. Jessica Rick (University of Arizona) and Dr. Javan Bauder (Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit) with MS student Beth Hasl (University of Arizona). This project is a collaboration between the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Arizona, Arizona Game and Fish Department, U.S. Forest Service, Pima County, The Nature Conservancy, and Bureau of Land Management. We will use population genomics to describe the genetic structure of multiple lowland leopard frog populations within and around the Catalina-Rincon Mountains and Cienega Creek and San Pedro River drainages. We will also use landscape genetics determine how landscape features influence the degree of genetic connectivity among populations. This will allow land managers to identify sites most at-risk of genetic isolation and inbreeding and prioritize sites as sources and/or recipients of translocation.
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Avian diversity and use of utility-scale solar developments in agricultural environments
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July 2025
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Renewable energy development, particularly solar, continues to grow and expand its footprint on the U.S. landscape. However, the effects of solar development on natural systems and wildlife are poorly understood (Hernandez et al., 2014). Little research exists in the United States focused on how wildlife interacts with changes in land use associated with solar projects (Lovich & Ennen, 2011; McCrary et al., 1986; Nekola, 2012). As such, we evaluated the effects of utility-scale solar development on a segment of the wildlife community (i.e., birds) in the midwestern United States to provide a baseline for understanding those effects. We investigated occupancy and species richness of birds associated with existing solar facilities and vegetation management activities at those facilities.
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Density of American marten (Martes americana) in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota
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June 2025
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American marten (<i>Martes americana</i>) historically occurred in wooded areas in northeastern North Dakota (Bailey 1926, Adams 1961), but were considered extirpated from the state in the early 1900’s (Bailey 1926). However, research conducted in 2012 in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota confirmed presence of marten in 49% of sampling areas (Bagherian et al. 2012), suggesting that marten are present and may be more abundant than previously thought. Yet, in North Dakota marten are listed as a furbearer with a closed season and information regarding occurrence and incidental trapping are sparse and not useful in determining whether a regulated trapping season can be responsibly initiated. In partnership with North Dakota Game & Fish and the Natural Resource Department of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, we are conducting non-invasive genetic sampling to estimate marten abundance, density, and survival. This information may be used by managers to determine if a marten season can sustainably be implemented and potentially inform bag limits.
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Influence of environmental thresholds on trajectories of freshwater assemblages with
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September 2029
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The research team will work with managers and conservation practitioners to predict the level of disturbance leading to changes in species presence. This work will estimate the overall health of streams across prairie ecosystems. The results of this project will fill a critical knowledge gap needed to increase climate resilience of aquatic organisms dependent on prairie streams.
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GA DNR - Gill Net Comparison
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December 2024
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The specific objectives of this proposal are to (1) assess differences in the capture rate [i.e., catch per unit effort (CPUE; fish/net/night)] of GADNR and AFS nets for target sportfish species including Black Crappie, Channel Catfish, Striper (including hybrids) and Walleye across ~4-6 selected Georgia reservoirs ranging in productivity; (2) assess differences in the size structure of captured target sportfish between the GADNR and AFS nets, and (3) develop methods for estimating conversion factors for CPUE to allow continued use of historical data.
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Using a 20-yr time series to understand spawning dynamics and larval habitat of four billfish species in West Hawaiʻi’s ‘Kona Hotspot’
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January 2025
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Understanding the habitat requirements of species throughout their life history provides insight into the environmental drivers that regulate their distribution and abundance. Identifying essential habitats used by larval and juvenile fishes has become a critical component of Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management (EBFM) especially for commercially important fisheries species. Billfishes (Blue Marlin <i>Makaira nigricans</i>, Striped Marlin <i>Kajikia audax</i>, Shortbilled Spearfish <i>Tetrapturus angustirostris</i>, and Swordfish <i>Xiphias gladius</i>) are popular sportfishing targets in West Hawaiʻi Island. Despite their commercial and recreational value, there is currently no published information on larval distribution and habitat requirements for billfishes in Hawaiian waters rendering it difficult to predict how environmental change will impact billfish recruitment in this region. This research is being conducted in collaboration with researchers from the University of Hawaii and the National Marine Fisheries Service. This project creates a fundamental baseline of information on larval billfish presence and associated habitat characteristics off West Hawaiʻi improving stock assessments related to spawning and recruitment and providing accurate information for future modeling. These results could also be invaluable for exploring the impacts of changing ocean conditions on preferred larval habitat, and predict billfish spawning conditions and resulting availability of billfish spawning habitat off West Hawaiʻi.
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Do Humpback Whales Provide Nutrient Subsidies to Hawaiian Nearshore Fisheries?
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April 2025
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Humpback Whales are highly migratory species that typically overwinter in Hawaiian nearshore waters. During their stay in Hawaii, Humpback Whales slough off their skin as part of an annual molt and give birth. Both of these processes result in the release of a substantial amount of biomass and nutrients in the form of dead skin, placentas, and other material transported to Hawai'i from Alaska which could have major ramifications for local productivity patterns and fisheries. Understanding the degree to which nearshore productivity is influenced by these nutrient subsidies is important because Humpback Whale migration patterns are shifting in response to changing climatic conditions. This work represents a collaboration with University of Hawai'i researchers, the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, and the Hawai'i Division of Aquatic Resources. Changing nearshore productivity patterns due to altered Humpback Whale migratory patterns may result in changes to fish abundance and population structures in the main Hawaiian Islands. This work will allow resource managers to develop and adopt climate-resilient management strategies to ensure sustainable nearshore fisheries.
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Kala (Naso unicornis) stock assessment in Maui
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May 2026
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Effective management of reef fishes is constrained by a lack of spatially and temporally relevant life-history data. For example, Bluespine Unicornfish Naso unicornis, commonly referred to by its Hawaiian name: Kala, is ecologically important as its browsing activities on turf-forming macroalgae aids in maintaining resilient coral reef ecosystems. It is also a heavily targeted species in both commercial and noncommercial fisheries. Yet little is known of its basic biology beyond the heavily-fished waters around Honolulu on Oahu. The most recent length-based stock assessment performed on the species estimated that the Hawaiian population is at < 10% of its spawning potential ratio (SPR), suggesting Kala may be experiencing heavy recruitment overfishing throughout the man Hawaiian Islands, but this assessment was performed almost exclusively with data from Oahu. With the recent push for community-led fishery management efforts, more spatially explicit data are required. The primary collaborator for this work is the Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources, but local fishers are vital partners to the success of this effort. When completed, this project will inform management decisions for Kala around Maui, Molokai, and Hawaii Island.
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A decision analytic framework for assessing aquatic invasive species status, risk, and biosecurity measures for three units of the National Park System in the Southeastern U.S.
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July 2027
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Aquatic invasive species are a concern for National Parks throughout the southeastern United States. There is not a coordinated plan for early detection and rapid response among the parks. A coordinated plan, which includes decisions about which actions would be most helpful under a given set of circumstances, would enable NPS staff to more quickly and efficiently respond to threats. We are partnering with the National Parks Service and the USGS Wetlands Science Center to conduct a series of structured decision making workshops in three parks within the southeastern US. This project will result in an EDRR plan that can be applied to parks throughout the region, as well as training for NPS staff and partners. We will also update the WildSpotter app to allow citizens to directly report sightings of AIS in and around the parks.
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Estimation of United States Atlantic Red Snapper Abundance (phase II)
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August 2025
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Previously collected trap and video data, along with ROV survey data, will be used to estimate red snapper abundance within an integrated population modeling framework. Population models require spatial replication over the study area of interest and temporal replicates that are independent but close enough in time to ensure population closure. The proposed study would use trap and video count data to estimate detection probability and abundance of red snapper with an integrated populaiton model fitted in a Bayesian framework. Covariates that influence red snapper detection probability and abundance will be used to predict abundance (with associated uncertainty) at habitats that are similar to SEFIS sampling sites but not sampled. We will conduct workshops with reef fishery stakeholders to assist with identification of non-sampled hard bottom habitats. Based on past work, covariates important to red snapper abundance are likely to include bottom temperature, depth, latitude, and substrate type. A key question with this work is the spatial area that an individual SEFIS trap and video station effectively samples. Recently, project collaborators measured the response of red snapper around baited traps using fine spatial scale telemetry data, and response distance information will be used to estimate the sampled area at trap stations. Red snapper densities derived from ROV surveys will also be estimated at habitat types generally not sampled by SEFIS. Spatial maps of important covariates and habitat type will be used to generate abundance by area across the study region. These individual abundance values would be summed to estimate abundance of red snapper (with associated uncertainty) in the US Atlantic.
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Atlantic salmon adult passage
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December 2027
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The Piscataquis River is a major tributary to the Penobscot River with the potential to produce over 70,000 Atlantic Salmon smolts. With the completion of habitat accessibility improvements in the lower Penobscot (i.e. removal of Great Works and Veazie Dams by the Penobscot River Restoration Trust (PRRT) in 2012 and 2013), there is an important opportunity to ensuring safe, timely and effective access to the large amount of quality habitat in the upper Piscataquis River basin. There is an urgent need for targeted assessment of the movements and habitat uses of adult Atlantic Salmon and other species; the timing is critical because of targeted smolt stocking completed in 2022 and 2023 that potentially provides a source for “known origin” returning adults in 2024 and 2025 (for 2 SW adults) with homing motivation above all mainstem dams in the Piscataquis River. This work is highly collaborative with the Penobscot RIver Restoration Trust, The Nature Conservancy and the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service. In addition we will collaborate with industrial partners Brookfield Power and Kruger Industries to operate on hydropower dam facilities. This study aims to tag adult Atlantic Salmon returning to the Milford Fish Lift in spring 2024 and 2025 to evaluate upstream passage for Atlantic Salmon at the Howland and Browns Mills Dams. The study will also use acoustic telemetry to document use of cool water refugia and tributaries in the Piscataquis River. Telemetry data will be examined to assess passage effectiveness and delays at the Howland and Browns Mills Project. Timing of detections at receivers near the confluence of the Piscataquis/Penobscot Rivers will be used to calculate average delays of approaching fish, as well as overall migration times.
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Not just a needle in a haystack: using models to understand the potential impact of a round goby invasion on the Lake Champlain ecosystem
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June 2027
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The Round Goby has not yet been detected in Lake Champlain, but they are present in nearby waterways and may invade Lake Champlain soon. This study will use advanced modeling methods to predict where Round Goby might be found within Lake Champlain and how they would effect other species currently in the lake through trophic interactions.
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Survival and habitat use of Atlantic Salmon in Lake Champlain
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July 2028
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Lake Champlain historically supported populations of Atlantic salmon, but they were extirpated from the basin in the mid-1800s due to overfishing and habitat degradation. Restocking efforts began in the 1970s, but no self-sustaining populations have established themselves. Furthermore, they is an extremely truncated age distribution, with most adults returning to spawn after a single year in the lake. Acoustic telmetry and genetic mark-recapture help inform our understanding of land locked Atlnatic salmon. In this project, we will use acoustic telemetry and genetic mark-recapture to test different hypotheses related to stocking methods. This will help identify the behaviors and factors related to salmon survival and growth, which are necessary to inform managers about approaches to improve managements and establish a self-sustaining population. The project partners are the USFWS and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. Results from this study will help managers understand the most effective stocking methods and will inform a life-cycle model that will be used to better understand the limiting factors in the establishment of a self-sustaining salmon population.
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Managing rivers in real time: a constrained optimization method for water management
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December 2025
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Rivers and streams throughout the world have been dammed for flood control, irrigation, and water storage for centuries. In more recent decades, the effects of flow regulation on river and stream ecology such as water temperature alteration and disruption of geomorphic processes have gained more attention. Additionally, flow regulation reduces or eliminates synchronicity of regulated releases with changes in runoff and response of unregulated streams to precipitation events. We developed a real time management (RTM) tool that allows river managers to synchronize dam releases with naturally occurring runoff patterns, providing greater ecological benefits than traditional environmental flow techniques. Using 5-day river forecasts and flood control thresholds, RTM is robust to concerns of infrastructure and human safety, while also staying within annual water volume allocations. RTM provides multiple benefits to river ecology, substantially increasing river restoration effectiveness.
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Impacts of predation and habitat on Central Valley Chinook smolt survival
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June 2024
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The Sacramento River in California’s Central Valley is home to four distinct ecotypes of Chinook Salmon (fall, late-fall, winter, spring runs), all of which have declined precipitously since the mid-1800’s. Poor juvenile outmigration survival has been identified as a major concern for population stability in the region, and past research has suggested that this may be due to high levels of non-native predators encountered by Chinook smolts as they migrate downstream. We used Cormack-Jolly-Seber mark-recapture models in a Bayesian framework and modeled survival as a factor of predation using the mean free-path length model (XT model), which estimates a relative index of predator densities throughout a reach based on the distance traveled and travel time of migrating prey (i.e., Chinook smolts). The project partners are the University of California - Santa Cruz, NOAA - Southwest Fisheries Science Center, and the USGS Western Fisheries Research Center. Results from this study can help inform management actions that support greater survival for migrating salmon smolts by providing estimates of the primary drivers of predation risk/mortality in Sacramento River, and how these factors vary through space, time, and among Chinook Salmon ecotypes.
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Klamath C. shasta: annelid distribution, infection prevalence, and water management.
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January 2028
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C. shasta has been implicated as a major source of juvenile mortality for Klamath River juvenile salmonids. Better understanding of the ecology of the parasite is essential to alter resource management and reduce the parasite impacts. Salmon populations in the Klamath Basin have been decreasing, and face a litany of survival pressures. In order to recover salmon populations, we need to better understand disease processes to improve management and increase juvenile salmonid survival. This long-term and ongoing work has been done in collaboration with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Oregon State University, and has frequently relied on funding from USFWS and USBOR. This work has had substantial impacts on water management decision making in the Klamath Basin. Current flow planning is based on outcomes of our scientific findings, and our statistical models are used to inform regulatory compliance on an annual basis.
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White-tailed deer integrated population modeling
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September 2029
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In Alabama, the white-tailed deer is the highest priority wildlife species from a state management focus. Given the importance of the species, a scientifically defensible, data-driven basis for Alabama deer management decision-making by ADCNR is a fundamental expectation of stakeholders. The ability of ADCNR to make data-informed decisions would be greatly enhanced if multiple data sources can be integrated into formal population-estimation and projection models to better monitor deer herd size and population structure. This research is being undertaken through partnership with researchers at Auburn University and biologists at ADCNR. By integrating data from diverse sources, we may be able to improve precision of deer population parameters which will scale up to improve efficiency and defensibility of harvest decisions.
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Effects of temperature on fisheries across Colorado
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June 2026
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In the face of climate change, water demand, and extensive urbanization, water temperature is becoming an increasingly challenging pollutant in Colorado. Current temperature standards governing thermally-altering effluent are based on laboratory studies from a few select species that have adequate laboratory-based thermal data and most of laboratory data is focused on maximum thermal tolerances. More field data are needed to adequately address regulatory standards. Many agencies are collecting temperature data, but none specifically place their monitoring loggers where fisheries data are present. Thus, many sites have temperature data or fisheries data, but it is rare to have both at the same location. This project will fill that data-gap by placing temperature loggers at sites with good fisheries data, but inadequate temperature data. In addition, data will be collected on temperature tolerances of fish species of concern in Colorado.
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Sea Turtle Demography
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January 2027
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The loggerhead sea turtle is a threatened species, including the Northwest Atlantic population. They face many threats, including fishery bycatch, and loss of foraging and nesting habitat. Monitoring sea turtles is difficult with much of it based on nest counts and tagging of nesting females. An evaluation of loggerhead monitoring and models to estimate nesting numbers and vital rates are needed to track the dynamics of nesting loggerheads. This project is a collaboration with the USGS Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, the University of Georgia, and state of Louisiana. nsights into monitoring design and effort needed to produce reasonable inference to loggerhead populations will inform USFWS and state agencies on the residual uncertainty about loggerhead dynamics that must be faced in making conservation decisions.
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Effects of Variation in Survival, Lek Attendance, Inter-lek Movement, and Detectability of Male Greater Sage-Grouse, Count Effort, and Male Age Ratio on Lek Count Monitoring Data
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June 2026
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Conservation of Greater Sage-Grouse (<i>Centrocercus urophasianus</i>) is a major focus of state and federal land and wildlife management agencies in the western U.S. Greater sage-grouse populations are typically monitored and managed using data obtained from lek counts, but the reliability of lek counts as an index to abundance is uncertain. An examination of the factors that partially drive lek counts, such as survival, lek attendance rates, and interlek movements is needed to help interpret changes in lek counts. The project is a collaboration with the sage grouse research program of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, based on their information needs. From the evaluation of factors affecting lek counts simulations of conducting lek counts will assist resource managers in interpreting lek count changes and thus inform their conservation decisions.
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META-ANALYSIS OF LEATHERBACK SEA TURTLE TAGGING DATA TO MODEL SURVIVAL, REMIGRATION, AND CLUTCH FREQUENCIES FOR THE NORTHWEST ATLANTIC POPULATION
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May 2024
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The Northwest Atlantic Population of the leatherback sea turtle, an endangered species, was increasing at the end of the 20th Century. However, nest count analyses indicate a declining trend over at least the last 25 years. It is not clear what demographic process(es) are causing this decline. A meta-analysis of tagging data across countries is needed to assess whether this decline is due to changes in survival, breeding probability, or reproductive effort. The project is a collaboration of researchers and biologists across multiple organizations, including WIDECAST, Ecolibrium, Inc., USGS Fort Collins Science Center, and many partners throughout Florida and the Caribbean, including the USFWS and NOAA in the USVI, Puerto Rico, and 12 other countries. The outcome of this analysis will inform conservation decisions such as mitigating bycatch in artisanal or commercial fisheries, or protecting nesting beaches.
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Science Support for Coal Creek Restoration: Fish, Habitat, People
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June 2026
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This project describes research and monitoring work to be done at Coal Creek (Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve, Alaska). It is intended to span a one-year period encompassing a ramp-up of activities to restore Coal Creek from its presently degraded channel caused by prior mining. The research centers on three themes: 1) fish origins and habitat use, 2) aquatic habitat assessment and characterization, and 3) partnership-building with Alaska Native communities in support of the restoration and broader activities to support Pacific salmon population recovery throughout the Yukon River Basin. The first two themes are intended to form the bulk of the research here, with the human-centric theme designed as exploratory in this first year. This research is expected to be implemented in close collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS), and to form the basis of a graduate thesis and additional products from scientists based at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. For fish, we will seek to better quantify present and potential (restored stream) future use of Coal Creek by Chinook and other Pacific Salmon species, in addition to other fishes. For habitat, we will work with NPS staff to determine the potential habitats that would be highest value for restoration to support salmon in Coal Creek, as well as any existing habitat characteristics that should be maintained. The bulk of our efforts in support of this objective will be to characterize the energetic requirements and potential for salmon growth in Coal Creek, based on temperature and food web sampling. For people, we will work with a social scientist and Alaska Native communities and organizations to contextualize the Coal Creek restoration from a human, and particularly an Indigenous, lens. A major intended outcome of this research overall is to help meet the interests of the National Park Service and restoration practitioners in understanding what benefits Coal Creek is currently providing to salmon and other fishes, particularly Chinook, and to the people who rely upon salmon. It also seeks, critically, to provide recommendations and predictions about how restoration activities may impact and ideally improve these conditions to aid in salmon recovery, both locally within Coal Creek and basin-wide.
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Ecological and fisheries impacts of “rusting rivers” in Northwest Alaska
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September 2026
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Climate change impacts are most apparent in the Arctic, perhaps nowhere more than in Northwest Alaska. In streams and rivers, possibly the most obvious of these climate change impacts, and certainly the most striking, is the recent appearance of ancient spring seeps that re-emerge as permafrost thaws. These seeps add reddish-orange colored water into streams and rivers, causing them to appear “rusted”. Although these “rusting rivers” are becoming increasingly common in this region, their appearance over the past few years is so new that very little is understood about their impacts on stream food webs and the fish that rely on them. This project aims to fill this void by providing important information about how, and for how long, rusting rivers impact aquatic life in streams. This is especially important because the fish in these streams, such as Dolly Varden (a relative of salmon and trout), are a crucial food resource for Alaska Native communities in the region, yet early results indicate that formerly healthy, fish-producing streams may be totally lacking in fish or other life within a year of “rusting”. If this is the case, and if rusting rivers become more and more common, entire fisheries may be at risk. Mining industries are also concerned that these seeps may be increasing pollution into streams, impacting their permitting and ability to effectively mine for minerals and other resources. Information about rusting river impacts is therefore needed now to help local communities and managers adapt to the fisheries and stream impacts of rusting rivers in the face of climate change. This project will generate a masters degree and multiple scientific papers on the impacts of rusting rivers on food webs, which will be presented directly to communities, industry, and state and federal managers in Northwest Alaska and throughout the Arctic.
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Enhancing the population genetics capabilities of CPW's aquatic research section
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December 2024
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The project will address the growing need to understand and use population genetics concerning the regulation and conservation of native and sport aquatic species. Enhanced data capabilities will allow CPW to better ensure that national and state regulations consider Colorado-specific fish and amphibian species and ecosystem concerns. The primary goal of the project is to provide support for data curation, data analysis, and manuscript/report writing related to population genetics projects within CPW’s Aquatic Research Section. Data will be used for the management of amphibian and fish populations in Colorado
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Using a whole-genome approach to distinguish native vs introduced genetic diversity in Colorado River Cutthroat Trout
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June 2025
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TBA
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Estimation of lake whitefish spawning stock abundance using close-kin mark-recapture
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December 2026
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Lake whitefish abundances have declined throughout the Great Lakes. Statistical catch-at-age models are used to monitor abundances; however, these models have several assumptions that are difficult to evaluate. We are implementing a close-kin mark-recapture framework to estimate lake whitefish stock sizes in Lake Michigan. This work will provide an alternative means of quantifying abundances for evaluation of current catch-at-age models. This project is being performed with researchers and agency managers from U.S. Geological Survey, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Results from this work will help managers assess the catch-at-age models that are routinely used to determine harvest rates of lake whitefish throughout the Great Lakes.
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Deploy and evaluate sea lamprey controls that supplement lampricides and barriers – SupCon Stage II
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December 2029
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Invasive sea lamprey are intensively managed throughout the Great Lakes using lampricides to control their abundance. However, concerns are increasing that lampricides may not provide a long-term control solution. Natural resource managers are concerned about risks for sea lamprey generating immunity to lampricides. If this occurs, sea lamprey abundances will likely increase dramatically, resulting in the impairment or loss to numerous Great Lakes fisheries. Therefore, we are evaluating the efficacy of a broad range of alternative control tactics. This work is a collaboration between U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan State University, and the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The results of this research will determine future treatment strategies for sea lamprey throughout the Great Lakes. The most effective treatments are likely those specifically tailored to the conditions of a given location, which this project will enable.
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Aquatic species distribution modeling to inform recovery and conservation
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September 2028
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The southeastern United States is home to almost 40% of the world’s freshwater mussel species and 91% of US mussel species, 79% of the freshwater fishes in the U.S. and Canada and approximately 33% of the world’s crayfish species. This incredible biodiversity presents unique challenges because of the increasing threats (e.g., land conversion, habitat loss, changes in flow, increased sedimentation) and predicted urban growth facing the southeastern U.S. Given these challenges within the southeastern U.S. for aquatic species we propose the following work to aid in this process: 1) develop iSDMs for a suite of priority species using all available data, 2) estimate drivers of the distribution of priority species at multiple scales, and 3) develop a Decision Support Tool to provide a transparent, rigorous, and reproducible foundation for evaluating a suite of conservation actions. This project will support management of imperiled species multiple ways. 1), the project will integrate disparate data types to uncover drivers of species trends and distributions; 2), the project will provide high-resolution predicted distributional data to inform consultation decisions for stakeholders within these species’ ranges; 3), integrated species distribution models can be used to link management actions to expected species distributions, thereby informing decision-making. This project is a collaboration among the NC Unit, NC State University, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
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2025 MSCGP: A national strategy for the future of reservoir fisheries in the 21st century: a blueprint for proactive, strategic, synthetic, multistate collaboration and co-management. Proposal Submitted but Declined
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October 2024
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The purpose of our proposal is to bring together reservoir fisheries researchers and managers across states to <b><i>co-develop a collaborative, strategic blueprint that will guide <u>future</u> reservoir fisheries conservation actions (research, management, planning, administration).</i></b> Our proposal addresses a timely priority because reservoirs support biodiversity by providing fish habitat and boost local economies through vital recreational fisheries and other societal benefits. The fisheries profession has made progress on <u>existing </u>reservoir fisheries problems and in using <u>established </u>reservoir fisheries sampling protocols. However, <u>current</u> management approaches are locally-developed and fragmented such that they fail to capitalize on the potential for extensive collaboration that could advance <u>future</u> reservoir fisheries conservation. Furthermore, reservoir fisheries are undergoing abrupt and often unpredictable changes related to climate, invading species, aging, and other anthropogenic impacts for which <u>current </u>reservoir fisheries planning and management are inadequate. <b><i>To effectively navigate these <u>immediate and future challenges</u>, a broad community of reservoir fisheries professionals can benefit from a regional (multistate) strategic and collaborative action plan, such as what we propose here</i></b><i>. </i>Phase 1 (for which funding is requested in 2025) will establish this network of reservoir fisheries specialists. These experts from a range of states will play a role in co-developing the contours of a strategic, proactive <u>21<sup>st</sup> century</u> blueprint and roadmap for <u>future</u> reservoir fisheries conservation. The grant PIs will coordinate this network through the following activities: (a) compiling information on shared <u>immediate and future</u> threats to reservoir fisheries across states, (b) assessing potential outcomes of these <u>present and future</u> threats and effects of a range of remediation strategies, (c) conducting surveys of reservoir fisheries data availability across states, (d) organizing online discussions across state personnel regarding threats, remedies, data syntheses, and strategic planning, (e) orchestrating an online workshop to address, discuss, summarize the above issues, and (f) providing summary documents to map out a blueprint for <u>future</u><i> </i>multistate reservoir fisheries conservation<i>. </i>Deliverables will include oral and written summaries for each activity.<i> </i>Together our proposal activities will provide the following expected outcome: establish a theory of change that will collectively help all reservoir fisheries professionals prioritize limited time and funding to successfully navigate <u>future</u> change. Many reservoir fisheries experts will be part of the network of participants that we will engage here. As a result, reservoir professionals nationwide will be the intended beneficiaries of the strategic planning and network coordination that will result from our grant. In summary, the co-developed blueprint that will result from our proposal will address <u>existing and emerging</u> challenges and help position reservoir professionals for <u>future</u> success in the face of abrupt environmental and societal change. There are no subrecipient activities associated with the proposed project.
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C3PO - Connecting conservation culture to policy opportunity - available right now in a next-generation land grant galaxy near you. Proposal Pending
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December 2026
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The rationale for our grant is that we know there is demand both at the University and in the community-at-large for more knowledge creation and knowledge dissemination on issues of environmental sustainability, conservation, and management. We also know that environmental science programs (within the Division of Biology and other applied natural science departments) do an excellent job of teaching undergraduates and graduate students discipline-specific scientific concepts and methods. Unfortunately, we see that upon graduation students who are well trained in these natural science fields and are interested in non-academic conservation jobs (e.g.,agencies, industry, NGOs) are currently lacking a full understanding of how public agencies and conservation institutions function. In other words, these highly qualified natural science students are not fully prepared for their environmental careers in public service (e.g., state agencies, federal agencies, environmental industries, nongovernmental agencies). Technically trained natural scientists need additional training to be effective at conservation. Training in (1) the ability to lead and manage organizations that ultimately serve the public good, (2) how to work collaboratively across sectors, and (3) ways to engage science in the policy process will benefit our students and stakeholders. Conversely, we have a number of students in public administration fields that are well trained in many skills needed for someone who is interested in public service, but these policy-public administration students that are interested in environmental protection or conservation often lack knowledge about the additional technical aspects of complex environmental science problems. We seek a way to marry our and KSU's expertise to provide a practical bridge that combines strengths across university departments, eliminates weaknesses of specialized programs, and provides productive opportunities for KSU students and the Kansas stakeholder agencies who will employ our graduates in the future. When the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan was introduced, we became even more sure that the direction we suggest here is needed. Providing this bridge is a win-win for all. As one final comment, as our prototype develops, we will seek to include other environmental-oriented units on campus.
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Investigating stream conductivity and effects on benthic macroinvertebrates in the Charles River Watershed
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December 2027
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Freshwater salinization is a major concern in temperate climates where road salt is used to manage snow and ice on roadways. Our recent work in the greater Boston area showed that impervious cover is the major driver of stream conductivity, although conductivity may be modulated by human behaviors (e.g., sidewalk salting, road sweeping). Sensor data provided evidence that conductivity varies with discharge, with high pulses during winter storms and evidence of dilution during other times of the year. Recently, the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) purchased conductivity sensors, and they are deploying them upstream and downstream of potential salt sources (e.g., road crossings) to better understand acute and chronic disturbances. This project will (1) assess effects of road crossings on conductivity across seasons and storms, and (2) compare benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages upstream and downstream of road crossings to understand potential effects of road salt on stream ecosystems.
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Creating a codeveloped, evidence-based action agenda that integrates ecological, policy, and practitioner needs to develop options and next steps for aquatic systems threatened by human and climate impacts. Mather and co-PIs. Full Proposal Pending
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December 2027
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<b><i>The Need for the Effort We Propose Here.</i></b><b> </b>Fisheries professionals routinely make data-driven decisions related to stream and river biota (e.g., water allocation, flow regulation, ecological status, permitting, habitat management, restoration priorities). Conservation challenges are increasing rapidly and the complexity of anthropogenic and <i>climate</i> impacts are accelerating. Existing workplans for most natural resource professionals (including freshwater fisheries researchers and managers) are no longer adequate to keep up with this emerging suite of environmental problems. Unfortunately, most professionals do not have the time or bandwidth to take on an additional leadership-related work task. <i>An effective, forward-looking, science-driven climate adaptation initiative that coordinates, directs, visions, and synthesizes the collaborative needs of current professionals, as we propose here, can fill this gap.</i><br><i> </i><br><b><i>Objectives </i></b><br>Co-identify urgent unresolved problems facing each sector (ecology, social science, management)Synthesize and integrate the empirical evidence from the policy and ecological literature Build a suite of scenarios that vision multiple, science-driven outcomesFacilitate discussions (and create a record) of scenarios, outcomes, gaps, needs, prioritiesCo-develop an action plan for research prioritization, decision making, and next steps<br><b><i>Uniqueness.</i></b><b> </b>Our approach is innovative in three ways.<br>First, we seek a true co-identification of needs and co-development of next steps among ecological researchers (advancing the empirical evidence base for <i>climate </i>change), social science researchers (human dimensions of <i>climate </i>change), and practitioners (science to support <i>climate-</i>smart planning processes for natural resource decision makers). Many multidisciplinary initiatives have been undertaken, but these efforts are often pre-scripted in favor of either researchers (request manager input on pre-determined research priorities) or in favor of managers (request research proposals on independently determined management needs). We intend to solicit and integrate input from all sectors.<br>Second, many strategic planning formats either prioritize small-scale empirical findings (research reviews) or provide futuristic discussions (think tanks). We will combine large-scale need assessments, small-scale evidence syntheses, multi-scale scenario development, and short and long term planning.<br>Third, we propose a thoughtfully choreographed series of integrative activities:<br>Using a broadly targeted <i>webinar</i>, followed by <i><u>focus groups</u></i>, all sectors will identify urgent needs related to <i>climate impacts on aquatic biota conservation </i>(result: <u>written synthesis</u>).<i>2a. Social science researchers </i>will <i><u>summarize</u> </i>what <i>climate</i>-related policies exist for native prairie fish management through a <i>university-based</i> <i><u>written</u></i> <i>policy gap analysis.</i><br><i>2b. Ecological researchers</i> will synthesize connections between specific <i>climate</i> impacts (identified by all sectors) and fish taxa to prioritize across-state biotic vulnerabilities using a <i><u>written </u>university-based literature review</i>.<br>3. Using 1-2 above, the research team will <u>create “s<i>cenarios</i></u>” that <i>visualize climate-related outcomes</i> [e.g., resist, adapt, direct (RAD)] for select high-priority problems identified in (1)<br><i>4. All sectors</i> will<i> </i>participate in <i>multiple structured engagement processes</i> (facilitation, Delphi method, expert imputation<u>)</u> of priorities, syntheses, and scenarios (result: <u>written synthesis</u>).<br><i>5. Researchers and managers</i> will <i>review and edit a co-developed written actionable science plan </i>to develop pathways to “best” outcomes (result: <u>a written synthesis</u>).<br><b><i> </i></b><br><b><i>Summary</i></b><b>. </b>Our visioning effort will integrate ecology, social science and practitioner perspectives to address an urgent <i>climate</i> priority for 21<sup>st</sup> century conservation professionals, i.e., maintaining and restoring native biodiversity.
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Little Brown Bat Habitat Association Modeling
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December 2026
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Little brown bat is currently under review for listing on the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Without having a management plan, or best management practices, the threatened or endangered species listing would negatively impact training and development on military lands. US Army Garrison (USAG) Alaska began proactively surveying for little brown bats in 2014-2017. Funding at the time did not allow for model development across all military lands. This project is a collaboration between the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and USAG Alaska. The proposed project will refine habitat suitability modeling for roosting bats and maternity colonies. The project also proposes to identify additional areas important to bats for use in future management planning.
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Data Collation and Geodatabase Development for Adaptive Management on Military Lands
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December 2026
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US Army Garrison Alaska (USAG Alaska) requires habitat and association information in order to revise current remediation and restoration methods to minimize impacts. The USAG Alaska has invested resources to obtain land classification and habitat information as well as bird and bat habitat use and procuring high quality imagery and LiDAR data to assess changes to habitat over time. However, many of these studies are over 20 years old and the relevant data has never been collated into a digital format for use in management planning. This project is collaboration between the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the USAG Alaska. The proposed project will collate existing data and produce a geodatabase critical for evaluating future projects. The information will lead to increased mitigation success while adapting to a changing climate.
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Wolf Predation and Chronic Wasting Disease in Wisconsin
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July 2026
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Chronic wasting disease is a fatal, transmissible spongiform encephalopathy that uniquely affects free-ranging deer. There are no prophylactic or therapeutic treatments. The potential impact of selective removal of chronic wasting disease-positive deer by canids like wolves and coyotes on chronic wasting disease transmission dynamics is under-investigated, yet an important consideration for wildlife managers. For example, it is unknown whether canids might preferentially target chronic wasting disease infected prey, and what the consequences could be for long term population dynamics of predators, prey and disease. However, given the chronic nature of chronic wasting disease and its neurological and physical effects, symptomatic individuals are expected to have a heightened risk of predation. This is a collaboration between University of Wisconsin - Madison, the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, the Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This research will provide scientific results to enable managers and conservationists to evaluate the degree to which coyote and wolf predation enhances human-hunter-based management of chronic wasting disease.
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Investigating environmental transmission of chronic wasting disease
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July 2026
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Chronic wasting disease is a fatal prion disease affecting deer species, which has negative effects on affected populations and wildlife conservation. Chronic wasting disease is caused by an infectious misfolded protein, called a prion, that can be transmitted directly, from an infected to a susceptible host through close contact, or indirectly, through host contact with prions in the environment. Little is currently known about the environmental transmission pathway, and its importance in disease spread in deer populations. This project investigates environmental transmission of chronic wasting disease in white-tailed deer (<i>Odocoileus virginianus</i>) in southwestern Wisconsin. This project is a collaboration between the Wisconsin and Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Units, the University of Wisconsin - Madison, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the National Wildlife Health Center, and the University of Minnesota. This investigation of transmission risk at potential environmental reservoirs will provide results to help guide managers’ decision-making and help focus response efforts on high-impact transmission mechanisms and site types.
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Mechanisms of chronic wasting disease transmission
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December 2029
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Chronic wasting disease is a major management concern for wildlife agencies and understanding the principles of chronic wasting disease transmission is crucial for developing effective disease control strategies. Many fundamental questions critical to managing this important wildlife disease remain unanswered, including aspects of prion variation, prion survival in the environment, chronic wasting disease transmission, disease processes in infected hosts, and spillover risk to other species. This project is a collaboration between the US Geological Survey's Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit and National Wildlife Health Center, and the University of Wisconsin - Madison. The project will generate a graduate dissertation on chronic wasting disease transmission, providing scientific results that will inform decision making.
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Building international capacity for thermal mapping of rivers in a changing climate
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July 2028
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Cold water refuge habitats are critical for ensuring the persistence of and conferring resiliency to Atlantic salmon <i>(Salmo salar)</i>, Eastern Brook Trout<i> (Salvelinus fontinalis)</i>, and other cold-water fishes in a changing climate. This project is a four-year endeavor to collaborate across nations to gain capacity, provide on the ground proof of concept, and support ongoing recovery of salmonid species. Our focus will be on the inclusion of international and indigenous partners through workshop participation, co-development of applied research, and active recruitment of international collaborators, a PhD student, and a post-doctoral associate.
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Integrated Monitoring Plan Development for Native and Non-Native Fishes at Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada
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December 2026
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Monitoring for population status and trends is a critical component to successful conservation and management of freshwater fishes. However, integrated status and trend monitoring efforts for native and invasive fishes that combine traditional active and passive capture methods with single- and multiple-species eDNA assays have yet to be developed for desert ecosystems. A modern, formalized sampling design, analysis, and reporting framework is needed to institutionalize science-based management and advance our understanding of native and nonnative fishes at Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (AMNWR), Nevada. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the U.S. Geological Survey, University of Nevada, Reno, Washington State University, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Desert Refuge Complex, and the Nevada Department of Wildlife. We will develop a peer reviewed integrated status and trend monitoring plan for native and non-native aquatic taxa at AMNWR that incorporates eDNA assays, traditional fish sampling, and structured decision making.
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Landscape Watershed Condition and Drought Vulnerability Assessment in the Western U.S.
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May 2029
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Climate warming and persistent drought have drawn increasing attention to declining availability of water across western landscapes. However, a knowledge gap in our understanding of ecological drought effects in dryland ecoregions is how watershed conditions (e.g., instream habitat conditions, riparian and upland<br>vegetation health) and hydrology (e.g., stream flows, water temperatures and quality) interact to<br>affect the flow of energy from aquatic to terrestrial habitats and vice versa. Our assessment framework will include a fully integrated, social-ecological assessment of drought vulnerability within watersheds in the Great Basin and Western U.S. Such an assessment is designed with the specific intent of informing drought adaptation actions in the face of increasing concerns over drought and climate change.
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Integrating Research and Monitoring Programs to Quantify Abundance, Occupancy, and Persistence Probability: Canada Lynx at the Edge of their Southern Range
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December 2025
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This study aims to develop and apply methods that combine less expensive survey methods (e.g., detection/non-detection data) with targeted research studies (e.g., capture-recapture) to estimate lynx abundance, quantify lynx population growth and distribution, and identify landscape variables that influence lynx persistence.
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Assessment and mitigation of potential impact of the Southeast Supply Enhancement Project on Roanoke Logperch
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May 2025
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Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company is planning the Southeast Supply Enhancement Project, which includes approximately 31 miles of 42-inch-diameter pipeline traversing Pittsylvania County, VA and Rockingham County, NC – designated as the Eden Loop. Several federally protected aquatic species (i.e., Roanoke Logperch [RLP], multiple mussels) are known from, or may occur in, streams crossed by Eden Loop. We are working with staff at Williams SSC to design pre-construction water quality monitoring, instream embeddedness surveys, benthic macroinvertebrate surveys, and sediment transport modeling to be used in assessing potential Project impacts on federally protected aquatic species. findings will be be used to avoid and minimize potential adverse project impacts on federally protected aquatic species.
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Exploring eDNA as a stream bioassessment tool
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September 2024
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In this project, we are exploring the utility of supplementing conventional biological sampling for macroinvertebrates and fishes with eDNA metabarcoding. We will use the same study sites and sampling periods being used to assess efficacy of agricultural BMPs in the Chesapeake Bay basin (see above). To account for DNA inputs from upstream, we will sample eDNA from both the up- and downstream ends of each stream segment. eDNA data will be compared to data collected via conventional biological sampling to assess the comparability of the two approaches. Findings wiil be useful to agencies conducting bioassessments.
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An Interdisciplinary Assessment of Current and Historical Population Dynamics of Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks in Hilo Bay, Hawai’i
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May 2025
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Monitoring data necessary to identify critical habitats and assess the exploitation patterns<br>of early life history stages in sharks are often insufficient, preventing resource managers from<br>eliminating the possibility that alteration of nursery habitats and/or fishing pressure during early life history stages are potential drivers of population decline. Nursery habitat requirements for most shark species are unknown, but even when identified, long term monitoring programs focused on juvenile sharks and their nursery habitats remain rare. Incorporating the use of local ecological knowledge can potentially fill gaps in monitoring data allowing for a better understanding of the habitat requirements and use patterns of juvenile sharks. This work was undertaken in collaboration with the fishing community in Hilo, Hawaii, as well as the Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources and the Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center. In addition to demonstrating historical and current patterns of abundance of juvenile sharks in Hilo Bay, this work will also generate a framework for integrating local ecological knowledge into monitoring programs employing more commonly used approaches such as hook and line and eDNA surveys.
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Effects of sampling designs for remotely operated vehicles on fish abundance estimates
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December 2025
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) uses a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to monitor fish species that occur in complex benthic habitats with a goal of generating density estimates for groundfishes that are primarily of historical and current recreational and commercial fisheries importance. The variety of life histories, abundances, and habitat preferences of the suite of groundfish species in the survey area presents trade-offs when attempting to design efficient standardized multi-species surveys. Despite WDFW’s mandate to manage numerous groundfish species, targeting Bocaccio and Yelloweye Rockfish has been a primary driver of the ROV survey efforts. The project is a collaboration of researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the University of Washington. We are identifying how different ROV field methods capture target species with heterogeneous spatial distributions and how potential differences among methods influence density estimates. This study will directly inform standardization of ROV field survey operations relative to target species abundances and distributions for resource management agencies.
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Investigating the influence of Artificial Light at Night on juvenile sockeye salmon behavior and predation risk in an urban lake
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December 2026
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Salmon and their predators are primarily visual feeders, but artificial light at night disrupts natural light cycles by extending low-light conditions, increasing nocturnal light levels, and obscuring seasonal light fluctuations. As artificial light at night increases in urban watersheds, even a small shift in night time light could create large changes in fish distribution, behavior, and foraging vulnerability for at-risk sockeye salmon. Our findings will help fishery managers quantify the current predation pressure on juvenile salmon populations and identify areas for light mitigation. This data will provide crucial insights into the impact of artificial light on salmon behavior and distribution through daily, lunar, and seasonal cycles.
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A comprehensive movement model for returning Steelhead in the Columbia River Basin
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March 2025
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The Columbia River Basin is a complex social-ecological system that has been significantly modified through the construction of hundreds of dams, with major impacts to wild salmonids. The transformation of a free-flowing river into a highly controlled series of reservoirs requires that intentional decisions be made about how to manage the flow of the river when it comes to balancing the needs of food, energy, and fish. This problem is further complicated by the many different species of fish, their different life stages, and different timings of migration. We are using 20 years of data to jointly model the impacts of climate and hydropower on returning Steelhead from their arrival at Bonneville Dam to their final detection in the basin. This approach allows us to understand the relative importance of different factors in determining the fates of returning adults, which is key to informing management actions that are effective for population recovery, cost-effective, and responsive to a changing climate.
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Examining spatiotemporal patterns of marine debris in Puget Sound, Washington
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June 2025
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Marine debris is a persistent pollution issue in coastal communities around the world. Man-made litter and material that is lost or discarded in the ocean can accumulate and endanger marine life (eg, lost fishing gear that "ghost" fishes). Since 1987, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has conducted annual trawl surveys to assess bottomfish populations in Puget Sound. In addition to documenting the organisms that inhabit the seafloor, these surveys also identify and record debris caught in each trawl, including aluminum, plastic, glass, and derelict fishing gear. Among other details, the WDFW’s extensive records include the region, depth, type, and abundance of debris to give the best picture of what man-made materials are found on the seafloor of Puget Sound. Despite continued collection, this dataset has not yet been formally analyzed. This project aims to investigate the distribution and abundance of marine debris throughout various regions of the Sound over time. Analysis of this dataset will aid in the understanding and awareness of marine debris in Puget Sound, which is vital to informing effective clean up and prevention efforts to make community waters cleaner and safer for both humans and marine life.
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Optimizing Sampling of PFAS in Maine Fishes by Improving our Understanding of Variability
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December 2027
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PFAS compounds are of increasing human health and environmental concern. Ensuring efficient and representative sampling will be important to evaluating PFAS risk in Maine. Variability exists in current fish collection methods, sample sizes, species, and waterbodies sampled within and outside of Maine. Age, sex, size, metabolic rate, and other characteristics may influence PFAS accumulation for individual fish. The PFAS compounds in water responsible for accumulation in fish may also change seasonality with variability in hydrological conditions. This project aims to tackle questions on how this variability, variability within a species and variability across species impacts assimilation and sample results in Maine fishes.
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Assessing and mapping instream embeddedness for Strategic Habitat Units (SHUs) in Alabama and adjoining states
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October 2025
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Strategic Habitat Units (SHUs) were delineated to focus conservation and recovery actions in watersheds with many at-risk aquatic species. We will predict and map mean embeddedness for all gravel-bed stream segments draining four physiographic regions (Highland Rim, Cumberland Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Piedmont) in the SHUs. We will use publicly available, remotely sensed data on channel characteristics<i> </i>to predict embeddedness. Further, in four SHUs – representing a wide range of physiographic conditions and at-risk aquatic species – we will conduct repeated intensive field surveys to measure embeddedness and other channel features, then use those data to refine our predictions. We will work closely with Region 4 FWS biologists to choose field sites and apply the new geospatial layers of embeddedness to conservation discussions and decisions germane to the many at-risk aquatic species in the SHUs. Our analytical approach can be applied to many additional drainages across Region 4.
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Development and publication of a generic Resource Equivalency Analysis (REA) model for freshwater mussels for use in Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration (NRDAR) cases
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June 2025
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We are developing a standardized REA model to be peer-reviewed and published for use in litigated cases concerning injury to freshwater mussels. The model will build on the REA developed for the Clinch River/Lone Mountain Restoration Report in support of a large PCB-liability case. Research questions arose from that case regarding a) how to determine baseline conditions, b) sensitivity of mussel fecundity, and how to account for future generations of mussels. The model will focus on mussel propagation and reintroduction phases of restoration, but will be flexible enough to allow DOI economists to evaluate any type of restoration alternative. This generic REA will facilitate estimating injury and the required amount of restoration. Our standardized model will benefit NRDAR practitioners by explicitly stating the biological and demographic assumptions of the current model and by simplifying the REA process. Our final REA will allow for a range of potential restoration options, making it useful for a wide variety of mussel NRDAR cases.
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Mussel reestablishment as a best management practice: scaling their nutrient effects from the individual to the stream
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June 2027
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We will quantify ecological and biogeochemical effects of<br>reintroducing native unionid mussels into two restored urban headwater streams in Reston,<br>Virginia - Snakeden Branch and The Glade. A team of experts will provide a holistic and practical understanding of the outcomes of mussel restoration with respect to ecological processes, water quality, and biological communities. We will measure and analyze features of individual mussels, mussel beds, and stream reaches to describe the role mussels play in stream ecosystem function. We will document species-specific responses of reintroduced mussels and their effectiveness in assimilating nutrients and changing physical and chemical conditions of the sediments to facilitate nitrogen removal via denitrification. Findings will inform managers on the capacity of mussels to improve water quality in urban streams and provide an ecological basis for evaluating ecosystem services provided by mussel beds.
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Mountain Whitefish Diet Analysis
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December 2026
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This project will analyze the Mountain Whitefish stomach content data for evidence of change in diet through time, and test for association with nutrient additions and coal mine pollution. This project will additionally develop statistical tests for an association between diet composition and tissue concentration of selenium (Se) and/or mercury (Hg). Our work will inform the effectiveness of one of the largest riverine nutrient enrichment projects on the planet. This work will inform decisions about how and whether to continue nutrient enrichment. We are partnering with the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Our work will evaluate the effectiveness of one of the largest riverine nutrient enrichment projects on the planet. This work will inform decisions about how and whether to continue nutrient enrichment.
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Exploring the needs and opportunities around community-based CWD surveillance on Tribal Lands
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August 2025
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Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a threat to white-tail deer populations on tribal nation reservation lands and ceded territories. Their is a need to develop strategies for CWD surveillance in these areas. This project will help identify potential strategies for sustainable surveillance of CWD on tribal lands that can be implemented by tribal natural resource managers and their partners including Tribal members. Partners on this project include White Earth Nation natural resource staff and USDA-Aphis National Wildlife Research Center.
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Attitudes toward RNAi methods for controlling invasive carp.
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December 2025
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RNA interference (RNAi) methods suggest promising means for controlling invasive carp species as well as zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species but people’s attitudes towards such methods are unclear. Understanding attitudes toward RNAi are necessary for effective implementation. The objectives of this study are to: 1) investigate stakeholder awareness of RNAi, 2) identify concerns that they have about RNAi including what information they would to have to inform their decision making concerning whether to support the technology and how they would like to see the technology potentially used in controlling invasive carp or zebra mussels, 3) understand and describe their attitudes toward the perceived downstream risks of conducting RNAi control, and 4) identify the potential harms from this technology that stakeholders would want to make sure are rigorously studied. The outcomes of this project will inform future efforts to develop best practices for implementation of RNAi and provide key information needed to appropriately engage stakeholders to foster support.
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Conservation genomics of Pecos pupfish
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August 2026
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Pecos pupfish populations in New Mexico inhabit small, isolated, saline springs and gypsum sinkholes in the Chihuahuan Desert that are characterized by extreme temperature & salinity gradients. This species has suffered declines in distribution and abundance due to habitat degradation and hybridization with the non-native sheepshead minnow. We will characterize the population structure (e.g., history of gene flow, metrics of genetic diversity & inbreeding), explore evidence of natural selection & local adaptation, and investigate potential hybridization with sheepshead minnow. Inferences from these analyses will help guide future translocation efforts and guide development of a genetic monitoring program. This project is a collaborative effort with the New Mexico Department of Fish & Wildlife and the University of Montana.
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Effects of invasive carp and impoundment on food web structure and fish condition in Upper Mississippi River tributaries
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August 2027
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We are using stable isotope and body condition analyses to understand the effects of invasive carp on freshwater fish assemblages and food webs. This work will help guide management to suppress invasive carp populations and upstream spread near the invasion front in the Upper Mississippi River Basin.
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MDIFW Lake Whitefish
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August 2027
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Lake Whitefish populations have suffered significant declines over the past 50+ years across the southern extent of their range. This project aims to develop a method for assessing Lake Whitefish recruitment through the use of light trapping as a safer, passive, and cost-effective method for documenting Lake Whitefish recruitment while also assessing the present zooplankton assemblages.
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MDIFW Arctic Charr
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August 2029
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Arctic charr in Maine are a unique resource including the only intact native populations in the lower forty-eight states. Using acoustic telemetry, this project is focused on identifying Arctic Charr spawning locations and seasonal habitat use in collaboration with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
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Ecosystem responses to the interacting forces of bridge improvements and beavers
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August 2027
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The PIN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) plans to conduct two major bridge improvements on the Birch Stream Road. These bridges will be replaced with larger, structures to improve fish passage and capacity to handle high flow events in the face of climate change This work is anticipated to increase the resiliency of this important road network for Tribal members and Tribal forestry operations. This road runs through a large area of impounded beaver habitat thought to be important for the ecosystem. Many species of diadromous and resident fish currently inhabit and are indigenous to Birch Stream including brook trout and Endangered Atlantic salmon. This project aims to contribute to evaluations of how the improvements of these bridges will affect the habitat in this wetland complex.
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Identifying barriers to pronghorn habitat connectivity in southwestern New Mexico in relation to rangeland management and renewable energy development
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September 2028
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The landscapes necessary to maintain large mammal movements are becoming increasingly fragmented across the western United States due to anthropogenic factors. These conditions in the broader landscape may influence the functional connectivity and impede the ability of wild ungulates to cope with changes in habitat and forage conditions associated with changing climatic conditions and anthropogenic activities, which may ultimately compromise sustainability of many big game populations. The NM CRU is currently working with the Bureau of Land Management to study pronghorn movements and habitat use in southern New Mexico. This project will assist the Bureau of Land Management and other cooperators (e.g., New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF); NM Department of Transportation) with developing potential mitigation strategies to address impediments to pronghorn movements, increasing landscape connectivity and will identify important seasonal pronghorn habitat to inform future and current planning for renewable energy facilities and infrastructure.
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Thiamine Availability in the Weber River and its Implications for Native Fish Conservation and Sportfish Management
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December 2026
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Larval rearing of streamside spawns with Weber River Green Sucker are indicative of the adult females in this population having a thiamine deficiency. Drivers of this thiamine deficiency should be characterized to identify and alleviate its impact on this population's recruitment potential. In addition, optimized thiamine treatments need to be developed to assist state hatchery practices for Green Sucker stocking efforts. Partners for this project include: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Freya Rowland and David Walters with USGS Columbia Environmental Research Center, and Aimee Reed with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Identifying varying concentrations of thiamine availability and how it correlates with macroinvertebrate assemblages and physical characteristics of the Weber River are a crucial first step in restoring thiamine levels in Green Sucker and other potentially impacted Weber River fishes. Determining the lethal concentrations of thiamine in hatchery reared Green Sucker can assist UDWR in implementing optimized hatchery practices for improving their conservation aquaculture program for this species.
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CAREER: Defining drivers and scaling algorithms for multi-scale species-environment relationships
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May 2029
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Characteristics of both the house and the neighborhood often matter when people decide where to live. The same holds true for birds; when deciding where to place a nest, both the characteristics of the tree, and the surrounding area are important. However, these characteristics - including neighborhood size and its environmental features - are unknown for the majority of bird species. Our ability to predict where species are currently found and where they are likely to be in the future depends on understanding why birds use the places they do. The project proposed here seeks to understand the characteristics of the environmental neighborhoods that shape where birds occur across North America, then test hypotheses as to why birds are found in their respective neighborhoods. Results from this work will be valuable to society because understanding how species respond to their surroundings can help us use wildlife management resources more effectively, and improve our predictions of how species may respond to future environmental change.
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Shifting frontiers: understanding species’ abundance range shifts for informed conservation strategies.
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December 2026
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Although not well studied, species’ geographic range shifts in response to climate change are marked by intra-range variation in population trends. Species’ ability to persist under climate change or grow within new ranges may be shaped by the environmental conditions they experience or by species traits. The future of conservation must consider the potential for dynamic range shifts, including variation in population dynamics across their range, and develop plans to conserve species where they are declining and manage species where they are persisting or growing. Outcomes of this project will include a web application for partners and the public to examine how Southwestern bird species are responding to climate change through shifts in abundance distributions, and propose Conservation Opportunity areas and Climate Refugia for multi-species planning.
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Curation, Digitization, and Databasing of Bee Specimens in the US National Pollinating Insects Collection
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December 2025
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The U.S. National Pollinating Insects Collection (NPIC) houses over 2 million specimens and is considered to be one of the most important research collections for native bees in the USA. Managing the collection and its associated database is a major undertaking and assistance is needed to facilitate this work and support the research of PIRU scientists and collaborators. This project will complete the following objectives: (1) processing and curation of newly collected bee specimens; (2) processing and curation of voucher specimens for molecular and genomics projects; (3) management of the relational database, including training others; (4) creation of protocols detailing how to use the database and print specimen labels. Work in this area to digitize new and historical specimens and organizing the collection will enable the new data to be discoverable and available for scientific research with collaborators.
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Are South Dakota community fisheries making a difference in the recruitment and reactivation of anglers: can they be improved"
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December 2027
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The number of licensed anglers in South Dakota has been declining for several years, except for an increase in 2020. In recent years, the number of fishing licenses (resident and non-resident) sold in South Dakota declined by 32,080 between 2016 and 2019. Community fisheries have been identified as a means to recruit, reactivate, and retain anglers by providing fishing opportunities for new, lapsed, and current anglers. Outside of educational programs currently provided at the two SDGFP Outdoor Campuses and Dakota Nature Park, programs providing new anglers with fishing knowledge are limited. It would be helpful to find out why young anglers took up fishing to better meet these needs when recruiting new anglers. Results of this research will build on the previous research conducted by SDGFP to gain an understanding of what works in community fisheries and what angler interests/recommendations should be addressed and implemented. This study will help to address what has been successful and what can be done to better recruit and reactivate anglers using South Dakota community fisheries.
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Integrating community science data with long-term aerial surveys to understand seasonal and long-term shifts in marine bird use of Puget Sound
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January 2026
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Nearly two decades after the formation of the Puget Sound Partnership brought an increase in funding and management attention to Puget Sound recovery, an indicator of ecosystem health for Puget Sound, the abundance of marine birds, remains imperiled. There is an urgent need to assess the impacts of changing environmental conditions on marine bird populations in Puget Sound, as many species are already declining or vulnerable. Through funding from Washington Sea Grant, the WACFWRU is partnering with the Puget Sound Bird Observatory and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to carry out an integrated assessment of wintering marine birds in Puget Sound. We will integrate Washington Department of Fish and Wlidlife data with a long-term community science dataset to better understand marine bird abundance, growth, and distributions throughout the winter, to inform conservation of these species and their habitats.
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Washington pygmy rabbit conservation planning process
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March 2025
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The Columbia Basin population of pygmy rabbits (<i>Brachylagus idahoensis</i>) is both federally and Washington-state endangered. Small population size, disease, fire, and habitat fragmentation are major threats to the population. We propose engaging managers, stakeholders, and experts in a structured decision making (SDM) process to identify a comprehensive recovery strategy for pygmy rabbits that involves clear management objectives, identification of a suite of recovery alternatives, and a modeling framework in which these alternatives can be evaluated. This work is being carried out in collaboration with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The product of this process will be an actionable recovery strategy for Columbia Basin pygmy rabbits, along with identified next steps, including key information needs.
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Assessing road risk for amphibians and reptiles
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July 2027
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Road risks to wildlife include direct mortality, habitat fragmentation, and barriers to seasonal movements. Among Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) in Iowa, amphibians and reptiles (i.e., herpetofauna) are particularly susceptible to adverse road effects due to their specific habitat needs, limited dispersal abilities, and other life history traits. Currently in Iowa there are 16 amphibian and 40 reptile species listed as SGCN. Mitigation efforts that either aid animals in crossing roads safely and reduce collision risk can help ameliorate risks to these imperiled species, but challenges remain in identifying which type of mitigation to use at a site and, importantly, where those efforts will have the greatest impact. This project proposes to address these two knowledge gaps through geospatial modeling to determine herpetofauna road risk hotspots and field surveys to develop feasible mitigation strategies for 10 high-priority sites.
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Evaluating Socioeconomic Responses by Anglers to Alternative Stocking Strategies for Maintaining Trout Fishing at the Lower Mountain Fork River, Oklahoma
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June 2026
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The Lower Mountain Fork River (LMFR) in southeastern Oklahoma is a year-round trout fishery and the potential for a wild Rainbow Trout fishery might exist. Reducing stocking to promote a wild fishery could save money, but potentially at the expense of angler catch rates, which could affect angler satisfaction and subsequent economic value. This fishery serves many out-of-state anglers with incomes far above the median for the state, helping to spur an estimated $25M economic impact to the area. As a result, any changes to the management of the trout program have the potential to create ripples throughout the economy. This research is a collaboration with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Department of Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University. This project will provide information on use, catch, economic value, and angler preferences for trout fishing at the Lower Mountain Fork trout area, which will provide insights to ODWC and other stakeholders on alternative management measures. The results will also provide new knowledge about awareness, values, and attitudes of anglers towards potential changes from a put-and-take fishery for Rainbow Trout to a wild-trout fishery.
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Measuring oyster population dynamics and nekton habitat use of a large-scale living shoreline
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May 2029
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Creating oyster-reef-based living shorelines remains a globally popular nature-based solution for reducing coastal erosion and enhancing coastline resilience. Understanding oyster population development and habitat support of nekton will help inform the design, site selection, and quantify co-benefits of living shorelines.With some of the highest land loss rates globally, the state of Louisiana has invested in large-scale restoration, including creation of the largest oyster-reef based shoreline in the world. This 14 km long living shoreline was designed to protect critical marsh habitat serving to protect more interior marshes. The success of such a project relies on the development of sustainable oyster populations, and its value as complex habitat serving as nursery habitat. Working with state restoration agency, Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority of Louisiana, a ten year monitoring plan was designed to monitor the development and effectiveness of this living shoreline. Tracking the development and dynamics of oyster populations on the reefs will help in predicting the sustainability of this project over the long-term; quantifying fisheries use of the reef and linking these data with oyster reef populations and reef complexity inform future design of such projects.
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Exploring phragmites expansion and impact on nekton
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July 2026
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Saltmarsh habitat provides critical support for the production of commercially and recreationally important fish and invertebrates. The coast of Louisiana is being rapidly reshaped. From widespread land loss to some of the country’s highest rates of relative sea-level rise, detrimental changes will alter protective and productive land features upon which coastal communities depend. Responding to this widespread loss, a large-scale restoration plan seeks to restore lost land. Restoration of salt marsh however has resulted in concerns that this restored habitat may not provide the desired ecological functions. Specifically, restored habitat may be promoting increased abundance of an invasive plant, Phragmites australis, with evidence indicating it supports lower production of marine fish and invertebrates. Working with university, and state wildlife and fisheries partners (LDWF, CPRA), this work seeks to answer two questions 1) what is the spatial and temporal scale of phragmites expansion? 2) what is the impact of increasing phragmites occurrence on secondary production of nekton? This work will answer critical questions surrounding the propagation of <i>Phragmites</i> resulting from restoration efforts and its correlation with fisheries production, providing information to help better manage and modify restoration activities.
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Assessing seagrass on Guam
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June 2028
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Seagrass provide critical ecosystem services, and coastal protection; yet globally, they are declining. In many regions, we lack mechanistic knowledge on the drivers and stressors impacting seagrass sustainability. Understanding drivers of seagrass survival, growth and resilience is critical to informing management and conservation plans. In Guam, an island in the Pacific, seagrass provides critical habitat, and contributes to coastal resilience, but managers have little information to help manage, restore and conserve this important habitat. Working with the US Naval Base, Guam Department of Agriculture, and across several USGS science centers and Coop Units, we are working to gain a better understanding of seagrass dynamics around Guam. Outcomes from this work will feed directly into the Naval Base Guam, and NAVFAC of the regions natural resource implementation plan, and will inform restoration initiatives across Guam.
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Adaptive management for bighorn sheep and mountain goats
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May 2028
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In an adaptive management framework, this project seeks to improve achievement of 2 metrics for bighorn sheep and mountain goats that were convergently identified as management priorities by MT Fish, Wildlife and Parks in separate structured decision-making processes. These metrics are 1) improving population trends, and 2) reducing risk of disease epizootics. Through an adaptive management framework, this project will increase our understanding of the effects of management actions on achieving these metrics, while reducing uncertainty about environmental drivers of population dynamics and disease risks, which will improve future management decisions about when and where to implement each action to improve the probability of success. The foundation for this work will rest in ongoing management and monitoring practices already prioritized for mountain goats and bighorn sheep, with additional emphasis placed on rigorously monitoring these response metrics in populations where such monitoring has not previously been prioritized.
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Hierarchical Bayesian models to inform parameter estimation and inference
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November 2030
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Accurate inference for population dynamics relies on intensive data collection methods, where individuals are marked and tracked over time at a small number of sites. Collecting sufficient data at conservation-relevant scales is logistically and financially challenging. These issues led to the development of models for unmarked data, which provide a fully mechanistic framework to estimate demographic rates without the need to track individual capture histories. Such models have been criticized and shown to perform poorly when model assumptions are not met; yet, they continue to be modified to incorporate biological realism (e.g., accommodating stage-structured data). Therefore, in this project, I evaluate the performance and identify tradeoffs in working with different models.
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Fungal pathogens of vertebrate hosts
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November 2030
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The rapid emergence of hyper-virulent, generalist fungal pathogens into naïve ecosystems has decimated animal populations worldwide, including amphibians, bats, bees, corals, and sea turtles. The introduction of novel pathogens to naïve host systems can produce variable impacts, with some species and populations driven rapidly to extinction, while others persist seemingly unaffected. To understand the demographic impacts of pathogen invasion and potential persistence mechanisms on naïve host populations, there would ideally be a direct comparison between host survival rates, recruitment rates, and population size before and after pathogen invasion. These types of data can provide direct evidence of the mechanisms driving observed host-pathogen dynamics post-outbreak, helping us readily identify targets for conservation measures. However, these data rarely exist because it is difficult to design relevant studies spanning the period before and after disease arrival, which are difficult to predict. Instead, to understand the impact of disease on host demographic estimates, many studies compare the demographic rates of individuals with and without disease in an area where the disease has been present for a long time or compare host demographic estimates between populations with and without disease present. Therefore, in this project, I aim to estimate demographic parameters of populations afflicted by fugal pathogens to help better inform decisions and management of these populations.
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Grand Teton Wildlife Connectivity Modeling
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January 2027
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The importance of large, connected landscapes to achieving sustained ecological health is increasingly apparent. Habitat loss and fragmentation are primary threats to most species facing declines and extirpations nationally and globally. The effects of habitat loss and fragmentation are exacerbated by other threats such as climate change, invasive species, disease, and over harvest. The National Park Service (NPS) requires tools and approaches to ensure protection of biodiverse areas and to facilitate daily, seasonal and life cycle movements of wildlife species both within and beyond park boundaries. This project will develop tools and approaches to inform local level management (i.e., visitor use planning, transportation planning, construction activities, etc.) while also linking to broader conservation actions across the larger landscape. Grand Teton National Park (GRTE) will serve as our pilot NPS unit. The project is a close collaboration between the MTCWRU and University of Montana, with project partners at GRTE, the NPS Biological Resources Division, and the NPS Greater Yellowstone Inventory and Monitoring Network. The project will seek to produce foundational spatial products for GRTE along with a template for how this general approach can be implemented across NPS units. Project products will be used to inform park planning and identify areas for cross-jurisdictional wildlife management and habitat conservation.
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Prioritizing Actions for Restoring Connectivity and Climate Resilience in the Appalachian Highlands
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June 2027
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The goal of this project is to develop a holistic, data-driven process for identifying (1) priority watersheds and sites and (2) habitat and connectivity restoration actions. To clearly articulate ecological problems that stakeholders are interested in, we will convene a Structured Decision-Making (SDM) workshop with several stakeholders and decision-makers, including government agencies (federal, state, and local), watershed groups, and other non-profit organizations. Then, we will develop a shared understanding of watershed processes within the system by co-developing a conceptual model of the social and eco-system function. We will use the conceptual model and facilitated meetings to identify management actions that improve future watershed conditions. We will focus on habitat and connectivity restoration because improvements there often result in improvements to other key freshwater characteristics like streamflow, sediment regime, temperature regulation, water quality, and flood plain access. The research will be conducted in the Appalachian Highlands region of Massachusetts (MA), an area with numerous At-Risk and sensitive species, and with great potential to protect and restore critical habitats.
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Population assessment, habitat use, and occupancy for multiple freshwater turtle species
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September 2028
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is reviewing a petition to list the Blanding’s, Wood, and Spotted Turtles as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Surveys for Blanding’s Turtles were last conducted on Devens Reserve Forces Training Area (RFTA) in the early 1990s and early 2000s, although recent surveys and headstarting on adjacent properties (Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge, Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area) suggest this area has the largest population of Blanding’s Turtle in the northeast. Given the upcoming listing decisions, new surveys are needed to provide updated baseline population and habitat use information on the freshwater turtle populations at Devens RFTA. Specifically, our objectives are to (1) assess populations status, movement, and habitat use for Blanding’s Turtle using radio telemetry, and (2) conduct presence absence surveys for Spotted Turtle and Wood Turtle on Devens RFTA. Surveys may expand to areas adjacent to the Devens property as well as at the Hansom Air Force Base.
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NSF: Drivers of infection outbreaks in a temperature-sensitive host-pathogen system
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July 2028
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Hosts and their pathogens exist in spatiotemporally variable thermal environments, and temperature has been repeatedly shown to impact critical disease quantities, such as contact rates, vector abundance, and recruitment of susceptible hosts. Predicting how a changing climate will impact infectious disease dynamics requires a better understanding of the mechanistic impact of temperature on host-pathogen interactions. Our proposal is focused on how temperature and climate influences in-host infection dynamics in seasonal environments when hosts are sensitive to environmental temperature. Specifically, we will focus on how seasonal temperature variation influences host immune function, pathogen transmission, and host behavior; processes that may be determinants of the timing, magnitude, and extent of seasonal disease outbreaks. We will use the amphibian-<i>Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis </i>(Bd) system, where both host (the Eastern red-spotted newt, <i>Notopthalmus viridescens</i>) and pathogen are sensitive to temperature, to determine the functional relationship between environmental temperature and host and pathogen responses and parameterize models to predict the timing and magnitude of seasonal infection outbreaks. To accomplish these goals, we combine manipulative field experiments with a robust set of field observations (including a 5-year pilot study) to identify mechanisms that underlie the complex temperature relationships in this system. We will develop statistical and mathematical tools that combine data types, account for observation uncertainty, and allow for prediction and validation. Our results will contribute to disentangling the role of host- (i.e., immune response, behavior) and pathogen-related (i.e., development, growth) contributions to the timing and magnitude of seasonal outbreaks. <br><br>
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NSF: Drivers of infection outbreaks in a temperature-sensitive host-pathogen system
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July 2028
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Hosts and their pathogens exist in spatiotemporally variable thermal environments, and temperature has been repeatedly shown to impact critical disease quantities, such as contact rates, vector abundance, and recruitment of susceptible hosts. Predicting how a changing climate will impact infectious disease dynamics requires a better understanding of the mechanistic impact of temperature on host-pathogen interactions. Our proposal is focused on how temperature and climate influences in-host infection dynamics in seasonal environments when hosts are sensitive to environmental temperature. Specifically, we will focus on how seasonal temperature variation influences host immune function, pathogen transmission, and host behavior; processes that may be determinants of the timing, magnitude, and extent of seasonal disease outbreaks. We will use the amphibian-<i>Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis </i>(Bd) system, where both host (the Eastern red-spotted newt, <i>Notopthalmus viridescens</i>) and pathogen are sensitive to temperature, to determine the functional relationship between environmental temperature and host and pathogen responses and parameterize models to predict the timing and magnitude of seasonal infection outbreaks. To accomplish these goals, we combine manipulative field experiments with a robust set of field observations (including a 5-year pilot study) to identify mechanisms that underlie the complex temperature relationships in this system. We will develop statistical and mathematical tools that combine data types, account for observation uncertainty, and allow for prediction and validation. Our results will contribute to disentangling the role of host- (i.e., immune response, behavior) and pathogen-related (i.e., development, growth) contributions to the timing and magnitude of seasonal outbreaks.
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TCU 470: Influence of environmental thresholds on trajectories of freshwater assemblages with implications for building climate resilience across prairie landscapes
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September 2027
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Prairie streams are lifelines for human society through provisioning of economic, recreational, and municipal services. However, environmental conditions around prairie streams are substantially altered. Aquatic organisms including fish, crayfish, and mussels may be sensitive to environmental change including landcover conversion, road and dam construction, and climate change. However, there is limited knowledge across the Great Plains regarding thresholds in environmental change which dictate where and when organisms can successfully survive. Thus, managers lack data needed to guide decision-making regarding where to implement actions that may deal with human-induced shifts in the presence and composition of aquatic organisms. A region-wide perspective will allow natural resource management agencies to learn from and anticipate change based on current spatial variation in, for example, the rate and magnitude of agricultural conversion to urban land use across the study area. The objectives of this study were informed by the Prairie Streams and Fish Collaborative, comprised of stakeholders from state, federal, and NGO partners, which identified quantification of thresholds leading to changes in fish assemblage structure as a top priority. We plan to use our broad geographic coverage and state cooperators’ expertise to 1) aggregate and quantify the spatial and temporal landscape of environmental gradients, including climate and land use variables to characterize patterns of aquatic assemblage diversity, 2) identify threshold responses in aquatic assemblage structure to environmental gradients, and 3) create data products and tools to support management actions that resist reaching thresholds, direct community trajectories, or accept changes of aquatic assemblages. Because not all prairie stream organisms will be able to track their ideal environmental conditions, on the ground management actions will be needed to promote persistence of some species within a changing climate. This project will inform the process of identifying when and where such actions may be best implemented.
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Mapping Ungulate Migrations in Nevada
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August 2026
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Large-scale land-use changes threaten to fragment habitats and disrupt seasonal migration corridors of large ungulates that are important to population growth and persistence. By identifying important habitats and migration corridors for ungulate populations in Nevada, land-use planning might accommodate requirements for ungulates in addition to other multiple uses on landscapes. To this end, we are participating in a large-scale research project that aims to identify important habitats and migration corridors for ungulate populations across Nevada. We are collaborating with Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) to analyze existing GPS-collar data describing seasonal movement patterns of Mule Deer, Pronghorn, and Elk and provide maps estimating seasonal ranges and migration corridors for different populations across the state. Land-use planning decisions across Nevada could benefit from the resulting spatial information describing key habitats and migration corridors for ungulates in the state, potentially to be used as exclusion criteria. Additionally, we are developing a decision-support product to help the state prioritize where to conduct future projects on ungulate migration and survival in the state.
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Assessing at-risk turtle species' population status to inform conservation and management
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December 2026
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Eastern US turtle populations are reduced in distribution and population by habitat degradation or loss. Simultaneously, climate change is an exacerbating stressor and illegal collection of turtles in the eastern US is at crisis levels. Throughout the eastern US, turtle populations have declined dramatically; turtles (Reptilia: Testudines) are among the most threatened vertebrates. More than half of all species in the family Emydidae, which includes wood, spotted, and box turtles, are ranked as threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. We are working with partners in the National Park Service and National Park Foundation to understand the current status of multiple turtle species on federal lands and how populations are affected by threats. Our results will help inform management actions such as nest protection, reintroductions, and habitat restoration.
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Antarctic Marine Predators in a Dynamic Climate
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December 2024
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The accelerating pace of global change creates urgency to understand and predict climate impacts on ecosystems. In the Antarctic region, sea ice is a fundamental feature of the environment; projected sea ice loss has the potential to alter all levels of the food chain, from primary and secondary productivity to seabirds and marine mammals. A predictive capacity for ecosystems is critical to enable decision-making for conservation and resource management; such a capacity requires clear understanding of ecosystem function in the context of dynamic environmental conditions.<br><br>This project is a collaboration between the USGS, NASA the University of Wisconsin - Madison and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute. We use a comprehensive dataset on the abundance and distribution of four Antarctic key marine predators, made possible via satellite imagery, to captures the spatial and temporal population dynamics at the pan-Antarctic scale. We use this to evaluate the conditions sustaining marine “hotspots” -regions where biomass is exceptionally concentrated- which will contribute to our capacity to forecast the long-term resilience of Antarctic marine predators.
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Identifying Population Tipping Points Through Imagery Super-Resolution
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May 2025
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The Landsat satellite archive provides an extraordinary time series of environmental change, but many key processes occur at spatial scales too small to be studied at its native resolution. However, techniques for image super-resolution provide an exciting opportunity to infer environmental changes occurring at smaller spatial scales and, in doing, unlock the potential to study sub-pixel changes in biodiversity going back nearly 50 years.<br><br>This project is a collaboration between the USGS, NASA, the University of Wisconsin - Madison and Stony Brook University. We will leverage the temporal repeat imaging capability of Landsat and the statistical regularity of Earth’s features to infer sub-pixel scale patterns in the population dynamics of Adelie penguins, colonially nesting seabirds whose guano stain is visible in satellite imagery. In doing so, we will address fundamental questions about the long-term dynamics of Adelie penguins and develop an image super-resolution methodology with wide applicability to other biodiversity applications.
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Advancing Trail Camera Monitoring Through Simulation
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August 2027
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The Snapshot Wisconsin trail camera network provides continuous photo data across Wisconsin to better understand the status of wildlife populations. These data can potentially be used to estimate populations metrics, such as the distributions, sex and age ratios, and relative abundances of both focal game and nongame species. However, Snapshot Wisconsin trail cameras are set up non-randomly and are spaced far apart relative to most home range sizes of Wisconsin’s wildlife. These factors can complicate or impede our ability to get unbiased metrics from existing trail camera modeling methods.<br><br>This project is a collaboration between the USGS, the University of Wisconsin - Madison and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. We will build animal movement models to simulate movement of focal species across Wisconsin landscapes with the Snapshot Wisconsin network of trail camera. These simulations will help answer long-standing questions about how the distribution, social structure and population dynamics of animal populations affect our ability to derive accurate population metrics given a distribution of trail cameras.<br><br>
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Advancing Trail Camera Monitoring Through Simulation
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August 2027
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The Snapshot Wisconsin trail camera network provides continuous photo data across Wisconsin to better understand the status of wildlife populations. These data can potentially be used to estimate populations metrics, such as the distributions, sex and age ratios, and relative abundances of both focal game and nongame species. However, Snapshot Wisconsin trail cameras are set up non-randomly and are spaced far apart relative to most home range sizes of Wisconsin’s wildlife. These factors can complicate or impede our ability to get unbiased metrics from existing trail camera modeling methods.<br><br>This project is a collaboration between the USGS, the University of Wisconsin - Madison and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. We will build animal movement models to simulate movement of focal species across Wisconsin landscapes with the Snapshot Wisconsin network of trail camera. These simulations will help answer long-standing questions about how the distribution, social structure and population dynamics of animal populations affect our ability to derive accurate population metrics given a distribution of trail cameras.
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Building Ecological Data Pipelines for Listed Species Permit Data
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January 2025
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To more effectively manage federally endangered, threatened, and at-risk species, The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) seeks to use data it has collected from permit holders to help address critical recovery and management needs. To accomplish this task, reproducible data pipelines and workflows must be developed and implemented that can deliver a standardized data product easily vetted and used by USFWS biologists and field staff. These need to be extensible to additional taxa beyond the scope of this project and can ultimately serve as potential precursors to larger data standardization and database initiatives currently underway at the USFWS.<br><br>This project is a collaboration between the USGS, the University of Wisconsin - Madison and the USFWS Region 3 Ecological Services program. Under this collaboration, data pipelines and workflows will be developed for freshwater mussels, bats and bee USFWS permit data. A key output from these efforts will be an updatable spatial database available to staff biologists tasked with managing these species that can be easily maintained by USFWS staff.
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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl occurrence and concentrations in lentic invasive snakehead populations: identifying gene expression signatures of toxicity with implications for human consumption advisories
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January 2026
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The specific objectives of this project are to (1) quantify the occurrence and concentration of select PFAS in the muscle (fillet) and gill tissue of lentic invasive snakeheads across a developed land use gradient and (2) use gene expression profiles to identify potential biochemical response pathways and gene expression biomarkers of PFAS exposure.
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Chasing the deer denominator: A standardized density estimation technique for white-tailed deer
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September 2026
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Effective chronic wasting disease (CWD) management has relied on the targeted harvest or culling of white-tailed deer hosts in local areas where CWD has been newly detected and apparent prevalence is assumed < 1%. While this can be successful, it is dependent on existing deer densities and the ability to effectively remove deer and sustain high, additive mortality rates. To evaluate desired CWD mitigation and management goals, it is critical to understand whether deer density changed due to removals and then be able to repeat a reliable population estimation measurement. Furthermore, it is essential that these density estimates are rigorous yet easily implemented. There is a need to standardize these approaches to compare efforts over time and among jurisdictions. Working in collaboration with Michigan DNR and USDA, we are attempting to implement a standardized density estimation technique for deer on the scale of CWD management (9 square miles). If we can demonstrate a reliable, efficient, non-invasive density estimation technique it can be broadly adopted across the jurisdictions that manage CWD and inform management and success.
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Understanding spatiotemporal drivers of fisheries and aquatic resources in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed
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August 2029
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Agricultural and urban settings are the focus of the Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) efforts to reduce nutrients, sediment, and contaminants, and improve aquatic conditions for fisheries. The CBP Water-Quality Strategy is focused on reducing nutrients and sediment, while the Toxic Contaminant Strategies are focused on reducing contaminants to improve conditions for fishes and their consumption. Additional CBP efforts are focusing on improving fish habitat and stream health. However, the CBP efforts have limited interaction among these research themes, so this project will help to develop integrative, multidisciplinary science across themes to provide a system-level, comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting stream and fish health, aquatic conditions, and fish habitat.
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Predicting climate change induced habitat shifts for big game species in New Mexico
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December 2026
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Climate change is the largest threat to ecosystem stability and the sustainability of wildlife populations. Worldwide, animals and plants are either migrating higher in elevation or northward where habitat connectivity exists or declining toward local extinction when isolated. Locally, changes in climate pose an imminent threat to game species, engendering serious ramifications for the sustainability of New Mexico’s vibrant hunting culture and associated economy. Despite the severity of this issue, there is not a clear understanding of where and when climatic changes can be expected to impact game species in New Mexico. Our project focuses on faunal relationships with habitat and projecting these relationships over time and geographical space given downscaled climate models and emission scenarios. Understanding how climate-induced shifts in ecosystem conditions will influence the future distribution of the big game species is critical to the development of long-term management plans by state and federal agencies. This project proposes to estimate resource selection and density of select big game species (e.g., elk, mule deer, oryx, pronghorn) in several study areas located in representative ecoregions of New Mexico. We plan to fit several populations of each species with GPS collars to assess resource selection as well as establish remote camera arrays to estimate density and abundance in each study area. Bioclimatic models will ultimately be used to predict changes in the distribution of major vegetation types and these data will then be combined with data on habitat selection and use, and population abundance/density to predict future distribution of the study species. The New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is engaged in this collaborative research effort with US Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, University of New Mexico, and Department of Defense.
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Developing a Spatially-Explicit Monitoring Framework for Range-wide Population Assessment of Light-Footed Ridgway’s Rails
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May 2024
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Light-footed Ridgway’s rails are a federally threatened species endemic to coastal areas of southern California. The species’ recovery plan has explicit recovery goals detailing population sizes needed for downlisting. Yet we lack a meaningful and statistically defensible monitoring and assessment framework to assess range-wide populations relative to recovery goals. We used historical occurrence data and spatially explicit models of potential habitat to develop a spatially-stratified sampling frame covering key rail habitats across their range. We also developed a detailed stochastic simulation model to mimic sampling and simulate call-broadcast data under varying rail densities and response rates, and differing levels of spatial and temporal replication of sampling. Using stochastic simulation, we are also simulating 6 sampling strategies that represent different approaches for allocating sampling efforts spatially amongst sampling strata and multiple methods for probabilistically selecting areas to sample within each stratum. Results of our simulation study will inform field application of range-wide monitoring and survey efforts for this rare bird and provide partners with critical information about appropriate sampling strategies and efforts needed to reliably track recovery of Light-footed Ridgway’s Rails across their range. Collectively this work will also provide the first range-wide, spatially explicit monitoring and assessment framework for any species of secretive marsh bird.
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Post-breeding Movements, Migration Resource Selection, and Survival of Burrowing Owls
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December 2026
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Western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) are declining or have disappeared from many portions of their historic breeding range. The decline of burrowing owl populations is often attributed to conversion of native grasslands to agriculture and urban development, and to declines in abundance of burrowing mammals that the owls rely on for creation of nest burrows. Burrowing owls are relatively well studied during the breeding season but relatively little is known about their ecology after breeding. Some burrowing owls move to a distinct post-breeding home range before they migrate (post-breeding movement) where they spend approximately 2.5 months of their annual cycle. We have been working with numerous cooperators to attach satellite transmitters to 280 burrowing owls in the U.S. and Canada over the past 11 years which enables us document movements and resource selection of burrowing owls after they leave the breeding grounds. The transmitters also allow us to document daily survival probabilities across the owl’s annual cycle. The objectives of this project are: 1) thoroughly describe post-breeding movements of migrating burrowing owls, 2) investigate why some burrowing owls make a post-breeding movement prior to migration while others do not, 3) document resources burrowing owls select during migration, and 4) identify factors that influence survival. The results of this project will help ensure that management efforts that target burrowing owls do not neglect to consider post-breeding and migration life stages where knowledge is currently lacking.
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Latitudinal variation in natal dispersal, breeding recruitment, and survival of juvenile Burrowing Owls throughout North America
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May 2025
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The Burrowing Owl (<i>Athene cunicularia</i>) is federally endangered in Canada, is a species of national conservation concern in the United States, and is a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) many western states. Abundance of Burrowing Owls has declined over the past several decades (Conway and Pardieck 2006, Sauer et al. 2014, Conway 2018), and its breeding distribution has been significantly reduced in size (Wellicome and Holroyd 2001, Macias-Duarte and Conway 2015). However, survey data suggest that breeding populations are stable in some locations whereas other populations are declining rapidly (Sauer et al. 2014). We do not know the cause of these declines (or why they vary spatially so much), and implementing effective management or policy actions to halt declines requires knowledge of the underlying cause(s) of the observed declines.<br>Over the past 9 years, we have attached 5-gram solar-powered satellite transmitters (PTTs) to >120 adult Burrowing Owls at >40 locations (in 12 U.S. states and 3 Canadian provinces). The goal of this large, collaborative project is to thoroughly document migratory patterns of the Burrowing Owl and to link breeding locations with wintering locations. These linkages will allow us to examine whether the breeding populations that are declining more dramatically are spending the winter in similar locations (i.e., whether the observed population declines on the breeding grounds are likely caused by problems on the wintering grounds or migratory routes) and allow us to compare survival among seasons to document the stage of their annual life cycle where the declines are manifest. Effective management and recovery efforts require knowledge of the full life-cycle movements of this migratory owl so that conservation efforts can be increased in the most pressing areas of their continental range.<br>To date, the project has produced novel information regarding the migratory timing, migratory routes, and wintering locations of adult Burrowing Owls throughout the U.S. and Canada. Breeding owls in Oregon and Washington wintered in the U.S. (in WA, OR, and CA) and migratory behavior differed between males and females; most female owls migrated to California for the winter whereas most male owls wintered in east-central and north-central Washington. Breeding owls in Nevada migrated southern California and Baja California in Mexico. In contrast, breeding owls in all other regions of the U.S. and Canada wintered primarily in mainland Mexico. From 2009-2015, we deployed geolocators on 296 burrowing owls at 13 locations in the U.S. and we recaptured and obtained data from 52 owls. From 2013-2022, we also deployed satellite transmitters (PTTs) on >120 adult owls in 10 U.S. states and 3 Canadian provinces; thus far, we have obtained migration data from >60 of those owls.<br>The work proposed here is for a second phase of this project and involves attaching satellite transmitters to juvenile burrowing owls (hatch-year owls) to document range-wide patterns in natal dispersal and first-year survival. Burrowing owls are declining precipitously in some areas (e.g., Canada, California, and eastern Washington). One proposed cause of population declines in those areas is the lack of juvenile owls to return as breeders (i.e., low local recruitment). To test that hypothesis, we plan to attach satellite transmitters to juvenile owls throughout their breeding range in western North America to document regional patterns in natal dispersal and local recruitment following their first year’s migration. This project will help determine why some populations are declining and others are not, and whether the cause of the declines are on the breeding grounds, migratory routes, or wintering grounds.
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Decision support tools to guide environmental flows and habitat management in the middle Rio Grande River
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September 2028
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Water is a limited resource in the desert southwest, in which agencies are tasked with allocating water for multiple purposes such as agriculture, residential use, and environmental flows. Climate change is expected to further exacerbate this issue in the Middle Rio Grande River, which creates conservation challenges for aquatic species. The Rio Grande Silvery Minnow is a federally endangered fish species. Given the competing demands for water, managers must allocate water for maximal benefit, often under uncertain hydrograph conditions) and identify creative solutions for population recovery, such as creation of nursery habitat. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the US Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. A useful decision-making model will be developed to inform water, habitat, and conservation management decisions on the Rio Grande River to benefit the Rio Grande Silvery Minnow population.
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Assessment of large woody debris as a low‐cost best management practice for improving water quality in urban headwater streams
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September 2023
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In stream ecosystems, urbanization is associated with increased erosion and habitat homogenization. This habitat degradation often has biological consequences, such as decreased species richness. The main driver of these geomorphic changes is the high frequency of erosive flows that occur in urban streams as a result of stormwater runoff draining from impervious surfaces. Conventional stream restoration practices are costly, and projects are limited to small areas with easy access. A scalable, low-cost method of stream restoration is needed to address the widespread degradation occurring in urban streams. Large woody debris (LWD), which is typically abundant in natural streams and low in urban streams, can reduce water velocities, generate pool habitat, decrease erosion, and provide cover for aquatic organisms. In this study, we performed experimental LWD installations to assess the capacity of LWD restoration to decrease erosion and sediment transport and increase the availability of pool habitat. In May of 2022, eight log jams were installed in Cooper Creek, a headwater stream in Cincinnati, OH. The geomorphic effects of these installations were monitored using a before-after-control-impact study design in four 60-meter reaches, two treatment and two control. We found that these installations are able to rapidly increase pool habitat availability when jams remain stable, but there was little impact on sediment transport. In the first year following the installation, a majority of the LWD structures were mobilized and reconfigured by flow events, but the overall density of LWD within the study site remained high relative to initial conditions. Further investigation is needed to address the stability concerns in order to maximize desired outcomes and minimize the potential for wood-related damage to local infrastructure.
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Assessing spatial relationships between littoral habitat availability and sport fish
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June 2025
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The project, <i>Assessing spatial relationships between littoral habitat availability and sport fish populations in Ohio reservoirs</i>, will employ a standardized habitat assessment methodology using side-scan sonar to develop habitat inventories and relate habitat metrics to the characteristics of important reservoir sport fish populations. Ultimately, the project will provide insight into potential habitat management levers to improve sport fisheries. Specifically, we will 1) generate habitat maps in a geographic information system (GIS) and calculate relevant habitat metrics for 12 reservoirs across a gradient of fish population characteristics, and 2) analyze potential relationships among sport fish population characteristics, reservoir and watershed characteristics, and habitat availability.
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Developing a Regional Deer Monitoring Protocol for the National Park Service
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June 2026
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The long-term resilience of forests in the face of climate change depends on ensuring that there is adequate seedling and sapling regeneration. In the northeast United States, the white-tailed deer (<i>Odocoileus virginianus</i>) is an abundant herbivore that can have widespread effects on forest vegetation communities. Because the abundance of deer can affect forest regeneration, being able to accurately monitor deer populations is critical. However, estimating the density of deer in areas of interest can be challenging because of the variety of methods that exist to collect and analyze deer population data, each of which has benefits, limitations, and sources of bias. To develop future management plans related to tree regeneration, the National Park Service is seeking to optimize regional deer monitoring efforts. We will support these efforts by helping the National Park Service develop a consistent, efficient approach to deer population monitoring, while aiming to minimize costs and complexity of monitoring, in addition to creating a decision-support tool to help managers plan future surveys and analyze data. This project is a collaboration between the National Park Service, West Virginia University, and the WV Coop Unit.
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Toward identifying candidate species for an aquatic nuisance species watchlist in Arkansas: Customizing and improving ecological risk screening summaries for aquatic invasive species
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June 2025
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Creating watchlists for potential high-risk invaders can serve as a strong proactive invasive species management tool, but the biggest challenge for creating watchlists is identifying which species out of thousands are “high risk” for becoming harmful invaders. Rapid horizon scans can narrow down non-native species lists from thousands of non-native species to hundreds, and then in-depth risk screening summaries, such as the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) Ecological Risk Screening Summary (ERSS) protocols, can further winnow lists down to a handful of high-risk species. However, there remain key gaps in the USFWS ERSS protocols: the summaries are not tailored for finer-scale ecoregions, the climatic analyses do not account for future climate scenarios, and the literature review for understanding risks of establishment, spread, and impacts is not standardized. To support preventative invasive species management in Arkansas by identifying potential watchlist species, there is a <i><u>critical need</u></i> to have and implement a standardized protocol for in-depth ecological risk screening summaries for species that are high-risk for becoming invasive in Arkansas. To fill this need, we propose to customize and improve upon the USFWS ERSS protocols. Our specific objectives are: 1) Customize and make improvements on the USFWS ERSS protocols for Arkansas by (a) tailoring climate matching to Arkansas and (b) developing and implementing a standardized, semi-automatic systematic literature review for high-risk species; and 2) Implement the new Arkansas ecological risk screening summary protocols on the top 10 heighted risk freshwater fish species identified in the U.S. Geological Survey’s Vertebrates in Trade Horizon Scan. As a result of this project, Arkansas will have customized and improved ecological risk screening summary protocols for conducting in-depth risk screening of potential invasive species. We envision these ERSS protocols will fit into an overarching workflow for proactive invasive species management that starts with (i) horizon scanning (rapid risk screening), moves to (ii) ecological risk screening (in-depth risk screening for species flagged in horizon scanning), and then finishes with (iii) considering species categorized as high-risk for addition to an Arkansas aquatic nuisance species watchlist. This project will ensure Arkansas has a clear set of methods for identifying potential watchlist species.
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TPW 52: Experimental Approaches to Improve Survival and Conservation of Swift Fox
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December 2028
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The swift fox has been a species of conservation concern throughout its range for over 30 years. In 2022, an interagency committee represented by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, and US Department of Agriculture NRCS drafted a Texas-level plan for conservation of the swift fox (<i>Vulpes velox</i>). The plan identified a list of research priorities to better understand how to increase the survival and population expansion of the species. We will attempt to address these research priorities in Dallam county, Texas, the only county in the state known to currently have a functional swift fox population. Our research will focus on four objectives; 1) evaluating the efficacy of different methods to increase swift fox survival, including a) livestock guardian dogs and b) artificial burrows,; 2) assess fox response to applied habitat management conducted via grazing and prescribed burning; 3) estimate the prevalence of disease (e.g., canine distemper, parvo virus) among foxes and attempt to determine disease influence on pup survival; and 4) assess the attitudes and knowledge of landowners, hunters, and recreationists regarding swift fox and conservation actions. The multidisciplinary nature of this study necessitates participation of researchers with different areas of expertise from different institutions, managers from state and federal agencies, and landowners in the study area.
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Development of a brown trout GT-seq panel for native fish conservation purposes
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June 2025
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PI Pregler will coordinate among the development of a GT-seq (genotyping-in-thousands by sequencing) genetic marker panel to support future YY-brown trout implementation efforts. Non-native trout species like brown trout can outcompete native New Mexico fish species. The introduction of hatchery male brown trout with YY genotypes to natural populations can shift sex ratios with the eventual goal of decreasing & eradicating non-native brown trout populations in locations where recovery of native species is needed. The developed genetic panel will be used to determine the sex ratio in natural populations to assess the progress of such interventions. This project is supported and funded by New Mexico Department of Game of Fish and is a collaborative effort among three genetics labs: (1) USFWS Abernathy Fish Technology Center (Seattle, WA), (2) Floragenex (Beaverton, OR) and (3) GT-Seek (Twin Falls, ID).
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Evaluation of a Gila trout outcrossing experiment
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June 2029
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Gila trout are one of the rarest trout species in North America and exist in remnant habitats in the rugged wilderness of Gila National Forest where they persist in only 11 percent of their historical distribution (Propst et al., 2021). Maintenance of genetic diversity is a fundamental component of this species’ recovery plan in which higher genetic diversity is important for adaptive potential as well as alleviating inbreeding risks. Therefore, in 2020, the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish translocated the five lineages of Gila trout together into multiple sites to increase genetic diversity and fitness. A fin clip was taken from every fish translocated into the watershed for future genetic analysis. Enough time has passed since the initial translocation effort in 2020 that these translocated individuals have had the opportunity to reproduce in Whitewater. This marks an important point in the study to assess various fitness outcomes of the translocation effort. Specifically, we aim to use genetic analysis of translocated fish and their offspring to characterize the mating structure and reproductive success. These results will show whether individual lineages or hybrids are more successful and will allow us to directly investigate if outcrossing Gila trout lineages is a viable conservation strategy to improve their fitness. This project is supported and funded by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish and may also involve collaborators from other universities and federal agencies.
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Influence of environmental thresholds on trajectories of freshwater assemblages with implications for building climate resilience across prairie landscapes
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September 2029
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Land use, geomorphic change, and fragmentation threaten prairie stream biodiversity and ecosystem function through changes in flow, temperature, and connectivity. Climate change will exacerbate these changes and likely lead to further shifts in species composition and biodiversity loss. Conservation and management actions needed to counter shifts in species composition and biodiversity loss depend on identifying environmental thresholds (i.e., tipping points) after which undesirable state shifts occur. Yet, identifying systematic environmental thresholds across freshwater ecosystems remains elusive despite the recognition that reaching thresholds may lead to trajectories with irreversible changes. The substantial climatic gradient across the Great Plains prairie ecoregion provides an ideal setting to evaluate environmental threshold responses in freshwater streams. Further, prairie streams are embedded within a matrix of diverse land use and geomorphic conditions. A region-wide perspective will thus allow natural resource management agencies to learn from and anticipate change based on current spatial variation in, for example, the rate and magnitude of agricultural conversion to urban land use, or upper thermal limits of organisms from south to north, across the study area. management and conservation actions (e.g., provide environmental flow allocations) that facilitate species persistence. Specifically, we propose to:<br><br>1) aggregate and quantify the spatial and temporal landscape of environmental gradients, including temperature, precipitation, and land use and characterize spatial and temporal patterns of aquatic assemblage diversity,<br><br>2) identify threshold responses in aquatic assemblage structure to environmental gradients, and<br><br>3) identify and aggregate data to support management actions that resist reaching thresholds, direct community trajectories, or accept change and promote tracking of aquatic assemblages to climate shifts.
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Assessing utility of side-scan sonar to evaluate Paddlefish populations and habitat availability
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May 2026
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The Paddlefish is a large bodied fish that inhabits large river and requires hard substrates, such as gravel and boulders, for a place to lay their eggs. The distribution of Paddlefish has been declining, but the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation has been stocking lakes and rivers in an attempt to restore lost populations. This project will collect side-scan sonar data on substrate availability, such percent gravel, in two rivers within the historic range of Paddlefish (Deep Fork River and Kiamichi River) to determine how much suitable spawning substrates exist. In addition, this project will follow up on previous research regarding the utility of side-scan sonar to identify and count Paddlefish and assess the accuracy of this tool from stocked populations.
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Gear Efficiency and Habitat Use of Age-1 Pallid Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) in the Lower Missouri River
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December 2026
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For pallid sturgeon in the Lower Missouri River, the environmental factors that affect reproductive potential or recruitment and year-class strength are poorly understood. Additionally, the location where recruitment occurs and the rate at which it occurs is also unknown. Developing a monitoring strategy that can be implemented to effectively assesses year-class-strength of juvenile pallid sturgeon (age-1) and recruitment drivers is paramount to assessing progress towards the objective of increasing recruitment to age-1. The project is a collaboration of researchers with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District and USGS, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit.The purpose of this study is to assess sampling gear efficiency and habitat use of age-1 pallid sturgeon in the Lower Missouri River. Information gleaned from this study will aid in the development of a monitoring program designed to assess recruitment of pallid sturgeon to age-1 in the Lower Missouri River.
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Evolution of salmon migration
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August 2024
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There is little understanding of how salmon select breeding locations. Salmon often breed near to where they were born, but considerable variation exists. We want to landscape heterogeneity can affect the evolution of homing behaviors. We developed a spatially explicit and allele-based model to study the role of landscape heterogeneity on the evolution of homing/straying in order to better picture of threat of environmental change. This work will not directly affect decisions. The theoretical understanding that we seek may possibly become on of thousands of considerations that go into decision-making about salmon.
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Giving up density of snowshoe hares
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August 2024
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Theory predicts that foraging behavior can be used to assess an animal's perception of habitat quality. We conducted a pilot study to determine if suitable data can be acquired to test this theory. This pilot study uses cellular-enabled remote cameras to confirm the species identity and timing of foraging events. The giving up density (GUD) of food items left behind is predicted to be a function of habitat quality. The Institute of Modeling Collaboration and Innovation at the University of Idaho provided funding to purchase cellular-enabled remote cameras. This work is a pilot study to assess methods and feasibility. If successful, it will only inform future study designs. Those future studies could be used to inform habitat management decisions.
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Ecotoxicology of the Kootenai River
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December 2026
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Statistical analyses of data on mercury and selenium contamination in the Kootenai River and its fishes do not exist. We are building such models to discover patterns and make recommendations for future monitoring. The Kootenai River and its fishes have significant cultural and spiritual significance to members of the Kootenai Tribe of Indians. This work will help the Tribe to describe the consequences of mining activities in Canada. This international pollution issue is discussed at high levels. Kootenai Tribe of Indians has funded this project. A representative of the Tribe is closely involved.
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Have population size fluctuations influenced the genomic diversity in monarchs?
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June 2026
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North American monarch butterflies are a charismatic pollinator, in part, because of their unique long-distance migration and formation of large clusters of individuals at winter roosting sites. Through monitoring at roost sites, marked declines in monarch numbers were detected. The eastern population segment of monarchs that winters in Mexico declined by 90% with the western population segment estimated to have declined by 95% since the late 1990s. Further, eastern and western segments of monarchs are genetically differentiated, indicating the two regions are demographically isolated. The marked declines experienced by monarchs across North America prompted concerns about the persistence of the unique behavioral segments of the species and capacity of the species to respond to current and emerging threats.<br> <br>The effective population size (and thereby retention of genomic diversity) of species underlies a populations’ capacity to adapt and respond to changes in the environment in both current and future conditions. Dramatic reductions in census sizes not only reduce the capacity of populations to retain genomic diversity but also reductions allow for the expression of deleterious mutations that are present in the population at low frequency, which can further erode the viability of populations in decline. Evaluation of the impact that the decline has on the effective population size of monarchs, therefore, is needed to inform resiliency and population persistence forecasts under projected future conditions.
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Evaluating spatial distribution and composition of mesopredator communities in western Nebraska
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July 2027
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Mesopredators are important components of animal and plant communities and play a role in maintaining ecosystem function and health. Not only does the presence of predators on the landscape have a strong influence on prey density and vital rates, mesopredator composition has cascading effects on species and ecosystem processes. Within Nebraska, scant data are available describing predator composition, occurrence and distribution. Given the influence mesopredators have on species, data on predator communities are needed to address knowledge gaps regarding population dynamics of harvested species and ultimately inform management strategies for both predator and harvested species. Our project will investigate how predator presence and community composition in Nebraska vary in relation to landscape features, land cover types, and other vegetation characteristics to inform decisions regarding habitat management.
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Assess reference condition of small-mammal population dynamics and genetic variation prior to Ambler Road development and ongoing climate change
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September 2028
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Small mammals play a vital role in boreal and Arctic ecosystems in Alaska. As local and resident, keystone species in food webs with quick generation times and small home ranges, small mammals are sensitive bioindicators of local disturbance, including climate change and development. In Denali National Park, small mammals have been studied for 30 years (1992-2022) as part of the Central Alaska Network Long-Term Monitoring program. Over many years, rain, snow, and growing season temperatures were strongly associated with variation in plant primary productivity. Both vole and hare abundance cycles showed a four-fold change in amplitude (peak) that corresponded to long-term changes in primary productivity. As climate change continues to affect temperatures, primary productivity and growing season, we can expect changes in small-mammal populations movements, ranges and cycles that may drastically influence boreal and Arctic ecosystems. Our project will compare reference condition data - genetic diversity, genetic structure - as well as population demographic data among Denali, Gates of the Arctic, and Kobuk Valley national parks. These data are central for comparative research and informed dialogue with industry to establish pre-development mitigation strategies by providing pre-development snapshot of population status preceding future climate change and development.
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Montana Wolf Conservation via Management Strategy Evaluation
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January 2026
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We are using Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE) to help inform wolf management decisions in Montana. Wolf season setting has become complicated and controversial again. State law requires Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to both reduce the population and avoid federal relisting. Big game advocates want to see improved big game populations and hunting opportunity, while wolf advocates feel that wolves are being persecuted under the current harvest regulations. MSE is a tool to simulate the workings of a harvested population or system. It will allow us to test whether potential management strategies can achieve pre-defined fundamental objectives. MSE considers the full range of uncertainty and helps decision-makers consider long-term trade-offs among the management objectives, instead of focusing on short-term considerations only. We are working closely with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to inform this MSE. Through this project, we will evaluate the effects of management strategies on the ability to meet objectives for wolf management, and thereby help inform decision-making for wolf conservation in Montana.
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Genomic forensics: using bioinformatics to investigate the causes of melanistic lesions in Brown Bullhead
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September 2028
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Over the past decade, a large percentage (~ 30%) of Brown Bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) on Lake Memphremagog have been observed with an unusual "black skin pigmentation", which have been identified as either melanistic lesions or melanomas. Potential hypotheses regarding the risk factors associated with these lesions include exposure to environmental contaminants, genetics, viruses, and interactions of these stressors. One hypothesis is that these melanistic lesions is the result of above normal concentrations of contaminants of emerging concern (e.g., pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial and household compounds ) introduced to waterbodies from wastewater runoff and landfill leachate. This is especially concerning since Lake Memphremagog is a source of drinking water for approximately 175000 Canadians. The researchers are collaborating with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, University of Vermont, and the U.S. Geological Survey on this project. The researchers will use bioinformatics to ascertain if there is a relationship between brown bullhead genetics and stressors such as water quality and sample location. This research may help managers to identify the source for the melanistics lesions and take preventative measures to prevent any contamination in the future.
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Analysis of bald eagle habitat selection and movement patterns
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June 2024
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Power lines pose a threat to Bald Eagles through electrocution and these mortalities are important to consider when determining allowable take. Mortality risk can be mitigating by retrofitting utility infrastructure yet information is needed to determine where such mitigation actions should be implemented. Mitigating Bald Eagle mortality risk from electrocution requires an understanding of where Bald Eagles are likely to occur on the landscape. High-resolution GPS telemetry is often used to monitor the movements of Bald Eagles and this information can be used to create spatially explicit predictions of Bald Eagle habitat selection which can then be overlaid with spatial information on utility infrastructure to identify potential hotspots of high mortality risk. This project is being conducted in collaboration with Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. We used GPS telemetry data from subadult Bald Eagles in Arizona to create spatially explicit predictions of Bald Eagle habitat use in Maricopa County using multi-scale integrated step-selection functions and movement simulation modeling. The resulting maps of predicted eagle use can be used by project partners to identify areas in potential need of mitigation to minimize electrocution risks.
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Climate vulnerability assessment of Oregon hatchery programs
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December 2024
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Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife operates 33 hatchery facilities in Oregon, including 14 state-owned facilities that produce fish for over 70 salmon and steelhead hatchery programs. These facilities play a key role in supporting both recreational and commercial fisheries by releasing millions of salmon, steelhead, and resident trout into waterbodies statewide. However, climate change poses increasing challenges to these operations, with rising stream temperatures, higher disease incidence, decreasing stream flows, and reduced ocean survival impacting the ability of hatchery programs to meet critical fishery and conservation goals. The goal of this project was to assess the climate vulnerability of a sample of hatchery programs across Oregon, representing different geographic areas, species, and management units. By analyzing each program’s susceptibility to climate-related risks, this assessment was able to determine which programs are most likely to be affected by climate change, and to identify strategies for enhancing resilience across facilities. The findings from this project will be shared with the Oregon State Legislature as part of an independent assessment covering the operations, sustainability, and climate risks of state-owned fish hatcheries. The final report, slated for presentation to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means during the 2025 legislative session, will provide key insights to directly inform state-level policy and funding decisions on hatchery management, ensuring the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of these essential programs.
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Developing a proactive conservation planning tool for stream fishes of greatest conservation need in the Carolinas
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June 2026
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The Carolinas (South and North Carolina, respectively) are home to one of the richest freshwater fish faunas in the US, with many species of greatest conservation need. These species are increasingly threatened by factors associated with human encroachment as natural land is converted to developed land. We are building a web-based Aquatic Planning Tool that will allow conservation practitioners to assess the impact of future development and restoration on SGCNs, allowing us to better identify areas of greatest concern in this rapidly growing region.
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Moose Habitat on the Flathead Indian Reservation
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January 2028
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We are investigating moose habitat on the Flathead Indian Reservation (FIR) to help inform conservation decisions. Moose population declines are evident in the area, with no conclusive evidence for the cause. Understanding factors that contribute to local declines will become increasingly important for moose conservation as ecological systems continue to change. Successful management of moose habitat in turn requires understanding how the species use their habitat. In collaboration with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, this study aims to understand and predict moose habitat relationships. The knowledge gained by this study will help inform conservation decisions, such as where to potentially designate FIR Moose Conservation Management Areas and where and how to focus habitat management to benefit moose.
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Grassland birds and solar energy in New York State
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March 2027
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<b>Sustainable siting of renewable energy for people ad planet | <b>Terrestrial solar facility design and management for conservation outcomes</b></b>: In partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, we are studying patterns of grassland bird community composition and species abundance, occupancy, and habitat selection in patches across diverse working lands that may be converted to solar, protected lands managed for grassland birds, and existing solar energy facilities to guide conservation-minded solar siting, management and design of solar facilities, and mitgattion strategies for grassland bird conservation in New York State.
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Assessment of the Immune Status of Smallmouth Bass
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May 2023
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A long-term monitoring multidisciplinary approach has been implemented to investigate smallmouth bass health issues in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including sites in West Virginia from 2019-2021. Many factors naturally affect wild fish immunity, so the purpose of this study was to monitor and evaluate changes in immune function in context with other aspects of health and environmental factors, including complex interactions between water quality, contaminants, climatic factors, pathogens and parasites, and genetic changes. Analyses are ongoing for this project, including controlled exposures of laboratory fish leukocytes to environmentally relevant chemicals and development of a statistical model to parse out predictors of immune function in wild fish. Papers will be supplied as they are completed.<br>Some factors found so far to be associated with immune function in the wild smallmouth bass include surrounding land-use, chemical concentrations both in surface water and blood plasma of the host fish, and disease status of the host fish. Site, season, biometrics (sex, age, length, weight), and histopathological indicators (tissue parasites and macrophage aggregates) have also been found to be associated. Expression of immune- and contaminant-related gene transcripts will help explain immune function results and associations further. The ability to consistently monitor over multiple years/seasons and collect ancillary data has been paramount to understanding immune function results of wild smallmouth bass. Long-term monitoring has provided a baseline for wild fish immunity and ancillary data has provided context for their functional immune responses. Recognizing the complexity and interaction of multiple factors in understanding immune function, advanced statistics are needed and are our next steps in more comprehensively understanding relationships between immune function, various stressors, and other indicators of host health. Integration of lower-level responses like transcript abundance with higher levels responses like immune function will help to identify and ultimately understand adverse outcomes in wild smallmouth bass populations.
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Habitat Suitability for Big Spring Spinedace (Lepidomeda mollispinis pratensis) in Meadow Valley Wash, Nevada
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May 2025
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The Big Spring Spinedace (Lepidomeda mollispinis pratensis) is a Federally threatened cyprind fish with a distribution limited to a single 5-km stream reach in Meadow Valley Wash, Lincoln County, NV. Little is known about the life history, habitat requirements, or demographics of this species. In 1994, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service set goals and objectives for recovery of BSS that included selection and establishment of refuge populations due to the vulnerability of the existing population to catastrophic events, human-induced habitat modification, and nonnative species introduction, and indicated that information collected on life history and habitat requirements should be utilized to evaluate potential refugia sites.This project is a collaboration among the U.S. Geological Survey, Nevada Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Nevada Department of Wildlife. We will establish criteria to evaluate Big Spring Spinedace habitat suitability via a literature review and pre-assessment analysis, conduct flow permanence surveys, monitor water levels and temperatures, and survey occupied and potential re-introduction sites for habitat suitability. We expect to recommend a prioritized list of sites that could be used as refuge population(s) for Big Spring Spinedace in and around Meadow Valley Wash, Nevada.
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Effects of Forest Management and Wildfire Disturbance on Grizzly Bears
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January 2029
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Over past centuries, habitat loss and degradation contributed to declines of grizzly bears in the contiguous US, including in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE). The NCDE has a long history of both industrial logging and wildlife suppression. Today, due to decades of increasing fuel loads, wildfire is the dominant source of disturbance in the NCDE. The effects of wildfire and timber harvest on grizzly bears are only partially understood, and both positive and negative effects have been identified. Further research is needed to understand the effects of these disturbances on this threatened species. We are working closely on this project with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Forest Service, and other collaborators. Through habitat suitability modeling and movement modeling, we will investigate how grizzly bears respond to timber harvest and wildfire to better understand their effects. Our work will inform forest management practices in the Northern Rockies.
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Predictive Modeling for Grizzly Bears in the Bitterroot Ecosystem
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January 2030
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Grizzly bears were extirpated across 98% of their former range in the contiguous US in recent centuries, including in the Bitterroot region of east-central Idaho and western Montana. The reestablishment of a population in the Bitterroot would contribute to the long-term persistence of grizzly bears in the contiguous US. In 2000, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) published a record of decision and final rule with a planned reintroduction for the Bitterroot, yet a reintroduction was never undertaken. Since the mid-2010s, numerous observations of grizzly bears have been documented in the region. We are working closely with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Forest Service, and other collaborators to understand planning needs. To assist with recovery planning, we are using movement models and simulations to develop predictions of how grizzly bears will use habitat in this area. Our results will directly inform conservation of this species in their former range.
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Quantifying the socio-environmental landscape for red wolf translocation, movement, and connectivity
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May 2028
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The red wolf, a critically endangered species, faces numerous challenges to its survival, including habitat loss and human-related mortality. Red wolves must navigate a complex environment. To support their recovery, it is essential to identify suitable areas for translocating red wolves while considering both habitat quality and the risks associated with human activities. This research project aims to fill the knowledge gap regarding spatial socio-environmental risks through a combination of geographic analysis, surveys, and movement modeling. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS South Carolina Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, as well as other collaborators. The outcomes of this project will provide valuable information for identifying potential translocation sites and informing management decisions. By understanding the spatial distribution of habitat and socio-environmental risks, conservation efforts can be optimized to increase the population abundance of red wolves and mitigate threats to their survival.
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Alligator movement ecology in coastal South Carolina
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December 2025
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American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are an integral part of coastal wetland ecosystems in many parts of the southeastern United States. As human development and saltwater intrusion affect these coastal ecosystems, alligators will also be affected. Alligator movement is important to understand in the context of habitat linkages, trophic interactions, and ecosystem connectivity. They have different movement strategies to navigate salinity gradients and heterogeneous environments, including areas that are actively used and/or managed for people (e.g., developments, waterfowl hunting areas). This work builds on data collected by students and professors at Clemson University and scientists at South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. This work will use movement models and habitat selection to better understand how American alligators utilize the landscape. Findings can help manage coastal areas and alligator populations, as well as inform mitigation actions related to hunting and human-alligator conflict.
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The current and future distribution of armadillos: constraints, implications, and management
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October 2027
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Nine-banded armadillos (Dasypus novemcinctus) are rapidly expanding their range within the United States, at least partially facilitated by climate change. It is currently unclear how much of the northern United States they can colonize and even less clear what the implications of their arrival are for native wildlife. Armadillos are ecosystem engineers that cause extensive alteration to their environment through their prolific burrowing behavior. These alterations are certain to change the availability of shelter sites, thermal environment availability, and predator-prey interactions of native wildlife and yet there is no research to explore these changes. Working with faculty and students at the University of Arkansas, Michigan State University, Bradley University, and the Michigan DNR, the Michigan Unit is exploring some facets of the distribution of armadillos and the repercussions for native wildlife. Understand the limits of armadillo range expansion will allow managers to pro-actively inform the public about management strategies to reduce conflict with humans as well as to better understand the implications for native wildlife that may soon be co-existing with armadillos.
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Enhancing proactive aquatic nuisance species management in Arkansas by developing a standardized risk screening workflow
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July 2024
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Preventing new invasions from occurring is the most effective way to avoid the negative ecological, economic, and societal impacts of invasive species. Two established and highly related methods for preventing new invasions are horizon scans and risk screening. Horizon scans use expert consultation and consensus building to conduct rapid risk screening. Arkansas, like the rest of the U.S., is experiencing negative impacts of invasive species, and thus, <i>there is a <u>critical need</u> to prevent new invasions and thereby avoid new negative impacts</i>. Here, we propose to meet this need through three objectives: 1) extracting risk screening results for fish in trade from the U.S. Geological Survey’s Horizon Scan and adapt these results to Arkansas, 2) using fish species screened in the USGS Horizon Scan, determine how climate matching scores shift under future climate scenarios, and 3) develop a standardized workflow for risk screening for aquatic nuisance species in Arkansas that incorporates risk of establishment under future climate scenarios. To accomplish the first objective, we will pull risk screening scores (comprised of risk of establishment, risk of spread, and potential negative impacts) for each aquatic species in the USGS Horizon Scan. For the second objective, we will use all fish species identified and screened in the USGS Horizon Scan. Then, we will use Representative Carbon Pathway models to predict future climatic conditions and then calculate climate matching scores between potential fish invaders’ native ranges and the U.S. under future climate scenarios in 2050, 2060, and 2070. For the third objective, we will create a scoring protocol for risk of establishment under future climate scenarios and apply the scoring to all fish species from Objective #2. Overall, this project will result in a standardized rapid risk screening workflow, tailored to Arkansas and incorporating risk under future climate scenarios. We envision our results being the basis for standardized protocols for developing aquatic invasive species watchlists in Arkansas.
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Effects of field management on bats of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
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June 2026
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Bats provide important ecosystem services but are declining due to many threats. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (BISO) provides habitat for 12 bat species, of which seven are susceptible to white-nose syndrome and three are experiencing heavy mortality due to wind energy development. Open areas such as fields are important bat foraging areas and many of at-risk bat species utilize fields. This study will determine 1) which bat species utilize fields for foraging, 2) the effects of field size and shape on use, and 3) effects of past management and vegetative characteristics on activity of each species. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the US Forest Service, Clemson University, USGS SC CFWRU, and natural resource managers at BISO. Results of this study will inform future management of these important areas and help managers design management plans that are effective for achieving management objectives while providing valuable habitat for conservation and recovery of bat species at BISO.
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Black bear landscape use and population ecology in upstate South Carolina
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December 2027
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Black bears (Ursus americanus) are becoming more common in upstate South Carolina. There are established populations in neighboring regions. However, it is unclear how many live in the upstate, their distribution, and how they use the landscape. This poses a management challenge. Black bear hunting is legal in South Carolina, but it is difficult to sustainably manage the population without knowing how many bears are there. The project is a collaboration of researchers and managers, includes the USGS South Carolina Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, Clemson University, and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). Outcomes from this work will inform SCDNR management actions, for example, in determining the black bear hunting season and limits. It will also support our understanding of black bears and their landscape use in upstate South Carolina relative to the neighboring regions.
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Defining oxythermal performance metrics for use in physiologically guided abundance models of diverse coregonid ecotypes
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May 2026
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Recruitment failures have led to declines of Lake Whitefish (<i>Coregonus clupeaformis</i>) and Cisco (<i>C. artedi sensu lato</i>) throughout the Great Lakes and in inland lakes. Maintaining, restoring, and the re-establishment of coregonid populations requires understanding environmental drivers of population processes and how population-specific biology may need to be integrated into hatchery-based culturing and stocking practices. This project will quantify the oxythermal performance of coregonid populations and examine whether populations from different environments exhibit habitat-relevant differences in physiology.
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Population structure, movement dynamics, and growth of native fishes in the Kootenai River system: using microchemistry to inform management and conservation
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December 2024
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This research will provide a comprehensive understanding of factors regulating the population. dynamics of White Sturgeon and Redband Trout in the Kootenai River system.
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Distribution, abundance, and outmigration characteristics of juvenile Bull Trout in tributaries of the upper St. Joe River system
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December 2024
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This project will provide insight on the distribution and abundance of Bull Trout that will be used to guide management and conservation decisions. Idaho Department of Fish and Game; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Avista, and the St. Joe Bull Trout Working Group.
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Gopher tortoises as facilitators of ecosystem connectivity
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May 2028
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Gopher tortoises are ecosystem engineers. We do not know how their movements and burrows could facilitate functional ecosystem connectivity, potentially serving the role of stepping stones in the landscape. Multiple species rely on gopher tortoise burrows, but their populations are at risk. This work will be done in collaboration with the USGS Virginia CRU. Findings from this work can inform decisions about gopher tortoise conservation as well as how land management could affect connectivity.
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Zebra mussel impacts on fish mercury concentrations
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December 2025
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Recent work has shown that invasive Dressenid mussels can increase mercury (a neurotoxin) in fish tissues, but it is unknown how widespread these effects are. This work assesses this zebra mussel effect at a large scale and provides explicit predictions of mercury concentrations in important fisheries. We will produce mercury risk maps that can be used to guide monitoring towards potential mercury hot spots. This work will enhance our understanding of zebra mussels as a driver of variation in mercury bioaccumulation and ensure that future monitoring is allocated strategically–mitigating a significant impact of a highly problematic invader.
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Understanding the responses of freshwater systems to ongoing restoration in West Tennessee rivers
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January 2030
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We are conducting multiple research projects to support the restoration of West Tennessee streams and rivers impacted by past human activities and modern agriculture. Our studies monitor how freshwater fish populations respond when degraded headwater streams are renewed through restoration. We also examine how recovering certain habitat features via restoration influences the distribution of freshwater mussels in these rehabilitated stream systems. By pairing restoration with scientific monitoring, our work helps revive West Tennessee streams to benefit native fish and mussel communities.
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We are conducting multiple projects intended to inform ongoing restoration of stream habitats in West Tennessee impacted by past human impacts and ongoing agricultural activities. Studies encompass monitoring responses of freshwater fishes to restoration of a headwater stream in West Tennessee, to understanding how the distribution of freshwater mussels relate to habitat features recovered or re-established via these restoration practices.
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LTER: The Role of Climate Variability in Controlling Arctic Ecosystem Function
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February 2029
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The Arctic is rapidly warming. Some responses to this warming involve acceleration of processes common to other ecosystems around the world (e.g., shifts in plant species), whereas others are unique to the Arctic but with global consequences for society (e.g., carbon loss from permafrost thaw). The objectives of the Arctic Long-Term Ecological Research (ARC-LTER) project for 2023-2029 are to determine how and how fast trends in climate change and especially climate variability are changing arctic ecosystem structure and function. The research will use synthesis of ongoing, long-term observations and experiments, and new activities combining observations, experiments, and modeling. These activities will answer the research questions about how trends in mean climate, climate variability, and disturbances all interact to control arctic ecosystem structure and function, now and in the future. Partners inlcude the Alaska Dept. of Game and Fish and the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. Associated researchers, postdocs, and students benefit from access to long-term data and the ability to conduct complementary studies in our monitoring and experimental sites. Education and outreach to non-scientists will be expanded, and a new ARC-DEI plan guides our efforts to broaden diversity and participation in all our activities.
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The Arctic is rapidly warming. Some responses to this warming involve acceleration of processes common to other ecosystems around the world (e.g., shifts in plant species), whereas others are unique to the Arctic but with global consequences for society (e.g., carbon loss from permafrost thaw). The objectives of the Arctic Long-Term Ecological Research (ARC-LTER) project for 2023-2029 are to determine how and how fast trends in climate change and especially climate variability are changing arctic ecosystem structure and function. The research will use synthesis of ongoing, long-term observations and experiments, and new activities combining observations, experiments, and modeling. These activities will answer the research questions about how trends in mean climate, climate variability, and disturbances all interact to control arctic ecosystem structure and function, now and in the future. Partners inlcude the Alaska Dept. of Game and Fish and the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. Associated researchers, postdocs, and students benefit from access to long-term data and the ability to conduct complementary studies in our monitoring and experimental sites. Education and outreach to non-scientists will be expanded, and a new ARC-DEI plan guides our efforts to broaden diversity and participation in all our activities.
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White River Conservation and Restoration: Using large wood piles for beaver mimicry and investigating novel methods for determining beaver carrying capacity, to inform future phases of restoration.
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October 2025
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The lower White River is home to many native fishes, is frequently used by endangered big river fishes of the Upper Colorado Basin (UCB), has some of the best remaining cottonwood galleries and in-stream habitat across the tributaries of the UCB, and is home to an active beaver population. Beaver activity provides many ecosystem services commonly associated with river conservation and restoration, namely maintaining and enhancing complex in-stream habitat by providing inputs of large woody debris. Yet, the status of the beaver population remains unknown, adding uncertainty to the future condition of in-stream habitat. The partners include the Utah DIvsion of Wildlife REsources, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Desert Fishes Habitat Council. The lower White River, UT, is currently in a state of high-quality condition, but invasive plants threaten the river’s condition and are therefore being mechanically removed as part of a large river restoration effort, where we are implementing an adaptive, science-based conservation, restoration, and monitoring plan for the lower White River (the Plan). The White River appears to be home to a thriving and extremely active beaver population, but we do not know the population density nor if the population is near carrying capacity. A precise population estimate in the lower White River is critical to future phases of this conservation and restoration project and has the potential to inform beaver translocation efforts elsewhere, where beavers are at very low densities, largely due to previous trapping. Genetic approaches to beaver population estimates and habitat use appear extremely promising.
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The lower White River is home to many native fishes, is frequently used by endangered big river fishes of the Upper Colorado Basin (UCB), has some of the best remaining cottonwood galleries and in-stream habitat across the tributaries of the UCB, and is home to an active beaver population. Beaver activity provides many ecosystem services commonly associated with river conservation and restoration, namely maintaining and enhancing complex in-stream habitat by providing inputs of large woody debris. Yet, the status of the beaver population remains unknown, adding uncertainty to the future condition of in-stream habitat. The partners include the Utah DIvsion of Wildlife REsources, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Desert Fishes Habitat Council. The lower White River, UT, is currently in a state of high-quality condition, but invasive plants threaten the river’s condition and are therefore being mechanically removed as part of a large river restoration effort, where we are implementing an adaptive, science-based conservation, restoration, and monitoring plan for the lower White River (the Plan). The White River appears to be home to a thriving and extremely active beaver population, but we do not know the population density nor if the population is near carrying capacity. A precise population estimate in the lower White River is critical to future phases of this conservation and restoration project and has the potential to inform beaver translocation efforts elsewhere, where beavers are at very low densities, largely due to previous trapping. Genetic approaches to beaver population estimates and habitat use appear extremely promising.
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The use of riparian buffer best management practices to reduce thermal stress on trout populations
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September 2025
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Riparian buffers are one of several best management practices used as part of watershed management plans developed for improving stream habitat for cold-water species of fish, including recreationally important trout. However, how riparian buffer development over time affects trout population viability is understudied. Critically, individual trout health has received almost no attention due to the lack of effective assessment tools. This study will assess thermal stress of trout living in streams with different age riparian buffers. To accomplish this, we will use a cutting-edge technique that involves quantifying the level of expression of thousands of genes. This research will help inform the effectiveness of riparian buffers at reducing thermal stress in trout populations.
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Riparian buffers are one of several best management practices used as part of watershed management plans developed for improving stream habitat for cold-water species of fish, including recreationally important trout. However, how riparian buffer development over time affects trout population viability is understudied. Critically, individual trout health has received almost no attention due to the lack of effective assessment tools. This study will assess thermal stress of trout living in streams with different age riparian buffers. To accomplish this, we will use a cutting-edge technique that involves quantifying the level of expression of thousands of genes. This research will help inform the effectiveness of riparian buffers at reducing thermal stress in trout populations.
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Pollinator conservation and management in National Wildlife Refuges
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September 2025
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<b>Pollinator conservation in a changing world: </b>In partnership with the USFWS, we are determining effects of habitat selection and land- and water-management practices on native insect pollinator (e.g., bees, flies, wasps, beetles, moths, and so on) abundance, diversity, and distributions at 10 National Wildlife Refuges throughout the northeastern U.S., spanning Maine to Virginia.
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Effects of land management practices on abudnace, richness, and diversity of pollinators in 10 NWRs
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Regional conservation implications of renewable energy for threatened and endangered species of the northeastern United States: Predictions, guidelines, and best management practices
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December 2025
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<b>Impacts of renewable energy development on threatened and endangered species: </b>We are conducting a literature synthesis on Regional Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the northeastern United States and their response to anthropogenic disturbances, including conventional and renewable energy, and creating guidelines for conservation of declining species in conjunction with increased renewable energy development in coordination with 13 state wildlife agencies in the Northeast.
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Spatial co-occurence of RSGCN and renewable energy buildout, with a literature synthesis to inform potential conservation implications
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Sustainability trade-offs across floating solar waterscapes and the agriculture-conservation-solar energy matrix
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June 2025
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<b>Sustainable siting of renewable energy for people and planet</b>:<b> </b>With funding from the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, we are building off of traditional solar technical potential models focused on interconnection and roads, we are integrating social and biodiversity datasets and field-collected data on biodiversity response to terrestrial and floating solar energy siting decisions into landscape-scale energy modeling to identity solar siting practices on land and water that meet climate goals while conserving surface area for conservation and ecosystems services.
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Understanding spatial interactions with terrestrial and floating solar buildout and ecosystem services.
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Agroecological effects and synergies of agrivoltaics
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August 2025
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<b>Agroecological synergies of solar energy</b>:<b> </b>In partnership with the New York tat Department of Agriculture and Markets and building on our initial research on sheep grazing and solar energy production, we are studying the interface of crop ecophysiology, agricultural insect pests and their natural enemies, and pollination services and altered microhabitat in operational agrivoltaic systems in New York State.
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Agro-ecological interactions among co-located cropping and solar energy systems.
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The need for landscape scale abundance monitoring of avifauna in New York state
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April 2025
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Species extinctions have defined the current global biodiversity crisis; however, extinctions begin with loss in abundance of individuals that can result in a loss of ecosystem function. Recent estimates in North America suggest a net loss of 3 billion birds since 1970, with many of including once “common” species (Rosenberg et al. 2019). This empirically demonstrated loss of bird abundance across the U.S. including New York (NY) signals an urgent demand to install robust abundance monitoring programs at the state level enabling the creation of management threshold criteria in order to avert future avifaunal collapse and associated loss of ecosystem integrity.Estimating the abundance or density of populations and how they change over time is important for their management and ultimately the conservation of species and biodiversity. Due to increasing doubt over reliability and accuracy, methods of monitoring have moved away from long relied on uncorrected indices in favour of methods like occupancy and abundance estimation which account for imperfect detection. Currently categorizations of species as rare and common are relative to one another, and due to this relative scale and shifting baseline syndrome (Soga & Gaston, 2018), this approach fails to accurately quantify or monitor actual changes in numbers of individuals of any species over meaningful timescales. Understanding change over time is important especially given the rapid pace of climate change affecting ecosystems (e.g. tree species composition and distribution. The longstanding goal of the DEC of implementing a comprehensive state-wide monitoring program for NY’s species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) has remained unmet (NYSDEC, 2015), although progress has been made for certain populations and habitats. DEC currently has programs in place to monitor some important avifauna groups such as marsh birds and colonial waterbirds but lacks critical knowledge of population trends of many vulnerable species that live in the state’s most important and declining habitats for SGCN including coastal saltmarsh, grasslands/shrublands, and forests. We will implement a two-part state-wide monitoring program.
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Species extinctions have defined the current global biodiversity crisis; however, extinctions begin with loss in abundance of individuals that can result in a loss of ecosystem function. Recent estimates in North America suggest a net loss of 3 billion birds since 1970, with many of including once “common” species (Rosenberg et al. 2019). This empirically demonstrated loss of bird abundance across the U.S. including New York (NY) signals an urgent demand to install robust abundance monitoring programs at the state level enabling the creation of management threshold criteria in order to avert future avifaunal collapse and associated loss of ecosystem integrity.Estimating the abundance or density of populations and how they change over time is important for their management and ultimately the conservation of species and biodiversity. Due to increasing doubt over reliability and accuracy, methods of monitoring have moved away from long relied on uncorrected indices in favour of methods like occupancy and abundance estimation which account for imperfect detection. Currently categorizations of species as rare and common are relative to one another, and due to this relative scale and shifting baseline syndrome (Soga & Gaston, 2018), this approach fails to accurately quantify or monitor actual changes in numbers of individuals of any species over meaningful timescales. Understanding change over time is important especially given the rapid pace of climate change affecting ecosystems (e.g. tree species composition and distribution. The longstanding goal of the DEC of implementing a comprehensive state-wide monitoring program for NY’s species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) has remained unmet (NYSDEC, 2015), although progress has been made for certain populations and habitats. DEC currently has programs in place to monitor some important avifauna groups such as marsh birds and colonial waterbirds but lacks critical knowledge of population trends of many vulnerable species that live in the state’s most important and declining habitats for SGCN including coastal saltmarsh, grasslands/shrublands, and forests. We will implement a two-part state-wide monitoring program.
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Northeast Mobile Acoustic Bat Transect Data Assessment
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September 2027
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Despite the fact that some of the very first mobile acoustic surveys for bat population monitoring were conducted in New York, adoption of this survey technique has been slow within the region. Select monitoring partners in the region have conducted consistent mobile acoustic surveys, but the information gained from such surveys have not been broadly available because either the data have not been analyzed or the reports produced are not widely accessible. This leaves regional partners with the unanswered question of “how can mobile acoustic surveys help fill my information needs". To address this gap, we will conduct an analysis of mobile acoustic data collected in the northeast region and communicate what is learned to regional monitoring partners.
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Despite the fact that some of the very first mobile acoustic surveys for bat population monitoring were conducted in New York, adoption of this survey technique has been slow within the region. Select monitoring partners in the region have conducted consistent mobile acoustic surveys, but the information gained from such surveys have not been broadly available because either the data have not been analyzed or the reports produced are not widely accessible. This leaves regional partners with the unanswered question of “how can mobile acoustic surveys help fill my information needs.” To address this gap, we will conduct an analysis of mobile acoustic data collected in the northeast region and communicate what is learned to regional monitoring partners.
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Bobcat monitoring in New York
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April 2025
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The season structure for bobcat hunting and trapping remained mostly unchanged from 1976-2012, with harvest seasons restricted to northern and southeastern New York. Analyses of bobcat observation data from the 2012-2017 Management Plan for Bobcat in New York State found that populations in portions of central and western New York had recovered to a point where they could sustain a limited harvest season. This management plan expanded harvest opportunities for bobcats by extending the trapping season throughout northern NY from December 10th to February 15th, extending the hunting and trapping season in central Tug Hill until February 15th, and opening a large portion of the southern tier, Mohawk River valley, and the New York City transition area (referred to as the Harvest Expansion Area, or HEA) for a bobcat harvest for the first time since 1976. When the expanded seasons opened in 2013, high fur prices coupled with the novelty of a new season led to New York’s largest bobcat harvest in over 20 years. Since that first season, the harvest in the Harvest Expansion Area has declined. While this is likely primarily driven by decreases in pelt prices, the bobcat harvest in western wildlife management units (WMUs) remains lower than expected. These low harvest numbers make it difficult to estimate population trends using harvest data and raise concerns that the harvest may be negatively impacting the bobcat population in these areas. There is a need for harvest-independent indices to better evaluate the bobcat population and impacts of the limited harvest season and make appropriate management recommendations. The collection of observation data from the general public has proven useful in monitoring changes in distribution of bobcat at little cost to the agency, but these data alone provide limited information on bobcat abundance needed to make refined management decisions. This project will develop a protocol for long-term surveys to provide robust, harvest-independent metrics such as occurrence and density of bobcats in central and western New York. These metrics will be used to inform decisions on additional harvest opportunities in areas with closed seasons and modification of existing seasons to maximize opportunity while ensuring a sustainable harvest.
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The season structure for bobcat hunting and trapping remained mostly unchanged from 1976-2012, with harvest seasons restricted to northern and southeastern New York. Analyses of bobcat observation data from the 2012-2017 Management Plan for Bobcat in New York State found that populations in portions of central and western New York had recovered to a point where they could sustain a limited harvest season. This management plan expanded harvest opportunities for bobcats by extending the trapping season throughout northern NY from December 10th to February 15th, extending the hunting and trapping season in central Tug Hill until February 15th, and opening a large portion of the southern tier, Mohawk River valley, and the New York City transition area (referred to as the Harvest Expansion Area, or HEA) for a bobcat harvest for the first time since 1976. When the expanded seasons opened in 2013, high fur prices coupled with the novelty of a new season led to New York’s largest bobcat harvest in over 20 years. Since that first season, the harvest in the Harvest Expansion Area has declined. While this is likely primarily driven by decreases in pelt prices, the bobcat harvest in western wildlife management units (WMUs) remains lower than expected. These low harvest numbers make it difficult to estimate population trends using harvest data and raise concerns that the harvest may be negatively impacting the bobcat population in these areas. There is a need for harvest-independent indices to better evaluate the bobcat population and impacts of the limited harvest season and make appropriate management recommendations. The collection of observation data from the general public has proven useful in monitoring changes in distribution of bobcat at little cost to the agency, but these data alone provide limited information on bobcat abundance needed to make refined management decisions. This project will develop a protocol for long-term surveys to provide robust, harvest-independent metrics such as occurrence and density of bobcats in central and western New York. These metrics will be used to inform decisions on additional harvest opportunities in areas with closed seasons and modification of existing seasons to maximize opportunity while ensuring a sustainable harvest.
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Modeling and conserving Streaked Horned Larks in Washington
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December 2023
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Streaked Horned Larks are a federally threatened and Washington state-endangered subspecies found only in Washington and Oregon. In Washington, the species relies on heavily fragmented grassland habitat in the South Puget Sound region. A better understanding of the dynamics of species that exist in highly fragmented habitats is a challenge in population ecology. For Streaked Horned Larks, this understanding could also help to inform reintroductions of the species. We are working with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Ecostudies Institute, and other partners to develop an integrated population model for this species, which will allow for movement between habitat islands in the South Puget Sound region. We will then couple model output with expert judgments to evaluate a suite of proposed strategies for Streaked Horned Lark reintroductions. Reintroduction has the potential to be a valuable management strategy for Streaked Horned Larks, and information that will allow decision makers to choose amongst proposed reintroduction strategies can accelerate recovery of this species.
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Streaked Horned Larks are a federally threatened and Washington state-endangered subspecies found only in Washington and Oregon. In Washington, the species relies on heavily fragmented grassland habitat in the South Puget Sound region. A better understanding of the dynamics of species that exist in highly fragmented habitats is a challenge in population ecology. For Streaked Horned Larks, this understanding could also help to inform reintroductions of the species. We are working with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Ecostudies Institute, and other partners to develop an integrated population model for this species, which will allow for movement between habitat islands in the South Puget Sound region. We will then couple model output with expert judgments to evaluate a suite of proposed strategies for Streaked Horned Lark reintroductions. Reintroduction has the potential to be a valuable management strategy for Streaked Horned Larks, and information that will allow decision makers to choose amongst proposed reintroduction strategies can accelerate recovery of this species.
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Conservation of Northwestern pond turtles in Washington
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September 2029
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Northwestern pond turtles are a state-endangered species in Washington and the US Fish and Wildlife Service recently proposed the species for federal listing. In Washington, the species' decline has been sharp, but there is a great deal of uncertainty regarding the relative importance of the factors that are putatively driving this decline. Having a better understanding of the threats and an approach for rigorously evaluating management actions will help to inform conservation of the species. We are working with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to undertake a Structured Decision Making process. Through this process, we will develop a framework to inform conservation of the species in Washington and to identify the most important uncertainties that are restricting management. These uncertainties will be the focus of a graduate research project. The framework we develop, and the new research that will be designed to fill knowledge gaps in that framework, will help state and federal agencies to plan conservation for this species.
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Northwestern pond turtles are a state-endangered species in Washington and the US Fish and Wildlife Service recently proposed the species for federal listing. In Washington, the species' decline has been sharp, but there is a great deal of uncertainty regarding the relative importance of the factors that are putatively driving this decline. Having a better understanding of the threats and an approach for rigorously evaluating management actions will help to inform conservation of the species. We are working with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to undertake a Structured Decision Making process. Through this process, we will develop a framework to inform conservation of the species in Washington and to identify the most important uncertainties that are restricting management. These uncertainties will be the focus of a graduate research project. The framework we develop, and the new research that will be designed to fill knowledge gaps in that framework, will help state and federal agencies to plan conservation for this species.
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An evaluation of the effectiveness of restoration spending in the Columbia River Basin
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August 2023
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The decline in salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River Basin has been well documented, as have the decades-long, $9 billion restoration spending efforts by federal and state agencies. These efforts are mainly tied to Endangered Species Act (ESA) mandates for recovery of wild, naturally-spawning threatened or endangered fish species. The impact of these efforts remains poorly understood; many observers, including the federal courts, have long been concerned by the lack of evidence of recovery. Most studies evaluating restoration efforts have examined individual projects for specific species, reaches, or life stages, which limits the ability to make broad inferences at the basin level. This project involves researchers from Oregon State University. We are using historical information on fish abundance and associated restoration spending to evaluate the effectiveness of restoration activities in restoring ESA-listed salmon and steelhead. This information will be useful to regional management agencies in determining how best to spend limited recovery resources.
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The decline in salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River Basin has been well documented, as have the decades-long, $9 billion restoration spending efforts by federal and state agencies. These efforts are mainly tied to Endangered Species Act (ESA) mandates for recovery of wild, naturally-spawning threatened or endangered fish species. The impact of these efforts remains poorly understood; many observers, including the federal courts, have long been concerned by the lack of evidence of recovery. Most studies evaluating restoration efforts have examined individual projects for specific species, reaches, or life stages, which limits the ability to make broad inferences at the basin level. This project involves researchers from Oregon State University. We are using historical information on fish abundance and associated restoration spending to evaluate the effectiveness of restoration activities in restoring ESA-listed salmon and steelhead. This information will be useful to regional management agencies in determining how best to spend limited recovery resources.
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Predicting the future of aquatic species in Minnesota
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June 2026
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Native aquatic species have had their ranges impacted by habitat degradation, climate change, invasive species, harvest, and other anthropogenic impacts. Each year the state of Minnesota spends millions of dollars on the conservation of aquatic native species. A booming economy relies on the state’s natural resources, with the outdoor recreation economy alone valued at $16.7 billion in 2022. The climate in Minnesota is predicted to continue changing substantially throughout this century, average annual temperature across the state has already increased nearly 3℉ since the late 1800s. To support the goal of Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources, that ‘the benefits of all Minnesota’s natural resources are enjoyed by all Minnesotans’, it is important to anticipate and plan for likely future scenarios. By identifying native aquatic species most likely to be impacted by future climate change, and geographic areas with high levels of species change, management agencies can better focus their resources to protect and conserve these aquatic species in areas that will be most suited to them, for the benefit of Minnesota’s future. We will predict the ranges of native aquatic species in Minnesota using recently available high quality datasets and information on past and present ranges coupled with powerful statistical techniques.
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Native aquatic species have had their ranges impacted by habitat degradation, climate change, invasive species, harvest, and other anthropogenic impacts. Each year the state of Minnesota spends millions of dollars on the conservation of aquatic native species. A booming economy relies on the state’s natural resources, with the outdoor recreation economy alone valued at $16.7 billion in 2022. The climate in Minnesota is predicted to continue changing substantially throughout this century, average annual temperature across the state has already increased nearly 3℉ since the late 1800s. To support the goal of Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources, that ‘the benefits of all Minnesota’s natural resources are enjoyed by all Minnesotans’, it is important to anticipate and plan for likely future scenarios. By identifying native aquatic species most likely to be impacted by future climate change, and geographic areas with high levels of species change, management agencies can better focus their resources to protect and conserve these aquatic species in areas that will be most suited to them, for the benefit of Minnesota’s future. We will predict the ranges of native aquatic species in Minnesota using recently available high quality datasets and information on past and present ranges coupled with powerful statistical techniques.
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Improving stock assessment of Walleye for Mille Lacs Lake.
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June 2026
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The Walleye fishery in Mille Lacs Lake has declined since the 1990s. The decline coincides with a variety of changesincluding: warming temperatures, increases in smallmouth bass, invasion of zebra mussels in 2005, invasion of spiny waterflea in 2009, changes to northern pike abundance, along with changes to the fishery (both in gear types and management).The fishery (along with northern pike, yellow perch, cisco and burbot) is co‐managed by tribes signatory to the 1837 Treatyand the state (through Minnesota Department of Natural Resources or MNDNR), based on legal agreements. The walleyefishery has consisted of a recreational and joint tribal fishery since 1998. The population of walleye is estimated annuallythrough a statistical catch at age (SCAA) model (previously a Virtual Population Analysis or VPA). The assessment modelswere reviewed in 2001 (VPA) by James R. Bence and Terrance J. Quinn II and again in 2014 (SCAA) by a blue ribbon panel(Paul Venturelli, James Bence, Travis Brenden, Nigel Lester, and Lars Rudstam). A variety of recommendations were madein those reviews for future data collection and future research to ensure the stock assessment model is as accurate aspossible, and this project will focus on improving some aspect of the stock assessment.
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The Walleye fishery in Mille Lacs Lake has declined since the 1990s. The decline coincides with a variety of changesincluding: warming temperatures, increases in smallmouth bass, invasion of zebra mussels in 2005, invasion of spiny waterflea in 2009, changes to northern pike abundance, along with changes to the fishery (both in gear types and management).The fishery (along with northern pike, yellow perch, cisco and burbot) is co‐managed by tribes signatory to the 1837 Treatyand the state (through Minnesota Department of Natural Resources or MNDNR), based on legal agreements. The walleyefishery has consisted of a recreational and joint tribal fishery since 1998. The population of walleye is estimated annuallythrough a statistical catch at age (SCAA) model (previously a Virtual Population Analysis or VPA). The assessment modelswere reviewed in 2001 (VPA) by James R. Bence and Terrance J. Quinn II and again in 2014 (SCAA) by a blue ribbon panel(Paul Venturelli, James Bence, Travis Brenden, Nigel Lester, and Lars Rudstam). A variety of recommendations were madein those reviews for future data collection and future research to ensure the stock assessment model is as accurate aspossible, and this project will focus on improving some aspect of the stock assessment.
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Quantifying the response of in-stream habitat restoration in Gary Creek, South Dakota
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June 2026
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Gary Creek is a low discharge, groundwater dependent stream that originates along the eastern edge of the Coteau des Prairies in Deuel County, South Dakota. It is a unique stream for eastern South Dakota because it is characterized by cool water habitat with summer water temperatures that rarely exceed 18°C. However, increased siltation and loss of pool habitats have changed in-stream habitat availability for fishes. Prioritizing unique, aquatic habitats and fish communities for conservation management is an important step toward managing biodiversity through the systematic approach outlined by the South Dakota Wildlife Action Plan (SDWAP). Habitat issues like those affecting Gary Creek can be remedied through prescribed habitat restoration techniques, many of which have been successfully implemented in the Black Hills and southeastern Minnesota. This project relates directly to the goals of SDWAP by providing a strategic framework for partner agencies in leveraging collective resources to restore and evaluate in-stream habitat in Gary Creek.
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Gary Creek is a low discharge, groundwater dependent stream that originates along the eastern edge of the Coteau des Prairies in Deuel County, South Dakota. It is a unique stream for eastern South Dakota because it is characterized by cool water habitat with summer water temperatures that rarely exceed 18°C. Historically, the native fish community in Gary Creek (upper Lac Qui Parle tributary) consisted of Blacknose Dace (<i>Rhinichthys atratulus</i>), Creek Chub (<i>Semotilus atromaculatus</i>), Northern Redbelly Dace (<i>Chrosomus eos</i>), Fathead Minnow (<i>Pimephales promelas</i>), Brassy Minnow (<i>Hybognathus hankinsoni</i>), Blackside Darter (<i>Percina maculata</i>, and Iowa Darter (<i>Etheostoma exile</i>). Northern Redbelly Dace, a state-listed, threatened species was present in recent collections by Krause (2013) who found that 60% of the native fish species in Gary Creek were lithophilic spawners, a presumed adaptation to coarse substrates. Status of the Blackside Darter, a species of greatest conservation need (SGCN), was documented from collections made in 1994, although their current status remains unknown. Prioritizing unique, aquatic habitats and fish communities for conservation management is an important step toward managing biodiversity through the systematic approach outlined by the South Dakota Wildlife Action Plan (SDWAP). Habitat issues like those affecting Gary Creek can be remedied through prescribed habitat restoration techniques, many of which have been successfully implemented in the Black Hills and southeastern Minnesota. This project relates directly to the goals of SDWAP by providing a strategic framework for partner agencies in leveraging collective resources to restore and evaluate in-stream habitat in Gary Creek.
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Quantifying wetland change following small dam removal in Massachusetts
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September 2024
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Across the United States and within Massachusetts, the rate of dam removals pales in comparison to the number of dams aging across the landscape. Though intended to protect wetlands and waters, wetland regulations pose an obstacle to efficiently removing dams and restoring free-flowing waters. Because dam removal inherently alters the open water ecosystem as well as contiguous wetlands, those seeking to remove dams must address regulatory requirements under Sections 401 and 404 of the Clean Water Act as well as State and local wetland protection regulations. These regulatory protections do not adequately facilitate ecological restoration projects which may significantly alter existing wetland resources to improve the health of a system in the longer term. Specifically, the dearth of information on wetland response following dam removal has resulted in significant uncertainty for removal practitioners and regulators as they balance the potential ecological benefits and impacts related to dam removal.<br><br>To address this uncertainty, we aim to understand and model how wetland area changes upstream of the impoundment, within the impoundment area, and downstream of the former dam over short (0-2 years) and longer (4-6 years and 9-11 years) durations following dam removal by analyzing 26 small dam removal projects completed in Massachusetts between 2000 and 2012. Additionally, we will evaluate the effect of landscape characteristics and dam removal design on wetland change. We will achieve these objectives through aerial interpretation of aerial imagery and primary permitting data. Our results could describe and set expectations for future wetland change following dam removal, as well as identify dam removal project designs that minimize wetland conversion.
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Across the United States and within Massachusetts, the rate of dam removals pales in comparison to the number of dams aging across the landscape. Though intended to protect wetlands and waters, wetland regulations pose an obstacle to efficiently removing dams and restoring free-flowing waters. We aim to understand how wetland area changes following a dam removal and landscape and dam characteristics affecting that change. Our results could describe and set expectations for future wetland change following dam removal, as well as identify dam removal project designs that minimize wetland conversion.
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Fish habitat suitability and vulnerability to flow and temperature modification
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July 2028
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Refugia is important for the survival of coldwater fish species under a changing climate. Refugia provides a space species can inhabit during unfavorable habitat conditions in surrounding areas. Stream temperature and flow are important in defining refugia. Warming stream temperatures during the summer decrease suitable habitat for coldwater fish. Stream flooding and drying can also limit suitable habitat for coldwater fish. However, the potential locations of coldwater fish refuges and the strength of the refugia network (network strength defined by number of refugia and connectivity of refuges) has not been exclusively studied.<br><br>Temperature and flow models are currently being developed to predict how coldwater patches could change under future climate change projections in the Northeast. Our project aims to provide critical information on how biota use coldwater patches and the spatial and temporal extent of refugia needed for populations to persist. We will also examine the vulnerability of fish and mussel species to changes in temperature and flow to develop metrics that managers can use to understand potential climate impacts.
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Refugia is important for the survival of coldwater biota under a changing climate. Warming stream temperatures and extreme flows (flooding and drying) can limit suitable habitat, and connectivity barriers (dams, culverts) can prevent access to critical habtiat patches. We are collaborating with MassWildlife to develop projects to better understand how fishes and other biota use coldwater refugia. Increasing our understanding of coldwater refugia on the landscape will allow managers to strategically invest in management and conservation efforts to protect and restore critical habitats and biota.
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Innovative Control Techniques for Non-native Channel Catfish
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December 2026
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Problem statement: Competition and predation from nonnative fishes have substantially impacted native fish populations across the United States. Channel Catfish <i>Ictalurus punctatus</i><i> </i>are among the most invasive species due to their negative impacts on native fish communities.<br><br>So What? Why this research matters: Traditional removal efforts to extirpate invasive Channel Catfish populations are ineffective. Developing alternative population mitigation strategies, such as the Trojan Sex Chromosome strategy, need to be investigated for the potential control of invasive Channel Catfish populations.<br><br>Partners: The project is a collaboration of researchers with New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.<br><br>Research that informs decisions: Critical data will be collected on the development of optimal feminization strategies for Channel Catfish. This information is critical in the implementation of a Trojan Sex Chromosome eradication strategy that may be able to extirpate invasive Channel Catfish populations.
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Problem statement: Competition and predation from nonnative fishes have substantially impacted native fish populations across the United States. Channel Catfish <i>Ictalurus punctatus</i><i> </i>are among the most invasive species due to their negative impacts on native fish communities.So What? Why this research matters: Traditional removal efforts to extirpate invasive Channel Catfish populations are ineffective. Developing alternative population mitigation strategies, such as the Trojan Sex Chromosome strategy, need to be investigated for the potential control of invasive Channel Catfish populations.Partners: The project is a collaboration of researchers with New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.Research that informs decisions: Critical data will be collected on the development of optimal feminization strategies for Channel Catfish. This information is critical in the implementation of a Trojan Sex Chromosome eradication strategy that may be able to extirpate invasive Channel Catfish populations.
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Carp Feminization Trials for Invasive Population Mitigation
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December 2026
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Problem statement: Competition and predation from nonnative fishes have substantially impacted native fish populations across the United States. Common Carp <i>Cyprinus carpio </i>are among the most invasive species due to their negative impacts on native fish communities and aquatic ecosystems.<br><br>So What? Why this research matters: Traditional removal efforts to extirpate invasive Common Carp populations are ineffective. Developing alternative population mitigation strategies, such as the Trojan Sex Chromosome strategy, need to be investigated for the potential control of invasive Common Carp populations.<br><br>Partners: The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple State natural resource agencies that comprise the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.<br><br>Research that informs decisions: Critical data will be collected on the development of optimal feminization strategies for Common Carp. This information is critical in the implementation of a Trojan Sex Chromosome eradication strategy that may be able to extirpate invasive Common Carp populations.
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Problem statement: Competition and predation from nonnative fishes have substantially impacted native fish populations across the United States. Common Carp <i>Cyprinus carpio </i>are among the most invasive species due to their negative impacts on native fish communities and aquatic ecosystems.So What? Why this research matters: Traditional removal efforts to extirpate invasive Common Carp populations are ineffective. Developing alternative population mitigation strategies, such as the Trojan Sex Chromosome strategy, need to be investigated for the potential control of invasive Common Carp populations.Partners: The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple State natural resource agencies that comprise the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Research that informs decisions: Critical data will be collected on the development of optimal feminization strategies for Common Carp. This information is critical in the implementation of a Trojan Sex Chromosome eradication strategy that may be able to extirpate invasive Common Carp populations.
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Population Genetics and Feminization Trials for Red Shiner
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December 2026
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Problem statement: Competition and predation from nonnative fishes have substantially impacted native fish populations in the southwestern United States. Red Shiner <i>Cyprinella lutrensisare </i>are among the fastest expanding invaders in the Southwest and are among the most invasive species due to their negative impacts on native fish communities.<br><br>So What? Why this research matters: Traditional removal efforts to extirpate invasive Red Shiner populations are ineffective. Developing alternative population mitigation strategies, such as the Trojan Sex Chromosome strategy, need to be investigated for the potential control of invasive Red Shiner populations.<br><br>Partners: The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and State and Federal natural resource managers in the Southwest.<br><br>Research that informs decisions: Critical data will be collected on Red Shiner sex determination systems among various populations. This information, along with the development of optimal feminization strategies, are crucial in the implementation of a Trojan Sex Chromosome eradication strategy that may be able to extirpate invasive Red Shiner populations.
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Problem statement: Competition and predation from nonnative fishes have substantially impacted native fish populations in the southwestern United States. Red Shiner <i>Cyprinella lutrensis </i>are among the fastest expanding invaders in the Southwest and are among the most invasive species due to their negative impacts on native fish communities.So What? Why this research matters: Traditional removal efforts to extirpate invasive Red Shiner populations are ineffective. Developing alternative population mitigation strategies, such as the Trojan Sex Chromosome strategy, need to be investigated for the potential control of invasive Red Shiner populations.Partners: The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and State and Federal natural resource managers in the Southwest.Research that informs decisions: Critical data will be collected on Red Shiner sex determination systems among various populations. This information, along with the development of optimal feminization strategies, are crucial in the implementation of a Trojan Sex Chromosome eradication strategy that may be able to extirpate invasive Red Shiner populations.
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Exploring the needs and opportunities around community-based CWD surveillance on Tribal Lands
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August 2023
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The purpose of this agreement is to provide funding to support collaborative research efforts to explore the needs and opportunities around community-based chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance on Tribal Lands. It outlines the goals, objectives, anticipated accomplishments, and the approach, including roles and responsibilities, for accomplishing the research. This study may include, among other things, interviews and workshops with hunters and other individuals on Tribal Lands.
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The purpose of this agreement is to provide funding to support collaborative research efforts to explore the needs and opportunities around community-based chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance on Tribal Lands. It outlines the goals, objectives, anticipated accomplishments, and the approach, including roles and responsibilities, for accomplishing the research. This study may include, among other things, interviews and workshops with hunters and other individuals on Tribal Lands.
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Linking human behavior and attitudes to spillover of SCV2 at the cervid-human interface
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February 2026
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<b>Project Purpose</b> – The purpose is to understand how human behaviors, human-white-tailed deer (WTD) interactions, land use, and ecological context contribute to SARS-CoV-2 (SCV2) infection dynamics in WTD populations.<br><b><i> </i></b><br><b>Project Objective</b> – There are 4 objectives: 1) Determine the predictive relationship between (a) human values, attitudes, and beliefs and (b) human behaviors at the human-WTD interface; 2) Identify human behaviors and land-use characteristics that may lead to spillover or spillback of SCV2 from humans to WTD; 3) Determine the likely response of individuals to different management interventions (e.g., provision of information about risk and prevention); and 4) Improve risk assessment and forecasting capabilities of SCV2 hotspots in WTD.
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<b>Project Purpose</b> – The purpose is to understand how human behaviors, human-white-tailed deer (WTD) interactions, land use, and ecological context contribute to SARS-CoV-2 (SCV2) infection dynamics in WTD populations.<b><i> </i></b><b>Project Objective</b> – There are 4 objectives: 1) Determine the predictive relationship between (a) human values, attitudes, and beliefs and (b) human behaviors at the human-WTD interface; 2) Identify human behaviors and land-use characteristics that may lead to spillover or spillback of SCV2 from humans to WTD; 3) Determine the likely response of individuals to different management interventions (e.g., provision of information about risk and prevention); and 4) Improve risk assessment and forecasting capabilities of SCV2 hotspots in WTD.
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Ectoparasites of salmon using eDNA
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August 2023
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Ectoparasites on fish are a source of stress for individuals and may become more prevalent with climate change and associated water warming. However, the distribution of these parasites, such as copepod "sea lice", are largely unknown. This is especially the case in Alaskan waters, despite the economic and cultural importance of Pacific salmon. In cooperation with fish pathologists, physiologists, and veterinarians with the University of Alaska Fairbanks Museum of the North and the Colloredo State University Veterinary Science Summer Fellowship program, this project assesses the distribution of fish parasites and pathogens on museum reference specimens and seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of eDNA as a monitoring tool for these organisms.
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Ectoparasites on fish are a source of stress for individuals and may become more prevalent with climate change and associated water warming. However, the distribution of these parasites, such as copepod "sea lice", are largely unknown. This is especially the case in Alaskan waters, despite the economic and cultural importance of Pacific salmon. In cooperation with fish pathologists, physiologists, and veterinarians with the University of Alaska Fairbanks Museum of the North and the Colloredo State University Veterinary Science Summer Fellowship program, this project assesses the distribution of fish parasites and pathogens on museum reference specimens and seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of eDNA as a monitoring tool for these organisms.
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Maximizing returns on investing in barrier culvert removal in Washington State
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January 2024
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Across Western Washington, thousands of poorly-designed culverts at road crossings prevent migratory salmon from accessing potential habitat, hampering recovery efforts for declining populations. In 2013, a federal court found that barrier culverts in Washington violate tribal treaty rights and issued an injunction requiring their replacement. While the injunction only applies to state-owned culverts, thousands of additional barrier culverts are owned by local governments and private landowners, often within the same watersheds, generate inter-dependencies between barrier correction activities. The project is a collaboration of researchers from the University of Washington and the National Marine Fisheries Service. Our project will develop a consistent, data-driven framework for prioritizing fish passage barriers over multiple objectives, drawing from a rich literature on fish passage restoration plans that maximize return on investment. The decision support tool we develop will serve a coordinating function between barrier owners and managers by allowing the consistent comparison of alternative barrier correction, complementing ongoing efforts to restore fish passage in the state of Washington.
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Across Western Washington, thousands of poorly-designed culverts at road crossings prevent migratory salmon from accessing potential habitat, hampering recovery efforts for declining populations. In 2013, a federal court found that barrier culverts in Washington violate tribal treaty rights and issued an injunction requiring their replacement. While the injunction only applies to state-owned culverts, thousands of additional barrier culverts are owned by local governments and private landowners, often within the same watersheds, generate inter-dependencies between barrier correction activities. The project is a collaboration of researchers from the University of Washington and the National Marine Fisheries Service. Our project will develop a consistent, data-driven framework for prioritizing fish passage barriers over multiple objectives, drawing from a rich literature on fish passage restoration plans that maximize return on investment. The decision support tool we develop will serve a coordinating function between barrier owners and managers by allowing the consistent comparison of alternative barrier correction, complementing ongoing efforts to restore fish passage in the state of Washington.
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Assessing chronic wasting disease environmental prion reservoirs
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August 2025
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The prevalence of chronic wasting disease continues to increase endemically and spread broadly over North America. However, transmission risks and chronic wasting disease dynamics associated with environmental prion reservoirs remain poorly understood due to the lack of efficient diagnostic tools. With advances in prion assay technology (RT-QuIC), the proposed research can fill key gaps in knowledge about ecologically- and management-relevant environmental sources of CWD transmission. This project builds off previous work funded by the WI-DNR to leverage prion assay technology (real-time quaking-induced conversion; RT-QuIC) to detect chronic wasting disease prions in environmental reservoirs and considers the role of scavengers. Our aim is to 1) assess the effects of chronic wasting disease-positive carcasses and vertebrate scavengers on prion deposition and distribution in soils at deer carcass sites, and 2) quantify animal activity at deer carcass sites and scavenger movement ecology to evaluate host exposure risk and the effects of scavengers on carcass consumption and prion removal or dissemination. Outcomes will provide an understanding of the extent and significance of prion contamination in the environment, which can subsequently inform management actions and disease prediction models.
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The prevalence of CWD continues to increase endemically and spread broadly over North America. However, transmission risks and CWD dynamics associated with environmental prion reservoirs remain poorly understood due to the lack of efficient diagnostic tools. With advances in prion assay technology (RT-QuIC), the proposed research can fill key gaps in knowledge about ecologically- and management-relevant environmental sources of CWD transmission. This project builds off previous work funded by the WI-DNR to leverage prion assay technology (real-time quaking-induced conversion; RT-QuIC) to detect chronic wasting disease (CWD) prions in deer tissues and environmental reservoirs. Our aim is to evaluate prion loads in tissues and biotic and abiotic environmental sources (e.g., soil, feces from scavenger species) that are ecologically relevant for CWD dynamics. To better understand environmental CWD dynamics, we aim to semi-quantitatively characterize CWD prion loads in a range of deer tissues, deer scent glands, soils at CWD-infected deer carcass sites, and scavenger scats. Outcomes will provide an understanding of the extent and significance of prion contamination in the environment, which can subsequently inform management actions and disease prediction models.
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Testing an integrative model of the social-psychological drivers of participation in relational organizing
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August 2025
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Relational organizing is a promising approach for achieving rapid, widespread community action for environmental conservation and other pro-social causes. Scaling up the relational organizing approach requires understanding, synthesizing, and developing interventions to address the most salient factors driving people’s willingness to reach out to others. In this project, the researchers advance a theoretical model of the social-psychological drivers of participation in relational organizing. The model proposes that participation in relational organizing is influenced by: 1) personal norms about reaching out to others; 2) activist social identity; 3) attitudes towards and past engagement in the target behavior; 4) perceptions of others’ beliefs about the issue and about reaching out to others about the issue; and 5) beliefs about the efficacy of relational organizing. We test this model in the context of climate action. We will collaborate with nonprofit and government and private sector partners to implement a series of surveys and online and field experiments on this topic.
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Relational organizing is a promising approach for achieving rapid, widespread community action for environmental conservation and other pro-social causes. Scaling up the relational organizing approach requires understanding, synthesizing, and developing interventions to address the most salient factors driving people’s willingness to reach out to others. In this project, the researchers advance a theoretical model of the social-psychological drivers of participation in relational organizing. The model proposes that participation in relational organizing is influenced by: 1) personal norms about reaching out to others; 2) activist social identity; 3) attitudes towards and past engagement in the target behavior; 4) perceptions of others’ beliefs about the issue and about reaching out to others about the issue; and 5) beliefs about the efficacy of relational organizing. We test this model in the context of climate action. We will collaborate with nonprofit and government and private sector partners to implement a series of surveys and online and field experiments on this topic.
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Elucidating the practice of interdisciplinary and actionable science
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June 2025
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This project addresses three research questions: (1) What skills and abilities (including specific behaviors, cognitive habits and emotional approaches) are helpful and/or necessary to do user- focused applied science, particularly in collaborative and/or interdisciplinary settings? (2) How did scientists currently using user-focused applied science, transdisciplinary, and team science approaches develop the skills and abilities upon which they currently rely? (3) How can scientific organizations and teams build scientists’ capacity to do user-focused applied science, transdisciplinary research, and/or team science?
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This project addresses three research questions: (1) What skills and abilities (including specific behaviors, cognitive habits and emotional approaches) are helpful and/or necessary to do user- focused applied science, particularly in collaborative and/or interdisciplinary settings? (2) How did scientists currently using user-focused applied science, transdisciplinary, and team science approaches develop the skills and abilities upon which they currently rely? (3) How can scientific organizations and teams build scientists’ capacity to do user-focused applied science, transdisciplinary research, and/or team science?
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Institutionalizing inclusion in the USFWS: a research study
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June 2026
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As the federal agency responsible for fish and wildlife conservation in the United States, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is at the heart of this evolution of the conservation sector. In recent years, USFWS staff have engaged in a variety of internal efforts to prioritize supporting a diverse workforce. However, there has yet to be a concerted cross-program assessment that captures the voices of agency staff to understand their narratives on how the Service is reconceptualizing conservation, or how these efforts are—or are not—moving the needle towards the goal of a more inclusive agency who reflects the multiple values of the American public. To aid the agency in their assessment of these efforts, our main project objectives are to: (1) To conduct a discourse analysis of conservation narratives in the USFWS that might include or exclude conservationists from historically underrepresented and underserved groups. (2) To understand how efforts to recruit and retain staff from historically unrepresented groups can scale up across multiple initiatives and programs to create organizational change.
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As the federal agency responsible for fish and wildlife conservation in the United States, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is at the heart of this evolution of the conservation sector. In recent years, USFWS staff have engaged in a variety of internal efforts to prioritize supporting a diverse workforce. However, there has yet to be a concerted cross-program assessment that captures the voices of agency staff to understand their narratives on how the Service is reconceptualizing conservation, or how these efforts are—or are not—moving the needle towards the goal of a more inclusive agency who reflects the multiple values of the American public. To aid the agency in their assessment of these efforts, our main project objectives are to: (1) To conduct a discourse analysis of conservation narratives in the USFWS that might include or exclude conservationists from historically underrepresented and underserved groups. (2) To understand how efforts to recruit and retain staff from historically unrepresented groups can scale up across multiple initiatives and programs to create organizational change.
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Tribal and non-Tribal public perceptions of Oregon hatcheries for future hatcheries outreach and engagement
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June 2025
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This project comprises a rigorous human dimensions study of public perceptions of salmonid hatcheries, with a focus on two primary audiences: Tribal communities, including Tribal fishermen, and non-Tribal fishing communities, including anglers, guides, commercial fishermen, and their families. The primary research methods will be interviews, workshops, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge methods.
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This project comprises a rigorous human dimensions study of public perceptions of salmonid hatcheries, with a focus on two primary audiences: Tribal communities, including Tribal fishermen, and non-Tribal fishing communities, including anglers, guides, commercial fishermen, and their families. The primary research methods will be interviews, workshops, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge methods.
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Social-psychological drivers of relational organizing to reduce human-bear conflict
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June 2027
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This project involves a multi-phase research program to plan, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of a relational organizing campaign focused on reducing bear attractants in residential settings in the western United States. Phase 1 will lay the foundations of community engagement to design this applied research collaboratively and considering local needs. Phase 2 will generate a more systematic understanding of the barriers, motivations, and opportunities influencing residents’ personal, political, and relational organizing action about reducing bear attractants. Phase 3 will implement a relational organizing campaign and evaluating the impacts of that campaign, both on the volunteers themselves and on the uptake of bear-resistant garbage storage across focal communities. This research project has two objectives:<br>1) Understand the barriers, motivations, and opportunities influencing whether residents in the western United States engage in relational organizing on the topic of securing attractants for bears through individual voluntary behavior change.<br>2) Design, implement, and evaluate a community leader program in collaboration with partners in one or two focal communities to train and encourage leaders to participate in relational organizing.
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This project involves a multi-phase research program to plan, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of a relational organizing campaign focused on reducing bear attractants in residential settings in the western United States. Phase 1 will lay the foundations of community engagement to design this applied research collaboratively and considering local needs. Phase 2 will generate a more systematic understanding of the barriers, motivations, and opportunities influencing residents’ personal, political, and relational organizing action about reducing bear attractants. Phase 3 will implement a relational organizing campaign and evaluating the impacts of that campaign, both on the volunteers themselves and on the uptake of bear-resistant garbage storage across focal communities. This research project has two objectives:1) Understand the barriers, motivations, and opportunities influencing whether residents in the western United States engage in relational organizing on the topic of securing attractants for bears through individual voluntary behavior change.2) Design, implement, and evaluate a community leader program in collaboration with partners in one or two focal communities to train and encourage leaders to participate in relational organizing.
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Examining public perceptions of ocean acidification
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June 2025
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This project will explore the effect of ocean awareness on the climate actions and climate adaptation policy preferences of coastal visitors. We will use a two-pronged research approach combining 1) an online representative survey of Oregon residents and 2) visitor intercept surveys of visitors to the Oregon coast. In the first research phase we will identify the degree to which a) climate action behavior and behavioral intentions and b) climate adaptation policy support are related to beliefs about ocean acidification and feelings of connectedness to the Oregon coast and, more specifically, the Oregon Marine Reserves. We will use these results to inform the second research phase, in which we will assess the salience of ocean acidification and climate adaptation needs among coastal visitors, and test the impact of different climate nudges on coastal visitors’ future climate action. Results from this research will inform Oregon Marine Reserves Program and other ODFW communication strategies related to coastal and marine ecosystems, including climate adaptation.
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This project will explore the effect of ocean awareness on the climate actions and climate adaptation policy preferences of coastal visitors. We will use a two-pronged research approach combining 1) an online representative survey of Oregon residents and 2) visitor intercept surveys of visitors to the Oregon coast. In the first research phase we will identify the degree to which a) climate action behavior and behavioral intentions and b) climate adaptation policy support are related to beliefs about ocean acidification and feelings of connectedness to the Oregon coast and, more specifically, the Oregon Marine Reserves. We will use these results to inform the second research phase, in which we will assess the salience of ocean acidification and climate adaptation needs among coastal visitors, and test the impact of different climate nudges on coastal visitors’ future climate action. Results from this research will inform Oregon Marine Reserves Program and other ODFW communication strategies related to coastal and marine ecosystems, including climate adaptation.
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Modeling to support SSAs
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April 2025
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This research is expected to produce a model or model framework to inform a Species Status Assessment on the Rocky Shiner, which will inform the overall listing decision for the species.
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This research is expected to advance models used to forecast persistence probability of at-risk species under alternate future scenarios. Specific focal areas will be determined in consultation with the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Juvenile salmon growth and heat stress
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September 2025
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The goal of this project is to understand how juvenile salmon growth in freshwater habitats is influenced by water temperatures and thermal stress. The sample collection for this project is on Chinook and coho salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha and O. kisutch, respectively) in and around the Deshka River, a culturally, ecologically, and economically important salmon fishery in south-central Alaska. This research will be the thesis project for a Masters student in Fisheries at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. We will estimate recent growth from juvenile salmon otoliths and feeding success from stomach fullness for analysis with existing water temperature and thermal stress data. Results are expected to be broadly applicable to the Deshka River and also to salmon management throughout the state. Project results will inform key land and fisheries management decisions.
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The goal of this project is to understand how juvenile salmon growth in freshwater habitats is influenced by water temperatures and thermal stress. The sample collection for this project is on Chinook and coho salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha and O. kisutch, respectively) in and around the Deshka River, a culturally, ecologically, and economically important salmon fishery in south-central Alaska. This research will be the thesis project for a Masters student in Fisheries at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. We will estimate recent growth from juvenile salmon otoliths and feeding success from stomach fullness for analysis with existing water temperature and thermal stress data. Results are expected to be broadly applicable to the Deshka River and also to salmon management throughout the state. Project results will inform key land and fisheries management decisions.
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Resist-Accept-Direct (RAD) decisionmaking
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September 2023
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As climate change alters ecosystems worldwide, managers are faced increasingly with challenges in how to manage for its impacts. The Resist-Accept-Direct framework provides a guide for decisionmaking about how, when, and where to choose to implement actions for climate resiliency in ecosystems. This project seeks to apply the RAD framework to river ecosystems worldwide, specifically including the Mississippi River. It is carried out in collaboration with partners across USGS, other Bureaus in the Department of the Interior, and elsewhere in Federal, State and Tribal governance, in addition with non-profit groups. The research helps inform decisions about river management in the face of ongoing climate change.
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As climate change alters ecosystems worldwide, managers are faced increasingly with challenges in how to manage for its impacts. The Resist-Accept-Direct framework provides a guide for decisionmaking about how, when, and where to choose to implement actions for climate resiliency in ecosystems. This project seeks to apply the RAD framework to river ecosystems worldwide, specifically including the Mississippi River. It is carried out in collaboration with partners across USGS, other Bureaus in the Department of the Interior, and elsewhere in Federal, State and Tribal governance, in addition with non-profit groups. The research helps inform decisions about river management in the face of ongoing climate change.
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Aquatic food webs in Grand Canyon
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September 2025
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The Colorado River downstream of Glen Canyon Dam in Grand Canyon supports a Federally-listed fish species, the Humpback Chub, and its ecosystem is further protected by the Grand Canyon Protection Act. The aquatic food resources in this river are therefore important to the continued conservation and management of this fish and the ecosystem. In cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, National Park Service, and a suite of Federal, State, and Tribal partners, this research is carried out as part of the Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Program. It seeks to provide research in support of effective management of the Colorado Rive in Grand Canyon.
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The Colorado River downstream of Glen Canyon Dam in Grand Canyon supports a Federally-listed fish species, the Humpback Chub, and its ecosystem is further protected by the Grand Canyon Protection Act. The aquatic food resources in this river are therefore important to the continued conservation and management of this fish and the ecosystem. In cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, National Park Service, and a suite of Federal, State, and Tribal partners, this research is carried out as part of the Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Program. It seeks to provide research in support of effective management of the Colorado Rive in Grand Canyon.
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Exploring the early life history and habitat connectivity of paku‘iku‘i (Acanthurus achilles) around Hawai‘i Island
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December 2025
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This project will provide crucial insight into the basic biology of a culturally important food fish in Hawai‘i, the paku‘iku‘i or Achilles tang (<i>Acanthurus achilles</i>), whose numbers have recently and mysteriously declined in west Hawai‘i Island. Project scientists will work directly with State resource managers to plan and implement monitoring of fish larvae, recruits, and juveniles, which are critical stages that may contribute to the decline and rebound of this fish’s population. The proposed work will thus inform the State’s adaptive management plan for this species in west Hawai‘i within the first two years of the fishery’s closure.
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In Hawai‘i, hundreds of species are caught in commercial and non-commercial reef fisheries, but we know relatively little about the biology of most of these species and their responses to exploitation. One such species is paku‘iku‘i, also known as the Achilles tang (<i>Acanthurus achilles</i>), whose numbers have recently and mysteriously declined in west Hawai‘i Island. The state resource management agency exercised its adaptive management rulemaking authority in December 2022 to place a 2-year moratorium on all commercial and non-commercial take of paku‘iku‘i in west Hawai‘i Island so that the basic biology and cause of the collapse of this fish’s population can be explored. One significant knowledge gap in this species’ biology that may play an important role in shaping the past and future trajectory of its population is its early life history. Therefore, the funded work will investigate the larval distribution, recruitment dynamics, and relative connectivity of juvenile and adult habitats of paku‘iku‘i. SCUBA surveys in east Hawai‘i Island – where paku‘iku‘i are more abundant than west Hawai‘i Island – will explore habitat requirements and behaviors of new recruits and juveniles across a depth gradient and adjacent to shallow, adult habitat. In addition, targeted light traps and plankton tows will be used to understand the distribution of larval surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae) and paku‘iku‘i. This study’s results will directly inform the State’s adaptive management plan for this species, which will need to be reviewed in two years, and will support a structural decision-making model that is in development by Cooperative Research Units staff and State resource managers.
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Analysis and Review of Fishery-Dependent Data for Hawaiian Nearshore Noncommercial Fisheries
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December 2023
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The State of Hawai‘i’s Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) routinely collects survey data to monitor both the catch and effort of nearshore noncommercial fisheries. These data serve as the basis for justifying management actions and regulatory decisions taken by the agency and by the State government, yet the data from island/county-based monitoring datasets have not yet been collated, analyzed, or put to effective use. The HCFRU was asked by DAR to assemble a Statewide Creel Survey Dataset, and then to 1) assess whether the new dataset can provide inputs for length-based stock assessments, 2) analyze the dataset for spatial and temporal patterns in fishing effort, 3) quantify potential bias in survey methods by experimentally deriving fisher detection probabilities of shore-based and drone-based surveys, and 4) review the potential for incorporating emerging technologies that will improve, augment, and evolve creel survey data collection, especially for spearfishing. In so doing, we synthesize the most detailed information to-date about noncommercial shore-based fisheries of Hawai‘i. The unprecedented coverage of DAR’s dataset reveals the value of their survey efforts over the last decade to address fishery management needs. We also highlight areas that could be improved to make these efforts a more effective tool for future decision-making processes in resource management and conservation in Hawai'i.
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The State of Hawai‘i’s Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) routinely collects survey data to monitor both the catch and effort of nearshore non-commercial fisheries. These data serve as the basis for justifying management actions and regulatory decisions taken by the agency and by the State government, but the data are plagued by an optimization problem of maximizing the ability to detect meaningful changes while minimizing the financial and opportunity costs of collecting sufficient data to do so. The HCFRU was asked by DAR to assess their non-commercial, creel survey dataset to determine 1) whether catch and effort can be estimated from the existing data, 2) whether data were of sufficient quality to be used in data-limited stock assessments or other alternative approaches, 3) if correction factors could be developed to account for sources of bias, and 4) to review new approaches or technologies that could be deployed to more efficiently collect the data necessary to generate fishing catch and effort estimates. The results of this project will inform the State's ability to use the data as it presently exists, and make recommendations about ways to improve the collection and analysis of these data in the future, thus improving the State's ability to more effectively manage non-commercial fisheries.
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Water Quality Thresholds to Improve Coral Restoration Outcomes and Ridge-to-Reef Management at Olowalu Reef, Maui
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January 2026
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Successful reef restoration requires detailed, site-specific information on the tolerances of local reef builders to prevailing environmental threats. Across Hawai‘i – and especially in southwest Maui – sedimentation is a major threat to coral-reef health. Proposed and ongoing watershed management projects focus on erosion reduction, but lack thresholds for sediment pollution and specific, measurable targets for upland sediment reduction. To address this need, the project PIs will work with local organizations and agencies to develop place- and species-specific thresholds of sediment stress to inform both makai (coral outplanting) and mauka (land-management) restoration efforts at Olowalu Reef, a critically important site in the region that is poised to receive millions of dollars for restoration and infrastructure improvements. The PIs and their partners are co-developing the project, the results of which will directly contribute to reef conservation and restoration success. Specifically, the proposed work will produce a map of the predicted success of coral restoration outplants across a sedimentation gradient at Olowalu and generate detailed sediment thresholds for local reef builders that can serve as targets for sediment reduction efforts. Importantly, the proposed approach can be replicated in other locations where establishing water quality targets for coral restoration is a critical management need.
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Successful reef restoration requires detailed, site-specific information on the tolerances of local reef builders to prevailing environmental threats. Across Hawai‘i – and especially in southwest Maui – sedimentation is a major threat to coral-reef health. Proposed and ongoing watershed management projects focus on erosion reduction, but lack thresholds for sediment pollution and specific, measurable targets for upland sediment reduction. To address this need, the project PIs will work with local organizations and agencies to develop place- and species-specific thresholds of sediment stress to inform both makai (coral outplanting) and mauka (land-management) restoration efforts at Olowalu Reef, a critically important site in the region that is poised to receive millions of dollars for restoration and infrastructure improvements. The PIs and their partners are co-developing the project, the results of which will directly contribute to reef conservation and restoration success. Specifically, the proposed work will produce a map of the predicted success of coral restoration outplants across a sedimentation gradient at Olowalu and generate detailed sediment thresholds for local reef builders that can serve as targets for sediment reduction efforts. Importantly, the proposed approach can be replicated in other locations where establishing water quality targets for coral restoration is a critical management need.
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Minnesota Angler Study
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December 2024
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The goal of fisheries management is to provide for long term conservation of fisheries resources while at the same time optimizing the benefits that people obtain from the resources. For this reason, fisheries management involves the management of biological resources and of people. Understanding the concerns and desired experiences of anglers is an important aspect of maintaining satisfying fishing experiences for anglers and a successful fishery. In 1998, the Minnesota DNR conducted a statewide assessment of resident angler satisfaction with fishing experiences and attitudes and beliefs concerning fisheries management issues in the state (Minnesota Center for Survey Research 1998). In 2005 and 2011, 2018 follow-up statewide surveys were completed for the Minnesota DNR by the Minnesota Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit. This proposal is to complete a fifth cross-sectional statewide resident angler assessment that will allow exploration of changes, trends and new conditions. In the current research cycle, understanding anglers preferences concerning trade-offs in management foci and strategies under increasing conditions of budget constraints is again of particular interest to the Minnesota DNR. Purpose and Objectives: The purpose of this study is to provide a current update of angler attitudes and behaviors that can be compared with existing information over the past 24 years. The specific objectives of this study are to: 1. Determine anglers’ values, attitudes, norms and behaviors concerning fishing experiences, issues, and management. 2. Develop and refine a battery of items based on research studies in Minnesota and other states that will be used to track trends in angler’s preferences and attitudes on key issues and perceptions including satisfaction with the general fishing experience, satisfaction with the number and size of fish caught, perceptions of crowding, and other key indicators of the quality of fishing experiences. 3. Continue baseline data for tracking trends in angler perceptions and attitudes on various fisheries issues in Minnesota. 4. Determine differences between resident male and female anglers concerning values, attitudes, and behaviors. 5. Understand anglers’ preferences for trade-offs in management foci under constrained budget scenario
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The goal of fisheries management is to provide for long term conservation of fisheries resources while at the same time optimizing the benefits that people obtain from the resources. For this reason, fisheries management involves the management of biological resources and of people. Understanding the concerns and desired experiences of anglers is an important aspect of maintaining satisfying fishing experiences for anglers and a successful fishery. In 1998, the Minnesota DNR conducted a statewide assessment of resident angler satisfaction with fishing experiences and attitudes and beliefs concerning fisheries management issues in the state (Minnesota Center for Survey Research 1998). In 2005 and 2011, 2018 follow-up statewide surveys were completed for the Minnesota DNR by the Minnesota Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit. This proposal is to complete a fifth cross-sectional statewide resident angler assessment that will allow exploration of changes, trends and new conditions. In the current research cycle, understanding anglers preferences concerning trade-offs in management foci and strategies under increasing conditions of budget constraints is again of particular interest to the Minnesota DNR. Purpose and Objectives: The purpose of this study is to provide a current update of angler attitudes and behaviors that can be compared with existing information over the past 24 years. The specific objectives of this study are to: 1. Determine anglers’ values, attitudes, norms and behaviors concerning fishing experiences, issues, and management. 2. Develop and refine a battery of items based on research studies in Minnesota and other states that will be used to track trends in angler’s preferences and attitudes on key issues and perceptions including satisfaction with the general fishing experience, satisfaction with the number and size of fish caught, perceptions of crowding, and other key indicators of the quality of fishing experiences. 3. Continue baseline data for tracking trends in angler perceptions and attitudes on various fisheries issues in Minnesota. 4. Determine differences between resident male and female anglers concerning values, attitudes, and behaviors. 5. Understand anglers’ preferences for trade-offs in management foci under constrained budget scenario
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Investigating practitioner organization communication with landowners about human-beaver coexistence
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June 2025
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Beavers are landscape engineers. They create habitat for other species, and change the landscape in ways that often help buffer ecosystems and people from the damaging effects of climate change, including drought, flood, and wildfire risks. In part because of these benefits, there is a movement to restore beaver and beaver-modified habitat on the landscape in Oregon. However, beavers can also be controversial because of the damage they can cause to human structures and crops. As such, beavers are a useful case study for how to equitably engage Oregonians in wildlife habitat restoration efforts while simultaneously mitigating human-wildlife conflict and promoting coexistence. In situations like these, social science can support engagement programs that are a) tailored to key audiences’ needs, b) coordinated across organizations and agencies, and c) targeted at the specific moment when action is taken. However, this kind of participatory evidence-based approach to behavioral design has not yet been applied to human-beaver coexistence in Oregon. We propose to answer the question: How can private landowners be supported to take coexistence actions that are mutually beneficial for their needs and beaver populations in Oregon? We will assemble a community of practice comprising groups that work with private landowners on two dimensions of coexistence in Oregon: human-beaver conflict management and beaver-modified habitat restoration. Together, we will identify a) best practices for landowner engagement (both tried and true strategies and creative new approaches), b) pinch points limiting landowner engagement, and c) opportunities to coordinate future outreach and engagement campaigns. We will use social science methods to execute this project, combining baseline and follow-up interviews, facilitated workshops, and pre-post social network analysis. Results and lessons learned from this project will be shared with ODFW, the community of practice, other stakeholders and rightsholders, and the broader conservation science community to catalyze wider discussion and adoption of human-beaver coexistence strategies, and guide strategic implementation of ODFW’s Beaver Habitat Action Plan in the future.<br>
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Beavers are landscape engineers. They create habitat for other species, and change the landscape in ways that often help buffer ecosystems and people from the damaging effects of climate change, including drought, flood, and wildfire risks. In part because of these benefits, there is a movement to restore beaver and beaver-modified habitat on the landscape in Oregon. However, beavers can also be controversial because of the damage they can cause to human structures and crops. As such, beavers are a useful case study for how to equitably engage Oregonians in wildlife habitat restoration efforts while simultaneously mitigating human-wildlife conflict and promoting coexistence. In situations like these, social science can support engagement programs that are a) tailored to key audiences’ needs, b) coordinated across organizations and agencies, and c) targeted at the specific moment when action is taken. However, this kind of participatory evidence-based approach to behavioral design has not yet been applied to human-beaver coexistence in Oregon. We propose to answer the question: How can private landowners be supported to take coexistence actions that are mutually beneficial for their needs and beaver populations in Oregon? We will assemble a community of practice comprising groups that work with private landowners on two dimensions of coexistence in Oregon: human-beaver conflict management and beaver-modified habitat restoration. Together, we will identify a) best practices for landowner engagement (both tried and true strategies and creative new approaches), b) pinch points limiting landowner engagement, and c) opportunities to coordinate future outreach and engagement campaigns. We will use social science methods to execute this project, combining baseline and follow-up interviews, facilitated workshops, and pre-post social network analysis. Results and lessons learned from this project will be shared with ODFW, the community of practice, other stakeholders and rightsholders, and the broader conservation science community to catalyze wider discussion and adoption of human-beaver coexistence strategies, and guide strategic implementation of ODFW’s Beaver Habitat Action Plan in the future.
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Development of protective temperature criteria for Bluehead Sucker, Flannelmouth Sucker and Roundtail Chub Larvae
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June 2026
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Water temperature is a critical abiotic factor that contributes to larval fish survival. Many fish species are poorly adapted to survive water temperatures that lie outside historic annual or seasonal variability. To properly manage the three species it is essential to understand their thermal tolerances. Bluehead Sucker, Flannelmouth Sucker, and Roundtail Chub, hereinafter referred to as the three species, intermittent and ephemeral streams for refugia from high main-stem flows, foraging, and for spawning and larval rearing. A review of these three species in the Colorado River basin suggest that they occupy 50% or less of their historic ranges, and current populations are still declining. The declines are thought to be in part caused by changing stream water temperatures. These data will be used to address management concerns regarding the three species and stream water temperature.
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TBA
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Stream restoration effectiveness assessment
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October 2025
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Stream restoration is a burgeoning industry in Alaska for restoring and remediating aquatic environmental degradation. However, assessment of the effectiveness of stream restoration techniques and the tools used to monitor streams is lacking. This project will work in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S., Bureau of Land Management, and university and non-profit groups to assess stream restorations in Interior Alaska using the novel Stream Quantification Tool. We will report on the functional lift, or suite of ecological services provided by restoration relative to unrestored conditions.
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Stream restoration is a burgeoning industry in Alaska for restoring and remediating aquatic environmental degradation. However, assessment of the effectiveness of stream restoration techniques and the tools used to monitor streams is lacking. This project will work in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S., Bureau of Land Management, and university and non-profit groups to assess stream restorations in Interior Alaska using the novel Stream Quantification Tool. We will report on the functional lift, or suite of ecological services provided by restoration relative to unrestored conditions.
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Wildfire effects on aquatic biodiversity measured using eDNA
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September 2023
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Boreal ecosystems in Alaska are at the forefront of global climate change, and one of the primary impacts of this changing climate is an increase in the prevalence, magnitude, and severity of wildfire. Although less headline-grabbing than stories of burned forests, freshwaters also experience wildfire effects through mudslides and other sedimentation increases, temperature changes due to lack of shading, nutrient and pH effects from ash inputs, and alterations to stream hydrology and geomorphology due to watershed change. Understanding the biodiversity of fish and macroinvertebrates is essential to a quantitative appraisal of freshwater conditions, including assessment of ecosystem impacts to disturbance such as wildfire. Nonetheless, such assessment is generally lacking in broad swaths of Alaska. The advent of environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding using next-generation sequencing methods holds exciting potential for broad-scale assessments of freshwater biodiversity in such situations. In this study, I propose to use eDNA metabarcoding samples, including primers developed specifically for the quantification of aquatic macroinvertebrates and fish, to assess wildfire influence on freshwater biodiversity at a regional scale within Interior Alaska.
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Boreal ecosystems in Alaska are at the forefront of global climate change, and one of the primary impacts of this changing climate is an increase in the prevalence, magnitude, and severity of wildfire. Although less headline-grabbing than stories of burned forests, freshwaters also experience wildfire effects through mudslides and other sedimentation increases, temperature changes due to lack of shading, nutrient and pH effects from ash inputs, and alterations to stream hydrology and geomorphology due to watershed change. Understanding the biodiversity of fish and macroinvertebrates is essential to a quantitative appraisal of freshwater conditions, including assessment of ecosystem impacts to disturbance such as wildfire. Nonetheless, such assessment is generally lacking in broad swaths of Alaska. The advent of environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding using next-generation sequencing methods holds exciting potential for broad-scale assessments of freshwater biodiversity in such situations. In this study, I propose to use eDNA metabarcoding samples, including primers developed specifically for the quantification of aquatic macroinvertebrates and fish, to assess wildfire influence on freshwater biodiversity at a regional scale within Interior Alaska.
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Analysis of lake water quality data in Southwest Alaska National Parks
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August 2025
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This project will assess the status and trends of water quality in lakes within the Southwest Alaska Inventory and Monitoring Network (SWAN). This will be a synthesis project, with little or no new data collection anticipated directly as part of this project. These data originate from within SWAN national parks managed by the U.S. National Park Service, with collection carried out by NPS staff and representing up to a 10-year dataset, with lakes re-sampled semi-regularly across years. Research under this award will be guided by the following questions: 1) To what extent do lakes, or samples within lakes, group along an identifiable gradient, and what environmental or other conditions drive these groupings? 2) Are there apparent intra- and interannual trends or trajectories of water quality change within and across lakes? 3) Can future trends be forecast across lakes and interpolated within lakes given predicted future environmental conditions, using the multi-lake network to infer conditions even in cases where data are sparse?
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This project will assess the status and trends of water quality in lakes within the Southwest Alaska Inventory and Monitoring Network (SWAN). This will be a synthesis project, with little or no new data collection anticipated directly as part of this project. These data originate from within SWAN national parks managed by the U.S. National Park Service, with collection carried out by NPS staff and representing up to a 10-year dataset, with lakes re-sampled semi-regularly across years. Research under this award will be guided by the following questions: 1) To what extent do lakes, or samples within lakes, group along an identifiable gradient, and what environmental or other conditions drive these groupings? 2) Are there apparent intra- and interannual trends or trajectories of water quality change within and across lakes? 3) Can future trends be forecast across lakes and interpolated within lakes given predicted future environmental conditions, using the multi-lake network to infer conditions even in cases where data are sparse?
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Assessment of Tombigbee Darter Status In Wadeable Streams Using Backpack Electrofishing
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June 2024
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The Tombigbee darter <i>Etheostoma lachneri </i>is a small benthic darter distributed throughout the Tombigbee drainage in Mississippi, including tributaries like the Noxubee River, Sucarnoochee River, Buttahatchee River, and Town Creek (Ross and Brenneman 2001). Complete 26 days of surveying to assess the presence/absence and relative abundance of Tombigbee darter (<i>Etheostoma lachneri</i>)<i> </i>in northeast Mississippi. This research is a collaborative effort among the USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and North Carolina State University, Mississippi State University, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The data generated by this project will be used to assess species status and current range in Mississippi.
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The Tombigbee darter <i>Etheostoma lachneri </i>is a small benthic darter distributed throughout the Tombigbee drainage in Mississippi, including tributaries like the Noxubee River, Sucarnoochee River, Buttahatchee River, and Town Creek (Ross and Brenneman 2001). Complete 26 days of surveying to assess the presence/absence and relative abundance of Tombigbee darter (<i>Etheostoma lachneri</i>)<i> </i>in northeast Mississippi. This research is a collaborative effort among the USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and North Carolina State University, Mississippi State University, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The data generated by this project will be used to assess species status and current range in Mississippi.
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Efficacy of population genetics as a tool to quantify resiliency, redundancy, and representation of burrowing crayfishes within the Species Status Assessment framework
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September 2024
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Burrowing crayfishes (including <i>Hobbseus</i> spp.) are among the most data- and knowledge-deficient aquatic taxonomic groups. Data-deficiency is problematic for structuring population units and Ecological Settings within SSAs, and knowledge gaps related to population connectivity undermine assumptions about population connectivity of burrowing crayfishes when estimating species Redundancy. Our goal is to examine population genetics of <i>H. orconectoides</i> and <i>H. cristatus</i> to provide a blueprint for structuring SSAs of burrowing crayfishes. This research is highly collaborative and involves the USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and North Carolina State University, USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Mississippi State University, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, and University of Mississippi. Knowledge gained on spatial structuring of population units and population connectivity from this project will provide a citable blueprint for calculating Resiliency, Redundancy, and Representation for SSAs of at least 23 other crayfishes.
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Burrowing crayfishes (including <i>Hobbseus</i> spp.) are among the most data- and knowledge-deficient aquatic taxonomic groups. Data-deficiency is problematic for structuring population units and Ecological Settings within SSAs, and knowledge gaps related to population connectivity undermine assumptions about population connectivity of burrowing crayfishes when estimating species Redundancy. Our goal is to examine population genetics of <i>H. orconectoides</i> and <i>H. cristatus</i> to provide a blueprint for structuring SSAs of burrowing crayfishes. This research is highly collaborative and involves the USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and North Carolina State University, USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Mississippi State University, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, and University of Mississippi. Knowledge gained on spatial structuring of population units and population connectivity from this project will provide a citable blueprint for calculating Resiliency, Redundancy, and Representation for SSAs of at least 23 other crayfishes.
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Lamprey recolonization of the Penobscot River.
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December 2024
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To assess the migratory patterns of lamprey in the Penobscot, we propose a radio telemetry assessment around Milford Dam, the first major impoundment on the Penobscot River. This builds on the work carried out in 2020 and 2021 to assess passage at the first main-stem dam in the system. We intend to use Lotek MST-820-T radio tags to determine movement patterns (e.g., rate of passage, duration of delays, etc.) of fish that have passed Milford Dam. These tags are similar in size to those used in other lamprey studies on the Penobscot.
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To assess the migratory patterns of lamprey in the Penobscot, we propose a radio telemetry assessment around Milford Dam, the first major impoundment on the Penobscot River.
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Alewife passage in the St Croix River.
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December 2023
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The St. Croix River herring populations are at a critical stage in their recovery. Tracking and recording this growth and the accompanying biological changes in the fish population are urgent priorities for the scientists and managers who need this information to develop a long-term fisheries management plan and be able to evaluate the effects of river herring recovery on the health of the watershed ecosystem.<br>Planned project work in will address this data gap in fish passage using radio telemetry to assess fish locations and routes moving both upstream and downstream. Current planned assessments with partners will meet identified needs in the IWI funded “Exploring Upstream and Downstream Fish Passage Improvements on the Lower St. Croix River” to help further fisheries restoration resources in the St. Croix River.
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The St. Croix River herring populations are at a critical stage in their recovery. Tracking and recording this growth and the accompanying biological changes in the fish population are urgent priorities for the scientists and managers who need this information to develop a long-term fisheries management plan and be able to evaluate the effects of river herring recovery on the health of the watershed ecosystem.
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Understanding Atlantic salmon kelt behavior and survival
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December 2024
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Repeat spawners are a biologically important part of an intact Atlantic salmon population, and these fish are almost completely missing in the Gulf of Maine DPS. The migration process of adult Atlantic salmon is energetically costly, so successful reproduction and survival is normally limited. Access to spawning habitat and post-spawn survival are further hampered by ineffective upstream and downstream passage at dams. Post-spawn behavior and passage success in the Gulf of Maine are poorly characterized and represent critical deficits for informed management. We intend to collaborate with the University of Maine to support a graduate student through the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology to study survival and passage of these post spawn adults. The work would leverage significant telemetry infrastructure and experience already dedicated to river studies in the region. Products will include a master’s thesis as well as a peer reviewed publication that will address several key recovery actions identified in the final recovery plan thereby informing recovery actions.
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Repeat spawners are a biologically important part of an intact Atlantic salmon population, and these fish are almost completely missing in the Gulf of Maine DPS. The migration process of adult Atlantic salmon is energetically costly, so successful reproduction and survival is normally limited.
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Wild Turkey Population and Harvest Management in Maine.
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December 2026
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Our proposed project will build upon previous turkey population assessments by MDIFW and the University of Maine (Gonnerman et al. 2021). Specifically, we will address issues of 1) quantifying and accounting for the inherent uncertainty in both future wild turkey data collection and the processes used to model these data, and 2) the need to make harvest management decisions while addressing competing stakeholder interests, given the presence of inherent uncertainties.
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Quantify uncertainty in turkey abundance estimates originating from data collection using a simulation approach, and identify the most efficient sampling framework moving forward for robust population inference.
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Beyond Recovery: Enhancing Agency Preparedness for Ecological and Societal Challenges with Increasing Protected Species Populations.
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December 2025
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Marine mammal populations have begun to recover after centuries of human caused declines. The Endangered Species (ESA) and Marine Mammal Protection Acts (MMPA) have been instrumental to shepherding the rebound in many populations. In some cases, this biological management success has led to unforeseen increases in human-wildlife conflicts. Many solutions seem to be incongruent with the apparent constraints imposed by these tools. Managers, therefore, are moved to engage stakeholders and problems solve conflicts. We propose to assess the range of marine mammal conflicts encountered by the five National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) regions of the United States. This information will inform active facilitated discussions with managers and stakeholders to develop solutions for addressing these clashes.
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Marine mammal populations have begun to recover after centuries of human caused declines. The Endangered Species (ESA) and Marine Mammal Protection Acts (MMPA) have been instrumental to shepherding the rebound in many populations. In some cases, this biological management success has led to unforeseen increases in human-wildlife conflicts.
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Range wide, river-specific dam impacts on Blueback Herring, Alewife and American Eel.
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December 2025
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We propose to develop and parameterize Alewife, Blueback Herring and American Eel river-specific models across their entire ranges. These models will be populated with estimates of region-specific life-history parameters, estimates of habitat (e.g., acres) and the dam landscape. Once developed, these models will be freely available to hydro practitioners for the use in planning for species conservation and recovery relative to hydropower at both local and regional scales. The challenges for developing the habitat and population model components vary greatly among these three species.<br><br>Alewife and blueback herring (collectively “river herring”) range from South Carolina to Newfoundland . These two species are anadromous – growing in the marine environment and returning to fresh water as presumptive spawners (alewife returning first in the spring, blueback herring timing overlaps, but is later). The two species are similar in appearance and life history, but critical distinctions (from each other and from American shad) prevent a direct reapplication of the GIS work used to model American shad. Blueback herring do not usually swim far upstream to spawn (historic runs in the Connecticut River not withstanding). Blueback Herring prefer to spawn in fast currents or over hard substrate .<br><br>In contrast, adult alewife prefer to spawn in slow moving water such as lakes or flowages. In the northern part of their range, they are iteroparous, meaning that adults return to the ocean after spawning. Both species’ juveniles spend 2-7 months in freshwater, and at 23-100 mm total length they migrate to the ocean. As anadromous species, blueback herring and alewife spawning is contained in isolated freshwater systems. These species are, therefore, amenable to river specific population modeling.<br><br>A similar approach with the catadromous American Eel represents a fundamental challenge as the growth phase of this species is in fresh water, and spawning occurs in the ocean. The population is believed to be panmictic, a single population across the entire range of the species. After beginning life in the Sargasso Sea, American Eel larvae are dispersed by ocean currents across the eastern coast of North America . They eventually transition to a translucent “glass” stage near coastal waters and begin actively swimming upriver, when many encounter dams in pursuit of freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams. Because these barriers delay movement and limit American Eel establishment in headwater reaches , many dam structures have been retrofitted with juvenile eel ladders to offer upstream passage opportunities . Once in fresh water, eels may reside in these systems for more than 20 years before beginning a transoceanic spawning migration to return to the Sargasso Sea, during which they must pass the same dams they ascended as juveniles. These fish represent a challenge in the variety of habitats they can inhabit during their growth phase, as well as the integrated nature of range-wide river contributions to a single population.
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We propose to develop and parameterize Alewife, Blueback Herring and American Eel river-specific models across their entire ranges. These models will be populated with estimates of region-specific life-history parameters, estimates of habitat (e.g., acres) and the dam landscape. Once developed, these models will be freely available to hydro practitioners for the use in planning for species conservation and recovery relative to hydropower at both local and regional scales.
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Understanding the perceptions and potential of aquaculture as a tool for Atlantic salmon restoration in Maine.
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December 2025
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The Gulf of Maine Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of Atlantic Salmon is federally endangered and the current conservation program relies primarily on juvenile stocking to maintain broodstock. Despite decades of hatchery supplementation, extirpation remains a threat and natural reproduction is extremely limited. The Collaborative Management Strategy (CMS), the governance structure for Atlantic salmon management in Maine, is collaborating with Cooke Aquaculture to implement a novel rearing program to increase natural spawning. Native smolts will be transferred to coastal net pens and reared to maturation. Pre-spawn adults will then be released into high-quality spawning habitats. This effort is a major shift in management and has garnered mixed public reactions. Working with the CMS and other stakeholders, a questionnaire was administered to 900 households in Downeast, Maine via Drop-off and Pick-up methodology. Through this exploratory study of attitudes, beliefs, knowledge, and agency trust we found positive attitudes toward Atlantic salmon, endangered species conservation, and conservation aquaculture. Attitudes toward commercial aquaculture and hatcheries were neutral to weakly positive. Participants reported low trust in the collaborating agencies and industry partners with regard to providing relevant information to the protection human and environmental safety. We compared the beliefs of residents who are geographically closest to the proposed net pen site and those in surrounding communities to disentangle issues of proximity to the project from other concerns. We found minimal evidence of local opposition, but there was also low public knowledge regarding Atlantic salmon in general. Coupled with high uncertainty in stakeholder values and generally neutral belief responses, the data suggest the community is uninformed and under engaged. As a result, the community may have a heightened susceptibility to influence, either from managers or special interest groups, that engage the community.
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The Gulf of Maine Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of Atlantic Salmon is federally endangered and the current conservation program relies primarily on juvenile stocking to maintain broodstock. Working with the CMS and other stakeholders, a questionnaire was administered to 900 households in Downeast, Maine via Drop-off and Pick-up methodology. Through this exploratory study of attitudes, beliefs, knowledge, and agency trust we found positive attitudes toward Atlantic salmon, endangered species conservation, and conservation aquaculture.
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Examining deterrence potential of existing water infrastructure for limiting invasive carps movements while promoting population connectivity of native fishes
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September 2028
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There is an inherent tradeoff between limiting movements of carps with deterrents (barriers) and minimizing impacts to native fishes unless barriers are operated to allow passage of native fishes. Mismatches in the timing of large-scale movements between native fishes and carps might provide such opportunities to operate deterrents in a manner that limits carps while minimally interfering with population connectivity needed to sustain native fish populations. This work is a collaboration among Auburn University and Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, North Carolina State University and North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State University and USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, U.S Geological Service’s Columbia Environmental Research Center, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Information gained from this project could help operationalize numerous semi-passable barriers within the Lower Mississippi River region to maintain barrier functionality while allowing native fish passage and limiting expansion of invasive fishes.
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There is an inherent tradeoff between limiting movements of carps with deterrents (barriers) and minimizing impacts to native fishes unless barriers are operated to allow passage of native fishes. Mismatches in the timing of large-scale movements between native fishes and carps might provide such opportunities to operate deterrents in a manner that limits carps while minimally interfering with population connectivity needed to sustain native fish populations. This work is a collaboration among Auburn University and Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, North Carolina State University and North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State University and USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, U.S Geological Service’s Columbia Environmental Research Center, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Information gained from this project could help operationalize numerous semi-passable barriers within the Lower Mississippi River region to maintain barrier functionality while allowing native fish passage and limiting expansion of invasive fishes.
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Clarifying the finer-scale landscape elements critical to support the breeding activities of non-game, sagebrush-associated birds
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December 2025
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The North American sagebrush steppe has been converted and altered extensively, with concomitant declines in sagebrush-associated wildlife. The recent Sagebrush Conservation Design (SCD) efforts provide valuable, broad-scale inference about core sagebrush areas (CSAs) and growth opportunity areas (GOAs). A key next step is to clarify the finer-scale, within-landscape habitat elements that are critical to support sagebrush species, particularly non-game species that have received less management attention. The main goal of the project is therefore to assess the habitat characteristics associated with consistent occupancy and nesting success of nesting sagebrush songbirds across multiple years and four unique study areas in Wyoming and Montana. Research and funding partners include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, USGS (WLCI). The identification of consistently important habitat features for breeding non-game birds within sagebrush landscapes will complement existing biome-wide habitat prioritization efforts.
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The North American sagebrush steppe has been converted and altered extensively, with concomitant declines in sagebrush-associated wildlife. The recent Sagebrush Conservation Design (SCD) efforts provide valuable, broad-scale inference about core sagebrush areas (CSAs) and growth opportunity areas (GOAs). A key next step is to clarify the finer-scale, within-landscape habitat elements that are critical to support sagebrush species, particularly non-game species that have received less management attention. The main goal of the project is therefore to assess the within-landscape habitat characteristics associated with consistent occupancy and nesting success of nesting sagebrush songbirds across multiple years and four unique study areas in Wyoming and Montana. Research and funding partners include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, USGS (WLCI). The identification of consistently important habitat features for breeding non-game birds within sagebrush landscapes will complement existing biome-wide habitat prioritization efforts.
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Whitetail deer foraging behavior
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June 2024
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We are running a pilot study to determine if whitetail deer giving up densities (GUDs) can be accurately measured. We are deploying 1 camera trap with cellular link capacity in front of each of 7 experimental feeding stations. Investigators visit the feeding station once a feeding event has been recorded by a camera. A forager's GUD is a function of perceived predation risk, missed opportunity costs, and metabolic state.
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We are running a pilot study to determine if whitetail deer giving up densities (GUDs) can be accurately measured. We are deploying 1 camera trap with cellular link capacity in front of each of 7 experimental feeding stations. Investigators visit the feeding station once a feeding event has been recorded by a camera. A forager's GUD is a function of perceived predation risk, missed opportunity costs, and metabolic state.
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Landscape ecology of human-wildlife interactions in Botswana
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December 2025
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Human-wildlife interactions can have negative consequences for both the people and the wildlife involved. However, we don't always have spatial context for these interactions. We can use landscape ecology to investigate the patterns and processes of human-wildlife interactions. In Botswana, this information can support conservation, management, and mitigation actions. This project builds off of research done in collaboration with Texas A&M, the Ecoexist Project, and Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks.
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Human-wildlife interactions can have negative consequences for both the people and the wildlife involved. However, we don't always have spatial context for these interactions. We can use landscape ecology to investigate the patterns and processes of human-wildlife interactions. In Botswana, this information can support conservation, management, and mitigation actions. This project builds off of research done in collaboration with Texas A&M, the Ecoexist Project, and Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks.
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Assessing virulence and distribution of Renibacterium salmoninarum found in Colorado
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January 2025
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TBA
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TBA
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Application of Artificial Learning Technology to Colorado Parks and Wildlife Camera Data
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June 2025
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Remote cameras, which can take photos on sequential or time-lapse schedules, or via activation of an infrared trigger, are now used in a wide array of research and monitoring programs and they generate vast volumes of data. In order to use animal data from these photos to estimate occupancy or abundance, an efficient process is needed that uses machine learning (ML) techniques to extract species identification and accounts for classification error. The project is a collaboration with mammal researchers of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The ML model and workflow developed will be used to build models to assess species distribution and population dynamics, by researchers as well as managers for different species.
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Remote cameras, which can take photos on sequential or time-lapse schedules, or via activation of an infrared trigger, are now used in a wide array of research and monitoring programs and they generate vast volumes of data. In order to use animal data from these photos to estimate occupancy or abundance, an efficient process is needed that uses machine learning (ML) techniques to extract species identification and accounts for classification error. The project is a collaboration with mammal researchers of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The ML model and workflow developed will be used to build models to assess species distribution and population dynamics, by researchers as well as managers for different species.
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Decision making under non-stationary system dynamics
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September 2025
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Our ability to effectively manage natural resources is founded in an understanding of how our actions and the environment influence ecological systems. Current practices use monitoring data from the past to determine key ecological relationships and make predictions about the future. In most cases, these forecasts assume that the environmental conditions observed in the past will remain the same in the future. However, climate change is influencing ecological systems in many dynamic and uncertain ways, leading to a situation in which our observations of the past are poor predictors of the future. If we continue to use the existing framework to manage natural resources without accounting for global change, our actions could have negative effects. This project investigates the theoretical frameworks for including time-varying system dynamics in decision models. We also apply those concepts to case studies involving waterfowl population management in the central U.S.
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Climate change and other anthropogenic stressors are causing shifts in ecological dynamics but most management decision processes assume system stationarity, i.e. that while there may be yearly variation, average conditions will remain constant. Failing to account for non-stationarity can result in management policies that are sub-optimal at best and detrimental at worst. This project is centered on the premise that predictions about future non-stationary dynamics can be incorporated within optimization algorithms to develop time-dependent policies that anticipate changing system dynamics rather than only reacting via monitoring and learning. This work includes theoretical work in optimal control theory as well as applications to waterfowl harvest management.
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OA 109: Distribution and Habitat Associations of the Federally Threatened Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida) in Texas
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November 2025
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The Mexican spotted owl (Stix occidentalis lucida) is protected as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. In Texas it is listed by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as threatened and considered as a S1B species, which indicates it is critically imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer occurrences) or because of other factors making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state. Listing of the Mexican spotted owl as threatened was based primarily on loss of habitat due to timber harvest practices. Currently, the primary threat to Mexican spotted owls is landscape-scale stand-replacing wildfires. The species is distributed Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, west Texas, and southward into northern states of Mexico. Across its distribution, Mexican spotted owls are distributed irregularly due to the patchy distribution of its habitat. Mexican spotted owls require mature pine forests or canyons with rocky cliffs for roosting and nesting habitat. Currently, the species’ distribution in Texas is based primarily on a very few documented observations at isolated locations in the Davis Mountains and the Guadalupe Mountains. However, the actual distribution and occurrence of Mexican spotted owls in Texas is, from a quantitative perspective, unknown. This is because no focused effort has been made to assess the true distribution and habitat associations of Mexican spotted owls in Texas. The landscapes and habitat used by this species, the fact that conventional surveys must be done at night and are time consuming (i.e., expensive), have rendered conventional surveys very challenging in the Trans Pecos region.<br><br>We propose to assess the distribution of Mexican spotted owls in Texas by taking advantage of 1) modern technology and 2) the increased number of private landowners in the Trans Pecos allowing wildlife researchers to access to their properties. Owls announce their presence and breeding territories by species-specific, identifiable, vocalizations at night. We will use passive audio monitors (PAMs) to sample the nocturnal hours for Mexican spotted owl vocalizations. Each PAM will be programmed to record during the Mexican spotted owl breeding season (~February – April). Each PAM will then be retrieved, data downloaded and analyzed for detections of Mexican spotted owls and other owl species. For example, Elf Owls (Micrathene whitneyi) and Flammulated Owls (Otus flammeolus) are both Texas species of conservation concern and may be seasonally sympatric with Mexican spotted owls, and there is concern the Barred Owl (Strix varia) may be expanding its range and begin competing with Mexican spotted owls. Our final product will address knowledge gaps for the Mexican spotted owl distributions in Texas and serve to facilitate informed voluntary conservation planning; support science-based management decisions; provide useful information for ESA species status assessment, critical habitat designations, and recovery efforts; and provide accessible data and methodologies to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and other interested entities. Further it will guide future research on the species. For example, we will pursue other funding from other sources to support research visits to locations where Mexican spotted owls are detected for in-person surveys to locate nest sites and conduct nesting habitat descriptions and assessment.
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The Mexican spotted owl (Stix occidentalis lucida) is protected as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. In Texas it is listed by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as threatened and considered as a S1B species, which indicates it is critically imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer occurrences) or because of other factors making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state. Listing of the Mexican spotted owl as threatened was based primarily on loss of habitat due to timber harvest practices. Currently, the primary threat to Mexican spotted owls is landscape-scale stand-replacing wildfires. The species is distributed Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, west Texas, and southward into northern states of Mexico. Across its distribution, Mexican spotted owls are distributed irregularly due to the patchy distribution of its habitat. Mexican spotted owls require mature pine forests or canyons with rocky cliffs for roosting and nesting habitat. Currently, the species’ distribution in Texas is based primarily on a very few documented observations at isolated locations in the Davis Mountains and the Guadalupe Mountains. However, the actual distribution and occurrence of Mexican spotted owls in Texas is, from a quantitative perspective, unknown. This is because no focused effort has been made to assess the true distribution and habitat associations of Mexican spotted owls in Texas. The landscapes and habitat used by this species, the fact that conventional surveys must be done at night and are time consuming (i.e., expensive), have rendered conventional surveys very challenging in the Trans Pecos region.We propose to assess the distribution of Mexican spotted owls in Texas by taking advantage of 1) modern technology and 2) the increased number of private landowners in the Trans Pecos allowing wildlife researchers to access to their properties. Owls announce their presence and breeding territories by species-specific, identifiable, vocalizations at night. We will use passive audio monitors (PAMs) to sample the nocturnal hours for Mexican spotted owl vocalizations. Each PAM will be programmed to record during the Mexican spotted owl breeding season (~February – April). Each PAM will then be retrieved, data downloaded and analyzed for detections of Mexican spotted owls and other owl species. For example, Elf Owls (Micrathene whitneyi) and Flammulated Owls (Otus flammeolus) are both Texas species of conservation concern and may be seasonally sympatric with Mexican spotted owls, and there is concern the Barred Owl (Strix varia) may be expanding its range and begin competing with Mexican spotted owls. Our final product will address knowledge gaps for the Mexican spotted owl distributions in Texas and serve to facilitate informed voluntary conservation planning; support science-based management decisions; provide useful information for ESA species status assessment, critical habitat designations, and recovery efforts; and provide accessible data and methodologies to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and other interested entities. Further it will guide future research on the species. For example, we will pursue other funding from other sources to support research visits to locations where Mexican spotted owls are detected for in-person surveys to locate nest sites and conduct nesting habitat descriptions and assessment.
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Population Characteristics of Buffalo in Wisconsin: Contribution and Resiliency to Bowfishing Harvest
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December 2024
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Bigmouth buffalo <i>Ictiobus cyprinellus</i> and smallmouth buffalo <i>Ictiobus bubalus </i>(herein buffalo) are native, non-game fishes that rarely receive management attention. Increased participation in bowfishing has prompted efforts to better understand the population dynamics of buffalo and other native fish to determine their resiliency to harvest. Buffalo are native to many water bodies in Wisconsin, but little information exists regarding their population dynamics and contribution to bowfishing harvest. Consequently, our research objectives were to: 1) describe age composition, reproductive traits, and population dynamics for buffalo populations in Wisconsin; 2) assess their resiliency to harvest, and 3) determine the contribution of buffalo to harvest at bowfishing tournaments. We collected buffalo from 14 Wisconsin waterbodies with the help of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Wisconsin Bowfishing Association (WBA). Fish were selected for age estimation using a modified age-length key approach. Lapillus and asteriscus otoliths were used for age estimation. Age structure of buffalo populations varied considerably across the landscape, with maximum ages ranging between 15 and 70 years. Maturation schedules also varied across the landscape, with age at 50% maturity ranging between 2.0 and 6.5 years and length at 50% maturity ranging between 382 and 505 mm. Three populations were oversampled (100≤ fish) to determine the minimum number of fish in a subsample needed to fully represent age composition in the population. Bowfishing harvest was recorded at each WBA tournament in 2023 and will be recorded again in 2024. All fish brought to the weigh-in were enumerated and identified to species or species group. Contribution of buffalo to tournament harvest peaked at 70.9% at the first tournament and was lower at the next four tournaments at 10.7%, 6.0%, 0.3% and 3.5%, respectively. Our research provides fishery managers with landscape-level population information on buffalo in Wisconsin and helps inform future management decisions.
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TBD
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Bird population and species distribution modeling to understand causes of population declines
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December 2025
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We use large datasets (Breeding Bird Atlases, eBird, Breeding Bird Survey) to estimate bird species' status and drivers of population decline. A current focal species is the Cerulean Warbler, and we are gathering existing datasets to build an integrated population model to understand demographic drivers of decline.
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We use large datasets (Breeding Bird Atlases, eBird, Breeding Bird Survey) to estimate bird species' status and drivers of population decline. A current focal species is the Cerulean Warbler, and we are gathering existing datasets to build an integrated population model to understand demographic drivers of decline.
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Advancing climate change adaptation strategies for high elevation and endangered lowland amphibian species in the US Caribbean.
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September 2025
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We propose to advance effective and efficient adaptation to climate change and recovery in the US Caribbean by addressing two objectives: 1) measuring key micro-climate variables along multiple habitat and climate gradients, allowing for identification of resilient climate habitats for at-risk and endangered amphibian species; and 2) expanding prior work to distinguish between the interactive effects of moisture and temperature on <i>Eleutherodactylus </i>occurrence and abundance. The expected results from this study include an island-wide evaluation of potential climate <i>refugia</i> sites for temperature and moisture sensitive <i>Eleutherodactylus</i> species, and criteria for decision makers to determine when and where they should engage in in-situ management or managed translocations.
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The well-known <i>coquí</i> frogs, represented by 17 species in the genus <i>Eleutherodactylus</i> in Puerto Rico, are threatened by extreme heat and drying, and coastal saltwater intrusion. Recent investigations have helped to determine how global climate change is likely to affect the local climate of the US Caribbean, and how sensitive different <i>coquí</i> species are to local climate and habitat conditions. We propose to advance effective and efficient adaptation to climate change and recovery in the US Caribbean by addressing two objectives: 1) measuring key micro-climate variables along multiple habitat and climate gradients, allowing for identification of resilient climate habitats for at-risk and endangered amphibian species; and 2) expanding prior work to distinguish between the interactive effects of moisture and temperature on <i>Eleutherodactylus </i>occurrence and abundance. The expected results from this study include an island-wide evaluation of potential climate <i>refugia</i> sites for temperature and moisture sensitive <i>Eleutherodactylus</i> species, and criteria for decision makers to determine when and where they should engage in in-situ management or managed translocations.
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Effects of reservoir operation on fish recruitment, movement, and survival in the Des Moines and associated rivers.
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December 2026
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This project contains two objectives that serve the common goal of understanding Shovelnose Sturgeon movement ecology to better manage flows downstream of Saylorville and Red Rock Dams in order to promote the survival and reproduction of these migratory river fishes and the overall ecosystem integrity in the lower Des Moines River.<br>The first objective will compare spring migration phenology of Shovelnose Sturgeon using acoustic telemetry in two Mississippi River tributary systems, one with and one without experimental flows. This design will examine how environmental flows influence species movement and may affect the location, timing, and reproduction. Previous research suggests that spring flow pulses facilitate Shovelnose Sturgeon spawning in the Missouri River basin. Research may also monitor the movement of previously tagged Lake Sturgeon, a state species of GCN in Iowa and has been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act. The first objective (also Task 1, (b.)) will relate sturgeon movement and environmental conditions with timing of reproduction by capturing sturgeon eggs and larvae downstream of suspected spawning sites. Eggs and larvae will be identified and enumerated in the lab, including an estimate of stage or age. This data will be utilized in the continued development and refinement of the DSMR AMMP, facilitating achievement of the SRP goals for the DSMR.<br><br>A second objective (Task 2) is to monitor behavioral movements and habitat selection in relation to flows and temperature during the summer period when water temperatures are the warmest (July-August). This task specifically aims to advance our understanding of Shovelnose Sturgeon summer movement ecology and spatial variation in water quality during the summer to aid in the implementation of “opportunistic heat wave pulses” (Table 1). This information is needed to adjust flows to reduce the risk of physiological stress that has led to mass mortality events of Shovelnose Sturgeon in the Des Moines River. For example, in 2012 an estimated 37,159 Shovelnose Sturgeon died and it was presumed that the cause was related to low flows and elevated water temperatures >30°C (Hupfeld et al., 2015). An additional sturgeon kill occurred in the Des Moines River this year in early July 2023 when flows were
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We propose two objectives that serve the common goal of understanding Shovelnose Sturgeon movement ecology to better manage flows downstream of Saylorville and Red Rock Dams in order to promote the survival and reproduction of these migratory river fishes and the overall ecosystem integrity in the lower Des Moines River.The first objective will compare spring migration phenology of Shovelnose Sturgeon using acoustic telemetry in two Mississippi River tributary systems, one with and one without experimental flows. This design will examine how environmental flows influence species movement and may affect the location, timing, and reproduction. Previous research suggests that spring flow pulses facilitate Shovelnose Sturgeon spawning in the Missouri River basin. Research may also monitor the movement of previously tagged Lake Sturgeon, a state species of GCN in Iowa and has been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act. The first objective (also Task 1, (b.)) will relate sturgeon movement and environmental conditions with timing of reproduction by capturing sturgeon eggs and larvae downstream of suspected spawning sites. Eggs and larvae will be identified and enumerated in the lab, including an estimate of stage or age. This data will be utilized in the continued development and refinement of the DSMR AMMP, facilitating achievement of the SRP goals for the DSMR. A second objective (Task 2) is to monitor behavioral movements and habitat selection in relation to flows and temperature during the summer period when water temperatures are the warmest (July-August). This task specifically aims to advance our understanding of Shovelnose Sturgeon summer movement ecology and spatial variation in water quality during the summer to aid in the implementation of “opportunistic heat wave pulses” (Table 1). This information is needed to adjust flows to reduce the risk of physiological stress that has led to mass mortality events of Shovelnose Sturgeon in the Des Moines River. For example, in 2012 an estimated 37,159 Shovelnose Sturgeon died and it was presumed that the cause was related to low flows and elevated water temperatures >30°C (Hupfeld et al., 2015). An additional sturgeon kill occurred in the Des Moines River this year in early July 2023 when flows were <2,000 cfs. This information will also help more broadly to adapt reservoir management to increase downstream ecosystem resilience as water temperatures are predicted to increase in the future due to climate change. To accomplish these objectives in Phase 2, we will conduct a finer-scale telemetry on the previously tagged Shovelnose Sturgeon during the warmest portions of the year late June-August. While conducting objective 1, we will be able to identify areas of the Des Moines River that may be used by Shovelnose Sturgeon during the summer to avoid physiological stress.
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Examining drivers of temporal variation in hybridization outcomes in bigheaded carp in the UMR.
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October 2024
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Invasive Bighead and Silver Carp have been known to hybridize in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. This research will use genomic analysis of tissue samples to infer prevalence of hybrids in the Upper Mississippi River basin, their natal origins, and the potential effects on condition.
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Invasive Bighead and Silver Carp have been known to hybridize in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. This research will use genomic analysis of tissue samples to infer prevalence of hybrids in the Upper Mississippi River basin, their natal origins, and the potential effects on condition.
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Habitat associations and biotic interactions of invasive Rusty Crayfish (Faxonius rusticus) to inform risk assessment and management of shallow glacial lakes at the invasion front.
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August 2025
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The invasive Rusty Crayfish has caused tremendous ecological and economic damage in glacial lakes in the Upper Midwest. Its range has recently expanded south to shallow-eutrophic lakes of the Upper Mississippi Basin. The first lake-dwelling population in Iowa was recently discovered in Storm Lake, Iowa, but little is known about the relative abundance, distribution of Rusty Crayfish within Storm Lake or surrounding natural lakes, or how its introduction will affect water quality populations of aquatic flora and fauna. Therefore, we propose a project to assess the distribution and habitat and biotic associations of Rusty Crayfish within Storm Lake and other shallow eutrophic lakes within southern portions of the Upper Mississippi River Basin. This research will inform vulnerability assessments for early detection and management of the species.
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The invasive Rusty Crayfish has caused tremendous ecological and economic damage in glacial lakes in the Upper Midwest. Following its introduction into Wisconsin in the 1960s, it has decimated aquatic vegetation, predated on fish eggs and larvae, restructured food webs, forced the extirpation of native species, and potentially reduced water quality through the resuspension of nutrients and sediment from the benthos. Its range has recently expanded south to shallow-eutrophic lakes of the Upper Mississippi Basin. The first lake-dwelling population in Iowa was recently discovered in Storm Lake, Iowa in 2018, but little is known about the relative abundance, distribution of Rusty Crayfish within Storm Lake or surrounding natural lakes, or how its introduction will interact with native and invasive species already present. Therefore, we propose to assess the distribution and habitat and biotic associations of Rusty Crayfish with both intensive within Storm Lake and extensive among lake minnow trapping surveys within the Upper Mississippi River Basin. We will use this data to analyze how lake habitat, species community interactions, human socioeconomic factors, and active habitat management and restoration practices may regulate the spread of this species. This research will inform vulnerability assessments for early detection and management of the species.
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Estimating age, growth, and mortality in a tributary-spawning population of Shovelnose Sturgeon using a long-term mark-recapture dataset.
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December 2025
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This project seeks to utilize an 18 year mark-recapture dataset to overcome challenges with estimating important population parameters for making management decisions for the Shovelnose Sturgeon population that is harvested for caviar and meat in the Mississippi River.
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<b>Task 1</b>: Develop incremental growth models using mark-recapture data for Shovelnose Sturgeon in the Cedar River.<b>Description:</b> The graduate student will answer the question: <i>How does Shovelnose Sturgeon growth vary by size, age, and sex in the Cedar River?</i> By analyzing the mark-recapture datasets using adaptations to the Von Bertalanffy growth model that are applicable to mark-recapture data of unknown age fish such as the Wang (Wang et al., 1995) and Fabens models (Fabens et al., 1996) to estimate age-specific growth rates and asymptotic lengths for the Shovelnose Sturgeon population. The student will compare models developed with known male and female individuals to assess how growth rates and asymptotic lengths differ by sex. The student will calculate parameterized age and growth models that can be utilized in future decision making related to harvest regulations for the population. Length at age data available from an ongoing study of bomb radiocarbon aging of Shovelnose Sturgeon for a small subset of individuals will be used to validate growth models.Age- or size-specific growth rates are one of the key vital rates in forecasting fish population response to harvest. These models will provide the Iowa DNR with important information for continued management of harvest of Shovelnose Sturgeon in the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Other methods of parameterizing growth models such as otolith or fin ray annuli counts are unreliable for older individuals and bomb-radiocarbon dating will become a less useful tool for estimating age and growth as ambient C14 levels recede to baseline following the nuclear testing in the 1960’s.<b>Task 2:</b> Develop mark-recapture models to estimate annual survival rates of Shovelnose Sturgeon in the Cedar River<b>Description</b>: The graduate student under the supervision of the project leaders will investigate mark-recapture models that best fit these data to answer the question: <i>Based on mark-recapture surveys what is the annual survival rate in Cedar River Shovelnose Sturgeon population<b>? </b></i><b> </b>The Cormack-Jolly-Seber model will serve as a starting point that provides annual survival estimates in a population independent of age. This model has been generalized to account for various complexities in datasets. Information that may need to be considered when selecting the appropriate model include: 1.) imperfect tag retention, 2.) lack of any observed hatch or death dates, 3.) low recapture rates, 4.) migration periodicity, and/or 5) slow growth rates after maturity. The student will provide parameterized survival models that provide survival estimates to inform management of the population.
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Small Mammal Disease Dynamics in Interior Alaska
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December 2025
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Disease prevalence in small mammals is largely unknown in Alaska, with little monitoring occurring throughout the state. The potential for disease transmission between small mammals and domestic animals is high, and the subsequent potential for transmission to humans poses a legitimate health concern in Alaska. We are surveying small mammal populations near concentrations of domestic animals (sled dogs and livestock) to determine if disease prevalence in small mammals is affected by proximity and exposure to domestic animals. This will be the first coordinate survey effort for small mammal disease exposure in Alaska.
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Disease prevalence in small mammals is largely unknown in Alaska, with little monitoring occurring throughout the state. The potential for disease transmission between small mammals and domestic animals is high, and the subsequent potential for transmission to humans poses a legitimate health concern in Alaska. We are surveying small mammal populations near concentrations of domestic animals (sled dogs and livestock) to determine if disease prevalence in small mammals is affected by proximity and exposure to domestic animals. This will be the first coordinate survey effort for small mammal disease exposure in Alaska.
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American Alligator Ecology in North Carolina
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December 2024
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North Carolina is the northern range limit for American alligators in the US, creating unique challenges related to alligator conservation, monitoring, and management. Given their range limit, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission developed an alligator monitoring program to track changes in alligator distribution. This project analyzes alligator data to estimate occupancy and relative abundance via spotlight surveys and evaluates the ability of spotlight surveys to provide adequate information for monitoring programs. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes North Carolina State University, USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Results of this work provide an evaluation of current alligator monitoring efforts in North Carolina (spotlight surveys, mark-recapture methods) and the development of approaches that can extend to regional- and statewide alligator research and management programs in North Carolina.
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The goal is to analyze and evaluate currently available alligator data to estimate occupancy and relative abundance via spotlight surveys, evaluate the ability of spotlight surveys to provide adequate information for monitoring programs, and investigate approaches to estimate demographic rates and abundance using a case study of an intensively studied alligator population at Lake Waccamaw. Results of this work provide direct evaluations of current alligator monitoring efforts in North Carolina (spotlight surveys, mark-recapture methods) and the development of approaches that can extend to regional- and statewide alligator research and management programs in North Carolina. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes North Carolina State University, USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
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Black bear abundance and density in the North Carolina Coastal Bear Management Unit
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December 2026
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Black bear populations in the North Carolina Coastal Bear Management Unit (CBMU) have increased over the past 50 years, and now occur at high densities in multiple regions. The project herein aims to produce unbiased population density and abundance estimates for the CBMU, assess the population structure of current CBMU zones using local density and population genetics, and evaluate the potential of less intensive alternative protocols for long-term monitoring objectives. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes North Carolina State University, USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State University, and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. This comprehensive approach to evaluating abundance, density, and population genetics provides important information needed for black bear management and conservation in North Carolina.
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Black bear populations in the North Carolina Coastal Bear Management Unit (CBMU) have increased over the past 50 years, and now occur at high densities in multiple regions. The project herein aims to produce unbiased population density and abundance estimates for the CBMU, assess the population structure of current CBMU zones using local density and population genetics, and evaluate the potential of less intensive alternative protocols for long-term monitoring objective. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes North Carolina State University, USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State University, and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
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Connectivity for a Complex Life Cycle: Conserving the Crystal Skipper Butterfly in a Coastal Urban Environment
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April 2026
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Understanding of how organisms with complex life cycles interact with fragmented habitats and changing environments has important climate mitigation implications. The Crystal skipper (<i>Atrytonopsis quinteri</i> Burns) is a small butterfly that was described as a new species in 2015 and occurs only on a 50 km stretch of barrier islands on the North Carolina coast that is subject to numerous risks from climate change and urbanization. Our project will: (1) Develop a rigorous, sustainable, and unbiased survey methodology to document skipper population sizes and monitor trends, (2) Evaluate the role of landscape-scale nectar connectivity in limiting skipper populations, and (3) Assess whether management can increase Crystal skipper populations and offset effects of climate change. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes North Carolina State University, USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the North Carolina Aquarium. Results from this work will inform the implementation of adaptive, robust, and strategic improvements to the existing conservation plan for this species of conservation concern.
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Understanding of how organisms with complex life cycles interact with fragmented habitats and changing environments has important climate mitigation implications. The Crystal skipper (<i>Atrytonopsis quinteri</i> Burns) is a small butterfly that was described as a new species in 2015 and occurs only on a 50 km stretch of barrier islands on the North Carolina coast that is subject to numerous risks from climate change and urbanization. Our project will: (1) Develop a rigorous, sustainable, and unbiased survey methodology to document skipper population sizes and monitor trends, (2) Evaluate the role of landscape-scale nectar connectivity in limiting skipper populations, (3) Assess whether management can increase Crystal skipper populations and offset effects of climate change, and (4) Implement adaptive, robust, and strategic improvements to the existing conservation plan. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes North Carolina State University, USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the North Carolina Aquarium.
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Using restoration monitoring data to inform an H-integrated Chinook salmon recovery strategy
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June 2026
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The recovery of Chinook salmon and other vital salmon species in Puget Sound is lagging despite unprecedented habitat restoration efforts. This shortfall is attributed to cumulative stressors, often encapsulated in the “four Hs”: habitat loss, hydropower, hatchery production, and harvest. Addressing these interconnected challenges is crucial for effective salmon management and recovery. To tackle this issue, we will use an “H-Integrated approach” that considers how restoration efforts interact with these four Hs. Our project, in collaboration with the Nisqually Indian Tribe and the U.S. Geological Survey, will derive spatially explicit carrying capacity estimates for the Nisqually River Delta, informing both wild Chinook recovery goals and hatchery management strategies. Additionally, we will employ Integrated Population Models to estimate Chinook salmon survival rates and assess the duration of the Tribal fishing season under various management and climate change scenarios. The outcomes of this research will support the sustainable management of salmon populations and their habitats, enabling habitat managers from the Tribe and throughout Puget Sound to implement targeted restoration actions that enhance resilience in the face of climate change. By identifying strategies that mitigate negative interactions among salmon species, we aim to bolster both ecological integrity and cultural resources associated with salmon fisheries.
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Estuarine habitat restoration plays a crucial role in providing quality nursery habitat for out-migrating juvenile salmon; however, habitat loss is just one of many cumulative stressors that are contributing to salmon decline (often referred to as the “four Hs”). Habitat managers can maximize restoration efficiency and effectiveness if they account for how restoration actions will interact with other factors, for example: How will hydropower-related modifications in sediment regimes impact the restoration area’s functional value as salmon habitat? Will the restoration area play a role in mitigating potentially negative effects of hatchery salmon? What effect could the restoration have on the number of returning adult salmon and commercial, recreational, and tribal harvest rates? Put simply, H-Integration is a concerted effort to account for all H-factors when pursuing the goal of a self-sustaining, harvestable salmon run. This goal of this project is to demonstrate how managers can use an H-integrated approach to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of restoration. We believe that an H-Integrated approach can maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of ongoing and future restoration projects. This is because it allows managers to identify restoration actions that are most likely to mitigate negative interactions between different species and stocks of salmon, bolster harvest rates, and maintain habitat function in the face of climate change and shifts in hydropower-mediated sediment delivery regimes.
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Evaluating the carrying capacity of pink salmon in Sitka National Historical Park
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December 2025
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Freshwater ecosystems supporting Pacific salmon exhibit natural and wide-ranging variability in the number of salmon they can support. In some areas, the carrying capacity is affected by hatchery-origin adults that stray from hatchery and instead return to nearby rivers and streams. The Indian River within Sitka National Historical Park once had returns of pink salmon numbering in the thousands. Following the construction of a nearby instructional hatchery that draws its water for egg incubation and juvenile rearing, many adults now "escape" the fishery and stray into the river, such that recent returns are two orders of magnitude higher. This project is a collaboration with scientists from the National Park Service (NPS), the Sitka Tribe of Alaska, the Sitka Sound Science Center, and Trout Unlimited. We will develop a model for evaluating a reasonable escapement goal for the river that also considers the effects of water withdrawals, which will help the NPS better manage pink salmon.
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Freshwater ecosystems supporting Pacific salmon exhibit natural and wide-ranging variability in the number of salmon they can support. In some areas, the carrying capacity is affected by hatchery-origin adults that stray from hatchery and instead return to nearby rivers and streams. The Indian River within Sitka National Historical Park once had returns of pink salmon numbering in the thousands. Following the construction of a nearby instructional hatchery that draws its water for egg incubation and juvenile rearing, many adults now "escape" the fishery and stray into the river, such that recent returns are two orders of magnitude higher. This project is a collaboration with scientists from the National Park Service (NPS), the Sitka Tribe of Alaska, the Sitka Sound Science Center, and Trout Unlimited. We will develop a model for evaluating a reasonable escapement goal for the river that also considers the effects of water withdrawals, which will help the NPS better manage pink salmon.
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Improved monitoring of toxics in nearshore environments in Puget Sound, Washington
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May 2023
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Monitoring toxics in nearshore marine environments is important because this habitat is the interface between land and water. The Puget Sound Partnership’s (PSP) Leadership Council recently identified this as priority information need by authorizing the addition of nearshore toxics monitoring (using mussels) to the PSP’s Toxics in Aquatic Life Vital Sign indicators. Toxic contaminants have been monitored for almost 30 years in other Puget Sound species (flatfish, herring and salmon) in other habitats, but monitoring for toxics in the nearshore has only recently begun. Recovery goals for toxics typically mean reductions in contamination to levels that make the organisms safe for people to consume, or to levels that will not harm the animals. The design of this monitoring program will consider recovery goals specifically tailored to communities impacted by contaminants in the nearshore. The project is a collaboration of researchers at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the USGS Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. This project is intended to cut across otherwise disparate monitoring and recovery efforts, by joining ecological ideas with the social sciences to bring a more meaningful and environmentally just approach to ecosystem recovery. It will specifically seek out affected communities typically excluded from such decision-making, consider non-traditional concepts of health and vitality, and honor the full diversity of cultures using these resources.
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Monitoring toxics in nearshore marine environments is important because this habitat is the interface between land and water. The Puget Sound Partnership’s (PSP) Leadership Council recently identified this as priority information need by authorizing the addition of nearshore toxics monitoring (using mussels) to the PSP’s Toxics in Aquatic Life Vital Sign indicators. Toxic contaminants have been monitored for almost 30 years in other Puget Sound species (flatfish, herring and salmon) in other habitats, but monitoring for toxics in the nearshore has only recently begun. Recovery goals for toxics typically mean reductions in contamination to levels that make the organisms safe for people to consume, or to levels that will not harm the animals. The design of this monitoring program will consider recovery goals specifically tailored to communities impacted by contaminants in the nearshore. The project is a collaboration of researchers at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the USGS Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. This project is intended to cut across otherwise disparate monitoring and recovery efforts, by joining ecological ideas with the social sciences to bring a more meaningful and environmentally just approach to ecosystem recovery. It will specifically seek out affected communities typically excluded from such decision-making, consider non-traditional concepts of health and vitality, and honor the full diversity of cultures using these resources.
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Designing Optimal Landscapes for Lesser Prairie-Chicken Conservation
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December 2026
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Lesser prairie-chickens are listed as threatened or endangered in portions of their occupied range. The largest population is in Kansas. The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and landscape connectivity are important factors in the viability of lesser prairie-chickens. The role of CRP in lesser prairie-chicken ecology and connectivity of landscapes to facilitate movements are being assessed.
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Lesser prairie-chickens are listed as threatened or endangered in portions of their occupied range. The largest population is in Kansas. The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and landscape connectivity are important factors in the viability of lesser prairie-chickens. The role of CRP in lesser prairie-chicken ecology and connectivity of landscapes to facilitate movements are being assessed.
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Status of Native Bumble Bees (Bombus spp.) at Fort Riley Military Reservation, Kansas
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July 2025
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Bumblebees are of conservation concern. Diversity, occupancy, abundance, and habitat use are being assessed on Fort Riley, Kansas. Response to grassland management by bumblebees is being measured. Partners include Fort Riley, Department of Defense, and Kansas State University.
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Bumblebees are of conservation concern. Diversity, occupancy, abundance, and habitat use are being assessed on Fort Riley, Kansas. Response to grassland management by bumblebees is being measured. Partners include Fort Riley, Department of Defense, and Kansas State University.
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Evaluating impacts of the U.S.A.-Mexico border wall on mammal communities of the Sonoran Desert
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May 2026
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The border wall between the U.S.A. and Mexico represents a novel human-made feature in the Sonoran Desert whose impacts of wildlife remain poorly understood. These impacts could include disrupted movement patterns across multiple spatiotemporal scales through the physical presence of the wall and/or behavioral avoidance due to human activity, roads, or lighting. Disruption of movement patterns can not only affect large-scale migratory movements but also movements within an individual’s home range which may prevent individuals from accessing important resources. Many mammal species, including mammalian carnivores, have relatively large home ranges making them increasingly susceptible to negative border wall impacts. Finally, the border wall runs between two large networks of protected lands known for their rich desert biodiversity and diverse mammal communities. These networks are the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge and Organ Pipe National Monument in the U.S.A. and the El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. The goals of this study are to understand the impacts of the border wall on mammalian communities within these protected networks and provide suggestions for actions to mitigate negative border wall impacts on these wildlife communities. We will accomplish this using camera traps placed at varying distances from the border and in different landscape contexts. We will use detection/non-detection data of different mammals to estimate species-specific and community-level relationships between occupancy and border wall proximity. This study will be led by a graduate student from the University of Arizona in collaboration with the Pinacate Reserve and National Park Service.
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The border wall between the U.S.A. and Mexico represents a novel human-made feature in the Sonoran Desert whose impacts of wildlife remain poorly understood. These impacts could include disrupted movement patterns across multiple spatiotemporal scales through the physical presence of the wall and/or behavioral avoidance due to human activity, roads, or lighting. Disruption of movement patterns can not only affect large-scale migratory movements but also movements within an individual’s home range which may prevent individuals from accessing important resources. Many mammal species, including mammalian carnivores, have relatively large home ranges making them increasingly susceptible to negative border wall impacts. Finally, the border wall runs between two large networks of protected lands known for their rich desert biodiversity and diverse mammal communities. These networks are the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge and Organ Pipe National Monument in the U.S.A. and the El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. The goals of this study are to understand the impacts of the border wall on mammalian communities within these protected networks and provide suggestions for actions to mitigate negative border wall impacts on these wildlife communities. We will accomplish this using camera traps placed at varying distances from the border and in different landscape contexts. We will use detection/non-detection data of different mammals to estimate species-specific and community-level relationships between occupancy and border wall proximity. This study will be led by a graduate student from the University of Arizona in collaboration with the Pinacate Reserve and National Park Service.
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Bat Distribution and Population Trends prior to WNS in Utah
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June 2024
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Bats in Utah are facing multiple emerging threats to their persistence, the greatest of which is the disease white-nose syndrome (WNS). As WNS spreads across the continent, data on species impact is needed to guide conservation efforts and respond to USFWS data requests. Current WNS treatment/control efforts are focused on integrated approaches that combat the causative fungus directly or reduce infection and mortality in bats, as well as promoting overall health of bat populations to support resistance to and recovery from WNS. UDWR has a WNS response protocol which outlines goals, objectives, and strategies first designed to prevent the disease from establishing in Utah and secondly to provide management and surveillance strategies should WNS be detected in the state (Roug et al. 2017). To date, WNS has not been documented in Utah, but given past rates of spread, is expected to be confirmed in the coming years.<br><br>Goals of the project include defining the range of Utah bat species in the state based on historical data and calculating occupancy, detection probability, and trend within the defined ranges for each species from Utah monitoring protocol data.
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Bats in Utah are facing multiple emerging threats to their persistence, the greatest of which is the disease white-nose syndrome (WNS). As WNS spreads across the continent, data on species impact is needed to guide conservation efforts and respond to USFWS data requests. Current WNS treatment/control efforts are focused on integrated approaches that combat the causative fungus directly or reduce infection and mortality in bats, as well as promoting overall health of bat populations to support resistance to and recovery from WNS. UDWR has a WNS response protocol which outlines goals, objectives, and strategies first designed to prevent the disease from establishing in Utah and secondly to provide management and surveillance strategies should WNS be detected in the state (Roug et al. 2017). To date, WNS has not been documented in Utah, but given past rates of spread, is expected to be confirmed in the coming years.Goals of the project include defining the range of Utah bat species in the state based on historical data and calculating occupancy, detection probability, and trend within the defined ranges for each species from Utah monitoring protocol data.
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Herpetofauna communities within historic rice fields in South Carolina
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December 2025
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The southeastern United States is a biodiversity hotspot, and South Carolina has a broad diversity of species. However, many species of herpetofauna are overlooked, despite their ecological importance. This research project aims to address what we know and can learn about herpetofauna from a spatial ecology perspective. This will fill in gaps in knowledge about how land use affects herpetofaunal species, and what we can learn about their resource use and movement across the landscape in the face of changing land use. This research is a collaboration including USGS SC CFWRU, South Carolina DNR, and potentially the Nemours Foundation. Findings from this research will help support conservation actions by characterizing spatial patterns of species and their correlation with diverse land uses.
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The southeastern United States is a biodiversity hotspot, and South Carolina has a broad diversity of species. However, many species of herpetofauna are overlooked, despite their ecological importance. This research project aims to address what we know and can learn about herpetofauna from a spatial ecology perspective. This will fill in gaps in knowledge about how land use affects herpetofaunal species, and what we can learn about their resource use and movement across the landscape in the face of changing land use. This research is a collaboration including USGS SC CFWRU, South Carolina DNR, and potentially the Nemours Foundation. Findings from this research will help support conservation actions by characterizing spatial patterns of species and their correlation with diverse land uses.
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Assessing the proliferation, connectivity, and consequences of invasive fine fuels
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May 2024
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Invasive annual grasses are a growing threat to ecosystems in the western United States. They outcompete native species, influence wildlife habitat, and provide flammable fuels that intensify the wildfire regime. Landscape disturbances and management activities may lead to further spread of invasive annual grasses, and so it is important to characterize the proliferation, connectivity, and consequences of invasive grasses. Moreover, these grasses could impact habitats for species of interest such as the sage grouse. The project is a collaboration of researchers including the USGS FORT Science Center, USGS SC CFWRU, USGS PIERC, the Bureau of Land Management, and Colorado State University, the USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center and State and Federal natural resource managers in the Pacific Northwest. This project can help develop strategies for managing annual invasive grasses, identifying characteristics and areas to target for appropriate management actions given the patterns and consequences of invasion.
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Invasive annual grasses are a growing threat to ecosystems in the western United States. They outcompete native species, influence wildlife habitat, and provide flammable fuels that intensify the wildfire regime. Landscape disturbances and management activities may lead to further spread of invasive annual grasses, and so it is important to characterize the proliferation, connectivity, and consequences of invasive grasses. Moreover, these grasses could impact habitats for species of interest such as the sage grouse. The project is a collaboration of researchers including the USGS FORT Science Center, USGS SC CFWRU, USGS PIERC, the Bureau of Land Management, and Colorado State University. the USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center and State and Federal natural resource managers in the Pacific Northwest. This project can help develop strategies for managing annual invasive grasses, identifying characteristics and areas to target for appropriate management actions given the patterns and consequences of invasion.
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Understanding connectivity patterns for sagebrush habitat and associated wildlife
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December 2024
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Disturbances, management, and changing environmental conditions have reshaped the sagebrush biome within the western United States. As a result, sagebrush cover and configuration have varied over space and time, influencing ecological processes and species' use of the landscape. Characterizing changes in sagebrush ecosystem connectivity over time will help us understand the effects of those changes on habitat fragmentation and wildlife population isolation, where actions can be taken to monitor and restore the important habitat connections.<br><br>For more information, see: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/fort-collins-science-center/science/changes-sagebrush-ecosystem-connectivity#overview
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The sagebrush biome within the western United States has been reshaped by disturbances, management, and changing environmental conditions. As a result, sagebrush cover and configuration have varied over space and time, influencing processes and species that rely on contiguous, connected sagebrush. We know little about how the connectivity of sagebrush has changed over time and across the sagebrush biome, and how that may influence wildlife movement and species persistence. The project is a collaboration of researchers that includes the USGS SC CFWRU, Colorado State University, Bureau of Land Management, and the USGS FORT Science Center. Connectivity models will provide ecological information across spatial and temporal scales that can support targeted actions to address changing structural connectivity and to maintain functioning, connected ecosystems.
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Toxicity of different life stages of Cahaba River mudsnails to potassium, chloride, and nickel
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September 2026
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Snails are a diverse and important group of species that contribute to the proper functioning of rivers and streams in Alabama. They are presumably sensitive to water quality changes, but there is a tremendous gap in the understanding of sensitivity within taxa collectively referenced as mudsnails. This project’s goal is to better understand the differences in toxicity of species and life stages within mudsnails.
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Snails are a diverse and important group of species that contribute to the proper functioning of rivers and streams in Alabama. They are presumably sensitive to water quality changes, but there is a tremendous gap in the understanding of sensitivity within taxa collectively referenced as mudsnails. This project’s goal is to better understand the differences in toxicity of species and life stages within mudsnails. Study objectives are to first establish a protocol for testing mudsnail toxicity. Thereafter, to determine toxicity of three different life stages (i.e., time since hatching) of Elimia annettae, Leptoxis ampla, and Somatogyrus sp. to different concentrations of potassium, chloride, and nickel. All species are 100% water obligate species and endemic to the Cahaba River basin. Recipient will obtain snails from the Alabama Aquatic Biodiversity Center where they will be cultured. The project is a collaboration among the Biodiversity Center, USFWS, and Auburn University. This project will allow a better evaluation of the threats these species face given they are endemic to areas near Birmingham, a growing metropolitan area. Moreover, these data will be useful for completing SSAs on these and similar species.
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BCG Model for Upper Tana Watershed Kenya
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December 2026
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Despite relatively wide adoption, developing and monitoring indices from commonly used aquatic macroinvertebrates, fish, and algae to assess watershed integrity may be expensive and time-consuming. The popularity and relative ease of birding, and the recent increases in community surveys associated with birds, suggest that they may provide a promising alternative. However, additional research is needed to assess the application of community survey data on birds to inform watershed bioassessments. This novel project seeks to explore the potential of using community bird surveys to assess watershed condition for a watershed in Kenya.
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Despite relatively wide adoption, developing and monitoring indices from commonly used aquatic macroinvertebrates, fish, and algae to assess watershed integrity may be expensive and time-consuming. The popularity and relative ease of birding, and the recent increases in community surveys associated with birds, suggest that they may provide a promising alternative. However, additional research is needed to assess the application of community survey data on birds to inform watershed bioassessments. This novel project seeks to explore the potential of using community bird surveys to assess watershed condition for a watershed in Kenya.
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Evaluating the Effects of Increased Predator and Competitor Abundances on Slimy Sculpin Populations in the Great Lakes
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December 2024
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Native sculpin species, including slimy sculpin, have been declining in abundance in the Great Lakes. At the same time, ecosystem changes have occurred in the lakes that may have influenced slimy sculpin population dynamics, including invasion of the Great Lakes by round goby and dreissenid mussels, declines in abundance of prey items, and increases in the natural reproduction of native lake trout. Slimy sculpin are an important prey fish in the Great Lakes, and their decline could lead to effects at higher trophic levels. We are partnering with scientists from the USGS Great Lakes Science Centers (Michigan, New York, Wisconsin), the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Michigan State University to evaluate potential drivers of slimy sculpin decline. This investigation includes laboratory experiments, environmental DNA analysis in Lake Michigan, and modeling of sculpin and lake trout dynamics. The results of this research can reduce key uncertainties around the effects of ecosystem change on trophic dynamics in the Great Lakes.
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Native sculpin species, including slimy sculpin, have been declining in abundance in the Great Lakes. At the same time, ecosystem changes have occurred in the lakes that may have influenced slimy sculpin population dynamics, including invasion of the Great Lakes by round goby and dreissenid mussels, declines in abundance of prey items, and increases in the natural reproduction of native lake trout. Slimy sculpin are an important prey fish in the Great Lakes, and their decline could lead to effects at higher trophic levels. We are partnering with scientists from the USGS Great Lakes Science Centers (Michigan, New York, Wisconsin), the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Michigan State University to evaluate potential drivers of slimy sculpin decline. This investigation includes laboratory experiments, environmental DNA analysis in Lake Michigan, and modeling of sculpin and lake trout dynamics. The results of this research can reduce key uncertainties around the effects of ecosystem change on trophic dynamics in the Great Lakes.
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Consequences of connectivity
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December 2024
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Migratory fish are disconnected from riverine systems throughout the world by barriers (e.g., dams and culverts). Removal of these structures would enhance passage for native fishes, but could also allow for introduction of non-native invasive species. In the Great Lakes, there is ongoing work to develop facilities for selective fish passage to allow passage of desirable fish while blocking undesirable fish, like the invasive sea lamprey. As part of this process, decision makers need to understand which species are desirable in particular rivers, as well as the predicted increase in production of these desired and undesired species upon passage. We are conducting a structured decision making process, in which we determine stakeholders' objectives for the fish community on the Boardman River, MI, and model the potential production of these desired species. This project is in collaboration with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, and includes input from decision makers (i.e., Michigan DNR and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians) as well as stakeholders from the region. This decision framework will inform fish passage on the Boardman, and will serve as a framework for other fish passage decisions in the Great Lakes and beyond.
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Migratory fish are disconnected from riverine systems throughout the world by barriers (e.g., dams and culverts). Removal of these structures would enhance passage for native fishes, but could also allow for introduction of non-native invasive species. In the Great Lakes, there is ongoing work to develop facilities for selective fish passage to allow passage of desirable fish while blocking undesirable fish, like the invasive sea lamprey. As part of this process, decision makers need to understand which species are desirable in particular rivers, as well as the predicted increase in production of these desired and undesired species upon passage. We are conducting a structured decision making process, in which we determine stakeholders' objectives for the fish community on the Boardman River, MI, and model the potential production of these desired species. This project is in collaboration with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, and includes input from decision makers (i.e., Michigan DNR and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians) as well as stakeholders from the region. This decision framework will inform fish passage on the Boardman, and will serve as a framework for other fish passage decisions in the Great Lakes and beyond.
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Socially mediated avian habitat selection
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December 2025
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Habitat selection is a fundamental process influencing individual fitness, and understanding how animals select habitat is thus critical for developing effective conservation and management strategies. Recent evidence suggests that many wildlife species, and birds in particular, use social information as a cue in habitat selection, yet the mechanistic underpinnings of this behavior remain ambiguous. Our work focuses on developing sampling tools and using them to test hypotheses related to when, where, and why social information is important for habitat selection. This work is being conducted in collaboration with researchers from Auburn University, Oregon State University, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Our findings will help improve use of artificial social cues as a management tool to manipulate distributions of target species and improve conservation outcomes.
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Habitat selection is a fundamental process influencing individual fitness, and understanding how animals select habitat is thus critical for developing effective conservation and management strategies. Recent evidence suggests that many wildlife species, and birds in particular, use social information as a cue in habitat selection, yet the mechanistic underpinnings of this behavior remain ambiguous. Our work focuses on developing sampling tools and using them to test hypotheses related to when, where, and why social information is important for habitat selection. This work is being conducted in collaboration with researchers from Auburn University, Oregon State University, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Our findings will help improve use of artificial social cues as a management tool to manipulate distributions of target species and improve conservation outcomes.
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Oregon Marbled Murrelet Project
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December 2025
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The Marbled Murrelet (<i>Brachyramphus marmoratus</i>) is an endangered seabird that forages on the ocean and nests in old trees up to 80 km inland. Despite 20 years of protection, populations have failed to recover in the Pacific Northwest, and our research aims to understand the mechanisms underlying the population's dynamics. This work is being conducted in collaboration with many partners including the Oregon State University College of Forestry, U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Department of Forestry, and Washington Department of Natural Resources. Our work will help understand the factors limiting murrelet population growth to improve conservation and management efforts for this iconic and imperiled species.
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The Marbled Murrelet (<i>Brachyramphus marmoratus</i>) is an endangered seabird that forages on the ocean and nests in old trees up to 80 km inland. Despite 20 years of protection, populations have failed to recover in the Pacific Northwest, and our research aims to understand the mechanisms underlying the population's dynamics. This work is being conducted in collaboration with many partners including the Oregon State University College of Forestry, U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Department of Forestry, and Washington Department of Natural Resources. Our work will help understand the factors limiting murrelet population growth to improve conservation and management efforts for this iconic and imperiled species.
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Designing surveys for estimating biological truth
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September 2026
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Surveys of unmarked animals can be used to answer many ecological research questions. Hierarchical abundance and occurrence models are frequently used to analyze such data when species are detected imperfectly, but assumptions are frequently violated when surveying mobile animals. We are working to develop sampling protocols that lead to unbiased estimates of occupancy and abundance to improve estimation of the true patterns and processes underlying the observed data. This work is being conducted in collaboration with researchers from numerous organizations including the Integral Ecology Research Center, College of William and Mary, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, University of St. Andrews, Michigan State University, California State Polytechnic University, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, National Audubon Society, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, University of Georgia, and University of California, Los Angeles. We expect our findings to be used by researchers and managers around the globe to improve occupancy estimation.
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Surveys of unmarked animals can be used to answer many ecological research questions. Hierarchical abundance and occurrence models are frequently used to analyze such data when species are detected imperfectly, but assumptions are frequently violated when surveying mobile animals. We are working to develop sampling protocols that lead to unbiased estimates of occupancy and abundance to improve estimation of the true patterns and processes underlying the observed data. This work is being conducted in collaboration with researchers from numerous organizations including the Integral Ecology Research Center, College of William and Mary, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, University of St. Andrews, Michigan State University, California State Polytechnic University, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, National Audubon Society, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, University of Georgia, and University of California, Los Angeles. We expect our findings to be used by researchers and managers around the globe to improve occupancy estimation.
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Conciliation in the habitat fragmentation and biodiversity debate
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September 2023
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Landscape-scale conservation planning is urgent given the extent of anthropogenic land-use change and its pervasive impacts on Earth’s biodiversity. However, such efforts are hindered by disagreements over the effects of habitat fragmentation on biodiversity that have persisted since the mid-1970s. We contend that nearly 50 years later, these disagreements have become a locked-in debate characterized by polarized, unproductive discourse and a lack of consistent guidance for landscape managers and policy makers. Our work is highlighting the need for a unified set of principles regarding conservation in fragmented landscapes, identifying potential reasons for disparate conclusions in fragmentation research, and developing ways for the ecological community to advance research that leads to consensus rather than the perpetuation of disagreement. This research will help reconcile different views and advance conservation planning within a landscape ecology framework.
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Landscape-scale conservation planning is urgent given the extent of anthropogenic land-use change and its pervasive impacts on Earth’s biodiversity. However, such efforts are hindered by disagreements over the effects of habitat fragmentation on biodiversity that have persisted since the mid-1970s. We contend that nearly 50 years later, these disagreements have become a locked-in debate characterized by polarized, unproductive discourse and a lack of consistent guidance for landscape managers and policy makers. Our work is highlighting the need for a unified set of principles regarding conservation in fragmented landscapes, identifying potential reasons for disparate conclusions in fragmentation research, and developing ways for the ecological community to advance research that leads to consensus rather than the perpetuation of disagreement. This research will help reconcile different views and advance conservation planning within a landscape ecology framework.
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Tricolored bat surveys
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December 2023
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Bats are the second most diverse group of mammals in the world, after only rodents, and are vital to the health of ecosystems. Unfortunately, they are declining at an alarming rate and large-scale monitoring is needed to track population trends and intervene as necessary to conserve these species. While the importance of tricolored and other bats species is evident in the Southeast, Fort Moore currently lacks an understanding of their status on the installation. We are working in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense to gather data on the presence and relative abundance of bat communities utilizing this base. Our findings will help Fort Moore prepare their programmatic biological opinion and inform resource managers on how and where to best manage tricolored and other bats within installation boundaries.
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Bats are the second most diverse group of mammals in the world, after only rodents, and are vital to the health of ecosystems. Unfortunately, they are declining at an alarming rate and large-scale monitoring is needed to track population trends and intervene as necessary to conserve these species. While the importance of tricolored and other bats species is evident in the Southeast, Fort Moore currently lacks an understanding of their status on the installation. We are working in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense to gather data on the presence and relative abundance of bat communities utilizing this base. Our findings will help Fort Moore prepare their programmatic biological opinion and inform resource managers on how and where to best manage tricolored and other bats within installation boundaries.
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ADCNR Inventory and Conservation Planning
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September 2028
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Alabama ranks fifth among U.S. states in biodiversity of plants and animals, yet only 4% of the state is sheltered from development. Support of Alabama's extraordinary biodiversity thus depends on fastidious management of these limited protected areas. We are evaluating the effects of historical land management on wildlife communities within state-owned Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). These data are critical for understanding how historical management has affected target species, assessing the accuracy of predicted management outcomes, and improving management plans within an adaptive framework. This work is being conducted in collaboration with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Results will be used by the agency to improve habitat management for game and non-game species on their WMAs and to tease out the relative importance of local management vs. landscape changes on shaping wildlife communities.
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Alabama ranks fifth among U.S. states in biodiversity of plants and animals, yet only 4% of the state is sheltered from development. Support of Alabama's extraordinary biodiversity thus depends on fastidious management of these limited protected areas. We are evaluating the effects of historical land management on wildlife communities within state-owned Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). These data are critical for understanding how historical management has affected target species, assessing the accuracy of predicted management outcomes, and improving management plans within an adaptive framework. This work is being conducted in collaboration with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Results will be used by the agency to improve habitat management for game and non-game species on their WMAs and to tease out the relative importance of local management vs. landscape changes on shaping wildlife communities.
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Demonstrating technologies to monitor sublethal responses of eagles to military activities on Department of Defense Installations
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December 2027
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Eagles are exposed to multiple stressors on DOD installations from training activities, recreational hunting and legacy landuse. We seek to use examination of corticoid steroid levels matched with stressor to better understand stressors and potential mitigations thereof on DOD lands.
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Our objective is to demonstrate and validate an approach to assess the role of lead and disturbance as stressors on bald (<i>Haliaeetus leucocephalus</i>) and golden eagles (<i>Aquila chrysaetos</i>) on military installations. Our approach uses feathers and blood collected at nests, assays to screen those tissues for lead, stress hormones, and enzymes related to lead contamination, all evaluated relative to military training and testing activities, recreational hunting, and landscape characteristics. This research will allow DoD managers to assess sublethal “take” of these protected species and to provide mitigative strategies to minimize impacts thereof. We will evaluate these factors singularly and in combination using informative models to show how they contribute to potential deleterious stress to raptors, thus allowing installations to assess risk and develop appropriate mitigation strategies. Our goals are to 1) demonstrate tools and approaches to evaluate toxicant exposure, stress levels, and stress response of raptors at and near military installations throughout the United States; 2) identify linkages among stressors (military activity, recreational hunting as a toxicant exposure source) and indicators of physiological stress hormones and enzymatic stress response; 3) provide guidance documents for DoD natural resources staff and environmental chemistry laboratories to collect and analyze data to evaluate indirect and sublethal effects of activities on military installations to wildlife; and 4) demonstrate the use of a predictive tool to identify installations with potential for raptors to be negatively impacted by sub-lethal stressors..
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Using the Sentinel Virginia Northern Flying Squirrel to Guide Red Spruce Restoration for Climate Resiliency in the Central Appalachians
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December 2026
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Much reduced following turn of the 20th Century exploitative harvesting and wildfire, managers need data on both how and where to effectively restore red spruce forests in the central Appalachians. Red spruce in the central Appalachians are among the most endangered forest type in North America - one that supports numerous endangered and endemic species. Restoration will benefit carbon sequestration, provide clean water, enhance restoration economy job opportunities and will increase economic development from tourism. As a high-elevation keystone species, using the northern flying squirrel to guide red spruce restoration in the Central Appalachians will be an efficient and meaningful approach to promote forest recovery and climate-resistance in the region. The project partners are the U.S. Forest Service, the Nature Conservancy, West Virginia Division of Forestry and the Central Appalachian Spruce Restoration Initiative. This project will provide spatially explicit direction where red spruce restoration should occur to maximize effectiveness and benefit. It will also provide managers with data on suitable technical approach using silvicultural tools.
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This study will examine high elevation (770-1450 m) forests that connect known or predicted Virginia northern flying squirrel habitat patches using 1) an expanded least-cost path analyses that incorporates numerous environmental and physical parameters that will then be used to: 2) assess forest composition, structure/age-class, understory dynamics, and site productivity using field survey approaches (inventory plots, dendrochronology and soil surveys) and remote sensing (high resolution imagery and LIDAR) to identify where red spruce enhancement or restoration could occur from derived least-cost path and distribution models for the flying squirrel; 3) match appropriate and viable commercial and non-commercial silvicultural management approaches for improving current stand conditions; 4) relate overstory/understory composition metrics to future desired conditions through dynamic vegetation modeling under a range of possible climate change scenarios; and finally 5) provide optimized decision-support framework to promote red spruce forest system resistance and long-term resiliency.
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Assessing Population Viability and WNS-exposure of Northern Long-eared Bats along the I-95 Corridor
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June 2026
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Because of White-nose Syndrome, northern long-eared bat populations are largely extirpated in interior East (Reynolds et al. 2016). Some low-density northern long-eared bat populations persist along the Atlantic Coast in coastal Massachusetts, Long Island, southern New Jersey, the DC-metro area and southeastern Virginia into North Carolina. Working hypotheses for persistence suggest shorter hibernation periods relative to interior populations and less exposure to <i>Pseudogymnoascus destructans</i> (Pd) from using aberrant hibernacula such as anthropogenic structures and forested wetlands. That said, populations north of southeastern Virginia are exposed to Pd, and multi-year evidence from Long Island and the DC-metro area suggest maternity colony collapse with fewer returning adults and low rates of juvenile recruitment mirroring processes observed in the interior. Genetic analyses show a connected clade along the I-95 corridor from coastal North Carolina to southern New Jersey distinct from interior populations. It is plausible a source-sink dynamic occurs whereby bats in coastal Virginia and North Carolina or southern New Jersey where suitable summer maternity habitat and forested wetland overwinter habitat exists periodically “supply” bats to the DC-metro area that are reproductively successive in some years. Long-term acoustic research previously supported by this USGS program does show winter presence in the DC-area, but more of a strong pulse of southward activity suggestive of fall migration. Summer maternity habitat for northern long-eared bats from the stand to landscape level has been described for southern coastal areas and the DC-metro area but these data do not exist for southern New Jersey, nor does overwintering habitat anywhere from New Jersey to North Carolina other than anecdotal accounts. The data gaps relative to either summer day-roost use and overwintering hibernacula use mid-Atlantic wide are problematic for state and federal land managers tasked with conserving northern long-eared bats. Similarly, additional data are needed to more conclusively determine the location and spatial extent of viable populations versus those either in decline or that result from a temporally and latitudinally variable source-sink dynamic for which data from New Jersey is essential.
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Because of White-nose Syndrome, northern long-eared bat populations are largely extirpated in interior East (Reynolds et al. 2016). Some low-density northern long-eared bat populations persist along the Atlantic Coast in coastal Massachusetts, Long Island, southern New Jersey, the DC-metro area and southeastern Virginia into North Carolina. Working hypotheses for persistence suggest shorter hibernation periods relative to interior populations and less exposure to <i>Pseudogymnoascus destructans</i> (Pd) from using aberrant hibernacula such as anthropogenic structures and forested wetlands. That said, populations north of southeastern Virginia are exposed to Pd, and multi-year evidence from Long Island and the DC-metro area suggest maternity colony collapse with fewer returning adults and low rates of juvenile recruitment mirroring processes observed in the interior. Genetic analyses show a connected clade along the I-95 corridor from coastal North Carolina to southern New Jersey distinct from interior populations. It is plausible a source-sink dynamic occurs whereby bats in coastal Virginia and North Carolina or southern New Jersey where suitable summer maternity habitat and forested wetland overwinter habitat exists periodically “supply” bats to the DC-metro area that are reproductively successive in some years. Long-term acoustic research previously supported by this USGS program does show winter presence in the DC-area, but more of a strong pulse of southward activity suggestive of fall migration. Summer maternity habitat for northern long-eared bats from the stand to landscape level has been described for southern coastal areas and the DC-metro area but these data do not exist for southern New Jersey, nor does overwintering habitat anywhere from New Jersey to North Carolina other than anecdotal accounts. The data gaps relative to either summer day-roost use and overwintering hibernacula use mid-Atlantic wide are problematic for state and federal land managers tasked with conserving northern long-eared bats. Similarly, additional data are needed to more conclusively determine the location and spatial extent of viable populations versus those either in decline or that result from a temporally and latitudinally variable source-sink dynamic for which data from New Jersey is essential.
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Oyster Metapopulation Models
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December 2025
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A decline in oyster resources across Louisiana estuaries impacts both ecosystem services and a valuable commercial fishery, Restoration and management of oyster resources requires understanding and predicting connectivity between individual reefs across estuaries; but we lack tools to predict potential connectivity and reef development. Better understanding estuarine hydrodynamics, water quality, and their impacts on both oyster growth, physiology, reproduction, and larval movement is critical to helping restore oyster communities and ensuring resilient production in the future. This work will provide a tool to the state of Louisiana that will help identify potential sites for development of broodstock reefs that will support and seed adjacent reefs across the 9 Louisiana estuaries.
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Aligning agency effort and expenditure with conservation goals
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September 2024
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We are working to develop methods for aligning migratory birds and science applications effort and investments with conservation objectives.
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We are working to develop methods for aligning migratory birds and science applications effort and investments with conservation objectives.
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Expert elicitation methodologies and evaluation
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January 2027
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We are working with the USFWS to develop and assess methods for expert elicitation used in PAV models to support species status assessments and management decisions.
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We are working with the USFWS to develop and assess methods for expert elicitation used in PAV models to support species status assessments and management decisions.
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Mexican wolf habitat modeling
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September 2024
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Mexican wolves occupy large territories in remote terrain making population monitoring difficult. We propose to build a predictive pup-rearing habitat model that can be used to guide future survey efforts and assist in population monitoring of Mexican wolves.
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Mexican wolves occupy large territories in remote terrain making population monitoring difficult. We propose to build a predictive pup-rearing habitat model that can be used to guide future survey efforts and assist in population monitoring of Mexican wolves.
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Evaluation of Myxobolus Cerebralis Distribution and Infection Severity in Labarge Creek
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June 2026
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The overall goal of our project is to provide an evaluation of the current distribution and infection severity of MC in the LaBarge watershed above the fish migration barrier. Understanding the distribution of the parasite and disease severity will be essential to formulating future management options. <br>In year 1, we will address disease levels in wild fish and use eDNA sampling to identify the distribution of MC and the density of TAM production. These data are an essential first step in evaluating the spatial distribution and disease severity in LaBarge Creek and will help guide future sampling and research efforts. The use of eDNA could reduce sampling effort and cost in the future and reduce the need to sample rare or sensitive fish populations. They will also be immediately useful to managers for decisions relative to the stocking of CRC.<br>In year 2, we will evaluate the spatial distribution and relative disease risk, using caged sentinel CRC. We will collect data on the prevalence of infection, disease severity, and TAM production during the experiment. These data will compliment the field data from the first season and provide a more nuanced examination of MC disease severity and risk. The spatial component will be especially useful in future decisions about CRC reintroduction. <br>Finally, we propose to conduct a laboratory study to correlate disease severity to TAM exposure and compare these results to disease severity and TAM production estimates from LaBarge Creek. Laboratory exposures will allow a more controlled initial exposure and we can compare these data to the field observations and caging, allowing for more precise inferences on MC disease risk in LaBarge Creek. <br>Our proposed study will be useful in management decision making, especially in identifying areas that may be more suitable for reintroduction or mitigation to allow reintroduction.
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Colorado River Cutthroat Trout (CRC) occupy about 550 miles of stream habitat in Wyoming, which entails about 13% of the historical distribution; however, only 3.7% of the current distribution is considered core conservation populations.One major conservation effort is in LaBarge Creek and it is thought that the reintroduction effort may be threatened by the presence of <i>Myxobolus cerebralis</i> (MC), the parasite that causes whirling disease. We will assess the distribution of MC infection throughout the LaBarge watershed, which is necessary for understanding future management options to reestablish and increase recruitment for CRC.The research is in collaboration and funded by Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The overall goal of our project is to provide an evaluation of the current distribution and infection severity of MC in the LaBarge watershed above the fish migration barrier. Understanding the distribution of the parasite and disease severity will be essential to formulating future management options.
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Assesing the role of Whirling Disease in Causing Trout Declines in the North Tongue River
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June 2025
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Identifying whether whirling disease is contributing to trout population declines is essential to formulating management strategies that will maintain viable trout populations on the North Tongue. Using the approaches outlined in the proposal, we will be able to better understand natural disease levels in wild fish and exposure risk to fish over the controlled caging study duration. The expected results will include MC infection prevalence and infection intensity information across species and life stages of the five trout species present. We will also have a clearer understanding of spatial variation in disease risk across the six stations. In general, this information will determine whether MC is contributing significantly to trout population declines or whether more studies are needed to evaluate other possible causal factors of population declines. These results will collectively be useful in management decision making, including possible adjustments to the number and strains of trout that are stocked to better sustain fish populations for angling in the presence of MC. For instance, it may be desirable to shift the fishery towards more resistant strains, but detailed information on MC status is needed beforehand.
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Identifying whether whirling disease is contributing to trout population declines is essential to formulating management strategies that will maintain viable trout populations on the North Tongue River, Wyoming.Using the approaches outlined in the proposal, we will be able to better understand natural disease levels in wild fish. The expected results will include <i>Myxobolus cerebralis</i> (the parasite that causes the disease) infection prevalence and infection intensity information across species and life stages in five trout species. We will also have a clearer understanding of spatial variation in disease risk.The project is being done in collaboration with and funded by Wyoming Game and Fish Department.These results will collectively be useful in management decision making, including possible adjustments to the number and strains of trout that are stocked to better sustain fish populations for angling in the presence of MC. For instance, it may be desirable to shift the fishery towards more resistant strains, but detailed information on MC status is needed beforehand.
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TCU 444: Food habits of SGCN fishes to inform habitat assessment and restoration in the Red River basin
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August 2025
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The ecology of many prairie stream fishes is not well understood, despite long recognition that these fishes are negatively affected by stream flow alterations, habitat degradation, fragmentation, and invasive species. River regulation and degraded riparian habitat due to salinization and invasive species have the potential to diminish resource heterogeneity that supports riverine food-webs of prairie fishes. The primary objectives of our study are to (1) characterize spatial and temporal variation of Red River Shiner, Red River Pupfish, Plains Minnow, and Prairie Chub food habits, (2) determine the degree to which aquatic (autochthonous) and terrestrial (allochthonous) resources are utilized, and (3) describe age and growth of selected Red River fish populations. This research is a collaboration with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Information from this project will aid conservation efforts by identifying broad habitat types (instream, riparian) that support Red River Shiner and other prairie fish growth and production in the Upper Red River. This fundamental ecological information will describe baseline conditions and identify species-specific traits that can be used to evaluate consequences of habitat change and for predictive modeling.
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The ecology of many prairie stream fishes is not well understood, despite long recognition that these fishes are negatively affected by stream flow alterations, habitat degradation, fragmentation, and invasive species. River regulation and degraded riparian habitat due to salinization and invasive species have the potential to diminish resource heterogeneity that supports riverine food-webs of prairie fishes. The primary objectives of our study are to (1) characterize spatial and temporal variation of Red River Shiner, Red River Pupfish, Plains Minnow, and Prairie Chub food habits, (2) determine the degree to which aquatic (autochthonous) and terrestrial (allochthonous) resources are utilized, and (3) describe age and growth of selected Red River fish populations. This research is a collaboration with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Information from this project will aid conservation efforts by identifying broad habitat types (instream, riparian) that support Red River Shiner and other prairie fish growth and production in the Upper Red River. This fundamental ecological information will describe baseline conditions and identify species-specific traits that can be used to evaluate consequences of habitat change and for predictive modeling.
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TCU 443: Assessment of Gila pandora in Little Aguja Creek (Davis Mountains), Texas
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August 2025
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Rio Grande Chub (Gila pandora; RGC) have experienced considerable range reductions (~75%) over the past century due to habitat degradation, invasive species, and reduced streamflow. Notably, a single (state threatened) population of RGC inhabits Little Aguja Creek in the Davis Mountains, Texas. Because the Little Aguja population is isolated, recolonization from other populations is not possible. Thus, RGC in Texas may be highly susceptible to catastrophic events (e.g., wildfire, severe drought) as the Chihuahuan Desert region becomes hotter and drier. As part of a range-wide status assessment, Texas has committed to assess and monitor the status of known populations of RGC and their habitats to track changes over time. A primary goal of the agreement is to maintain the long-term viability (i.e., self-sustaining wild populations) of RGC within their historical range. Additionally, surveys are needed to identify other streams that could support RGC as part of future efforts to establish new populations. Such proactive measures may improve long-term viability and preclude the listing of RGC under the ESA. The primary objectives of our study are to (1) assess the status (e.g., presence/absence, abundance) and habitat associations (e.g., depth, sediments, riparian cover) of the RGC population in Little Aguja Creek, (2) deploy environmental sensors (temperature, pressure transducers) to establish baselines with respect to water quality and quantity, and (3) engage private landowners and solicit permission to assess streams for RGC and identify areas where managed translocations or reintroduction may be suitable. This project is in collaboration with Texas Parks and Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy. Information from this project will help aid conservation actions for the long-term viability of Rio Grande Chub in Texas.
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Rio Grande Chub (Gila pandora; RGC) have experienced considerable range reductions (~75%) over the past century due to habitat degradation, invasive species, and reduced streamflow. Notably, a single (state threatened) population of RGC inhabits Little Aguja Creek in the Davis Mountains, Texas. Because the Little Aguja population is isolated, recolonization from other populations is not possible. Thus, RGC in Texas may be highly susceptible to catastrophic events (e.g., wildfire, severe drought) as the Chihuahuan Desert region becomes hotter and drier. As part of a range-wide status assessment, Texas has committed to assess and monitor the status of known populations of RGC and their habitats to track changes over time. A primary goal of the agreement is to maintain the long-term viability (i.e., self-sustaining wild populations) of RGC within their historical range. Additionally, surveys are needed to identify other streams that could support RGC as part of future efforts to establish new populations. Such proactive measures may improve long-term viability and preclude the listing of RGC under the ESA. The primary objectives of our study are to (1) assess the status (e.g., presence/absence, abundance) and habitat associations (e.g., depth, sediments, riparian cover) of the RGC population in Little Aguja Creek, (2) deploy environmental sensors (temperature, pressure transducers) to establish baselines with respect to water quality and quantity, and (3) engage private landowners and solicit permission to assess streams for RGC and identify areas where managed translocations or reintroduction may be suitable. This project is in collaboration with Texas Parks and Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy. Information from this project will help aid conservation actions for the long-term viability of Rio Grande Chub in Texas.
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OA 104: Intermittent River Research Coordination Network (IRRCN): Integrating Intermittent River Ecology and Hydrology
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June 2024
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The purpose of this NSF Research Coordination Network (RCN) is to organize a series of expert workgroups to synthesize the growing body of research on intermittent river hydrology and ecology. Intermittent rivers, those that cease to flow each year make up more than half of the Earth’s river channels. Yet, intermittent rivers are often overlooked or excluded from water management plans due to uncertainty about their hydrologic and ecological importance. Workgroups formed by this RCN will create products that explain how intermittent river hydrologic and ecologic systems work, including characterization of flow-regimes, synthesis of biodiversity and ecosystem datasets, and integrated conceptual and process-based statistical ecohydrology models. This research will improve the management of intermittent rivers by enhancing communication and networking among academic researchers and nonacademic stakeholders and providing open access datasets, methods, and materials to the broader scientific community. This RCN award is funded by the National Science Foundation to Daniel Allen at Pennsylvania State University. The RCN is made up of primarily academic and federal scientists in the United States, Europe, and Australia.
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The purpose of this NSF Research Coordination Network (RCN) is to organize a series of expert workgroups to synthesize the growing body of research on intermittent river hydrology and ecology. Intermittent rivers, those that cease to flow each year make up more than half of the Earth’s river channels. Yet, intermittent rivers are often overlooked or excluded from water management plans due to uncertainty about their hydrologic and ecological importance. Workgroups formed by this RCN will create products that explain how intermittent river hydrologic and ecologic systems work, including characterization of flow-regimes, synthesis of biodiversity and ecosystem datasets, and integrated conceptual and process-based statistical ecohydrology models. This research will improve the management of intermittent rivers by enhancing communication and networking among academic researchers and nonacademic stakeholders and providing open access datasets, methods, and materials to the broader scientific community. This RCN award is funded by the National Science Foundation to Daniel Allen at Pennsylvania State University. The RCN is made up of primarily academic and federal scientists in the United States, Europe, and Australia.
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Bracing for the long term: a conceptual framework to facilitate coexistence with invasive carps
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July 2025
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The goal of this study is to develop a conceptual framework that represents our current understanding of bigheaded carp impacts in aquatic systems; identifies deficiencies in knowledge and pinpoint system drivers; and suggests solutions to coexist with possible carp impacts in a model system (i.e., Tennessee and Cumberland rivers – TNCR). Specifically, the conceptual framework highlights potential impacts in TNCR, single out mechanisms, reveal management actions for coping with the impacts, and exposes research needs relevant to refining the framework. We developed the framework in five separate stages: (i) map and review literature regarding bigheaded carp; (ii) evaluate competition probability and the main limiting variables that could influence bigheaded carp establishment in TNCR; (iii) categorize current and potential management strategies applicable to brace bigheaded carp impacts; (iv) organize relevant information into a conceptual framework to represent our understanding of bigheaded carp establishment, impacts, management actions, and gaps in knowledge.
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The goal of this study is to develop a conceptual framework that represents our current understanding of bigheaded carp impacts in aquatic systems; identifies deficiencies in knowledge and pinpoint system drivers; and suggests solutions to coexist with possible carp impacts in a model system (i.e., Tennessee and Cumberland rivers – TNCR). Specifically, the conceptual framework highlights potential impacts in TNCR, single out mechanisms, reveal management actions for coping with the impacts, and exposes research needs relevant to refining the framework. We developed the framework in five separate stages: (i) map and review literature regarding bigheaded carp; (ii) evaluate competition probability and the main limiting variables that could influence bigheaded carp establishment in TNCR; (iii) categorize current and potential management strategies applicable to brace bigheaded carp impacts; (iv) organize relevant information into a conceptual framework to represent our understanding of bigheaded carp establishment, impacts, management actions, and gaps in knowledge.
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Yellow Lampmussel Range-Wide Assessment and Conservation
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April 2026
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As with many freshwater mussels species, Yellow Lampmussel (YLM) monitoring, assessment, and conservation planning occurs primarily within states and provinces, with little interaction outside geographic boundaries. Informal comparisons across boundaries have revealed that YLM populations occur in a variety of habitats throughout its range. In some portions of their range they are found only in medium and large rivers; in others, they more commonly occur in lakes and ponds. YLM has been described as inhabiting a variety of substrates and flow conditions, with some studies suggesting a preference for riffles and strong currents and others locating YLM in slow currents around sandbars. The presence of YLM in varied habitat types across its range suggests that populations may be impacted by different stressors and different approaches may be needed for conservation. Although recent YLM surveys are limited and not standardized, making it difficult to assess range-wide status, a comprehensive assessment is critical for understanding species’ habitat and vulnerabilities and facilitating coordinated and resource-efficient conservation and restoration efforts. One of the primary goals of this project is to assess landscape-scale threats and identify potential restoration sites for YLM across its range using multi-species distribution modelling.
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As with many freshwater mussels species, Yellow Lampmussel (YLM) monitoring, assessment, and conservation planning occurs primarily within states and provinces, with little interaction outside geographic boundaries. Informal comparisons across boundaries have revealed that YLM populations occur in a variety of habitats throughout its range. In some portions of their range they are found only in medium and large rivers; in others, they more commonly occur in lakes and ponds. YLM has been described as inhabiting a variety of substrates and flow conditions, with some studies suggesting a preference for riffles and strong currents and others locating YLM in slow currents around sandbars. The presence of YLM in varied habitat types across its range suggests that populations may be impacted by different stressors and different approaches may be needed for conservation. Although recent YLM surveys are limited and not standardized, making it difficult to assess range-wide status, a comprehensive assessment is critical for understanding species’ habitat and vulnerabilities and facilitating coordinated and resource-efficient conservation and restoration efforts. One of the primary goals of this project is to assess landscape-scale threats and identify potential restoration sites for YLM across its range using multi-species distribution modelling.
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Characterize aquatic biota and habitat for cold and cool water stream systems to enhance resource management and protection across thermal gradients
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June 2026
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Characterizing fish assemblages and other aquatic biota into thermal classes (i.e., cold, cool, and warm water) would support management-relevant water temperature criteria that could be linked to water quality habitat designations within state regulatory programs. Our ability to accurately define stream habitats based on their thermal regime (i.e., cold, cool, and warm) and identify unique aquatic communities with species assemblages that are distinct from one another is limited by the availability of data across the diversity of Missouri stream habitat types. The purpose of this project is to estimate the distribution and extent of significant cold water stream habitats, including describing associated aquatic species communities within those habitats and in transition zones, for use in making recommendations to assist development of thermal criteria for Missouri streams. Data from this project will improve our understanding on the extent of cold and cool water species, longitudinal changes in thermal habitats, and the abiotic conditions that help define the boundaries. This information could contribute to conservation strategies for species of conservation concern, especially those species with a limited distribution and associated with spring-fed streams. Initial discussions with MDC have indicated the results of this study could be used to identify thermal refugia, extent of cold-water trout habitat to adjust stocking densities, and adapt management strategies in the face of climate change.
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Stream thermal regimes vary based on geography, geomorphology, and hydrology, and are usually defined as <i>cold, cool, and warm</i> depending on what temperature metrics are used (i.e., daily mean temperature, monthly mean, maximum daily mean, or range of variability). Characterizing fish assemblages and other aquatic biota into thermal classes (i.e., cold, cool, and warm water) would support management-relevant water temperature criteria that could be linked to water quality habitat designations within state regulatory programs. Our ability to accurately define stream habitats based on their thermal regime (i.e., cold, cool, and warm) and identify unique aquatic communities with species assemblages that are distinct from one another is limited by the availability of data across the diversity of Missouri stream habitat types. The purpose of this project is to estimate the distribution and extent of significant cold water stream habitats, including describing associated aquatic species communities within those habitats and in transition zones, for use in making recommendations to assist development of thermal criteria for Missouri streams. We will conduct field sampling of cold and cool water systems and couple the resulting data with analyses of existing data to evaluate and better define the cold-cool warm water paradigm. Ultimately, a better definition of these important terms and the communities associated with them will guide MDC management decisions.
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Application of Structured Decision Making and Adaptive Management for the Prevention and Control of Invasive Species
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August 2028
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Invasive Carps such as Silver Carp, Bighead Carp,<i> </i>Black Carp, and Prussian Carp are classified as harmful species due to their expected negative effects to native aquatic species and systems. Preventing Invasive Carps from entering or expanding in US waters and developing rapid response strategies before an invasion can save US taxpayers millions of dollars and years of management and research. However, prevention or control strategies depend on the effectiveness, cost, and the risk of invasive carp invasion into new areas. This project will work with stakeholders to inform state and federal agencies Invasive Carp prevention strategies.
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Preventing Invasive Carps from entering or expanding in US waters and developing rapid response strategies before an invasion can save US taxpayers millions of dollars and years of management and research. However, prevention or control strategies depend on the effectiveness, cost, and the risk of invasive carp invasion into new areas. This project will work with collaboratively develop an adaptive framework with stakeholders and partners to prevent Prussian Carp invasion from Canada into US waters. We will also evaluate the potential outcomes of varying management actions to control Invasive Carps populations in the Illinois River and expansion into Lake Michigan, and the likelihood of invasive carp control and deterrent efforts at varying sites in the Tennessee River, Cumberland River, and Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway.
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Identifying the genetic marker for Diamond Darter eDNA applications and conducting an evaluation of its effectiveness
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December 2025
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The Diamond Darter is an endangered species that has experienced a dramatic reduction in its geographic distribution range. To improve our understanding of the Diamond Darter's distribution range, we are Identifying the genetic marker for Diamond Darter eDNA applications and conducting an evaluation of its effectiveness. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our results provide USFWS with distribution data on the Diamond Darter, which will inform conservation efforts for this species.
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The Diamond Darter is an endangered species that has experienced a dramatic reduction in its geographic distribution range. To improve our understanding of the Diamond Darter's distribution range, we are Identifying the genetic marker for Diamond Darter eDNA applications and conducting an evaluation of its effectiveness. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our results provide USFWS with distribution data on the Diamond Darter, which will inform conservation efforts for this species.
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Oklahoma Mule Deer Population Evaluation
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June 2027
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Recent apparent population declines across mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>) range in the American West are of interest to biologists and managers. Mule deer in Oklahoma are near the southeastern extent of the species’ range; thus, their distribution is limited and densities are presumably low. Mule deer populations in Oklahoma are restricted currently to areas that are typically characterized by extreme weather events, high variability in resource availability, and an increasing influence of anthropogenic activities associated with agricultural operations and energy infrastructure. In Oklahoma, data are limited to annual harvest numbers, and mule deer are hunted and managed under white-tailed deer (<i>O. virginianus</i>) regulations. To better understand the distribution, abundance, and population ecology of mule deer and to inform harvest management in western Oklahoma, we are proposing a comprehensive research project. We will assess methods for investigating and monitoring mule deer distribution and spatial variation in abundance. We will estimate survival and factors influencing mortality in adult females and fawns, and we will obtain estimates of fecundity and recruitment. We will investigate movements and habitat selection in the context of the potential effects of anthropogenic pressures (including agriculture and energy infrastructure) and environmental variability. Additionally, we will leverage mule deer data in the Texas Panhandle to evaluate movement ecology and population dynamics at an interstate scale. This research will assist Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) in managing mule deer by providing data to support decision-making on monitoring, harvest, and habitat management.
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Recent apparent population declines across mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>) range in the American West are of interest to biologists and managers. Mule deer in Oklahoma are near the southeastern extent of the species’ range; thus, their distribution is limited and densities are presumably low. Mule deer populations in Oklahoma are restricted currently to areas that are typically characterized by extreme weather events, high variability in resource availability, and an increasing influence of anthropogenic activities associated with agricultural operations and energy infrastructure. In Oklahoma, data are limited to annual harvest numbers, and mule deer are hunted and managed under white-tailed deer (<i>O. virginianus</i>) regulations. To better understand the distribution, abundance, and population ecology of mule deer and to inform harvest management in western Oklahoma, we are proposing a comprehensive research project. We will assess methods for investigating and monitoring mule deer distribution and spatial variation in abundance. We will estimate survival and factors influencing mortality in adult females and fawns, and we will obtain estimates of fecundity and recruitment. We will investigate movements and habitat selection in the context of the potential effects of anthropogenic pressures (including agriculture and energy infrastructure) and environmental variability. Additionally, we will leverage mule deer data in the Texas Panhandle to evaluate movement ecology and population dynamics at an interstate scale. This research will assist Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) in managing mule deer by providing data to support decision-making on monitoring, harvest, and habitat management.
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Candy Darter status assessment of the lower Gauley River
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December 2025
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Biological monitoring of the Gauley River National Recreation Area (GRNRA) is of importance to the National Park Service relative to the federally endangered Candy Darter. This study involves a population assessment of the Candy Darter and water temperature monitoring. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and the National Park Service (NPS). Our results provide NPS with population information and habitat data relative to the conservation and management of the Candy Darter.
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Biological monitoring of the Gauley River National Recreation Area (GRNRA) is of importance to the National Park Service relative to the federally endangered Candy Darter. This study involves a population assessment of the Candy Darter and water temperature monitoring. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and the National Park Service (NPS). Our results provide NPS with population information and habitat data relative to the conservation and management of the Candy Darter.
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Corridor H stream monitoring project
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May 2025
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An environmental impact assessment is required for the construction of Corridor H, a four lane highway under construction in eastern West Virginia. Specifically, the West Virginia Division of Transportation (WVDOT) was required to establish a long-term investigation focused on providing community level information on stream ecosystems. This study is a long-term monitoring effort with analyses of macroinvertebrate communities in streams affected by Corridor H road construction, including assessments before, during, and after road construction efforts. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and WVDOT. Our results provide WVDOT with biological impact information relative to the road construction project, and are specifically used by WVDOT to meet their federal permit requirements for continued advancement toward completion of the project.
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An environmental impact assessment is required for the construction of Corridor H, a four lane highway under construction in eastern West Virginia. Specifically, the West Virginia Division of Transportation (WVDOT) was required to establish a long-term investigation focused on providing community level information on stream ecosystems. This study is a long-term monitoring effort with analyses of macroinvertebrate communities in streams affected by Corridor H road construction, including assessments before, during, and after road construction efforts. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and WVDOT. Our results provide WVDOT with biological impact information relative to the road construction project, and are specifically used by WVDOT to meet their federal permit requirements for continued advancement toward completion of the project.
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Ontogenetic and spatiotemporal distribution of stable isotopes and gut content for pallid sturgeon in the Missouri River above Fort Peck Reservoir, Montana
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December 2025
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<br><b>Project Summary: </b>This project will evaluate the diets of pallid sturgeon (<i>Scaphirhynchus albus</i>) in the Missouri River above Fort Peck Reservoir using stable isotopes (i.e., longer-term integration of food habits) and real-time gut contents (i.e., short-term integration of food habits). Diet data will be evaluated by year-class (age), size (length, weight), river location (longitudinally), seasons, and with historical data from Gerrity et al. (2006). These data will be paired with contemporary and historical (Grisak 1996) catch-per-unit effort data for sicklefin chub (<i>Macrhybopsis meeki</i>) and sturgeon chub (<i>Macrhybopsis gelida</i>). The information from this study will provide insight into the contemporary importance of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub in the diets of pallid sturgeon and whether the conclusions determined by Gerrity (2006) are still relevant for this reach of the Missouri River. These results will also be compared to diet data for pallid sturgeon sampled below Fort Peck Reservoir (see Dutton 2018) to make larger inferences about pallid sturgeon feeding ecology. Furthermore, these data will provide information on the relationship between diet and variability in growth. That is, are slow growing pallid sturgeon within a year-class primarily feeding on macroinvertebrates? Conversely, are fast growing pallid sturgeon within a year-class primarily feeding on fish? The need for this information is timely given the proposed listing of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub and the continued questions surrounding variation in growth and carrying capacity of hatchery-reared pallid sturgeon.<br><br><b>Objectives: </b>The objective of this project is to describe the diets of pallid sturgeon using stable isotopes and gut-content analysis and relate those data to year-class, size, river location, season, contemporary and historical catch-per-unit effort data for sicklefin and sturgeon chub, and with historical data from Gerrity et al. (2006).<br><br>Reference to 10-year Strategy and Recovery Plan:By understanding the diets of pallid sturgeon and the contemporary importance of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub for the species, we will address three of the five primary strategies for recovery of pallid sturgeon listed in the Revised Recovery Plan (USFWS, 2014), specifically 2) fully quantify population demographics and status within each management unit; 3) improve population size and viability within each management unit; and 4) reduce threats having the greatest impact on the species within each management unit. The results will also address all three of the main goals of the Upper Basin Pallid Sturgeon Workgroup 10-year Strategy, specifically 1) documentation of natural reproduction and survival of wild produced pallid sturgeon in each RPMA at sufficient levels to sustain the population, 2) promote and initiate conservation, restoration, or management actions that improve habitat conditions for pallid sturgeon to complete their entire life cycle as well as targeted research to address impediments and knowledge gaps to the ultimate recovery of the species, and 3) promote collaboration, cooperation, and communication of pallid sturgeon recovery needs and proposed actions amongst resource agencies, universities, and affected stakeholders.<br><br><b>Approach: </b>Pallid sturgeon will be sampled throughout the Missouri River from the confluence of the Marias River to the transition zone with Fort Peck Reservoir using a systematic sampling design. Pallid Sturgeon will be sampled with drifted trammel nets (45.72-m long, 1.8-m high, and 25.4-mm or 50.8-mm inner mesh) or benthic beam trawls (1.8-m x 0.46-m frame with 3.2- mm inner mesh cod end). A systematic sampling design will be implemented that focuses effort<br>in reaches where pallid sturgeon catch rates have been high in previous years and benthic trawling can be used (i.e., lack of boulders and large cobble). Sampling reaches of interest include the 97-km reach immediately upstream of Fort Peck Reservoir, the Missouri River near Judith Landing, and the Missouri River and lower Marias River near Loma, Montana. In addition, sampling locations will be paired with contemporary and historical sampling locations for sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub. All sampled pallid sturgeon will be handled in accordance with the current handling protocols for pallid sturgeon (USFWS 2014). Pallid sturgeon will be removed from the sampling gear immediately and placed in a tank filled with river water. Fish will be measured, weighed, checked for marks (elastomer or missing scutes), and scanned for an existing PIT tag. If no PIT tag is found, a new tag will be installed and a genetics sample will be collected in accordance with the handling protocols. Pallid sturgeon will be sampled for stable isotopes with either an epidermal mucous sample, muscle plug (~ 10 g), or fin clip (Andvik et al. 2010) and gut contents (identified to lowest taxon) will be removed using a gastric lavage (see Dutton 2018). Stable isotopes will be analyzed at the University of Wyoming Isotope Facility.<br>Nitrogen isotope ratios accumulate about 3.4% per trophic level and carbon isotope ratios indicate the location from which consumers obtain energy. We will use stable isotope analyses (i.e., δ<sup>13</sup><i>C </i>and δ<sup>15</sup><i>N</i>) and gut-content analyses to describe trophic position and diet data (long term and short term). These data will be analyzed by year-class, size, and river location to build an ontogenetic-spatiotemporal model of how pallid sturgeon use food resources throughout the upper Missouri River. Furthermore, we will use gut-content analysis to estimate the importance (e.g., percent composition) of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub in the diet of pallid sturgeon and relate those results to historical diet data and samples of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub.
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<b>Project Summary: </b>This project will evaluate the diets of pallid sturgeon (<i>Scaphirhynchus albus</i>) in the Missouri River above Fort Peck Reservoir using stable isotopes (i.e., longer-term integration of food habits) and real-time gut contents (i.e., short-term integration of food habits). Diet data will be evaluated by year-class (age), size (length, weight), river location (longitudinally), seasons, and with historical data from Gerrity et al. (2006). These data will be paired with contemporary and historical (Grisak 1996) catch-per-unit effort data for sicklefin chub (<i>Macrhybopsis meeki</i>) and sturgeon chub (<i>Macrhybopsis gelida</i>). The information from this study will provide insight into the contemporary importance of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub in the diets of pallid sturgeon and whether the conclusions determined by Gerrity (2006) are still relevant for this reach of the Missouri River. These results will also be compared to diet data for pallid sturgeon sampled below Fort Peck Reservoir (see Dutton 2018) to make larger inferences about pallid sturgeon feeding ecology. Furthermore, these data will provide information on the relationship between diet and variability in growth. That is, are slow growing pallid sturgeon within a year-class primarily feeding on macroinvertebrates? Conversely, are fast growing pallid sturgeon within a year-class primarily feeding on fish? The need for this information is timely given the proposed listing of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub and the continued questions surrounding variation in growth and carrying capacity of hatchery-reared pallid sturgeon. <b>Objectives: </b>The objective of this project is to describe the diets of pallid sturgeon using stable isotopes and gut-content analysis and relate those data to year-class, size, river location, season, contemporary and historical catch-per-unit effort data for sicklefin and sturgeon chub, and with historical data from Gerrity et al. (2006). Reference to 10-year Strategy and Recovery Plan:By understanding the diets of pallid sturgeon and the contemporary importance of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub for the species, we will address three of the five primary strategies for recovery of pallid sturgeon listed in the Revised Recovery Plan (USFWS, 2014), specifically 2) fully quantify population demographics and status within each management unit; 3) improve population size and viability within each management unit; and 4) reduce threats having the greatest impact on the species within each management unit. The results will also address all three of the main goals of the Upper Basin Pallid Sturgeon Workgroup 10-year Strategy, specifically 1) documentation of natural reproduction and survival of wild produced pallid sturgeon in each RPMA at sufficient levels to sustain the population, 2) promote and initiate conservation, restoration, or management actions that improve habitat conditions for pallid sturgeon to complete their entire life cycle as well as targeted research to address impediments and knowledge gaps to the ultimate recovery of the species, and 3) promote collaboration, cooperation, and communication of pallid sturgeon recovery needs and proposed actions amongst resource agencies, universities, and affected stakeholders. <b>Approach: </b>Pallid sturgeon will be sampled throughout the Missouri River from the confluence of the Marias River to the transition zone with Fort Peck Reservoir using a systematic sampling design. Pallid Sturgeon will be sampled with drifted trammel nets (45.72-m long, 1.8-m high, and 25.4-mm or 50.8-mm inner mesh) or benthic beam trawls (1.8-m x 0.46-m frame with 3.2- mm inner mesh cod end). A systematic sampling design will be implemented that focuses effortin reaches where pallid sturgeon catch rates have been high in previous years and benthic trawling can be used (i.e., lack of boulders and large cobble). Sampling reaches of interest include the 97-km reach immediately upstream of Fort Peck Reservoir, the Missouri River near Judith Landing, and the Missouri River and lower Marias River near Loma, Montana. In addition, sampling locations will be paired with contemporary and historical sampling locations for sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub. All sampled pallid sturgeon will be handled in accordance with the current handling protocols for pallid sturgeon (USFWS 2014). Pallid sturgeon will be removed from the sampling gear immediately and placed in a tank filled with river water. Fish will be measured, weighed, checked for marks (elastomer or missing scutes), and scanned for an existing PIT tag. If no PIT tag is found, a new tag will be installed and a genetics sample will be collected in accordance with the handling protocols. Pallid sturgeon will be sampled for stable isotopes with either an epidermal mucous sample, muscle plug (~ 10 g), or fin clip (Andvik et al. 2010) and gut contents (identified to lowest taxon) will be removed using a gastric lavage (see Dutton 2018). Stable isotopes will be analyzed at the University of Wyoming Isotope Facility.Nitrogen isotope ratios accumulate about 3.4% per trophic level and carbon isotope ratios indicate the location from which consumers obtain energy. We will use stable isotope analyses (i.e., δ<sup>13</sup><i>C </i>and δ<sup>15</sup><i>N</i>) and gut-content analyses to describe trophic position and diet data (long term and short term). These data will be analyzed by year-class, size, and river location to build an ontogenetic-spatiotemporal model of how pallid sturgeon use food resources throughout the upper Missouri River. Furthermore, we will use gut-content analysis to estimate the importance (e.g., percent composition) of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub in the diet of pallid sturgeon and relate those results to historical diet data and samples of sicklefin chub and sturgeon chub.
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Black-tailed deer use of winter range in southern Oregon
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June 2025
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Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) manages Black-tailed Deer (BTD) populations through evaluation of trend indices, primarily spotlight route and hunter harvest data. In recent years, BTD spotlight survey data suggest populations are declining across the state, but numbers are generally higher near residential/urban locations than beyond the urban growth boundary. When survey data from residential/urban areas is combined with data from public land, deer density estimates (deer/mile) are often inflated. Thus, deer populations from urban areas are impacting overall population counts on which hunting tag allocations are based, yet most residential/urban deer are likely not available for harvest. In collaboration with ODFW, this project was designed to address several questions of management concern for BTD in southern Oregon, including an increased understanding of habitat use, spatial and temporal migration behavior, habitat characteristics of migration corridors and winter range areas, and seasonal and annual survival rates. These data will aid in the development of hunting regulations, management of migrating BTD and their habitat, and provide resources for management biologists faced with urban development of BTD winter ranges in Oregon.
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Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) manages Black-tailed Deer (BTD) populations through evaluation of trend indices, primarily spotlight route and hunter harvest data. In recent years BTD appear to be declining across the state, but population numbers are higher near residential/urban locations than beyond the urban growth boundary. When survey data from residential/urban areas is combined with data from public land, deer density estimates are often inflated. Thus, deer populations from urban areas are impacting overall population counts on which hunting tag allocations are based, yet most residential/urban deer are likely not available for harvest. In collaboration with ODFW, this project was designed to address several questions of management concern for BTD in southern Oregon, including an increased understanding of habitat use, spatial and temporal migration behavior, habitat characteristics of migration corridors and winter range areas, and seasonal and annual survival rates. These data will aid in the development of hunting regulations, management of migrating BTD and their habitat, and provide resources for management biologists faced with urban development of BTD winter ranges in Oregon.
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Mapping ungulate migration corridors in Oregon
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September 2025
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Understanding the costs and benefits of migration, and the location of areas in the landscape where important migration behaviors occur, is critical to sustainable management of ungulate populations that are of high economic value and cultural importance in western states like Oregon. This is particularly important as habitat loss and fragmentation continue to increase in association with human activities and development across ungulate ranges in the west. These landscape changes can disrupt ecosystem function and increase the cost of migration for target populations. The identification and prioritization of migration corridors throughout Oregon would address a critical data gap for the state and facilitate conservation and management of these populations. In collaboration with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and the USGS, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the following objectives were developed to address these needs for mule deer and pronghorn antelope in Oregon:<br><br>1). Compile all available GPS collar data on migratory and non-migratory mule deer and pronghorn antelope in Oregon and conduct an analysis using Brownian Bridge Movement Models. <br>2). Create cartographic map products of migration corridors, and seasonal ranges for mule deer and pronghorn in Oregon, making associated corridor polygon data available to land and resource managers via a Migration Route Viewer.<br>3). To assist ODFW with the development of cartographic and infographic products to communicate key migration issues, threats, and conservation opportunities within the state.
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Understanding the costs and benefits of migration, and the location of areas in the landscape where important migration behaviors occur, is critical to sustainable management of ungulate populations that are of high economic value and cultural importance in western states like Oregon. This is particularly important as habitat loss and fragmentation continue to increase in association with human activities and development across ungulate ranges in the west. In collaboration with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and a USGS team at the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit a general framework to map ungulate migration routes and identify portions of routes to prioritize for conservation has been developed to use GPS location data in a standardized framework. Landscape changes can disrupt ecosystem function and increase the cost of migration for target ungulate populations. The identification and prioritization of migration corridors throughout Oregon would address a critical data gap for the state and facilitate conservation and management of important mule deer and pronghorn antelope populations across the West.
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Jackson Moose Calf Survival and Development of Migration Patterns
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December 2028
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Long-distance wildlife migrations have been declining globally due to factors such as anthropogenic disturbances and environmental change. Understanding how migration strategies are learned can help us evaluate the capacity migratory taxa have to respond to a changing world. The first goal of this project is evaluating how moose learn to migrate and develop their own migrations after separating from their mother. The second is to evaluate survival and causes of mortality for moose in the Jackson Herd in their early years of life (9 months – 3½ years). This is the first time these questions have been explored in Jackson moose. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Wyoming, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and the Teton Conservation District. This work will further our scientific understanding of migratory taxa by evaluating how moose learn to migrate. This will not only benefit the migratory moose of Jackson but could help the management of migratory populations across the globe.
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Long-distance wildlife migrations have been declining globally due to factors such as anthropogenic disturbances and environmental change. Understanding how migration strategies are learned can help us evaluate the capacity migratory taxa have to respond to a changing world. The first goal of this project is evaluating how moose learn to migrate and develop their own migrations after separating from their mother. The second is to evaluate survival and causes of mortality for moose in the Jackson Herd in their early years of life (9 months – 3½ years). This is the first time these questions have been explored in Jackson moose. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Wyoming, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and the Teton Conservation District. This work will further our scientific understanding of migratory taxa by evaluating how moose learn to migrate. This will not only benefit the migratory moose of Jackson but could help the management of migratory populations across the globe.
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Use of Beaver Dam Analogues to Enhance Stream and Wetland Habitat in North Missouri Prairies
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December 2027
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Reconnecting streams to their floodplains improves water quality and quantity, supports biodiversity and sensitive species conservation, increases flood and drought resiliency, and bolsters carbon sequestration to help address climate change. Stream restoration that incorporates beaver dams or analogues (BDA) those structures to promote floodplain connectivity can assist in reconnecting streams to their floodplains. This project is a collaborative effort between the Missouri Department of Conservation, The Nature Conservancy, and the Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. This project will determine if BDAs and similar low-tech process-based structures are effective, resilient, and cost-effective approaches to enhance and sustain populations of Topeka Shiners and other aquatic species, meet stream restoration goals, and initiate wetland community development along headwaters and small streams.
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Reconnecting streams to their floodplains improves water quality and quantity, supports biodiversity and sensitive species conservation, increases flood and drought resiliency, and bolsters carbon sequestration to help address climate change. Stream restoration that incorporates beaver dams or analogues (BDA) those structures to promote floodplain connectivity can assist in reconnecting streams to their floodplains. This project is a collaborative effort between the Missouri Department of Conservation, The Nature Conservancy, and the Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. This project will determine if BDAs and similar low-tech process-based structures are effective, resilient, and cost-effective approaches to enhance and sustain populations of Topeka Shiners and other aquatic species, meet stream restoration goals, and initiate wetland community development along headwaters and small streams.
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Development of a flexible mid-sized river mussel sampling protocol and investigation of statewide multi-scale mussel habitat relationships
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May 2027
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A long-term goal for mussel conservation and management in Missouri is implementation of a standardized sampling program at priority locations allowing inference regarding changes in status of mussel populations over time. Before a standardized mussel sampling program can be effectively implemented, we require additional information on mussel sampling methodology, mussel distributions, and conservation priorities. This project is a collaborative effort between the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. The proposed project will advance our knowledge to the point where we can develop regional or statewide predictive models of mussel distribution and create a long-term standardized sampling program capable of tracking the status of mussel communities at priority locations.
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A long-term goal for mussel conservation and management in Missouri is implementation of a standardized sampling program at priority locations allowing inference regarding changes in status of mussel populations over time. Before a standardized mussel sampling program can be effectively implemented, we require additional information on mussel sampling methodology, mussel distributions, and conservation priorities. This project is a collaborative effort between the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. The proposed project will advance our knowledge to the point where we can develop regional or statewide predictive models of mussel distribution and create a long-term standardized sampling program capable of tracking the status of mussel communities at priority locations.
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Understanding and conserving gravel-bar fish assemblages in the Escambia River, Florida
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December 2025
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Gravel bars are dynamic riverine habitats important for the life-history processes of aquatic and terrestrial species. Relatively uncommon in the subtropical rivers of Florida, gravel bars have received little research attention in the Sunshine State from the perspective of fisheries research and management. What are the primary abiotic and biotic factors influencing gravel-obligate fish species and fish assemblages? How do these factors—and their effects on gravel-bar fishes—change over space and time? The importance of answering these questions is amplified by the fact that gravel bars support several Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Florida. The objectives of this project are to (1) evaluate fish assemblages in gravel bars within the Escambia River, with a special focus on fish Species of Greatest Conservation Need; and (2) assess the degree to which observed changes in gravel-bar fish assemblages are related to time of day, depth, season, and environmental factors.
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Gravel bars are dynamic riverine habitats important for the life-history processes of aquatic and terrestrial species. Relatively uncommon in the subtropical rivers of Florida, gravel bars have received little research attention in the Sunshine State from the perspective of fisheries research and management. What are the primary abiotic and biotic factors influencing gravel-obligate fish species and fish assemblages? How do these factors—and their effects on gravel-bar fishes—change over space and time? The importance of answering these questions is amplified by the fact that gravel bars support several Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Florida. The objectives of this project are to (1) evaluate fish assemblages in gravel bars within the Escambia River, with a special focus on fish Species of Greatest Conservation Need; and (2) assess the degree to which observed changes in gravel-bar fish assemblages are related to time of day, depth, season, and environmental factors.
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Environmental and temporal patterns of larval fish communities and American Shad spawning in the lower Broad River
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July 2025
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Anadromous species, such as American Shad (<i>Alosa sapidissima</i>), are ecologically and economically important species in SC that migrate from the ocean to spawn in rivers. Accordingly, American Shad are particularly sensitive habitat fragmentation resulting from dam construction that block migratory pathways and are also being threatened by overfishing, flow alteration, and habitat loss. Due to these threats, the American Shad has been listed as a species of high conservation need on SCDNR’s State Wildlife Action Plan. Historically, anadromous species used much of the Broad River, but dams have since blocked upstream migration, resulting in the loss of spawning habitat for many species. In 2007, the construction of fish ladder at the Columbia Diversion Dam open access to 24 miles of potential spawning habitat for anadromous species, and species like the American Shad are passing through the fish ladder in increasing numbers. However, it is still unknown if or where spawning occurs between Columbia Diversion Dam and Parr Hydroelectric Dam (SCDNR personal communication). Therefore, this project aims to determine whether American Shad are spawning in this river section as well as identify potential spawning habitat sites. Site-specific information on spawning sites and larval fish habitat requirements are needed to better understand how larval and adult fish American Shad will respond to habitat alteration and provide manager with information needed to protect key spawning and nursery habitats. Additionally, environmental cues driving migration and spawning of shad are not well understood. Temperature and instream flow variation are thought to be the main factors driving American Shad spawning, migration, and recruitment. This project will also explore the effects of variation in temperature and river discharge on recruitment spawning and adult migration upstream.
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The objectives of this project are to: 1) identify the temporal patterns of egg and larval fish abundance of the fish community to better understand when fish populations may be most sensitive to environmental disturbance such as large water releases; 2) determine if American Shad are spawning between the Columbia Canal Diversion Dam and Parr Reservoir; 3) identify potential spawning and nursery habitats for American Shad; 4) quantify the temporal pattern of the larval fish community in the lower Broad River. This project will deliver crucial information on spawning and migration activity of American Shad in the lower Broad River. Additionally, this project will provide managers with a better understand of temporal patterns of larval fish and the environmental variables driving these patterns in the lower Broad River. The results of this project will also allow managers to more effectively evaluate the potential benefits of the Columbia Fishway for American Shad and the impacts of different discharge regimes and environmental alteration on fish populations.
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Mapping wildlife road crossing hotspots
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August 2025
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Wildlife presents a significant and grave safety hazard on roadways. Each year collisions with wildlife cause numerous accidents resulting in harm to drivers and vehicles. Roadways are detrimental to wildlife both as a source of mortality and as a barrier to movement. MASSDOT is a leader in designing mitigation strategies that protect public safety and connect populations. Despite this, collisions of moose, deer, and bear remain common. This problem is only expected to get worse, and bear population expand towards the Boston metropolitan area, and deer population continue to grow throughout the state. It is therefore imperative that Mass Wildlife and MASSDOT to continue to work together to design mitigation strategies that maintain human health and safety as well as preserve healthy wildlife populations for the sustained use and enjoyment of the people of Massachusetts. We will use and build upon a camera array established in western MA by the Massachusetts Cooperative Research Units and existing telemetry data to map potential wildlife crossing hot spots on roadways in W. Massachusetts that are particularly dangerous for both motorists and wildlife (e.g., I-90, I-91, Rt. 2). This information can then be monitored and used to plan mitigation measures needed make the roadways safer for wildlife and people.
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Wildlife presents a significant and grave safety hazard on roadways. Each year collisions with wildlife cause numerous accidents resulting in harm to drivers and vehicles. Roadways are detrimental to wildlife both as a source of mortality and as a barrier to movement. MASSDOT is a leader in designing mitigation strategies that protect public safety and connect populations. Despite this, collisions of moose, deer, and bear remain common. This problem is only expected to get worse, and bear population expand towards the Boston metropolitan area, and deer population continue to grow throughout the state. It is therefore imperative that Mass Wildlife and MASSDOT to continue to work together to design mitigation strategies that maintain human health and safety as well as preserve healthy wildlife populations for the sustained use and enjoyment of the people of Massachusetts. We will use and build upon a camera array established in western MA by the Massachusetts Cooperative Research Units and existing telemetry data to map potential wildlife crossing hot spots on roadways in W. Massachusetts that are particularly dangerous for both motorists and wildlife (e.g., I-90, I-91, Rt. 2). This information can then be monitored and used to plan mitigation measures needed make the roadways safer for wildlife and people.
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Wild Turkey Ecology and Management in West Virginia
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December 2028
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Wild turkeys are an important game species in West Virginia; therefore ensuring their persistence in the state is critical. Although previous research has been conducted on wild turkey hens in the state in the 1980's and 1990's, new tracking and monitoring technologies offer the opportunity to obtain high-accuracy spatial data and investigate fine-scale movements of turkeys, as well as turkey population dynamics. Additionally, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) is interested in obtaining more information on turkey hunter effort and satisfaction, which will be combined with biological data to ensure that management decisions continue to reflect the needs of the state. This project is a collaboration between the WV Coop Unit and the WV Division of Natural Resources.
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Wild turkeys are an important game species in West Virginia; therefore ensuring their persistence in the state is critical. Although previous research has been conducted on wild turkey hens in the state in the 1980's and 1990's, new tracking and monitoring technologies offer the opportunity to obtain high-accuracy spatial data and investigate fine-scale movements of turkeys, as well as turkey population dynamics. Additionally, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) is interested in obtaining more information on turkey hunter effort and satisfaction, which will be combined with biological data to ensure that management decisions continue to reflect the needs of the state. This project is a collaboration between the WV Coop Unit and the WV Division of Natural Resources.
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The role of risk perception and social trust on coyote-sheep predation in California
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December 2023
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This research focuses on understanding how human risk perceptions and social trust influence human-wildlife conflict. In empirical studies, I combine techniques in wildlife ecology with the social sciences. In this series of projects funded by California DFW investigating the socio-ecology of coyote-sheep conflict, I showed that participatory maps improved ecological models of risk and addressed previously unreported issues of selection bias. In a subsequent study I co-led, we combined rancher interviews with an ecological experiment to show that the level of trust ranchers have for managers and scientists plays an important role in their interpretation of scientific data. In both of these studies, I shared findings in stakeholder workshops and through popular media. When this research was put into practice by ranchers, they witnessed dramatic declines in livestock predation. Simultaneously, California DFW has used our research to guide stakeholder engagement and conflict mitigation efforts. Stakeholder workshops provided novel insights into the ecological drivers of conflict, and, in research I co-led, these insights led to a novel framework and a highly cited publication that has improved conflict prediction and mitigation.<b><br></b>
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This research focuses on understanding how human risk perceptions and social trust influence human-wildlife conflict. In empirical studies, I combine techniques in wildlife ecology with the social sciences. In this series of projects funded by California DFW investigating the socio-ecology of coyote-sheep conflict, I showed that participatory maps improved ecological models of risk and addressed previously unreported issues of selection bias. In a subsequent study I co-led, we combined rancher interviews with an ecological experiment to show that the level of trust ranchers have for managers and scientists plays an important role in their interpretation of scientific data. In both of these studies, I shared findings in stakeholder workshops and through popular media. When this research was put into practice by ranchers, they witnessed dramatic declines in livestock predation. Simultaneously, California DFW has used our research to guide stakeholder engagement and conflict mitigation efforts. Stakeholder workshops provided novel insights into the ecological drivers of conflict, and, in research I co-led, these insights led to a novel framework and a highly cited publication that has improved conflict prediction and mitigation.<b></b>
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The role of local ecological knowledge and perceptions in southern resident killer whale policy
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June 2028
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Southern resident killer whales are a major conservation concern in Washington. They evoke strong public opinions, but policy decisions are not always consistent with killer whale ecology. In this project we will use social science methods to improve our understanding of the relationship between killer whale ecology, policy, and decision-making, and inform state and federal managers to help improve outcomes for both people and killer whales.
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Southern resident killer whales are a major conservation concern in Washington. They evoke strong public opinions, but policy decisions are not always consistent with killer whale ecology. In this project we will use social science methods to improve our understanding of the relationship between killer whale ecology, policy, and decision-making, and inform state and federal managers to help improve outcomes for both people and killer whales.
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Linking deer behavior to forest health on Tribal lands
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September 2025
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In this proposal, we braid together two important threads of forest management, one ecological and one social. First, we propose cutting-edge research linking deer behavior to forest health using an existing dataset collected in collaboration with the <i>Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation </i>(hereafter CCT). Second, we describe an approach for incorporating traditional ecological knowledge, building tribal capacity, and fostering intergovernmental relations through this research.
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In this proposal, we braid together two important threads of forest management, one ecological and one social. First, we propose cutting-edge research linking deer behavior to forest health using an existing dataset collected in collaboration with the <i>Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation </i>(hereafter CCT). Second, we describe an approach for incorporating traditional ecological knowledge, building tribal capacity, and fostering intergovernmental relations through this research.
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Understanding drought effects on Gambel's quail
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June 2025
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Gambel's quail are an ecologically and economically important species in southeast Arizona. Quail populations are sensitive to the effects of drought and projected increases in warm, dry weather conditions may negatively impact populations.<br>Many population demographic parameters, including survival, nest success, and nest-site selection, remain poorly described for Gambel's quail in southeast Arizona. These parameters are important to estimate in order to develop population models that can be used to project future population trends and evaluate the impacts of changing climate, habitat management, and harvest on those trends. This project is a collaboration between Arizona Game and Fish, the University of Arizona, and the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. We will collect information on Gambel's quail population demographics to help inform the development of management actions for enhancing Gambel's quail survival and reproduction's to augment struggling quail populations under continued drought pressure.
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Gambel's quail are an ecologically and economically important species in southeast Arizona. Quail populations are sensitive to the effects of drought and projected increases in warm, dry weather conditions may negatively impact populations. Many population demographic parameters, including survival, nest success, and nest-site selection, remain poorly described for Gambel's quail in southeast Arizona. These parameters are important to estimate in order to develop population models that can be used to project future population trends and evaluate the impacts of changing climate, habitat management, and harvest on those trends. This project is a collaboration between Arizona Game and Fish, the University of Arizona, and the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. We will collect information on Gambel's quail population demographics to help inform the development of management actions for enhancing Gambel's quail survival and reproduction's to augment struggling quail populations under continued drought pressure.
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Wild pig spatial ecology in mixed-use landscapes of South Carolina
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September 2024
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Wild hogs are an invasive species found widely across North America, and the proliferation of wild hogs has increased the damage these animals cause to natural, agricultural, and developed landscapes. South Carolina has seen a recent and dramatic increase in the distribution and abundance of wild hogs. We do not know how they are using mixed-use landscapes in the upstate region. We will develop a habitat use model to investigate how wild hogs are moving through the landscape and using different areas. The model will integrate wild hog GPS tracking and demographic data with environmental and habitat data. The results will inform management actions for targeted wild hog mitigation in this region. The project is a collaboration and includes Clemson University and the Clemson University Experimental Forest, the SC USGS CFWRU, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and a team of undergraduate and graduate students with the Creative Inquiries program at Clemson.
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TBD
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A National-Scale Early Detection And Ecosystem Service Impact Assessment Tool For Invasive Terrestrial Plants
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August 2027
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Globally, invasive species cause trillions of dollars in damages to ecosystem services, including agricultural production and biodiversity, and these damages will only increase as climate change progresses. The U.S. has adopted early detection and rapid response (EDRR) policies to prevent spread and establishment of invasive species, but implementing a consistent, national-scale EDRR approach has been stymied due to difficulties in (i) accurately predicting where and when invasive species will spread and (ii) consistently estimating invasive species’ impacts on ecosystem services. To overcome these difficulties, our project’s overall goal is to develop and implement a consistent, national-scale EDRR tool that can be adapted to most terrestrial invasive plants. To achieve this goal, we will 1) develop novel early detection methods that predict invasive species’ spread and overcome key modeling limitations, 2) implement our early detection methods on the model system of cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica), one of the “world’s worst weeds” and current invader in the U.S., 3) estimate cogongrass impacts on ecosystem services across a gradient of invasion, and 4) use early detection model predictions to map losses in ecosystem services driven by cogongrass invasion under different climate change scenarios, and 5) publish computer code and instructional vignettes to facilitate our EDRR tool’s application for other terrestrial invasive plant species. By synergizing early detection models and ecosystem service impacts, our products will empower stakeholders and private landowners to prioritize proactive management actions at local, regional, and national scales and maximally conserve ecosystem services like biodiversity, timber, and livestock production.
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Globally, invasive species cause trillions of dollars in damages to ecosystem services, including agricultural production and biodiversity, and these damages will only increase as climate change progresses. The U.S. has adopted early detection and rapid response (EDRR) policies to prevent spread and establishment of invasive species, but implementing a consistent, national-scale EDRR approach has been stymied due to difficulties in (i) accurately predicting where and when invasive species will spread and (ii) consistently estimating invasive species’ impacts on ecosystem services. To overcome these difficulties, our project’s overall goal is to develop and implement a consistent, national-scale EDRR tool that can be adapted to most terrestrial invasive plants. To achieve this goal, we will 1) develop novel early detection methods that predict invasive species’ spread and overcome key modeling limitations, 2) implement our early detection methods on the model system of cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica), one of the “world’s worst weeds” and current invader in the U.S., 3) estimate cogongrass impacts on ecosystem services across a gradient of invasion, and 4) use early detection model predictions to map losses in ecosystem services driven by cogongrass invasion under different climate change scenarios, and 5) publish computer code and instructional vignettes to facilitate our EDRR tool’s application for other terrestrial invasive plant species. By synergizing early detection models and ecosystem service impacts, our products will empower stakeholders and private landowners to prioritize proactive management actions at local, regional, and national scales and maximally conserve ecosystem services like biodiversity, timber, and livestock production.
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A statewide decision support tool for turkey conservation in Arkansas: mapping habitat suitability, population growth rates, and where management will be most impactful
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December 2027
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The apparent declines in wild turkey (<i>Meleagris gallopavo</i>) populations has led to growing concern in multiple states, and Arkansas is no exception. This has spurred the development of statewide decision support tools, such as habitat suitability models and population density maps, to assist in strategizing large-scale turkey conservation. However, these tools can run afoul of multiple complications: traditional habitat suitability models can oversimplify the diversity of turkey-habitat associations; density maps often provide little new information relative to habitat suitability maps; and neither of these tools account for the reality that conservation decisions are made in the face of complex socio-ecological landscapes, diverse and sometimes competing stakeholders, and limited funds. Therefore, there is a <i><u>critical need</u></i> to develop a decision support tool for Arkansas that 1) incorporates spatial non-stationarity into turkey habitat suitability analyses, 2) provides independent, spatially explicit information on turkey population growth rates, and 3) synthesizes turkey habitat suitability, turkey population growth rates, and relevant external socio-ecological information to identify areas where management actions will be most impactful and cost-efficient. Here, our overall goal is to develop and implement a decision support tool that informs wild turkey conservation and management strategies across Arkansas. Specifically, our objectives are: 1) Identify and map important turkey habitat across Arkansas using models that incorporate spatially non-stationary habitat relationships; 2) Estimate and map population growth rates of turkeys across Arkansas; 3) Using information from objectives 1 – 2, identify areas with the greatest potential to positively impact turkey populations through management; 4) Provide technical assistance for development of public-facing data products. The models, data products, and technical assistance we provide will put Arkansas Game & Fish Commission in an ideal position to prevent, halt, or potentially reverse turkey declines in Arkansas.
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The apparent declines in wild turkey (<i>Meleagris gallopavo</i>) populations has led to growing concern in multiple states, and Arkansas is no exception. This has spurred the development of statewide decision support tools, such as habitat suitability models and population density maps, to assist in strategizing large-scale turkey conservation. However, these tools can run afoul of multiple complications: traditional habitat suitability models can oversimplify the diversity of turkey-habitat associations; density maps often provide little new information relative to habitat suitability maps; and neither of these tools account for the reality that conservation decisions are made in the face of complex socio-ecological landscapes, diverse and sometimes competing stakeholders, and limited funds. Therefore, there is a <i><u>critical need</u></i> to develop a decision support tool for Arkansas that 1) incorporates spatial non-stationarity into turkey habitat suitability analyses, 2) provides independent, spatially explicit information on turkey population growth rates, and 3) synthesizes turkey habitat suitability, turkey population growth rates, and relevant external socio-ecological information to identify areas where management actions will be most impactful and cost-efficient. Here, our overall goal is to develop and implement a decision support tool that informs wild turkey conservation and management strategies across Arkansas. Specifically, our objectives are: 1) Identify and map important turkey habitat across Arkansas using models that incorporate spatially non-stationary habitat relationships; 2) Estimate and map population growth rates of turkeys across Arkansas; 3) Using information from objectives 1 – 2, identify areas with the greatest potential to positively impact turkey populations through management; 4) Provide technical assistance for development of public-facing data products. The models, data products, and technical assistance we provide will put Arkansas Game & Fish Commission in an ideal position to prevent, halt, or potentially reverse turkey declines in Arkansas.
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Grizzly bear habitat modeling in the Bitterroot Mountains
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May 2026
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Grizzly bears from the Cabinet-Yaak and Selkirk Ecosystems are repopulating the Bitterroot area south of the Clark Fork River in Idaho and Montana with several confirmed sightings in recent years. We currently have no models of habitat quality for the area that could support land management and conservation decisions. Grizzly bear habitat modeling would provide important data in landscape connectivity of a threatened species and support ESA consultations on projects within the Bitterroot area of Idaho and Montana south of the Clark Fork River to the Salmon River. Our proposed project would model grizzly bear habitat in Idaho and Montana across sovereign Tribal Nations, portions of 6 National Forests, and about 10,000 mi2 of public land.
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<b>Background</b>: Grizzly bears from the Cabinet-Yaak and Selkirk Ecosystems are repopulating the Bitterroot area south of the Clark Fork River in Idaho and Montana with several confirmed sightings in recent years. We currently have no models of habitat quality for the area that could support land management and conservation decisions. Grizzly bear habitat modeling would provide important data in landscape connectivity of a threatened species and support ESA consultations on projects within the Bitterroot area of Idaho and Montana south of the Clark Fork River to the Salmon River. Our proposed project would model grizzly bear habitat in Idaho and Montana across sovereign Tribal Nations, portions of 6 National Forests, and about 10,000 mi2 of public land. <b>Objectives</b>: The goal of our proposal is to create a habitat model that identifies high-quality grizzly bear habitat within the Bitterroot Mountains and the areas between the Bitterroot Mountains and the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem and Selkirk Ecosystem (Figure 1). Additionally, we will analyze landscape connectivity through high-probability grizzly bear linkage areas that connect blocks of high-quality habitat between the Bitterroot Mountains and the Cabinet-Yaak, Selkirk Ecosystems. This model will be a reliable science based decision support tool for managers and our Tribal partners. Objective 1: Create (2) Resource Selection Functions (RSF) based on male and female grizzly bears in the 1) Cabinet Mountains and 2) Selkirk Mountains. Objective 2: Apply these RSFs to create a grizzly bear habitat model in the Bitterroot Mountains and the areas between the Bitterroot Mountains and Cabinet-Yaak, Selkirk Ecosystems, identifying high-quality male and female grizzly bear habitat. Objective 3: Identify linkage areas between the Cabinet-Yaak and Selkirk Ecosystems to the Bitterroot Recovery Area for male and female grizzly bears.
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Evaluating outcomes of oak forest management on Southern Michigan State Game Areas.
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December 2028
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Upland oak ecosystems in the Eastern United States are critically important habitats for a wide diversity of game and nongame wildlife species. However, these ecosystems are threatened by "mesophication", a process in which mesic-adapted tree species such as maples invade and displace oak. Oak displacement can cause a regime shift which can only be reversed with extremely intensive management intervention. In order to protect intact upland oak ecosystems, it is imperative that we understand the efficacy of oak habitat management techniques (prescribed fire, mechanical disturbance, herbicide application). Working with partners from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State University, and Michigan Natural Features Inventory, we are evaluating the outcomes of oak management at a large number of oak stands (~75 units) and implementing a Before-After Control-Impact study. Results from this study will assist our partners at DNR in understanding which tools and the frequency of implementation required to combat mesophication and ensure the long-term persistence of valuable oak woodlands.
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Upland oak ecosystems in the eastern United States are generally characterized by open understories with a range of canopy cover, ranging from nearly closed-canopy forests to savannas of scattered open-grown trees. However, without frequent and proper management, mesic forest communities dominated by maples can cause a state shift in oak ecosystems. Reversing these state changes can be extremely difficult and costly. Here, we are working with cooperators at Michigan DNR to evaluate the outcomes of oak woodland management under a range of scenarios to evaluate management success and the wildlife community response to different management tactics. Our results should inform future habitat management for upload oak ecosystems.
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Beaver response to non-lethal water control structures
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December 2026
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American beavers <i>(Castor canadensis) </i>are broadly distributed throughout the Great Lakes region, and their tendency to alter water flow through dam building has positive and negative consequences (Taylor and Singleton 2014). Lethal control is often used to regulate beaver activity in areas experiencing negative impacts (e.g., to private property, infrastructure; Parker and Rosell 2003) but public interests in non-lethal approaches is growing. Recent literature suggests that water control structures, if installed and managed correctly, can reduce damage while keeping beavers resident. In areas heavily populated by humans, controlling water flow while keeping beavers resident (as opposed to exporting the flooding problem to another locale) is a desirable management outcome. In collaboration with partners from USDA Wildlife Services, we are radio-tracking beavers at locations where water-control structures are being installed to evaluate how to most effectively install and maintain flow structures while keeping beavers resident.
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American beavers <i>(Castor canadensis) </i>are broadly distributed throughout the Great Lakes region, and their tendency to alter water flow through dam building has positive and negative consequences (Taylor and Singleton 2014). Lethal control is often used to regulate beaver activity in areas experiencing negative impacts (e.g., to private property, infrastructure; Parker and Rosell 2003) but public interests in non-lethal approaches is growing. Recent literature suggests that water control structures, if installed and managed correctly, can reduce damage while keeping beavers resident. In areas heavily populated by humans, controlling water flow while keeping beavers resident (as opposed to exporting the flooding problem to another locale) is a desirable management outcome. In collaboration with partners from USDA Wildlife Services, we are radio-tracking beavers at locations where water-control structures are being installed to evaluate how to most effectively install and maintain flow structures while keeping beavers resident.
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Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance of the federally threatened Slender Chub (Erimystax cahni) in the Clinch River and Powell River
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July 2023
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Whether or not the native minnow Slender Chub (Erimystax cahni) still exist in the Clinch and Powell rivers is unknown. We sampled the rivers by collecting water samples and evaluating them for the presence of DNA, which could be evidence of their continued existence
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The federally endangered Slender Chub (Erimystax cahni) has not been observed in eastern Tennessee rivers in decades. We used molecular techniques to sample water from two rivers where they historically occurred but were never abundant. Environmental DNA (eDNA) provides a new tool relative to traditional sampling gears where you are trying to capture shed DNA from the species within the water. Results from the study will help inform the USFWS of the presence and status of Slender Chub for their Species Status Assessment.
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Population ecology of introduced bullfrogs in southeast Arizona
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August 2026
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Introduced American bullfrogs are an important threat to native aquatic and semi-aquatic species, including federally threatened reptiles and amphibians, in southeast Arizona. Bullfrogs have high dispersal and reproductive potential which greatly complicates landscape-scale eradication efforts. Moreover, because of an emphasis on bullfrog eradication in southeast Arizona, several knowledge gaps exist in their ecology and filling these knowledge gaps could help refine and enhance ongoing eradication efforts.<br><br>This study will fill existing knowledge gaps in our understanding of bullfrog ecology in southeast Arizona by studying their dispersal and reproductive ecology. We will use previously collected data from ongoing eradication efforts combined with field-based mark-recapture surveys.<br><br>This project is in collaboration with Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD) and is part of a larger regional effort at bullfrog eradication involving AGFD, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This project is being led by University of Arizona MS student Emma Sudbeck. <br><br>The information gained from this project will provide a more accurate understanding of how far and in what manner bullfrogs disperse across the landscape and of their reproductive ecology including the timing, duration, and frequency of breeding. This information will help more accurately target bullfrog populations for eradication, identify at-risk areas for bullfrog recolonization, and optimize the timing of eradication efforts.
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Introduced American bullfrogs are an important threat to native aquatic and semi-aquatic species, including federally threatened reptiles and amphibians, in southeast Arizona. Bullfrogs have high dispersal and reproductive potential which greatly complicates landscape-scale eradication efforts. Moreover, because of an emphasis on bullfrog eradication in southeast Arizona, several knowledge gaps exist in their ecology and filling these knowledge gaps could help refine and enhance ongoing eradication efforts.This study will fill existing knowledge gaps in our understanding of bullfrog ecology in southeast Arizona by studying their dispersal and reproductive ecology. We will use previously collected data from ongoing eradication efforts combined with field-based mark-recapture surveys. This project is in collaboration with Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD) and is part of a larger regional effort at bullfrog eradication involving AGFD, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The information gained from this project will provide a more accurate understanding of how far and in what manner bullfrogs disperse across the landscape and of their reproductive ecology including the timing, duration, and frequency of breeding. This information will help more accurately target bullfrog populations for eradication, identify at-risk areas for bullfrog recolonization, and optimize the timing of eradication efforts.
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Wisconsin's wildlife and a changing climate
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September 2023
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Grassland ecosystems originally dominated central North America, but now, prairies in general, and tall-grass prairies in particular, are one of the most extensively human-altered ecosystems and one of the most vulnerable to changing climate. Grassland bird conservation focuses on habitat restoration, but there is little understanding of how effects of changing climate on grassland birds might be mitigated by management actions. Understanding if habitat microclimates might help nesting grassland birds avoid some of the impacts from events such as drought and heat waves will help inform the development of new habitat management strategies for grassland birds. This project is a collaboration across multiple organizations and includes the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, US Fish and Wildlife Service, non-governmental organizations, and State natural resource managers in Wisconsin. A report documenting the importance of habitat microclimates for grassland bird productivity will be developed to inform natural resource managers in Wisconsin.
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Grassland ecosystems originally dominated central North America, but now, prairies in general, and tall-grass prairies in particular, are one of the most extensively human-altered ecosystems and one of the most vulnerable to changing climate. Grassland bird conservation focuses on habitat restoration, but there is little understanding of how effects of changing climate on grassland birds might be mitigated by management actions. Understanding if habitat microclimates might help nesting grassland birds avoid some of the impacts from events such as drought and heat waves will help inform the development of new habitat management strategies for grassland birds. This project is a collaboration across multiple organizations and includes the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, US Fish and Wildlife Service, non-governmental organizations, and State natural resource managers in Wisconsin. A report documenting the importance of habitat microclimates for grassland bird productivity will be developed to inform natural resource managers in Wisconsin.
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Identifying factors influencing nocturnal foraging site selection by adult female mallards and northern pintails in south Louisiana
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June 2027
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The Chenier Plain and coastal marsh system of southwest Louisiana has historically been a significant overwintering and spring migratory staging landscape for multiple waterfowl species and other migratory wetland dependent birds using the Mississippi Flyway and has provided critical ecological functions. Yet, the southwest Louisiana landscape has experienced tremendous anthropogenic changes dating back to the early 1800s that have set a course for altered system function, which continues to this day. Wintering waterfowl currently experience a highly altered landscape that likely exacerbates energetic demands resulting from changing food availability and high disturbance regimes (i.e. hunting pressure and frequent industrial disturbances [aviation traffic / hazing]). No longer a coastal prairie, the Chenier Plain is dominated by agricultural production. Predominantly rice – crawfish rotational production, hydrology across the prairie soils is intensively managed and compartmentalized within leveed units and determined by agricultural economic decisions rather than natural hydroperiods. This results in a “postage stamp” mosaic of “working wetlands” each with unique hydroperiods that vary from one another spatially and temporally. This project is a collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and seeks to evaluate factors that influence habitat use, movement, and behavior of individual ducks marked with satellite telemetry devices in south Louisiana. Data from this research will be used to further inform how waterfowl use habitat within an agricultural system, particularly diversely managed rice and crawfish fields.
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The Chenier Plain and coastal marsh system of southwest Louisiana has historically been a significant overwintering and spring migratory staging landscape for multiple waterfowl species and other migratory wetland dependent birds using the Mississippi Flyway and has provided critical ecological functions. Yet, the southwest Louisiana landscape has experienced tremendous anthropogenic changes dating back to the early 1800s that have set a course for altered system function, which continues to this day. Wintering waterfowl currently experience a highly altered landscape that likely exacerbates energetic demands resulting from changing food availability and high disturbance regimes (i.e. hunting pressure and frequent industrial disturbances [aviation traffic / hazing]). No longer a coastal prairie, the Chenier Plain is dominated by agricultural production. Predominantly rice – crawfish rotational production, hydrology across the prairie soils is intensively managed and compartmentalized within leveed units and determined by agricultural economic decisions rather than natural hydroperiods. This results in a “postage stamp” mosaic of “working wetlands” each with unique hydroperiods that vary from one another spatially and temporally. This project is a collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and seeks to evaluate factors that influence habitat use, movement, and behavior of individual ducks marked with satellite telemetry devices in south Louisiana. Data from this research will be used to further inform how waterfowl use habitat within an agricultural system, particularly diversely managed rice and crawfish fields.
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OA 104: The Significance of Green Plant Material in the Nesting Ecology of Birds of Prey
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December 2023
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Many raptor species (i.e., hawks, eagles) will place green plant material on their nests, not as part of the nest structure, but added to the top perimeter of the nest. The sprigs of greenery are often replenished or replaced daily during incubation and nestling rearing periods. The potential implications of this behavior are not trivial, as the behavior would not have developed if it did not serve an important ecological function. I propose that the addition of greenery to nests has a combined function of 1) increasing humidity and 2) decreasing temperature within the immediate environment of the nest. High temperature and low humidity have been demonstrated to negatively influence nesting success of raptors, and raptors have few mechanisms to cool eggs or nestlings. Further, nestling raptors thermoregulate by gular flutter, which is functionally evaporative cooling; this behavior, however, is conducted at the expense of losing body moisture which can only be replaced via food while in the nestling stage. In a pilot test with replica nests, the effect of adding greenery was rapid and dramatic, influencing the nest humidity for 13 hrs and temperature for 9 hrs, with maximum treatment differences of 64% increased humidity and 7% decreased temperature. In this study, an undergraduate fellow will 1) validate preliminary findings through replication and increase in sample size; 2) test leaf material from multiple tree species to assess species-specific differences in effect on humidity and temperature; 3) conduct observations of Mississippi kites to determine what tree species they select for green material and if, based on our tests, they select those species that provide the greatest influence on humidity and temperature.
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Many raptor species (i.e., hawks, eagles) will place green plant material on their nests, not as part of the nest structure, but added to the top perimeter of the nest. The sprigs of greenery are often replenished or replaced daily during incubation and nestling rearing periods. The potential implications of this behavior are not trivial, as the behavior would not have developed if it did not serve an important ecological function. I propose that the addition of greenery to nests has a combined function of 1) increasing humidity and 2) decreasing temperature within the immediate environment of the nest. High temperature and low humidity have been demonstrated to negatively influence nesting success of raptors, and raptors have few mechanisms to cool eggs or nestlings. Further, nestling raptors thermoregulate by gular flutter, which is functionally evaporative cooling; this behavior, however, is conducted at the expense of losing body moisture which can only be replaced via food while in the nestling stage. In a pilot test with replica nests, the effect of adding greenery was rapid and dramatic, influencing the nest humidity for 13 hrs and temperature for 9 hrs, with maximum treatment differences of 64% increased humidity and 7% decreased temperature. In this study, an undergraduate fellow will 1) validate preliminary findings through replication and increase in sample size; 2) test leaf material from multiple tree species to assess species-specific differences in effect on humidity and temperature; 3) conduct observations of Mississippi kites to determine what tree species they select for green material and if, based on our tests, they select those species that provide the greatest influence on humidity and temperature.
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OA 102: Owl community structure and resource parititioning on the Welder Wildlife Refugeies
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May 2026
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As a taxonomic group, owls are some of the poorest understood avian species in North America due to their nocturnal behavior. This is especially the case for woodland owls for which it is challenging to inventory and difficult to document nest site and habitat use. Ecological information on multi-species owl community structure in terms of species overlap, exclusion, or resource partitioning is especially lacking. This hampers identification of population trends or addressing questions of fluctuations in distribution or phenology associated with a changing climate. This graduate fellowship will support a student at the Rob and Bessie Welder Wildlife Refuge in San Patricio County, Texas 1) determine owl species-specific densities the refuge, 2) locate nest sites to assess nesting habitat associations, spatial distributions, and extent of overlap of owl species, 3) monitor productivity and nesting success of each species, and 4) determine and compare prey use and partitioning among species.
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As a taxonomic group, owls are some of the poorest understood avian species in North America due to their nocturnal behavior. This is especially the case for woodland owls for which it is challenging to inventory and difficult to document nest site and habitat use. Ecological information on multi-species owl community structure in terms of species overlap, exclusion, or resource partitioning is especially lacking. This hampers identification of population trends or addressing questions of fluctuations in distribution or phenology associated with a changing climate. This graduate fellowship will support a student at the Rob and Bessie Welder Wildlife Refuge in San Patricio County, Texas 1) determine owl species-specific densities the refuge, 2) locate nest sites to assess nesting habitat associations, spatial distributions, and extent of overlap of owl species, 3) monitor productivity and nesting success of each species, and 4) determine and compare prey use and partitioning among species.
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OA 103: Book. Birds of Prey: Conservation and Management
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August 2024
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This book will address the history and contemporary management issues associated with birds of prey. It is under contract with Johns Hopkins University Press and will be co-edited by Clint Boal (USGS-TCFWRU) and Brent Bibles (Unity Environmental University).
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This book will address the history and contemporary management issues associated with birds of prey. It is under contract with Johns Hopkins University Press and will be co-edited by Clint Boal (USGS-TCFWRU) and Brent Bibles (Unity Environmental University).
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OA 98: Pilot Project – Home Range and Habitat Use of Zone-tailed Hawks
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December 2024
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The zone-tailed hawk <i>(Buteo albonotatus) </i>is a medium sized bird of prey with a broad yet patchy distribution across the southwestern United States, where it is purported (but not confirmed) to be migratory. Ecologically, they are one of the least understood and studied raptor species occurring in North American. In Texas they are protected as a threatened species, but this listing is largely based on a lack of quantitative data, perceptions of small populations, and risk of habitat loss due to degradation and loss of riparian woodlands. However, no quantitative data are available regarding the species home range size, habitat use, or migration ecology in the southwestern United States. In this pilot study we are attempting to capture and deploy GPS transmitters on zone-tailed hawks in the Trans Pecos region of Texas. This project is determining the difficulty in capturing the species and if the data obtained from a small sample of GPS transmitters will justify expansion of the project into a full study.
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The zone-tailed hawk <i>(Buteo albonotatus) </i>is a medium sized bird of prey with a broad yet patchy distribution across the southwestern United States, where it is purported (but not confirmed) to be migratory. Ecologically, they are one of the least understood and studied raptor species occurring in North American. In Texas they are protected as a threatened species, but this listing is largely based on a lack of quantitative data, perceptions of small populations, and risk of habitat loss due to degradation and loss of riparian woodlands. However, no quantitative data are available regarding the species home range size, habitat use, or migration ecology in the southwestern United States. In this pilot study we are attempting to capture and deploy GPS transmitters on zone-tailed hawks in the Trans Pecos region of Texas. This project is determining the difficulty in capturing the species and if the data obtained from a small sample of GPS transmitters will justify expansion of the project into a full study.
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TPW 47: Assessing Texas Kangaroo Rat Habitat Connectivity, Management, and Monitoring Protocols
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August 2024
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The Texas kangaroo rat (<i>Dipodomys elator</i>) is a rare species endemic to the Central Great Plains and Southwest Tablelands ecoregions in north-central Texas. Due to substantial reduction in distribution and suspected population declines, the species has been petitioned for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act and is ranked as a G2 - imperiled (global ranking) and S1 – critically imperiled (state ranking) species. We propose a study addressing three important steps in the effort to conserve the species. First is to conduct experimental vegetation manipulations to determine feasibility and effectiveness of restoring, enhancing, or creating usable habitat for Texas kangaroo rats. Second is to assess movement patterns and dispersal of Texas kangaroo rats, especially the success of getting dispersal of individuals into restored areas from proximal occupied areas. Third is to model connectivity and environmental resistance to dispersal of Texas kangaroo rats within and among the known occupied clusters; such a model would allow targeted application of habitat restoration or creation. This project has been in a ‘pilot status’ due to delays in funding and obtaining access to private lands. We have been working on 1) identifying landowners who will allow access and habitat manipulations for this study and 2) a means to track movements of tagged animals to assess their response to habitat restoration efforts. We have contacted landowners that may allow us to start field work this fall. We are also working on a grid system to use pit tags for tracking movements of kangaroo rats rather than much heavier and larger radio/GPS collars.
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The Texas kangaroo rat (<i>Dipodomys elator</i>) is a rare species endemic to the Central Great Plains and Southwest Tablelands ecoregions in north-central Texas. Due to substantial reduction in distribution and suspected population declines, the species has been petitioned for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act and is ranked as a G2 - imperiled (global ranking) and S1 – critically imperiled (state ranking) species. We propose a study addressing three important steps in the effort to conserve the species. First is to conduct experimental vegetation manipulations to determine feasibility and effectiveness of restoring, enhancing, or creating usable habitat for Texas kangaroo rats. Second is to assess movement patterns and dispersal of Texas kangaroo rats, especially the success of getting dispersal of individuals into restored areas from proximal occupied areas. Third is to model connectivity and environmental resistance to dispersal of Texas kangaroo rats within and among the known occupied clusters; such a model would allow targeted application of habitat restoration or creation. This project has been in a ‘pilot status’ due to delays in funding and obtaining access to private lands. We have been working on 1) identifying landowners who will allow access and habitat manipulations for this study and 2) a means to track movements of tagged animals to assess their response to habitat restoration efforts. We have contacted landowners that may allow us to start field work this fall. We are also working on a grid system to use pit tags for tracking movements of kangaroo rats rather than much heavier and larger radio/GPS collars.
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Grizzly Bear Space Use in the US Northern Rocky Mountains
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January 2030
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Over the past two centuries, persecution and habitat loss caused grizzly bears (<i>Ursus arctos</i>) to decline from a population of approximately 50,000 individuals to only 4 fragmented populations within the continental United States. In recent decades, these populations have increased and expanded in size and range due to collaborative conservation efforts and protections under the Endangered Species Act. Today, population estimates exceed 1000 animals each in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE) and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). The Selkirk Ecosystem (SE) has approximately 50 grizzly bears, and augmentations into the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem (CYE) helped boost the population to an estimated 50 – 60 animals. To date, the Bitterroot (BE) and North Cascades Ecosystems (NCE) lack any known permanent residents.<br><br>Eventual connectivity between populations is a conservation goal, as is establishment of populations in currently unoccupied recovery areas. An understanding of habitat selection by grizzly bears within existing populations is crucial for predicting potential linkage zones and suitable habitat. A second urgent conservation challenge is identification of areas where grizzly bears are likely to disperse among recovery ecosystems, and proactive efforts to reduce human-grizzly bear conflicts. Our overall objective in this study was therefore to model grizzly bear movement, habitat use, and population connectivity to identify specific areas that are important for habitat use and natural connectivity among recovery ecosystems. We developed a multi-phase approach to accomplish these goals.<br><br>In phase 1, we aimed to increase understanding of how males and females use habitat within the NCDE. We employed multiple stages to test hypotheses of behavior, use newly gained knowledge to mechanistically simulate individual movements, translate results to predictive habitat maps, and test their predictive power across a large scale. Mechanistically modeling grizzly bear movements using integrated step selection functions (iSSFs) for GPS-collared grizzly bears (F = 46, M = 19) demonstrated that grizzly bears have highly individualistic spatial behaviors. Some individuals avoided whereas others preferred areas of vegetation green-up, terrain ruggedness, forest edge, riparian areas, building densities, and secure habitat. Such individualism supported the need for an individual-based modeling approach to understand and predict grizzly bear behavior. External validation demonstrated high predictive accuracy with mean Spearman rank scores of >0.90 across seasons and years, and overall scores of 1.0. The top 5 classes of our predictive habitat maps contained 73.5% of female fixes and 83.6% of male fixes, and the top class (comprising 10% of the mapped area) contained 25.6% and 41.7% of female and male fixes, respectively. Results of this phase of our research provide tools for conservation planning and served as the basis for sequential phases of our research.<br><br>In phase 2, we tested whether our iSSFs developed for NCDE bears in phase 1 were transferable to the SE, CYE, and GYE. We simulated 100 replicates of 5,000 steps for each iSSF in each ecosystem, summarized relative use into 10 equal-area classes for each sex, and overlaid GPS locations from bears in the SE, CYE, and GYE on resulting maps. Spearman rank correlations between numbers of locations and class rank were ≥0.96 within each study area, indicating models were highly predictive of grizzly bear space use in these nearby populations. Assessment of models using smaller subsets of data in space and time demonstrated generally high predictive accuracy for females. Although mostly high across space and time, predictive accuracy for males was low within some watersheds and in summer within the SE and CYE, potentially due to seasonal effects, vegetation, and food assemblage differences. Altogether, these phase 2 results demonstrated high transferability of our models to landscapes in the Northern Rocky Mountains, suggesting they may be used to evaluate habitat suitability and connectivity throughout the region to benefit conservation planning.<br><br>In phase 3, we simulated connectivity pathways for grizzly bears between recovery ecosystems in the Northern Rockies. Building on phases 1 and 2, we modeled movements to identify potential pathways for dispersal, using the iSSFs developed in phase 1. We applied the models in a >300,000 km2 area including the NCDE, CYE, GYE, and BE. First, we simulated directed movements (randomized shortest paths with 3 levels of exploration) between start and end nodes for routes between populations. Second, we simulated undirected movements from start nodes in the NCDE, CYE, or GYE (no predetermined end nodes). We summarized and binned results as classes 1 (lowest relative predicted use) - 10 (highest relative predicted use) and evaluated predictions using 127 outlier grizzly bear locations. Values at outlier locations indicated good model fit and mean classes at outlier locations (≥7.4) and Spearman rank correlations (≥0.87) were highest for undirected simulations and directed simulations with the highest level of exploration. Our resulting predictive maps will facilitate on-the-ground application of this research for prioritizing habitat conservation, human-bear conflict mitigation, and transportation planning. Additionally, our overall modeling approach has direct utility for myriad species and conservation applications.<br><br>Additional phases of this work are ongoing.
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Over the past two centuries, persecution and habitat loss caused grizzly bears (<i>Ursus arctos</i>) to decline from a population of approximately 50,000 individuals to only 4 fragmented populations within the continental United States. An understanding of habitat selection by grizzly bears within existing populations is crucial for predicting potential linkage zones and suitable habitat. A second urgent conservation challenge is identification of areas where grizzly bears are likely to disperse among recovery ecosystems, and proactive efforts to reduce human-grizzly bear conflicts. The project is a close collaboration across multiple partners, including the University of Montana, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the USGS Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center. Results will include models of grizzly bear movement, habitat use, and population connectivity. These results will directly inform conservation by identifying specific areas that are important for habitat use and natural connectivity among recovery ecosystems, which will help identify where to prioritize habitat conservation, human-bear conflict mitigation, and transportation planning.
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Ecology of American black bear on the Navajo Nation
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May 2026
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Little is known about the ecology of American black bear (Ursus americanus) on the Navajo Nation in northeast Arizona or about the nature of human-bear interactions in this region. Black bear have a semi-deity status in the Dine culture which makes it very important to understand current societal and cultural views on black bear on the Navajo Nation, particularly given the potential for human-bear conflict. This project is being led by Deandra Jones, a PhD student at the University of Arizona, in collaboration with co-advisors Drs. Michael Bogan and Javan Bauder and the Navajo Nation Department of Fish and Wildlife. This study will use non-invasive genetic sampling to estimate black bear population size across the Chuska Mountains and will use social surveys and traditional ecological knowledge to understand current views of black bear on the Navajo Nation and the nature and extent of human-bear conflict. This study will provide important information to manage black bear populations on the Navajo Nation and develop guidelines to manage human-bear conflict.
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Little is known about the ecology of American black bear (Ursus americanus) on the Navajo Nation in northeast Arizona or about the nature of human-bear interactions in this region. Black bear have a semi-deity status in the Dine culture which makes it very important to understand current societal and cultural views on black bear on the Navajo Nation, particularly given the potential for human-bear conflict. This project is being led by Deandra Jones, a PhD student at the University of Arizona, in collaboration with co-advisors Drs. Michael Bogan and Javan Bauder and the Navajo Nation Department of Fish and Wildlife. This study will use non-invasive genetic sampling to estimate black bear population size across the Chuska Mountains and will use social surveys and traditional ecological knowledge to understand current views of black bear on the Navajo Nation and the nature and extent of human-bear conflict. This study will provide important information to manage black bear populations on the Navajo Nation and develop guidelines to manage human-bear conflict.
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Working to conserve Nebraska's ESA species
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December 2032
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Nebraska is home to numerous federally threatened and endangered species. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 mandates protection of all individuals of these species, including the habitats on which they depend. The project is a collaboration of researchers and natural resource managers across multiple agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. This project enables quick responses to local (within Nebraska) concerns that arise concerning federal threatened or endangered species.
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Nebraska is home to numerous federally threatened and endangered species. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 mandates protection of all individuals of these species, including the habitats on which they depend. The project is a collaboration of researchers and natural resource managers across multiple agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. This project enables quick responses to local (within Nebraska) concerns that arise concerning federal threatened or endangered species.
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At-risk species monitoring
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December 2023
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Conservation decision-makers need the best and most current scientific data and information available. The Nebraska Natural Heritage Program, within the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, maintains the most comprehensive database in the state for at-risk species, natural communities, and Biologically Unique Landscapes, identified in the Nebraska Natural Legacy Project State Wildlife Action Plan. Organizations and agencies use this information to inform conservation planning and implementation and to facilitate the environmental review of projects to reduce the potential for negative impacts to Nebraska’s at-risk species and natural communities. This project provides personal assistance to the Nebraska Natural Heritage Program Zoologist on at-risk species field investigations and data compilations, ultimately helping to inform and advance conservation of at-risk species in Nebraska.
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The Nebraska Natural Heritage Program maintains the most comprehensive database within Nebraska for at-risk species, natural communities, and Biologically Unique Landscapes, which takes a great deal of effort. Organizations and agencies use this information to inform conservation planning and implementation and to facilitate the environmental review of projects to reduce the potential for negative impacts to Nebraska’s at-risk species and natural communities. The project is a collaboration of researchers and natural resource managers within the state, including the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. This project provides personal assistance to the Nebraska Natural Heritage Program Zoologist on at-risk species field investigations and data compilations, ultimately helping to inform and advance conservation of at-risk species in Nebraska.
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Quantifying per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in aquatic environments
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July 2023
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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have received national attention because of potential human-health concerns. PFAS are ubiquitous in the environment, having been observed in surface water, groundwater, and drinking water, with many having the potential to accumulate in aquatic organisms. In collaboration with state agencies this project seeks to understand the potential transfer and accumulation of PFAS within aquatic food webs, with the goal of informing risk to ecological systems and to human health through consumption of recreationally important sportfish.
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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have received national attention because of potential human-health concerns. PFAS are ubiquitous in the environment, having been observed in surface water, groundwater, and drinking water, with many having the potential to accumulate in aquatic organisms. In collaboration with state agencies this project seeks to understand the potential transfer and accumulation of PFAS within aquatic food webs, with the goal of informing risk to ecological systems and to human health through consumption of recreationally important sportfish.
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Recruitment and growth dynamics of riverine sport, food, and forage fishes related to flow operations and temperature conditions of the lower Tallapoosa River
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May 2026
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Natural flow and thermal conditions are well recognized to support a diverse and natural assemblage structure. However, a complete reinstatement of natural flows is often not realistic when balancing water needs for ecosystems with human demands including energy production via hydropower. Thus, identifying a set of flow patterns that meets some ecological needs considering realistic constraints is often needed. Our project goal is to better understand the relationship between flow and temperature dynamics and riverine sport, food, and forage fishes of the lower Tallapoosa River. Our study objectives are to estimate seasonal relative abundance of fishes in the lower Tallapoosa River, determine how recruitment and growth are related to flow and temperature conditions of the Tallapoosa River, and assess reproduction by several stream fishes as related to discharge, water temperature, and photoperiod.
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Natural flow and thermal conditions are well recognized to support a diverse and natural assemblage structure. However, a complete reinstatement of natural flows is often not realistic when balancing water needs for ecosystems with human demands including energy production via hydropower. Thus, identifying a set of flow patterns that meets some ecological needs considering realistic constraints is often needed. The project is a collaboration with the AL Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Our study objectives are to estimate seasonal relative abundance of fishes in the lower Tallapoosa River, determine how recruitment and growth are related to flow and temperature conditions of the Tallapoosa River, and assess reproduction by several stream fishes as related to discharge, water temperature, and photoperiod. Collectively, these data should provide helpful insight into how dam operations affect recruitment and reproduction by several sport, food, and forage fishes including Alabama Bass.
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Identifying relevant decision support tools that will achieve actionable science for the conservation of prairie stream ecosystems challenged by climate change. Invited Proposal Submitted but Declined
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October 2024
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<b><i>Specific Planning, Management, and Decision-Making Information Gaps or Needs. </i></b>The literature shows that site- and taxa-specific <i>climate stressors</i> affect native aquatic prairie biota. Information gaps include policy reviews, literature syntheses that link specific <i>climate </i>impacts to specific taxa, and a co-produced (researcher and manager) list of priorities that will address the adverse impacts of <i>climate change </i>on prairie stream biota.<b><i> </i></b>We address these gaps.<br><br><b><i>Actionable Science Outcomes. </i></b>All proposed <u>activities</u> (listed below) include <i>researchers and managers (state and federal agencies) </i>who address prairie stream conservation.<br><br>(1) Using a broadly targeted <u>webinar</u>, followed by <u>focus groups</u>, <i>project personnel</i> and <i>federal and state agency stakeholders </i>will create a co-produced agenda, then identify agency constraints and needs related to <i>climate impacts on aquatic biota.</i><br><br>(2)<i> Social science researchers </i>will summarize<i> </i>what <i>climate</i> related policies exist for native prairie fish management, through a university-based research <u>policy gap analysis</u> (i.e., what policy options exist now and related policy strengths and weaknesses).<br><br>(3) <i>Ecological researchers</i> will synthesize connections between <u>specific <i>climate</i> impacts and fish</u> <u>taxa</u> to prioritize across-state biotic vulnerabilities using a university-based <u>literature review.</u><br><br>(4) With the <i>ecological researcher community</i>, we will create “scenarios” that visualize climate-related outcomes [e.g., resist, adapt, direct (RAD)] for prairie stream biota through <u>workshops.</u><br><br>(5) With <i>researchers and managers, </i>we will<i> </i>use multiple <u>structured engagement processes </u>(facilitation, Delphi method, expert imputation<u>)</u> to synthesize options and needs for prairie biota conservation given a suite of specific <i>climate</i> impacts (e.g., altered flow, degraded water quality, fragmentation, response thresholds, habitat loss, restoration, public views of science).<br><br>(6) <i>Researchers and managers</i> will review and edit a written <u>actionable science plan</u>.
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<b><i>Overarching Issue. </i></b>Natural resource managers need decision support tools to address climate change. A decision support tool is a set of ideas, maps, concepts, data, or computer programs that managers and other practitioners can use to make decisions within their agencies. However, existing decision support tools may not be relevant or effective if they are misaligned with agency priorities, if they conflict with operational constraints, or if they do not mesh with actions that managers have available. The overarching question we address here is “<i>What decision support tools (characteristics, examples) will narrow the existing knowledge-action gap and create effective and relevant actionable science for the state and federal fisheries managers who are charged with conserving prairie stream biota in the face of climate change impacts?</i>”<b><i> Closing “Knowledge-Action” Gaps to Implement Actionable Science.</i></b><b> </b>The project we propose here merges the expertise of researchers (ecological and social science) and state and federal fisheries managers (practical experience with day-to-day realities) to close the “knowledge-action” gap for conservation of native prairie stream biota. Researchers and managers think differently about actionable science because they have different job responsibilities, work within institutions that have different missions, and may experience different “work cultures.” Managers do an excellent job on their day-to-day tasks, but with their ever expanding job responsibilities, they don’t always have time to strategically think about what is needed to successfully navigate the future. Researchers have excellent ideas, but their substantial expertise does not always mesh with management priorities at the appropriate scale for decision making. In the academic literature, this challenge is referred to as the “knowledge-action” or “know-do” gap.<b><i> Prairie Stream Biota are National Conservation Priorities in the Face of Climate Change. </i></b>Prairie streams occur across 15 US states and three CASC regions. Prairie stream fish and associated biota are priority resources to conserve because prairie stream ecosystems are geographically extensive, native prairie stream fish communities are diverse, and native prairie stream biota are very vulnerable to climate stressors (e.g., flow alteration, increased temperatures, degraded water quality, fragmentation, habitat loss, invasive threats). <b> </b><b><i> Project Objectives that Match Activities Described on the Previous Page</i></b><b> </b>(for prairie stream fish and associated biota faced with climate change):1. Assess the current priorities, constraints, decision options, gaps in knowledge, and tool and information needs of state and federal fisheries management stakeholders.2. Identify existing policies and decision support tools available from the literature.3. Link individual climate change impacts to specific native prairie aquatic taxa (as identified in State Wildlife Action Plans) to prioritize within- and across-state vulnerabilities.4. Create realistic ecological scenarios that depict outcomes for specific prairie stream biota based on decisions and/or specific climate change impacts.5. Identify knowledge gaps and relevant science-based decision support tools needed to address climate change by merging Objectives 1-4 through extensive researcher-manager participant engagement.6. Provide a co-produced action plan (synthesis & a proactive agenda to guide future activities).In summary, an urgent priority for 21<sup>st</sup> century conservation professionals is to manage native biota before they decline to a level where biota are candidates for listing. Our actionable science addresses this need and can be adapted for other researcher-manager partnerships related to a range of activities (e.g., possible RAWA funded expansion for agencies).
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Strategic planning for science-based management of federal reservoir fish populations and associated water supplies to address emerging 21st century threats: A collaborative approach. Proposal Submitted but Declined
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December 2024
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Reservoirs, common aquatic ecosystems that occur throughout the US, provide substantial benefits for society (e.g., water, flood control, recreation). Over 700 federal reservoirs are operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, making them critically important landscapes for the Department of Defense. Managing reservoir fish for recreational angling is a primary responsibility for state agencies. In addition, the connection between the lacustrine component of reservoirs and associated inflow-outflow rivers can have positive and negative effects on fish communities, including at risk species. At present, reservoir ecosystems are difficult to understand and manage because of their size, heterogeneity, ecological complexity, land-water link and multiple use objectives. Reservoirs also face increasing threats from aging, invasives, climate change, fish habitat loss, sediment accumulation, adjacent land use, eutrophication, harmful algae, and other adverse impacts. Although reservoirs have many disciplinary and policy components, their role in recreational fishing, swimming, and recreational boating are major foci for local partnerships of state and federal agency professionals and the general public. Identifying ways to address future change is daunting, but strategic rethinking about managing present and future threats can yield substantial benefits.<br><br>Much literature and many datasets exist that describe reservoir fish populations, water quality/quantity, watershed land use, habitat, and stream fish communities. However, this literature and these datasets often are not integrated. Consequently, much useful information that could help manage reservoirs is underused because of this lack of synthesis. A guide for quantitative synthesis would benefit all fisheries professionals interested in managing reservoir fish and the associated angling communities. Most state agency employees, charged with managing reservoir fish and reservoir fish habitat, have a full plate of responsibilities. Thus, asking agencies alone to take on new challenges is not realistic. However, a number of university researchers have a strong interest in helping to provide science that guides management. Together, university researchers and agency scientists can advance future strategic planning that will benefit popular sportfish, associated anglers, state management plans, at risk species, ecological connections that promote resilience, and reservoir readiness to respond to threats and change.
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This grant will <u>enhance readiness to respond to ecological threats to the over 700 reservoirs operated by the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE)</u>. Our think-tank approach will advance reservoir water and reservoir fish management, benefit at-risk fish and water resources, address positive and negative connections across aquatic habitats, enhance ecosystem services (e.g., healthy fish populations and ecological flows), strengthen resilience in the face of future threats, and improve reservoir-related research and management partnerships in ACOE reservoirs.<b> </b>Our community-of expert-practice project with multiple partners has <u>seven outcomes</u> (listed below) that link directly to our objectives. <b> </b>A comprehensive, literature-based perspective that summarizes threats (existing and future) to reservoirs and reservoir-river connections for fish and water supplies. A set of functional models that summarize how reservoirs and reservoir-river connections respond to common threats (e.g., climate change, aging, sedimentation, habitat loss, invasive fish, fragmentation). A list of levers through which management can be implemented, future management scenarios, and related potential outcomes associated with these scenarios (e.g., safe operating space concept, Resist-Accept-Direct) A step by step, example-based guide for quantitative data syntheses focused on (a) sport fish, (b) at risk taxa, (c) associated habitat data across systems (and states), and (d) ecological flows. Guidelines for development and maintenance of a <i>community-of-expert practice</i> that facilitates regular communication and discussions among fisheries and water researchers, managers, policy makers, administrators, and stakeholder groups that span employers and interest groups (state, federal, university, NGO).Progress towards adaptive management plans including data needs, useful syntheses, testable predictions of potential outcomes, deliberate learning experiments, and identification of urgent decision needs. A living document that summarizes and continually updates plans, projects, and tools to (a) benefit species of recreational interest to anglers and fisheries management agencies, (b) protect at-risk fish species, (c) address connections among habitats within reservoirs and between reservoirs and adjacent inflow and outflow rivers, (d) link research and management communities nationwide, and (e) advance existing state and federal state action and management plans
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Northern Pearl Dace population demographics in Sandhills Ecoregion streams
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December 2023
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Quantified evidence of changes to population demographics of small-bodied stream fishes stemming from habitat modification is limited. In order to sustain populations of at risk species through habitat rehabilitation, information is needed regarding demographic responses including survival and movement among the mosaic of habitat patches present in stream systems. A collaborative study with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission was initiated to assess population demographic response of Northern Pearl Dace to stream channelization in the Nebraska Sandhills Ecoregion. This work may benefit decisions regarding needs for habitat rehabilitation within agriculture-dominated landscapes as well as inform species status assessments within State Wildlife Action Plans.
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Quantified evidence of changes to population demographics of small-bodied stream fishes stemming from habitat modification is limited. In order to sustain populations of at risk species through habitat rehabilitation, information is needed regarding demographic responses including survival and movement among the mosaic of habitat patches present in stream systems. A collaborative study with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission was initiated to assess population demographic response of Northern Pearl Dace to stream channelization in the Nebraska Sandhills Ecoregion. This work may benefit decisions regarding needs for habitat rehabilitation within agriculture-dominated landscapes as well as inform species status assessments within State Wildlife Action Plans.
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Sampling efficiency assessment for Silver Carp and Bighead Carp in Nebraska mid-order streams and rivers
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March 2025
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Currently, eDNA is being used to investigate the distribution of invasive carp among lotic systems in Nebraska. However, attempts to verify eDNA results via live-fish collection have seen limited success due in part to limited understanding life-stage specific habitat use within prairie systems and the sampling methods to collect individuals effectively among different habitat types. Therefore, the study objectives of this project are to: (1) investigate sampling methods (i.e., towed trawls, various net configurations, and different electrofishing methods, etc.) that can effectively sample the invasive carp population, and (2) devise a sampling protocol for use in prairie systems that can target different life-stages of invasive carp populations. Such a protocol can be used to inform information gaps based on desired management objectives including documenting presence, assessing demographic rates, and/or eradication efforts. We will employ multiple gear-types including trawls, nets, and tow-barge electrofishing. Sampling efforts will occur spring, summer, and fall starting in 2023 and continuing into 2024. We will focus sampling efforts in mid-order prairie streams and rivers that are tributaries to the Missouri River and the Platte River in Nebraska. Streams and systems may include the Blue River, Nemaha Rivers, and Papillion Creek, along the Missouri River. Streams and systems may include the Salt Creek, Elkhorn River, Shell Creek, and Loup River along the Platte River. We will use information from eDNA results to direct sampling to locations with both positive and negative results for presence of invasive carp. Lower reaches of these systems may be accessible by boats using traditional sampling gears. We will sample river and stream reaches higher in the watersheds where traditional methods are not easily employed.
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Currently, eDNA is being used to investigate the distribution of invasive carp among lotic systems in Nebraska. However, attempts to verify eDNA results via live-fish collection have seen limited success due in part to limited understanding life-stage specific habitat use within prairie systems and the sampling methods to collect individuals effectively among different habitat types. Therefore, the study objectives of this project are to: (1) investigate sampling methods (i.e., towed trawls, various net configurations, and different electrofishing methods, etc.) that can effectively sample the invasive carp population, and (2) devise a sampling protocol for use in prairie systems that can target different life-stages of invasive carp populations. Such a protocol can be used to inform information gaps based on desired management objectives including documenting presence, assessing demographic rates, and/or eradication efforts. We will employ multiple gear-types including trawls, nets, and tow-barge electrofishing. Sampling efforts will occur spring, summer, and fall starting in 2023 and continuing into 2024. We will focus sampling efforts in mid-order prairie streams and rivers that are tributaries to the Missouri River and the Platte River in Nebraska. Streams and systems may include the Blue River, Nemaha Rivers, and Papillion Creek, along the Missouri River. Streams and systems may include the Salt Creek, Elkhorn River, Shell Creek, and Loup River along the Platte River. We will use information from eDNA results to direct sampling to locations with both positive and negative results for presence of invasive carp. Lower reaches of these systems may be accessible by boats using traditional sampling gears. We will sample river and stream reaches higher in the watersheds where traditional methods are not easily employed.
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Effects of woody encroachment and management on grassland birds in Nebraska’s Sandhills
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July 2028
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Loss of grassland habitat to woody encroachment is widespread and ongoing in Nebraska’s Sandhills. Woody encroachment has been identified as the most severe threat affecting grassland-obligate breeding birds, as these species do not appear to use encroached areas. As grassland bird species are experiencing the sharpest declines of avifauna guilds, evaluations of tolerance levels to woody encroachment of grasslands will provide valuable information to guide conservation and restoration efforts.<br> <br>Through our research we aim to (1) evaluate the response of grassland birds to eastern red cedar removal, (2) evaluate changes in grassland bird communities and abundance among grassland patches at different stages of successional change, (3) inform best management practices to provide guidance on eastern red cedar removal and management, and (4) develop a monitoring protype to evaluate grassland bird response to woody cover management. We are parting with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
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Loss of grassland habitat to woody encroachment is widespread and ongoing in Nebraska’s Sandhills. Woody encroachment has been identified as the most severe threat affecting grassland-obligate breeding birds, as these species do not appear to use encroached areas. As grassland bird species are experiencing the sharpest declines of avifauna guilds, evaluations of tolerance levels to woody encroachment of grasslands will provide valuable information to guide conservation and restoration efforts. Through our research we aim to (1) evaluate the response of grassland birds to eastern red cedar removal, (2) evaluate changes in grassland bird communities and abundance among grassland patches at different stages of successional change, (3) inform best management practices to provide guidance on eastern red cedar removal and management, and (4) develop a monitoring protype to evaluate grassland bird response to woody cover management. We are parting with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
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Leveraging local efforts to solve regional-scale ecological questions: using multiple sources of data and a multi-species occupancy model to explore bee-plant interactions
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August 2023
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In this project, we demonstrate the utility of our multi-species occupancy modeling approach on an example bee-plant dataset from Santa Cruz Island using the GloBI (Global Biotic Interactions) database.
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In this project, we demonstrate the utility of our multi-species occupancy modeling approach on an example bee-plant dataset from Santa Cruz Island using the GloBI (Global Biotic Interactions) database.
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Synthesizing the contributions of the Northeast to the North American Bat (NABat) Monitoring Program and developing a regional communication plan to facilitate future research
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August 2024
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Bats are declining nationally, which led to the formation of the North American Bat Monitoring Program and the USFWS White-nose Syndrome Program. Bats are an integral part of the ecosystem, and provide many ecosystem services. They are important pollinators, pest control agents, among other key ecosystem components. In collaboration with the USFWS, in this project, we will synthesize Northeast partner data contributions within priority grid cells and National Wildlife Refuges to gain a better understanding of the information currently available within the NABat database. Through this project, we will work on NABat’s spatially balanced sampling framework, acoustic data collection and analysis, data management, field techniques for bat monitoring, and science communication and outreach.
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In collaboration with the USFWS, in this project, we will synthesize Northeast partner data contributions within priority grid cells and National Wildlife Refuges to gain a better understanding of the information currently available within the NABat database.
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River Otter Population Dynamics and Spatial Ecology in West Virginia
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December 2025
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River otters (<i>Lontra canadensis</i>) are native to West Virginia, but experienced population declines in the 19<sup>th </sup>and 20<sup>th </sup>centuries because of habitat fragmentation, water pollution, and unregulated trapping. Following reintroduction efforts in the 1980's and 1990's otter populations in the state are now considered to be stable or increasing. To best inform future otter management plans in West Virginia, accurate estimates of otter survival and harvest rates are needed. Additionally, the diet of river otters is primarily comprised of various fish species. To better determine the potential effects of river otters on fishing opportunities in the state provided by fish stocking, more information is needed on the fine-scale movements of river otters during fish stocking periods. This project is a collaboration between the WV Coop Unit and the WV Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). This research will provide the WVDNR with information on river otter populations in the state, which will help inform future management decisions.
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River otters (<i>Lontra canadensis</i>) are native to West Virginia, but experienced population declines in the 19<sup>th </sup>and 20<sup>th </sup>centuries because of habitat fragmentation, water pollution, and unregulated trapping. Following reintroduction efforts in the 1980's and 1990's otter populations in the state are now considered to be stable or increasing. To best inform future otter management plans in West Virginia, accurate estimates of otter survival and harvest rates are needed. Additionally, the diet of river otters is primarily comprised of various fish species. To better determine the potential effects of river otters on fishing opportunities in the state provided by fish stocking, more information is needed on the fine-scale movements of river otters during fish stocking periods. This project is a collaboration between the WV Coop Unit and the WV Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). This research will provide the WVDNR with information on river otter populations in the state, which will help inform future management decisions.
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OA 107: Improving institutional diversity in professional society participation through virtual and hybrid conferencing
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June 2025
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For decades, professional scientific societies and individual scientists have relied on in-person conferences to share cutting edge research and build collaborative research networks: conferences are instrumental for developing individual careers and scientific progress. However, in-person conferences have significant barriers to access and inclusion, often excluding scientists and organizations with less financial resources and individuals for whom long-distance travel is difficult. The shift to virtual conferences during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated these historical barriers, as conferences were attended by more diverse groups of scientists. This research investigates how and whether virtual and hybrid conferences in ecology, environmental science, and allied fields have increased participation by individuals from a diverse set of organizations, including academic organizations like universities and those outside of academia like government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and environmental consulting firms. By focusing on increasing the diversity of organizations represented at conferences, scientific conferences can improve collaboration and knowledge exchange between scientists affiliated with academic organizations and scientists affiliated with organizations beyond academia. This, in turn, can facilitate evidence-based environmental management. The project will also assess whether virtual and hybrid conferences are more inclusive of a diverse set of backgrounds and career stages and assess barriers, attitudes, and preferences related to conference access, attendance, and participation. Lastly, researchers will identify future and alternative virtual and hybrid formats and features likely to best support members from diverse organizations and backgrounds. Short-term outcomes will include guidance for professional societies to develop equitable and inclusive conferences and overcome barriers to access; long-term outcomes will be increased visibility and awareness of a diversity of types of organizations in ecology and conservation communities.
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In-person conference formats can exclude many scientists and environmental practitioners who can contribute to and benefit from the exchange of ideas and research that takes place at these events, including those from low-to-middle income countries, early career-researchers, student trainees, caregivers, and those from non-research-intensive institutions. In particular, limited knowledge sharing and exchange between academic and extra-academic audiences have stymied integration of research into management and environmental policies. This project will provide professional societies and individual scientists with evidence-based guidance to evaluate tradeoffs in access, participation, and conference experience, to design more equitable conferences that can increase knowledge exchange across institutional boundaries. Through a focus on integration of academic and extra-academic scientists from a diverse range of institutions, this work will also support student and early-career researchers in their need and desire for development toward extra-academic career paths. This project applies quantitative and semi-quantitative approaches to assess if virtual conferences facilitate access for individuals from more diverse institutions, logistical and cultural factors that can expand access, and conference features and formats that are most likely to support inclusion of student and early-career researchers from those institutions. We will accomplish this through analysis of conference attendance prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic, surveys of current and prospective members of participating professional societies, and focus groups that iteratively identify approaches for testing as part of a future project. This project will produce multiple peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and an educational webinar.
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Development of new eDNA tools to detect aquatic invasive plants in Upper Mississippi River Basin
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December 2026
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We will develop portable and rapid environmental DNA multispecies sequencing protocols (using the Nanopore MinION device) for detecting invasive aquatic plants through water samples. These tools will then be validated within the Upper Mississippi River Basin through comparison with ongoing, traditional aquatic plant field collections through the Upper Mississippi River Restoration Program and Minnesota’s Shallow Lakes Program. The results of this project provide guidance for new eDNA-based monitoring programs, including assessing the feasibility of these surveillance tools being used by future citizen science monitoring programs.
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We will develop portable and rapid environmental DNA multispecies sequencing protocols (using the Nanopore MinION device) for detecting invasive aquatic plants through water samples. These tools will then be validated within the Upper Mississippi River Basin through comparison with ongoing, traditional aquatic plant field collections through the Upper Mississippi River Restoration Program and Minnesota’s Shallow Lakes Program. The results of this project provide guidance for new eDNA-based monitoring programs, including assessing the feasibility of these surveillance tools being used by future citizen science monitoring programs.
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Modeling raptor population status, trends, and take rates
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December 2026
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Evaluating sustainable take rates for raptor species, primarily bald and golden eagles, is necessary to inform incidental take permits issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to proposed and existing wind-energy facilities. The take rates are informed by predictive models that incorporate species vital rates (e.g., survival), environmental effects, and anthropogenic hazards (e.g., wind turbines). The project focuses on developing models that inform incidental take permits, and also improve the models themselves to better reflect predicted changes in climate.
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Evaluating sustainable take rates for raptor species, primarily bald and golden eagles, is necessary to inform incidental take permits issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to proposed and existing wind-energy facilities. The take rates are informed by predictive models that incorporate species vital rates (e.g., survival), environmental effects, and anthropogenic hazards (e.g., wind turbines). The project focuses on developing models that inform incidental take permits, and also improve the models themselves to better reflect predicted changes in climate.
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Developing an evaluation framework to inform NPS coastal infrastructure investment decisions
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August 2023
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Ongoing climate change, sea level rise, and more powerful storm systems will cause increasing damage and loss of facilities in coastal units of the National Park Service over the coming decades. Over time, sea level rise, storms, and funding limits will defy the National Park Service’s ability to maintain all existing coastal park infrastructure in suitable conditions in all locations. This project developed a transparent analytical framework and process that identified and incorporated comprehensive evaluation criteria that can be used across all National Park Service coastal park units to support decisions for capital investments in infrastructure of coastal national park units considering the projections of sea level rise and associated hazards (e.g. storms, erosion).
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Ongoing climate change, sea level rise, and more powerful storm systems will cause increasing damage and loss of facilities in coastal units of the National Park Service over the coming decades. Over time, sea level rise, storms, and funding limits will defy the National Park Service’s ability to maintain all existing coastal park infrastructure in suitable conditions in all locations. This project developed a transparent analytical framework and process that identified and incorporated comprehensive evaluation criteria that can be used across all National Park Service coastal park units to support decisions for capital investments in infrastructure of coastal national park units considering the projections of sea level rise and associated hazards (e.g. storms, erosion).
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Decision support for sustainable raptor take limits in a changing climate
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March 2026
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Climate change already affects raptor populations, through impacts on migration biology and vital rates. However, the decision framework in use by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service) to estimate population trends and set allowable take limits from anthropogenic activities is static with respect to climate. Given that climate change is already impacting raptors, assumptions of stationarity for vital rates are increasingly unrealistic and cast doubt on predictions of flyway-scale allowable take derived from existing frameworks. We are developing a new decision support tool that explicitly includes climate variables as inputs to population dynamic models to allow the Service to set allowable take limits that are more biologically realistic over the timeframe of interest. In addition to benefiting the Service, establishing take limits based on a more comprehensive set of climatic conditions will guide other stakeholders (e.g., state natural resource agencies and tribal leadership) in making more informed decisions regarding allowable take and mitigation measures to offset anthropogenic take within their jurisdictions. To ensure transferability of decision tools, we have invited representatives from relevant stakeholder groups to participate in framing the decision problem, parameterizing models, and evaluating alternative management strategies.
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Climate change already affects raptor populations, through impacts on migration biology and vital rates. However, the decision framework in use by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service) to estimate population trends and set allowable take limits from anthropogenic activities is static with respect to climate. Given that climate change is already impacting raptors, assumptions of stationarity for vital rates are increasingly unrealistic and cast doubt on predictions of flyway-scale allowable take derived from existing frameworks. We are developing a new decision support tool that explicitly includes climate variables as inputs to population dynamic models to allow the Service to set allowable take limits that are more biologically realistic over the timeframe of interest. In addition to benefiting the Service, establishing take limits based on a more comprehensive set of climatic conditions will guide other stakeholders (e.g., state natural resource agencies and tribal leadership) in making more informed decisions regarding allowable take and mitigation measures to offset anthropogenic take within their jurisdictions. To ensure transferability of decision tools, we have invited representatives from relevant stakeholder groups to participate in framing the decision problem, parameterizing models, and evaluating alternative management strategies.
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Mapping and characterizing bighorn sheep seasonal ranges and migration routes
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December 2024
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Wyoming contains some of the largest and most robust bighorn sheep herds throughout their broad distribution in western North America. In an effort to further bolster bighorn sheep across the state, the WGFD and partners have conducted numerous large-scale research and survey projects occurring both statewide and across broad regions. For example, since 2011 the WGFD and its Wildlife Health Laboratory have been conducting statewide bighorn sheep herd health surveillance and have sampled over 1,500 bighorn sheep across the state, many of which were also equipped with GPS collars. Additionally, collaborative efforts within the Greater Yellowstone Area (GYA) involving the WGFD, Montana State University, the University of Wyoming, the National Park Service, and the Shoshone and Arapaho Tribes have worked to conduct an integrated research program focused on bighorn sheep pathogen communities, habitat selection, seasonal migration, competition with introduced mountain goats, and genetics. Collaborators involved in this work have aggregated upwards of two million dollars for research that has compiled one of the largest integrated datasets ever collected for bighorn sheep. The research efforts have helped to directly inform bighorn sheep management and conservation, have been presented at local and national conferences, and produced nearly 20 peer-reviewed journal articles covering a broad range of topics. While past efforts have greatly helped to further our understanding of bighorn sheep across the state, there are a host of additional research projects that can use the existing datasets to generate new insights and further advance bighorn sheep management and conservation. In particular, the spatial dataset of GPS locations provides an opportunity to characterize and document bighorn sheep migration patterns, seasonal ranges, and habitat characteristics in a level of detail not previously conducted in prior research.
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Wyoming contains some of the largest and most robust bighorn sheep herds throughout their broad distribution in western North America. In an effort to further bolster bighorn sheep across the state, the WGFD and partners have conducted numerous large-scale research and survey projects occurring both statewide and across broad regions. For example, since 2011 the WGFD and its Wildlife Health Laboratory have been conducting statewide bighorn sheep herd health surveillance and have sampled over 1,500 bighorn sheep across the state, many of which were also equipped with GPS collars. Additionally, collaborative efforts within the Greater Yellowstone Area (GYA) involving the WGFD, Montana State University, the University of Wyoming, the National Park Service, and the Shoshone and Arapaho Tribes have worked to conduct an integrated research program focused on bighorn sheep pathogen communities, habitat selection, seasonal migration, competition with introduced mountain goats, and genetics. Collaborators involved in this work have aggregated upwards of two million dollars for research that has compiled one of the largest integrated datasets ever collected for bighorn sheep. The research efforts have helped to directly inform bighorn sheep management and conservation, have been presented at local and national conferences, and produced nearly 20 peer-reviewed journal articles covering a broad range of topics. While past efforts have greatly helped to further our understanding of bighorn sheep across the state, there are a host of additional research projects that can use the existing datasets to generate new insights and further advance bighorn sheep management and conservation. In particular, the spatial dataset of GPS locations provides an opportunity to characterize and document bighorn sheep migration patterns, seasonal ranges, and habitat characteristics in a level of detail not previously conducted in prior research.
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National Pollinator-Solar Energy Interactions Assessment
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September 2028
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<b>Pollinator conservation in a changing world</b>: We received funding from the Department of Energy to enact the goals of “demystifying” and defining pollinator-friendly solar in the United States, employing empirical data on pollinator species in variably managed solar facilities and surrounding land cover to elucidate pollinator-solar energy interactions at regional and national scales and validating eDNA applications for pollkinaot rcommunity characterization in solar facilities.
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Pollinators are declining globally, and land-use change from solar energy development may lead to reduction of pollinator habitat. On the other hand, pollinator habitat may be maintained and created as part of the process of solar energy development. While pollinator-friendly solar presents potential for co-location of pollinator habitat and solar production, our understanding of its ecological definition and operational applications is severely limited. Research is needed to provide the theoretical underpinnings and ecological applications of pollinator-friendly solar for meaningful uptake to occur at large-scale, operational solar facilities globally. Further, there is a need to increase the speed at which understanding of pollinator-solar interactions is generated, given the taxonomic bottleneck through which species identifications are derived. With funding from the Department of Energy, I am leading a large research team (USGS, Cornell University, USDA, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Oregon State University, Argonne National Laboratory, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, GRID Alternatives, multiple energy companies, and others) to elucidate pollinator-solar interactions from local to landscape levels, using both pollinator eDNA and conventional sampling methods at solar facilities across the country. Our research will define what pollinator friendly solar is, how to do it, and how to monitor it in the United States, with an eye towards promoting pollinator conservation broadly.
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Factors Limiting Population Growth of Unhunted Dall’s Sheep
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December 2025
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Despite nearly a decade free of harvest pressure, sheep populations in northwest Alaska have not rebounded as anticipated. Identifying the factors that continue to repress these populations will aid in the general understanding of Dall sheep ecology and help inform how sheep populations, at the margins of their range, can be sustainably managed in the future. Determining the relative effects of these factors can assist managers in determining appropriate harvest seasons and bag limits and identifying critical landscape features and areas requisite to sheep’s continued presence in GMUs 23 and 26.<br><br>We will radio-collar approximately 20 sheep in each of two herds (De Long, Baird) in the fall/winter of 2023 and 2024. Mortality will be monitored via movement data and mortality sites will be visited as soon as possible to attempt to determine mortality cause. If possible, tissue samples will be collected for additional analysis. Health assessment will be conducted during capture and biological samples collect to analysis for disease, genetics, pregnancy, and nutritional limitation. Collared ewes will be radiotracked with fixed-wing aircraft weekly between May and June to determine lambing rates using the presence of a lamb at heel.<br><br>This study will be the first to quantify habitat use patterns, survival rates, and health of sheep in these herds. This project will provide ADFG with the information needed in order to manage both of these sheep herds in order to improve population trajectory.
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Despite nearly a decade free of harvest pressure, sheep populations in northwest Alaska have not rebounded as anticipated. Identifying the factors that continue to repress these populations will aid in the general understanding of Dall sheep ecology and help inform how sheep populations, at the margins of their range, can be sustainably managed in the future. Determining the relative effects of these factors can assist managers in determining appropriate harvest seasons and bag limits and identifying critical landscape features and areas requisite to sheep’s continued presence in GMUs 23 and 26.We will radio-collar approximately 20 sheep in each of two herds (De Long, Baird) in the fall/winter of 2023 and 2024. Mortality will be monitored via movement data and mortality sites will be visited as soon as possible to attempt to determine mortality cause. If possible, tissue samples will be collected for additional analysis. Health assessment will be conducted during capture and biological samples collect to analysis for disease, genetics, pregnancy, and nutritional limitation. Collared ewes will be radiotracked with fixed-wing aircraft weekly between May and June to determine lambing rates using the presence of a lamb at heel.This study will be the first to quantify habitat use patterns, survival rates, and health of sheep in these herds. This project will provide ADFG with the information needed in order to manage both of these sheep herds in order to improve population trajectory.
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Synthesizing Ungulate Movement and Migrations Across Alaska
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December 2026
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Ungulate movements and migrations are crucial behavioral processes that have a direct impact on harvest and habitat management programs. The availability of migratory ungulates to harvest has large implications for subsistence harvest programs, and the identification of migration corridors and habitat factors associated with movements and movement barriers is a challenging but critical question in the face of changing environmental systems.<br><br>Using monitoring data from caribou and moose populations from throughout Alaska, this project will identify unifying factors related to ungulate migrations while simultaneously providing individual herd managers with the information and tools needed to appropriately manage ungulates. Existing GPS and satellite telemetry data from multiple caribou herds throughout Alaska (Western Arctic, Teshekpuk, Mulchatna, Nelchina, Fortymile) will be used to parameterize movement models that will provide a mechanistic understanding of migration paths and cues, while existing telemetry data from moose in multiple Game Management Units will be used to parameterize models to help identify seasonal movements and corridors.<br><br>Aside from improving our understanding of ungulate migrations across Alaska, this project will develop a unified data flow and analytical framework for the various collaring efforts that are ongoing throughout Alaska. The wide variety of collar manufacturers, data streams, fix rates, and data quality have thus made it challenging to develop unified analyses or data management protocols, and doing so will help improve the inference gained from myriad telemetry efforts but also decrease the turnaround time required to use these data to provide useful information to wildlife managers.
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Ungulate movements and migrations are crucial behavioral processes that have a direct impact on harvest and habitat management programs. The availability of migratory ungulates to harvest has large implications for subsistence harvest programs, and the identification of migration corridors and habitat factors associated with movements and movement barriers is a challenging but critical question in the face of changing environmental systems.Using monitoring data from caribou and moose populations from throughout Alaska, this project will identify unifying factors related to ungulate migrations while simultaneously providing individual herd managers with the information and tools needed to appropriately manage ungulates. Existing GPS and satellite telemetry data from multiple caribou herds throughout Alaska (Western Arctic, Teshekpuk, Mulchatna, Nelchina, Fortymile) will be used to parameterize movement models that will provide a mechanistic understanding of migration paths and cues, while existing telemetry data from moose in multiple Game Management Units will be used to parameterize models to help identify seasonal movements and corridors. Aside from improving our understanding of ungulate migrations across Alaska, this project will develop a unified data flow and analytical framework for the various collaring efforts that are ongoing throughout Alaska. The wide variety of collar manufacturers, data streams, fix rates, and data quality have thus made it challenging to develop unified analyses or data management protocols, and doing so will help improve the inference gained from myriad telemetry efforts but also decrease the turnaround time required to use these data to provide useful information to wildlife managers.
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Deer Density Estimation and Habitat Use in Southeast Alaska
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August 2025
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Sitka black-tailed deer are an important game species in southeast Alaska, and are a critical driver of predator population dynamics in the region. On Prince of Wales Island, where habitat management for deer is a major land use, it is critical to understand where deer occur on the landscape and how they respond to timber harvest. Moreover, our understanding of how predators (e.g. wolves) shape deer distribution on the landscape could have important implications for harvest and habitat management.<br><br>By utilizing an existing/ongoing deployment of remote cameras across Prince of Wales Island for wolf monitoring, we will develop single-season and multi-species occupancy models for black-tailed deer that quantify occupancy rates across the landscape and how these rates are affected by both habitat conditions and by the presence of predators. Additionally, we hope to be able to relate deer distribution and occupancy to in-situ estimates of snow depth calculated from remote camera images. Lastly, we will evaluate the utility of this sampling framework for estimating deer density across the entire island.<br><br>Monitoring of game species is exceptionally challenging in southeast Alaska, and the potential for multi-species monitoring frameworks could provide a cost-effective mechanism for assisting with harvest and/or habitat management decisions. This study will build upon previous research that has demonstrated that deer respond to habitat management in terms of browsing pressure by also linking overall occupancy rates and interactions with predators to habitat conditions.
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Sitka black-tailed deer are an important game species in southeast Alaska, and are a critical driver of predator population dynamics in the region. On Prince of Wales Island, where habitat management for deer is a major land use, it is critical to understand where deer occur on the landscape and how they respond to timber harvest. Moreover, our understanding of how predators (e.g. wolves) shape deer distribution on the landscape could have important implications for harvest and habitat management. By utilizing an existing/ongoing deployment of remote cameras across Prince of Wales Island for wolf monitoring, we will develop single-season and multi-species occupancy models for black-tailed deer that quantify occupancy rates across the landscape and how these rates are affected by both habitat conditions and by the presence of predators. Additionally, we hope to be able to relate deer distribution and occupancy to in-situ estimates of snow depth calculated from remote camera images. Lastly, we will evaluate the utility of this sampling framework for estimating deer density across the entire island.Monitoring of game species is exceptionally challenging in southeast Alaska, and the potential for multi-species monitoring frameworks could provide a cost-effective mechanism for assisting with harvest and/or habitat management decisions. This study will build upon previous research that has demonstrated that deer respond to habitat management in terms of browsing pressure by also linking overall occupancy rates and interactions with predators to habitat conditions.
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Effects of Human Visitation on Bear Activity
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August 2025
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The impacts of recreational activity on wildlife can be substantial. In areas with high concentrations of humans and wildlife, there may be high potential for human activity to negatively affect wildlife. At the Anan Observatory, near Wrangell, Alaska, the USDA Forest Service recently renovated their viewing platform at a substantial cost to the ranger district. The Anan Observatory is a highly regulated bear viewing site in the Tongass National Forest, with visitation controlled through a permit system, however the construction of a larger viewing platform has led to calls for increasing the number of permits, and thus the human visitation rates.<br><br>We will use remote cameras deployed at the observatory and at the upper falls, an area off limits to recreational visitation approximately 0.5-km upstream, to quantify bear activity patterns during the tourist season during the summers of 2022, 2023, and 2024. We will use a combination of occupancy modeling and activity patterns analysis to determine if activity levels differ between the control area (upper falls) and the observatory, and if bear activity is related to hourly human visitation rates. We will also use long-term monitoring data from the observatory to determine if chronic human visitation has affected bear feeding activity.<br><br>The results of this study will provide the USDA Forest Service with important information that they can use to determine if increased permitting will have deleterious effects on bears at Anan Observatory. There is substantial financial pressure surrounding the management of the observatory, with a number of guiding services operating out of the town of Wrangell, and their financial security is contingent on a long-term management plan that maximizes the number of visitors without having any adverse effects on wildlife.
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The impacts of recreational activity on wildlife can be substantial. In areas with high concentrations of humans and wildlife, there may be high potential for human activity to negatively affect wildlife. At the Anan Observatory, near Wrangell, Alaska, the USDA Forest Service recently renovated their viewing platform at a substantial cost to the ranger district. The Anan Observatory is a highly regulated bear viewing site in the Tongass National Forest, with visitation controlled through a permit system, however the construction of a larger viewing platform has led to calls for increasing the number of permits, and thus the human visitation rates.We will use remote cameras deployed at the observatory and at the upper falls, an area off limits to recreational visitation approximately 0.5-km upstream, to quantify bear activity patterns during the tourist season during the summers of 2022, 2023, and 2024. We will use a combination of occupancy modeling and activity patterns analysis to determine if activity levels differ between the control area (upper falls) and the observatory, and if bear activity is related to hourly human visitation rates. We will also use long-term monitoring data from the observatory to determine if chronic human visitation has affected bear feeding activity. The results of this study will provide the USDA Forest Service with important information that they can use to determine if increased permitting will have deleterious effects on bears at Anan Observatory. There is substantial financial pressure surrounding the management of the observatory, with a number of guiding services operating out of the town of Wrangell, and their financial security is contingent on a long-term management plan that maximizes the number of visitors without having any adverse effects on wildlife.
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Feeding the world in 2050: Building resilience in global fisheries and food systems
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December 2023
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Fisheries are coupled human and natural systems (CHANS) important for human health and well-being, yet they are rarely studied as CHANS with reciprocal relationships linking humans and nature. The scarcity of research approaches that consider human-nature interactions in fisheries represents a potential hindrance to ecologically and socioeconomically informed management strategies. Researchers from the Florida Co-op Unit are developing next-generation CHANS frameworks for understanding how fisheries – freshwater and marine – are locally, regionally, and globally connected with implications for food, nutrition, and livelihood security. This research will be used to understand how fisheries function as CHANS and improve their management through ecologically and socioeconomically informed approaches.
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Fisheries are coupled human and natural systems (CHANS) important for human health and well-being. However, research approaches that consider human-nature interactions within as well as between adjacent and distant fisheries are scarce. As such, I am developing next-generation CHANS frameworks for understanding how fisheries – freshwater and marine – are locally, regionally, and globally connected with implications for food, nutrition, and livelihood security.
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Diverse portfolios: investing in tributaries for restoration of large river fishes in the 1 Anthropocene
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December 2023
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Human-induced changes to large Anthropocene rivers requires engagement of diverse stakeholders across a broad range of sociopolitical boundaries and balancing multiple objectives. Competing objectives often constrain options for ecological restoration of large rivers and subsequent conservation of native fishes. Fewer competing objectives may exist in a subset of tributaries than in large mainstem rivers. Further, tributaries contribute toward building a “portfolio” of river ecosystem assets through physical and biological processes that may present opportunities to enhance the resilience of large river fishes. Our goal is to review roles of tributaries in enhancing mainstem large river fish populations. We present case histories from two greatly altered and distinct large-river tributary systems that highlight how tributaries contribute four portfolio assets to support large-river fish populations: 1) habitat diversity, 2) connectivity, 3) ecological asynchrony, and 4) density-dependent processes. Finally, we identify future research directions to advance our understanding of tributary roles and inform conservation actions.
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Human-induced changes to large Anthropocene rivers requires engagement of diverse stakeholders across a broad range of sociopolitical boundaries and balancing multiple objectives. Competing objectives often constrain options for ecological restoration of large rivers and subsequent conservation of native fishes. Fewer competing objectives may exist in a subset of tributaries than in large mainstem rivers. Further, tributaries contribute toward building a “portfolio” of river ecosystem assets through physical and biological processes that may present opportunities to enhance the resilience of large river fishes. Our goal is to review roles of tributaries in enhancing mainstem large river fish populations. We present case histories from two greatly altered and distinct large-river tributary systems that highlight how tributaries contribute four portfolio assets to support large-river fish populations: 1) habitat diversity, 2) connectivity, 3) ecological asynchrony, and 4) density-dependent processes. Finally, we identify future research directions to advance our understanding of tributary roles and inform conservation actions.
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Creation of statewide framework for ecological limits of hydrologic alteration based on aquatic community classification
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June 2023
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In Missouri, development of flow-ecology relationships has been an iterative process, whereby workshops, discussions and exploratory analysis have directed the process for developing flow ecology relationships. We conducted a variety of analyses to characterize individual indicator datasets, evaluate potential relationships between flows and fish responses, identify data gaps, and prioritize field sampling. This work identified lack of stream flow data as a limitation to developing quantitative relationships. Flow estimates for individual stream segments are derived from drainage-area based regression equations for the group and adjusted for the effects of springflow and losing streams (a stream or stream reach that water flows from the streambed into the ground-water system). Our proposed flow-based classification is designed to be integrated into an ELOHA framework (Figure 1) for Missouri streams that provides a scientific foundation for informed water-use decisions specific to species or guilds and the entire fish community. Our model will leverage ongoing and recent efforts including the RAM program data to characterize the structure of fish assemblages in different types of Missouri streams based on catchment size, predicted flow, and temperature. Our flow-based classification is an important step that addresses a MDC strategic action: Support the creation of a statewide framework for ecological limits of hydrologic alteration based on aquatic community classification by the end of FY23. The goal of this project is to provide the scientific foundation for ecological flow assessments to inform internal decision making and enhance the Department’s ability to advocate for water resources within the context of interagency efforts on site-specific projects or any future partner initiated effort to establish environmental flow standards.
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In Missouri, development of flow-ecology relationships has been an iterative process, whereby workshops, discussions and exploratory analysis have directed the process for developing flow ecology relationships. We conducted a variety of analyses to characterize individual indicator datasets, evaluate potential relationships between flows and fish responses, identify data gaps, and prioritize field sampling. This work identified lack of stream flow data as a limitation to developing quantitative relationships. Flow estimates for individual stream segments are derived from drainage-area based regression equations for the group and adjusted for the effects of springflow and losing streams (a stream or stream reach that water flows from the streambed into the ground-water system). Our proposed flow-based classification is designed to be integrated into an ELOHA framework (Figure 1) for Missouri streams that provides a scientific foundation for informed water-use decisions specific to species or guilds and the entire fish community. Our model will leverage ongoing and recent efforts including the RAM program data to characterize the structure of fish assemblages in different types of Missouri streams based on catchment size, predicted flow, and temperature. Our flow-based classification is an important step that addresses a MDC strategic action: Support the creation of a statewide framework for ecological limits of hydrologic alteration based on aquatic community classification by the end of FY23. The goal of this project is to provide the scientific foundation for ecological flow assessments to inform internal decision making and enhance the Department’s ability to advocate for water resources within the context of interagency efforts on site-specific projects or any future partner initiated effort to establish environmental flow standards.
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Quantifying the impacts of climate change on fish growth and production to enable sustainable management of diverse inland fisheries
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December 2023
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Climate change is altering all aspects of freshwaters, with important implications for managed fisheries. Both individual growth and population production are fundamental metrics for designing and evaluating effective regulations. We propose to quantify changes in fish thermal habitat conditions, growth, and production for multiple managed species encompassing a range of thermal preferences in Midwestern lentic systems ranging from the Laurentian Great Lakes to inland glacial lakes (e.g., MI, MN, WI) to large reservoirs (e.g., MO, AR). Focal species will include coolwater walleye, warmwater largemouth bass, and 2-4 additional species identified based on agency priorities and data availability. We will quantify the relationship between temperature and growth using statistical models of length and will use bioenergetics models to estimate whether growth and consumption will change under future temperature conditions. Results of this analysis will be used to inform managers about the effectiveness of length-based regulations under changing climates. The data, tools, and results of this project will be co-produced with state agency personnel and disseminated via several mechanisms, including state-specific webinars, extension of an existing data visualization tool, and direct liaison with management agencies through our project team. Our project team consists of leading fisheries scientists, including representatives from fisheries management agencies throughout the Midwest. We will engage additional partners in the state fisheries management agencies of Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin, to identify relevant metrics related to thermal habitat, growth and production; co-produce communication tools; and to obtain necessary data and incorporate input into final products
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Climate change is altering all aspects of freshwaters, with important implications for managed fisheries. Both individual growth and population production are fundamental metrics for designing and evaluating effective regulations. We propose to quantify changes in fish thermal habitat conditions, growth, and production for multiple managed species encompassing a range of thermal preferences in Midwestern lentic systems ranging from the Laurentian Great Lakes to inland glacial lakes (e.g., MI, MN, WI) to large reservoirs (e.g., MO, AR). Focal species will include coolwater walleye, warmwater largemouth bass, and 2-4 additional species identified based on agency priorities and data availability. We will quantify the relationship between temperature and growth using statistical models of length and will use bioenergetics models to estimate whether growth and consumption will change under future temperature conditions. Results of this analysis will be used to inform managers about the effectiveness of length-based regulations under changing climates. The data, tools, and results of this project will be co-produced with state agency personnel and disseminated via several mechanisms, including state-specific webinars, extension of an existing data visualization tool, and direct liaison with management agencies through our project team. Our project team consists of leading fisheries scientists, including representatives from fisheries management agencies throughout the Midwest. We will engage additional partners in the state fisheries management agencies of Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin, to identify relevant metrics related to thermal habitat, growth and production; co-produce communication tools; and to obtain necessary data and incorporate input into final products
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Development of a flexible mid-sized river habitat sampling protocol to complement fish protocols
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June 2027
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Standardized sampling protocols for fish and aquatic habitat is essential for long term monitoring and assessment of management actions and exist for small (wadable) streams (Resource Assessment and Monitoring; RAM), and Great Rivers (e.g., Mississippi River Long Term Resource Monitoring). Habitat assessments are crucial to monitor habitat changes over time, understand biological responses to changes, and overcome habitat deficits through restoration. Recently the MDC invested in the development of a flexible, standardized fish sampling protocol for mid-sized rivers (Dunn 2019; MDC CA 359 with MU). <i>However, there is no complementary aquatic habitat sampling protocol for these rivers. </i>Current wadable stream habitat protocols (e.g., RAM) are not feasible for mid-sized rivers. MDC managers have indicated the protocol can be used to help regional staff understand if the stream is healthy to explain why native fishes that were historically found at a site are now absent, or to interpret why catch rates for target species have changed over time to identify disturbances such as pollution, mining or lack of a riparian buffer. Therefore, there is a need to develop a habitat sampling protocol that is efficient, at a relevant spatial scale to aquatic biota, spatially referenced, and scalable to address multiple Resource Management and Science Branch objectives. Once developed, the mid-sized rivers habitat sampling protocol could be immediately implemented by MDC in conjunction with the mid-sized rivers sampling protocol.
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Standardized sampling protocols for fish and aquatic habitat is essential for long term monitoring and assessment of management actions and exist for small (wadable) streams (Resource Assessment and Monitoring; RAM), and Great Rivers (e.g., Mississippi River Long Term Resource Monitoring). Habitat assessments are crucial to monitor habitat changes over time, understand biological responses to changes, and overcome habitat deficits through restoration. Recently the MDC invested in the development of a flexible, standardized fish sampling protocol for mid-sized rivers (Dunn 2019; MDC CA 359 with MU). <i>However, there is no complementary aquatic habitat sampling protocol for these rivers. </i>Current wadable stream habitat protocols (e.g., RAM) are not feasible for mid-sized rivers. MDC managers have indicated the protocol can be used to help regional staff understand if the stream is healthy to explain why native fishes that were historically found at a site are now absent, or to interpret why catch rates for target species have changed over time to identify disturbances such as pollution, mining or lack of a riparian buffer. Therefore, there is a need to develop a habitat sampling protocol that is efficient, at a relevant spatial scale to aquatic biota, spatially referenced, and scalable to address multiple Resource Management and Science Branch objectives. Once developed, the mid-sized rivers habitat sampling protocol could be immediately implemented by MDC in conjunction with the mid-sized rivers sampling protocol.
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Factors affecting Lake Sturgeon reproduction: the next step in recovery and management
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June 2027
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Identifying and documenting spawning by Lake Sturgeon is critical to achieve recovery and is central to many of the objectives in the 2021 draft revised recovery plan. Therefore, the recovery of Lake Sturgeon cannot be achieved without the documentation of spawning and natural recruitment to a sustainable level. The proposed project would address this critical need and help inform the recovery and potential for a future recreational fishery of Lake Sturgeon. Nearly all decisions related to Lake Sturgeon recovery (e.g., should we stock Lake Sturgeon? Where are critical habitats we need to protect? Can we eventually open a limited recreational fishery?) are linked to identifying if Lake Sturgeon spawn, where that is located, and if the progeny recruit to the population.
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Identifying and documenting spawning by Lake Sturgeon is critical to achieve recovery and is central to many of the objectives in the 2021 draft revised recovery plan. Therefore, the recovery of Lake Sturgeon cannot be achieved without the documentation of spawning and natural recruitment to a sustainable level. The proposed project would address this critical need and help inform the recovery and potential for a future recreational fishery of Lake Sturgeon. Nearly all decisions related to Lake Sturgeon recovery (e.g., should we stock Lake Sturgeon? Where are critical habitats we need to protect? Can we eventually open a limited recreational fishery?) are linked to identifying if Lake Sturgeon spawn, where that is located, and if the progeny recruit to the population.
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Integrating multiple data sources to develop climate adaptation strategies for inland fish and recreational fishing
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September 2028
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Existing data sets are valuable because they can have a broad geographic footprint and/or long-term data that cannot be collected in a short duration research or monitoring effort. Many agencies compile data from recreational anglers because recreational fishing has great social and ecological importance in the U.S. In 2020 alone, more than 42 million people participated in freshwater fishing. However, climate change may affect the numbers, sizes, and species of fish available to anglers. Agencies tasked with managing fisheries often keep records of angler catch and harvest to better manage fisheries. Existing tools can be used to determine how fish species important to anglers may change in growth or abundance, which may dictate if anglers even pursue these species in the future. Our proposed work will use existing data in the “CreelCat” and “FiCli” databases coupled with ongoing studies to relate regionwide trends in angler effort, catch, and harvest to environmental metrics. This work can help inform management strategies for predicted fish and angler behavior in a changing climate.
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Existing data sets are valuable because they typically encompass more data (spatially and temporally) that can be collected by a specific research/monitoring effort. For fish and recreational fisheries data, efforts to integrate across datasets to inform management are limited. Despite the implementation of angler and fish surveys and their importance to fisheries management at state scales, regional, and national coordination among these activities is minimal, limiting data applicability to larger-scale management practices and research, particularly as fish and anglers adapt to a changing climate. We will maintain and further develop the U.S. Inland Creel and Angler Survey Catalog (CreelCat) and the Fish and Climate Change database (FiCli) to highlight applications of using both databases to inform management, particularly climate adaptation. CreelCat and FiCli are publicly available databases that establish a baseline of national inland recreational fishing metrics and provide summary information on climate effect on fish and management actions, respectively. We will use these databases to ask how catch and harvest vary regionally, how angler social dynamics may be linked to fish population information (e.g., growth rates) as some anglers may target larger fish found in systems with fast growth rates, and how climate change may affect he social and ecological dynamics of recreational fisheries. Although these tools are useful individually, integrating them with ongoing CASC-funded research of fish growth and consumption, will drive a suite of modeling efforts to predict inland recreational anglers’ responses to global environmental change.
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Identifying effects of weather and land use on autumn and winter waterfowl distribution dynamics in the 21st century
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June 2023
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Waterfowl are of substantial economic and cultural importance, with over 1 million hunters contributing approximately $700 million in total expenditures to local and regional economies annually. However recent concern over potential shifts in autumn and winter waterfowl distributions in response to changes in weather and land use patterns and the subsequent effects on recreational opportunities (e.g., harvest) have conservation and management implications at the continental level. Understanding if autumn and winter waterfowl distributions are changing and the relative role of weather and land use in influencing distributions will provide information for managers to communicate with stakeholders and could allow for more strategic conservation and management of habitat resources to accommodate potentially shifting waterfowl populations. We will quantify within season and across year shifts in waterfowl distribution in the Mississippi and Central flyways based on band recovery, parts collection survey and long-term waterfowl count data. We will also analyze the relative importance of weather and land use in explaining autumn and winter waterfowl distribution. This approach will allow us to map species-specific shifts in waterfowl distribution during autumn and winter, project future distributions and identify adaptive capacities required to provide sufficient habitat and food energy for shifting waterfowl distributions<br>
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Waterfowl are of substantial economic and cultural importance, with over 1 million hunters contributing approximately $700 million in total expenditures to local and regional economies annually. However recent concern over potential shifts in autumn and winter waterfowl distributions in response to changes in weather and land use patterns and the subsequent effects on recreational opportunities (e.g., harvest) have conservation and management implications at the continental level. Understanding if autumn and winter waterfowl distributions are changing and the relative role of weather and land use in influencing distributions will provide information for managers to communicate with stakeholders and could allow for more strategic conservation and management of habitat resources to accommodate potentially shifting waterfowl populations. We will quantify within season and across year shifts in waterfowl distribution in the Mississippi and Central flyways based on band recovery, parts collection survey and long-term waterfowl count data. We will also analyze the relative importance of weather and land use in explaining autumn and winter waterfowl distribution. This approach will allow us to map species-specific shifts in waterfowl distribution during autumn and winter, project future distributions and identify adaptive capacities required to provide sufficient habitat and food energy for shifting waterfowl distributions
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Quantifying King Rail habitat suitability in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley
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December 2025
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King Rails (<i>Rallus elegans</i>) are a migratory species of secretive marsh bird (rails, bitterns, grebes, gallinules) and are listed as endangered or threatened in 12 U.S. states as well as Canada and basic information on King Rail ecology is limited, including knowledge of their habitat requirements throughout the full annual life cycle. The objective of this project is to we identify suitable King Rail habitat distribution throughout the Mississippi Alluvial Valley, which can assist resource managers in identifying critical areas for management actions or restoration that could benefit King Rails populations
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King Rails (<i>Rallus elegans</i>) are a migratory species of secretive marsh bird (rails, bitterns, grebes, gallinules) and are listed as endangered or threatened in 12 U.S. states as well as Canada and basic information on King Rail ecology is limited, including knowledge of their habitat requirements throughout the full annual life cycle. The objective of this project is to we identify suitable King Rail habitat distribution throughout the Mississippi Alluvial Valley, which can assist resource managers in identifying critical areas for management actions or restoration that could benefit King Rails populations
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Evaluating toxicity implications of wetland sediment insecticide concentrations on benthic aquatic insects and temporal changes in aquatic invertebrate communities in Missouri wetland ecosystems
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September 2026
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Widespread use of neonicotinoid insecticides in North America has led to frequent detection of neonicotinoids in surface waters, although few studies have evaluated underlying sediments for presence of neonicotinoids. Recent research found neonicotinoid concentrations in Missouri wetland sediments were consistently an order of magnitude greater than water concentrations. The overall goals of the study are to derive benthic invertebrate toxicity thresholds for clothianidin in sediment that can be used to support risk management decisions on public lands and evaluate the relative role of agrochemicals in contributing to potential long-term changes in aquatic invertebrate communities
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Widespread use of neonicotinoid insecticides in North America has led to frequent detection of neonicotinoids in surface waters, although few studies have evaluated underlying sediments for presence of neonicotinoids. Recent research found neonicotinoid concentrations in Missouri wetland sediments were consistently an order of magnitude greater than water concentrations. The overall goals of the study are to derive benthic invertebrate toxicity thresholds for clothianidin in sediment that can be used to support risk management decisions on public lands and evaluate the relative role of agrochemicals in contributing to potential long-term changes in aquatic invertebrate communities
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Assessment of native bee responses to Farm Bill pollinator plantings in Missouri.
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September 2026
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Native bees have declined markedly in recent decades with habitat loss and land use intensification highlighted as leading factors. The US Farm Bill has invested in a range of incentive-based conservation programs on agricultural land to mitigate recent bee declines while providing multiple other benefits for agriculture and surrounding environments. However, documentation that these programs have achieved their desired outcome of increasing wild native bees in the landscape is needed. Our goal is to monitor wild native bees (both bumble bees and solitary bees) in Farm Bill conservation plantings in Missouri to demonstrate the efficacy of existing Farm Bill practices and inform recommendations for adaptations to improve the program.
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Native bees have declined markedly in recent decades with habitat loss and land use intensification highlighted as leading factors. The US Farm Bill has invested in a range of incentive-based conservation programs on agricultural land to mitigate recent bee declines while providing multiple other benefits for agriculture and surrounding environments. However, documentation that these programs have achieved their desired outcome of increasing wild native bees in the landscape is needed. Our goal is to monitor wild native bees (both bumble bees and solitary bees) in Farm Bill conservation plantings in Missouri to demonstrate the efficacy of existing Farm Bill practices and inform recommendations for adaptations to improve the program.
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Linking wetland inundation and habitat selection to Blue-winged teal survival throughout the full annual cycle
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June 2025
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Compared with other dabbling ducks, blue-winged teal (<i>Spatula discors</i>, BWTE) migrate earlier in autumn, migrate later in spring, and winter at more southern latitudes with a broader distribution. Thus, the extent to which management decisions, particularly wetland inundation that allow other dabbling species to access food resources, benefit BWTE remains unclear. We propose to use data from BWTE marked with GPS-GSM transmitters and satellite imagery, to better understand the role of environmental variability (e.g., water availability) and land ownership on BWTE resource selection, movement, and survival during the annual cycle.
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Compared with other dabbling ducks, blue-winged teal (<i>Spatula discors</i>, BWTE) migrate earlier in autumn, migrate later in spring, and winter at more southern latitudes with a broader distribution. Thus, the extent to which management decisions, particularly wetland inundation that allow other dabbling species to access food resources, benefit BWTE remains unclear. We propose to use data from BWTE marked with GPS-GSM transmitters and satellite imagery, to better understand the role of environmental variability (e.g., water availability) and land ownership on BWTE resource selection, movement, and survival during the annual cycle.
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Development of a nationally scalable monitoring and assessment protocol for ACEP-WRE wetland program
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December 2026
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The proposed goal of this project is to develop such a national-scale ecological monitoring and assessment framework to support the NRCS wetland easement program. This research also will provide quantitative evidence on cost-quality trade-offs in monitoring and assessment activities that will facilitate management decisions for enhancing efficiency, effectiveness, and impacts of NRCS’s wetland easements. The above goal will be accomplished by completion of the following objectives:<br>1) To develop a national-scale ecological monitoring framework for wetland easements that encompasses their structure and function and can facilitate easement assessment,<br>2) To identify a framework and determine costs for conducting regular ecological monitoring and executing management practices on ACEP-WRE easements.
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The proposed goal of this project is to develop such a national-scale ecological monitoring and assessment framework to support the NRCS wetland easement program. This research also will provide quantitative evidence on cost-quality trade-offs in monitoring and assessment activities that will facilitate management decisions for enhancing efficiency, effectiveness, and impacts of NRCS’s wetland easements. The above goal will be accomplished by completion of the following objectives:1) To develop a national-scale ecological monitoring framework for wetland easements that encompasses their structure and function and can facilitate easement assessment,2) To identify a framework and determine costs for conducting regular ecological monitoring and executing management practices on ACEP-WRE easements.
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Effects of Spotted Bass on Shoal Bass and Largemouth Bass in the Flint River
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December 2025
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Shoal Bass are endemic to the Apalachicola–Chattahoochee–Flint (ACF) River basin in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama and support a socioeconomically important fishery in the ACF basin. Introduction of nonnative Spotted Bass into this system is cause for concern due to potential negative interactions with native Shoal Bass and Largemouth Bass. We will assess how Shoal Bass and Largemouth Bass have responded to the introduction of Spotted Bass in the Flint River, evaluate how quickly Spotted Bass have spread throughout the system, and identify the environmental conditions associated with preferred sites. This project will provide new insights for managing native bass species and associated fisheries in the ACF basin.
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Shoal Bass are endemic to the Apalachicola–Chattahoochee–Flint (ACF) River basin in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama and support a socioeconomically important fishery in the ACF basin. Introduction of nonnative Spotted Bass into this system is cause for concern due to potential negative interactions with native Shoal Bass and Largemouth Bass. We will assess how Shoal Bass and Largemouth Bass have responded to the introduction of Spotted Bass in the Flint River, evaluate how quickly Spotted Bass have spread throughout the system, and identify the environmental conditions associated with preferred sites. This project will provide new insights for managing native bass species and associated fisheries in the ACF basin.
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Habitat Modeling and Disease Risk Assessment for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep on the Jicarilla Apache Nation
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December 2024
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Bighorn sheep are culturally significant to the Jicarilla Apache people. Through history, bighorn sheep were found and hunted throughout the higher elevations of the Jicarilla Apache’s ancestral range. An opportunity to consider the potential of introducing bighorn sheep to Jicarilla Apache Nation lands has seemingly been created by a series of wildfires. The NM CRU is assisting with modeling potential habitat and evaluating risk of contact with domestic sheep and goats to assess disease risk potential for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.
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Bighorn sheep are culturally significant to the Jicarilla Apache people. Through history, bighorn sheep were found and hunted throughout the higher elevations of the Jicarilla Apache’s ancestral range. An opportunity to consider the potential of introducing bighorn sheep to Jicarilla Apache Nation lands has seemingly been created by a series of wildfires. The NM CRU is assisting with modeling potential habitat and evaluating risk of contact with domestic sheep and goats to assess disease risk potential for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.
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Quantifying freshwater mussel abundance and composition in two prairie rivers of northern Oklahoma with the aid of side scan sonar to identify novel habitat patches
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June 2025
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Prairie rivers of northern Oklahoma such as the Verdigris and Caney rivers harbor a diverse assemblage of freshwater mussels, but drivers of their abundance and composition are not well known. Previous research focused on proportional abundance using timed searches, which impedes inferences about temporal trends. Moreover, recent studies nearby have documented increases in rare species, suggesting some species may be more prevalent than previously documented or locally abundant in certain locations. This project partners with biologists from Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and US Fish and Wildlife Service to identify freshwater mussel habitat within the Verdigris and Caney rivers of northern Oklahoma and use quantitative sampling in identified mesohabitats to estimate density and community composition. Calculation of detection and occupancy estimates among mesohabitat types will aid development of future monitoring efforts.
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Prairie rivers of northern Oklahoma such as the Verdigris and Caney rivers harbor a diverse assemblage of freshwater mussels, but drivers of their abundance and composition are not well known. Previous research focused on proportional abundance using timed searches, which impedes inferences about temporal trends. Moreover, recent studies nearby have documented increases in rare species, suggesting some species may be more prevalent than previously documented or locally abundant in certain locations. This project partners with biologists from Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and US Fish and Wildlife Service to identify freshwater mussel habitat within the Verdigris and Caney rivers of northern Oklahoma and use quantitative sampling in identified mesohabitats to estimate density and community composition. Calculation of detection and occupancy estimates among mesohabitat types will aid development of future monitoring efforts.
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Evaluating landscape permeability and connectivity for pronghorn in southwestern New Mexico
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December 2025
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The landscapes necessary to maintain large mammal movements are becoming increasingly fragmented across the western United States due to anthropogenic factors. These conditions in the broader landscape may influence the functional connectivity and impede the ability of wild ungulates to cope with changes in habitat and forage conditions associated with changing climatic conditions, and anthropogenic activities, which may ultimately compromise sustainability of many big game populations. Adaptive movements by non-migratory populations allow animals to efficiently exploit dynamic nutritional landscape. These movements are critical for migratory and non-migratory populations alike as they allow them to maximize nutritional gain, enhance survival and recruitment, and increase probability of population persistence. This will be especially important for populations in arid and semi-arid regions that are predicted to become hotter and drier under various climate change models. Pronghorn in the arid Southwest are generally nomadic rather than seasonal migrants. However, impediments to movements that allow pronghorn to track changing forage conditions in an arid landscape are equally important for population persistence as migration routes are to truly migratory populations in more north temperate regions. This project will monitor pronghorn movements in southwestern New Mexico for a period of 2-3 years. The goals are to monitor space use and movements, identify impediments or barriers to movement that can be targeted by management agencies for remediation, and assess habitat use patterns to determine habitat utilization, with a particular emphasis on vegetation restoration treatments implemented by BLM.
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The landscapes necessary to maintain large mammal movements are becoming increasingly fragmented across the western United States due to anthropogenic factors. These conditions in the broader landscape may influence the functional connectivity and impede the ability of wild ungulates to cope with changes in habitat and forage conditions associated with changing climatic conditions, and anthropogenic activities, which may ultimately compromise sustainability of many big game populations. Funding provided to state and federal agencies from Secretarial Order 3362 (Improving Habitat Quality in Western Big Game Winter Range and Migration Corridors) has contributed to substantial efforts to identify, map and monitor big game migration routes across the western United States. Yet many big game populations are non-migratory, characterized by resident or nomadic movement strategies. These resident and nomadic populations characterize the majority of mule deer and pronghorn populations across the lower elevation and more arid portions of the southwestern U.S. Mapping efforts for these populations are largely not covered by funding from Secretarial Order 3362, resulting in a gap in the knowledge of animal movements and distribution needed to make informed land management decisions. This project will monitor pronghorn movements in southwestern New Mexico for a period of 2-3 years. The goals are to monitor space use and movements, identify impediments or barriers to movement that can be targeted by management agencies for remediation, and assess habitat use patterns to determine habitat utilization, with a particular emphasis on vegetation restoration treatments implemented by BLM.
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Targeted surveillance for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in wildlife
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October 2025
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Emergence of zoonotic diseases in new wildlife host species continues to occur globally and poses major health or conservation risks for the hosts involved. Understanding the epidemiological and ecological conditions that lead to emergence and persistence is critical for resource allocation decisions that will protect the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems. Current knowledge of disease emergence in wildlife reservoirs remains weak because of the challenges with collecting enough appropriate data for a system-level understanding of the drivers of emergence and the relative infrequency that these events occur. The project is a collaboration with Colorado State University, Columbia University, Pennsylvania Game Commission, Southern Illinois University, University of Pennsylvania, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Tennessee, University of Minnesota, Utah State University, USDA/APHIS/WS. We will describe the strengths, challenges, and key lessons for best management practices in the surveillance design for understanding disease emergence processes in new animal host species. We will highlight the importance of continued interplay between surveillance design and a model-based understanding of the system for optimizing risk assessment.
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The project was initiated to conduct collaborative, targeted surveillance of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in white-tailed deer (WTD) populations. Targeted surveillance will involve placing GPS tracking devices on deer in the Established Area of Disease Management Area 2 from the same population chronic wasting disease has been detected, and sampling the same deer multiple times where possible. We will also leverage additional ongoing studies by the state where deer are being tracked with GPS collars to collect samples from those populations as well. Targeted surveillance data will complement opportunistic surveillance data that are being collected by state agencies and Wildlife Services management through hunter and agency harvest. While harvest data serve to determine the distribution of SARS-CoV-2 in deer, the data collected here will allow for: (1) Recording sample locations, (2) determining infection status over time in nature for the same individual (when possible) and within the same population, (3) identifying how deer movement determines infection status, (4) understanding the relative role of human-deer spillover versus deer-to-deer transmission, (5) estimating epidemiological parameters (i.e., force of infection), (6) identifying and understanding factors that lead to persistence and reservoir status of SARS-CoV-2 in deer, and (7) understanding the potential impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on deer populations.
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Waterfowl Habitat Selection in Arid Landscapes
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December 2025
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Wetlands and riparian areas represent less than 2% of land cover in the southwestern United States and are expected to decline with the onset of climate change. Wetlands in this region are therefore exceptionally important to resident and migratory waterfowl and in turn, recreational hunters and ecotourism. The Mexican duck was only recently recognized as a separate species from the Mallard, and has been sparsely studied. Mallards are known to readily hybridize with closely-related species, therefore our study will identify habitat selection patterns in each species that may facilitate or discourage contact. The project is a collaboration of researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico State University, and the University of Texas at El Paso, in coordination with Ducks Unlimited. Our project will identify habitat features and management practices that are important for supporting waterfowl populations, to provide guidance on water management and support recreational opportunities for hunters.
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Wetlands and riparian areas represent less than 2% of land cover in the southwestern United States; of this historic 2% more than 1/3 has been lost to agriculture and urbanization. Numerous migratory waterbirds use southwestern wetlands as energetic linkages between wetland habitats during migration and as important staging and wintering areas. However, the ephemeral nature and annual variability in timing and location limit the value of these resources to most species across the entirety of all life history events. The Mexican duck (<i>Anas platyrhynchos diazi</i>) has unique life history adaptations that allow the species to take advantage of these variable wetland conditions throughout their entire cycle. Our study will evaluate and habitat use patterns of Mexican ducks and other southwestern dabbling duck species to better understand habitat needs for waterfowl in a changing climate. This study is partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the University of Texas at El Paso.
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Assessing angler opinions and perceptions about non-native freshwater fishes in Florida
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June 2024
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More non-native freshwater fish species have been found in Florida than any other state. These introductions often present major challenges to resource management agencies, although some non-native fishes support socioeconomically valuable fisheries that benefit anglers and fisheries managers alike. For instance, in south Florida, popular fisheries have developed for species such as Peacock Bass, Clown Knifefish, Oscar, and Mayan Cichlid. However, in other parts of the state, non-native fishes such as Pterygoplichthys spp. cause bank erosion and destabilization and associated economic and aesthetic costs. Overall, human perceptions of non-native fishes in Florida are likely to be highly variable, yet this subject has scarcely been investigated, much less used to inform fisheries management in the state. The purpose of this project is to develop and disseminate survey instruments to gauge opinions of anglers and the general public about non-native freshwater fishes throughout the state of Florida.
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More non-native freshwater fish species have been found in Florida than any other state. These introductions often present major challenges to resource management agencies, although some non-native fishes support socioeconomically valuable fisheries that benefit anglers and fisheries managers alike. For instance, in south Florida, popular fisheries have developed for species such as Peacock Bass, Clown Knifefish, Oscar, and Mayan Cichlid. However, in other parts of the state, non-native fishes such as Pterygoplichthys spp. cause bank erosion and destabilization and associated economic and aesthetic costs. Overall, human perceptions of non-native fishes in Florida are likely to be highly variable, yet this subject has scarcely been investigated, much less used to inform fisheries management in the state. The purpose of this project is to develop and disseminate survey instruments to gauge opinions of anglers and the general public about non-native freshwater fishes throughout the state of Florida.
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Near Real Time Acoustic Monitoring of Imperiled Birds on DoD Installations
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December 2026
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The presence of threatened and endangered species (TES) on military installations often leads to training conflicts and economic costs for the Department of Defense (DoD). The presence of TES necessitates surveying and monitoring to ensure that TES are not harmed or harassed by training. Approaches that streamline and reduce costs of monitoring will be extremely beneficial to installations. Near-time-continuous (NRT) acoustic monitoring could be an effective and cost-efficient method to detect TES occurring on installations. Although promising, NRT acoustic monitoring requires demonstration and validation to understand the limits of its effectiveness and to improve deployment capabilities. Here, we propose to run a series of validation experiments to better understand how the environment and acoustic interference (e.g., from wind or heterospecific birds) influences the ability of NRT acoustic recorders to detect the vocalizations of two TES bird species present on Pōhakuloa Training Area, HI (PTA). Results from this demonstration will improve the ability to use NRT acoustic recorders and inform our understanding of their limitations and approaches to circumvent those limitations.
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The presence of threatened and endangered species (TES) on military installations often leads to training conflicts and economic costs for the Department of Defense (DoD). The presence of TES necessitates surveying and monitoring to ensure that TES are not harmed or harassed by training. Approaches that streamline and reduce costs of monitoring will be extremely beneficial to installations. Near-time-continuous (NRT) acoustic monitoring could be an effective and cost-efficient method to detect TES occurring on installations. Although promising, NRT acoustic monitoring requires demonstration and validation to understand the limits of its effectiveness and to improve deployment capabilities. Here, we propose to run a series of validation experiments to better understand how the environment and acoustic interference (e.g., from wind or heterospecific birds) influences the ability of NRT acoustic recorders to detect the vocalizations of two TES bird species present on Pōhakuloa Training Area, HI (PTA). Results from this demonstration will improve the ability to use NRT acoustic recorders and inform our understanding of their limitations and approaches to circumvent those limitations.
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WildSNaP: Biodiversity in Solar through Native Planting
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July 2026
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Renewable energy production is exponentially increasing worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. Solar energy has rapidly expanded across the US landscape to meet the population’s growing energy needs, with a projected increase of solar energy contribution from 3% of total electricity generation in 2020 to 20% in 2050. Solar production in the US is estimated to have increased by 33.2% just in the last year. Production of small-scale residential and commercial solar arrays has increased, but the largest contribution of solar energy growth now comes from utility-scale solar arrays. These arrays are frequently built in agricultural fields or croplands, because the flat open landscape maximizes efficiency of solar power generation and minimizes site preparation activities. There has been a recent movement to plant low-growing native plant communities under solar arrays to reduce the costs associated with turf grass mowing. We are evaluating how the bird, amphibian, pollinator, bat, and mammal communities use solar arrays with an understory of native grasses and forbs compared to sites with turf grass as well as reference sites.
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Renewable energy production is exponentially increasing worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. Solar energy has rapidly expanded across the US landscape to meet the population’s growing energy needs, with a projected increase of solar energy contribution from 3% of total electricity generation in 2020 to 20% in 2050. Solar production in the US is estimated to have increased by 33.2% just in the last year. Production of small-scale residential and commercial solar arrays has increased, but the largest contribution of solar energy growth now comes from utility-scale solar arrays. These arrays are frequently built in agricultural fields or croplands, because the flat open landscape maximizes efficiency of solar power generation and minimizes site preparation activities. There has been a recent movement to plant low-growing native plant communities under solar arrays to reduce the costs associated with turf grass mowing. We are evaluating how the bird, amphibian, pollinator, bat, and mammal communities use solar arrays with an understory of native grasses and forbs compared to sites with turf grass as well as reference sites.
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FLAKES: A multi-organization dataset to investigate invasive plant management impacts in Florida lakes
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December 2024
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Aquatic plant management is critical for maintaining open waterways for navigation and recreation, reducing mosquito-borne diseases, and protecting freshwater ecosystems. Florida invests heavily in aquatic plant control, with state and federal agencies spending over $20 million annually on management. Most aquatic plant management efforts in the state involve herbicide application, with a primary focus on hydrilla, water hyacinth, and water lettuce. Although these three species are classified as invasive and have been present in Florida for decades, research on their impacts has yielded inconsistent results. There is a critical need to better characterize effects of invasive plants and their management on aquatic ecosystems in Florida. To this end, our objectives are to evaluate (1) the direct impacts of invasive plant management on plant species abundances and (2) the indirect impacts of invasive plant management on Largemouth Bass populations through changes in plant abundances after curating a master dataset composed of long-term data collected by various agencies across Florida.
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Aquatic plant management is critical for maintaining open waterways for navigation and recreation, reducing mosquito-borne diseases, and protecting freshwater ecosystems. Florida invests heavily in aquatic plant control, with state and federal agencies spending over $20 million annually on management. Most aquatic plant management efforts in the state involve herbicide application, with a primary focus on hydrilla, water hyacinth, and water lettuce. Although these three species are classified as invasive and have been present in Florida for decades, research on their impacts has yielded inconsistent results. There is a critical need to better characterize effects of invasive plants and their management on aquatic ecosystems in Florida. To this end, our objectives are to evaluate (1) the direct impacts of invasive plant management on plant species abundances and (2) the indirect impacts of invasive plant management on Largemouth Bass populations through changes in plant abundances after curating a master dataset composed of long-term data collected by various agencies across Florida.
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The effects of harvest on wolf dispersal
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July 2026
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Gray wolves are a managed big game species in Idaho. Hunting and trapping as well as control for livestock depredations can influence wolf pack structure and the dispersal decisions made by individuals. We currently do not know how do groups backfill after harvest or targeted removal or what impact harvest has on dispersal. We propose to combine data from IDFGs annual wolf monitoring program with genetic samples from harvested wolves as well as those from a 16 year study collecting genetic samples in Idaho to answer questions about the effects of harvest on wolf dispersal.<br>We propose generating population-level genetic metrics (e.g., private alleles, Fst, r) for harvested wolves in three IDFG wolf density strata to test whether there is genetic evidence for nearby vs far away immigrants as a function of wolf density and harvest rate. We will also use data from long-term study areas where we have observed full pack turnover. Lastly, we propose to build a predictive model using prey data, IDFG wolf density strata, and relatedness to identify dispersers from harvest data and estimate dispersal rates as a function of harvest rate, prey abundance, wolf density, and other relevant covariates.
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Gray wolves are a managed big game species in Idaho. Hunting and trapping as well as control for livestock depredations can influence wolf pack structure and the dispersal decisions made by individuals. We currently do not know how do groups backfill after harvest or targeted removal or what impact harvest has on dispersal. We propose to combine data from IDFGs annual wolf monitoring program with genetic samples from harvested wolves as well as those from a 16 year study collecting genetic samples in Idaho to answer questions about the effects of harvest on wolf dispersal.We propose generating population-level genetic metrics (e.g., private alleles, Fst, r) for harvested wolves in three IDFG wolf density strata to test whether there is genetic evidence for nearby vs far away immigrants as a function of wolf density and harvest rate. We will also use data from long-term study areas where we have observed full pack turnover. Lastly, we propose to build a predictive model using prey data, IDFG wolf density strata, and relatedness to identify dispersers from harvest data and estimate dispersal rates as a function of harvest rate, prey abundance, wolf density, and other relevant covariates.
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Occupancy status of Northern Spotted Owls in southern Oregon.
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December 2027
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The Northern Spotted Owl (<i>Strix occidentalis caurina</i>) is listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act, primarily because of the loss of old growth forest habitat due to timber harvest. The impact of management activities that may remove or modify spotted owl nesting, roosting or foraging habitat on federal lands is required because of the federally threatened status of the northern spotted owl. The purpose of this study is to conduct surveys to locate resident spotted owls and identify owl territories that might be affected by a proposed management activity in the Fremont-Winema and Rogue Siskiyou National Forest in southern Oregon. These data will continue to be used to understand trends in occupancy status of northern spotted owls and barred owls and increase our understanding of owl ecology and habitat use within the region.
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The purpose of this study is to conduct surveys to locate resident spotted owls and identify owl territories that might be affected by a proposed management activity in the Fremont-Winema and Rogue Siskiyou National Forest in southern Oregon. The impact of management activities that may remove or modify spotted owl nesting, roosting or foraging habitat on federal lands is required because of the federally threatened status of the northern spotted owl. This is a continuation of Northern spotted owl population monitoring that has been accomplished thru nearly 3 decades of collaborations and partnerships between the USDA Forest Service Region 6, Pacific Northwest Research Station, the Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and Oregon State University. These data will continue to be used to understand trends in occupancy status of northern spotted owls and barred owls and increase our understanding of owl ecology and habitat use within the region.
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Methods to evaluate and increase survival of razorback sucker stocking in the Verde River and Horseshoe Reservoir Arizona.
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January 2026
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Testing methods to evaluate and improve survival of stocked razorback sucker in the Verde River, Arizona
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Testing methods to evaluate and improve survival of stocked razorback sucker.
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Leveraging passive acoustics to improve aquatic species monitoring in the Hudson River estuary
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October 2024
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Here we leverage novel passive acoustics to monitor phenology and distribution of migratory fish in the Hudson River.
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Here we leverage novel passive acoustics to monitor phenology and distribution of migratory fish in the Hudson River.
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Caney Mountain Cave Crayfish Habitat
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August 2023
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The Caney Mountain Cave Crayfish occurs in only one cave system in the world. Given its rarity, understanding aspects of its environment are important to protect the population from human-induced changes that may be detrimental. This project, led by an undergraduate student, is a collaboration between the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit and seeks to quantify aspects of the physical and chemical habitat in the cave. We are using monthly site visits and deployed sensors to monitor water depth, temperature, and various other parameters for a one-year period. Information gained from this project will provide a baseline of conditions for which managers can compare future conditions and may provide recommended target levels for managers to maintain.
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The Caney Mountain Cave Crayfish occurs in only one cave system in the world. Given its rarity, understanding aspects of its environment are important to protect the population from human-induced changes that may be detrimental. This project, led by an undergraduate student, is a collaboration between the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit and seeks to quantify aspects of the physical and chemical habitat in the cave. We are using monthly site visits and deployed sensors to monitor water depth, temperature, and various other parameters for a one-year period. Information gained from this project will provide a baseline of conditions for which managers can compare future conditions and may provide recommended target levels for managers to maintain.
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SARS-CoV-2 at the human–wildlife interface: Understanding wildlife as potential reservoirs for COVID-19 across urban-rural gradients
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February 2023
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SARS-CoV-2 is a highly transmissible and pathogenic coronavirus that has led to the COVID-19 pandemic. While vaccines and drugs are reducing mortality rates, the impacts of the virus may persist long-term, especially if non-human reservoirs for the disease create permanent sources of human infection. SARS-CoV-2 antibodies have been documented in numerous wildlife species in North America (e.g., white-tailed deer, rabbits, ferrets); however, it is unclear how prevalent SARS-CoV-2 is across wildlife species and regions, and whether wildlife can transmit SARS-CoV-2 to humans and domestic species. Understanding the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in wildlife and how prevalence rates vary across the human-wildlife interface is critically important to evaluate the maintenance and transmission of COVID-19. We are capturing and testing white-tailed deer in North Carolina to investigate SARS-CoV-2 prevalence and the predictors of SARS-CoV-2 across an urban–rural continuum. White-tailed deer are a particularly relevant study species because they are abundant in landscapes as diverse as rural forests and suburban neighborhoods and high prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (>30%) is documented in other regions of North America. Our proposed study will provide seed data for future proposals that expand these concepts to consider SARS-CoV-2 prevalence across multiple species (e.g., mice, raccoons, coyotes, pets), spatial scales (within and beyond North Carolina), and the socio-economic factors affecting transmission risk.
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SARS-CoV-2 is a highly transmissible and pathogenic coronavirus that has led to the COVID-19 pandemic. While vaccines and drugs are reducing mortality rates, the impacts of the virus may persist long-term, especially if non-human reservoirs for the disease create permanent sources of human infection. SARS-CoV-2 antibodies have been documented in numerous wildlife species in North America (e.g., white-tailed deer, rabbits, ferrets); however, it is unclear how prevalent SARS-CoV-2 is across wildlife species and regions, and whether wildlife can transmit SARS-CoV-2 to humans and domestic species. Understanding the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in wildlife and how prevalence rates vary across the human-wildlife interface is critically important to evaluate the maintenance and transmission of COVID-19. We are capturing and testing white-tailed deer in North Carolina to investigate SARS-CoV-2 prevalence and the predictors of SARS-CoV-2 across an urban–rural continuum. White-tailed deer are a particularly relevant study species because they are abundant in landscapes as diverse as rural forests and suburban neighborhoods and high prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (>30%) is documented in other regions of North America. Our proposed study will provide seed data for future proposals that expand these concepts to consider SARS-CoV-2 prevalence across multiple species (e.g., mice, raccoons, coyotes, pets), spatial scales (within and beyond North Carolina), and the socio-economic factors affecting transmission risk.
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Invasion ecology of Round Goby in the Hudson River
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December 2024
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We are investigating the invasion ecology of Hudson River round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) at the freshwater-saltwater invasion front of North America. Understanding the ability of round goby to adapt to brackish and saline environments in North America is needed to inform management responses for this rapidly expanding introduced fish.
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We are investigating the invasion ecology of Hudson River round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) at the freshwater-saltwater invasion front of North America. Understanding the ability of round goby to adapt to brackish and saline environments in North America is needed to inform management responses for this rapidly expanding introduced fish.
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PFAS Bioaccumulation in Coastal Seabirds
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December 2025
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Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are anthropogenic pollutants that are ubiquitous in human and natural environments, highly persistent, and associated with impacts at low levels of exposure in humans. PFAS are released into the environment via a number of pathways, including use and disposal of consumer products, manufacturing activities, and application of aqueous film forming foams (AFFF), particularly at DoD sites. , Limited information exists relating concentrations of multiple precursors or terminal PFAS in abiotic matrices impacted by AFFF (e.g. sediment, water) and prey items (e.g. fish, invertebrates) to observed residue levels in avifauna or other predators at or near AFFF-impacted sites. The poor understanding of these pathways and relationships is problematic considering avifauna, including seabirds, have been documented to contain elevated levels of PFOS and other PFAS, with limited data suggesting potential impacts on hormone disruption, lipid expression, and reproduction at current exposure levels. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple organizatios and includes The Universitty of Rhode Island, The Nature Conservancy, and SC DNR. We will measure the bioaccumulation and biomagnification of a wide range of PFAS in seabirds that rely on environments and food webs downstream from Joint Base Charleston within the Charleston, SC region, using a unique combination of a field sampling campaign paired with biologging efforts, coupled to analysis of targeted terminal PFAS, environmental precursors, EOF, and stable isotopes. This comprehensive field effort will leverage collaborative partnerships to sample environmental media (air, water, sediment) and prey food, and will be paired with spatial tracking efforts and biological sampling of adult seabirds, chicks, and eggs, to provide novel information about the bioaccumulation of PFAS in estuarine and marine avifauna.
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Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are anthropogenic pollutants that are ubiquitous in human and natural environments, highly persistent, and associated with impacts at low levels of exposure in humans. PFAS are released into the environment via a number of pathways, including use and disposal of consumer products, manufacturing activities, and application of aqueous film forming foams (AFFF), particularly at DoD sites. , Limited information exists relating concentrations of multiple precursors or terminal PFAS in abiotic matrices impacted by AFFF (e.g. sediment, water) and prey items (e.g. fish, invertebrates) to observed residue levels in avifauna or other predators at or near AFFF-impacted sites. The poor understanding of these pathways and relationships is problematic considering avifauna, including seabirds, have been documented to contain elevated levels of PFOS and other PFAS, with limited data suggesting potential impacts on hormone disruption, lipid expression, and reproduction at current exposure levels. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple organizatios and includes The Universitty of Rhode Island, The Nature Conservancy, and SC DNR. We will measure the bioaccumulation and biomagnification of a wide range of PFAS in seabirds that rely on environments and food webs downstream from Joint Base Charleston within the Charleston, SC region, using a unique combination of a field sampling campaign paired with biologging efforts, coupled to analysis of targeted terminal PFAS, environmental precursors, EOF, and stable isotopes. This comprehensive field effort will leverage collaborative partnerships to sample environmental media (air, water, sediment) and prey food, and will be paired with spatial tracking efforts and biological sampling of adult seabirds, chicks, and eggs, to provide novel information about the bioaccumulation of PFAS in estuarine and marine avifauna.
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Taxonomy of Longnose Darter
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May 2023
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The petitioning of the Longnose Darter under the US Endangered Species Act triggered a need for further investigation of population genetics to inform the Species Status Assessment and listing decision. Part of this effort will identify if evolutionally significant units or potentially cryptic diversity (undescribed species) exist within populations of what is currently classified as Longnose Darter,<i> Percina nasuta</i>. Together with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Missouri Department of Conservation, and Yale University, the USGS MO Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit has assisted to collect genetic samples from across the range of the species. The results of this study will be used to inform the listing decision for the species and help managers identify populations essential to the conservation of diversity within this species complex.
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The petitioning of the Longnose Darter under the US Endangered Species Act triggered a need for further investigation of population genetics to inform the Species Status Assessment and listing decision. Part of this effort will identify if evolutionally significant units or potentially cryptic diversity (undescribed species) exist within populations of what is currently classified as Longnose Darter,<i> Percina nasuta</i>. Together with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Missouri Department of Conservation, and Yale University, the USGS MO Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit has assisted to collect genetic samples from across the range of the species. The results of this study will be used to inform the listing decision for the species and help managers identify populations essential to the conservation of diversity within this species complex.
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Identification of Landscape Thresholds and Patch Dynamics for Lesser Prairie-Chickens
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December 2025
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Lesser prairie-chickens exhibit sudden changes in occupancy. We are evaluating the potential of landscape thresholds in changes in occupancy.
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Lesser prairie-chickens exhibit sudden changes in occupancy. We are evaluating the potential of landscape thresholds in changes in occupancy.
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Movements, Space Use, and Vital Rates of Mourning Doves
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September 2025
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Assessment of mourning dove ecology in Kansas including vital rate estimation, movements, habitat selection, and assessment of harvest.
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Assessment of mourning dove ecology in Kansas including vital rate estimation, movements, habitat selection, and assessment of harvest.
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Thermal ecology of two imperiled crayfishes
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December 2022
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Lab-derived information on the thermal ecology of crayfishes exists for approximately 5% of species worldwide, leaving a gap in knowledge available for managers to address threats such as climate change or species invasions. This project, a collaboration between the Missouri Department of Conservation, Auburn University, and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit seeks to estimate critical thermal maximum and electron transport system activity for to recently petitioned species of crayfish and one invasive crayfish in Missouri. Results will allow managers to better understand if species partition thermal habitats in such a way that could promote coexistence.
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Lab-derived information on the thermal ecology of crayfishes exists for approximately 5% of species worldwide, leaving a gap in knowledge available for managers to address threats such as climate change or species invasions. This project, a collaboration between the Missouri Department of Conservation, Auburn University, and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit seeks to estimate critical thermal maximum and electron transport system activity for to recently petitioned species of crayfish and one invasive crayfish in Missouri. Results will allow managers to better understand if species partition thermal habitats in such a way that could promote coexistence.
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A comprehensive understanding of mussel populations in the Duck River, Tennessee for their conservation and to establish ecological flows for ongoing water withdrawals and water management
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January 2030
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This is a comprehensive research program that is intended to provide guidance to natural resources agencies in TN tasked with the protection and use of its water resources, in particular, the Duck River, in response to increased demand for water withdrawal. It is intended as a multi-year, multi-step research program with individual research projects that, together, will provide this guidance. Our overarching goal is to provide an assessment of the ecological impacts of water quantity withdrawals on the Duck River that can inform a science-based policymaking on water management for this critically important watershed. If completed, this framework can be used elsewhere in Tennessee and the Southeastern United states to proactively manage water withdrawals in locations of high conservation priority and growing human populations.
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This is a comprehensive research program that is intended to provide guidance to natural resources agencies in TN tasked with the protection and use of its water resources, in particular, the Duck River, in response to increased demand for water withdrawal. It is intended as a multi-year, multi-step research program with individual research projects that, together, will provide this guidance.
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An analysis of habitat use and suitability of Abrams Creek for reintroduction of the Blotchside Logperch (Percina burtoni) to complement ongoing genetic studies
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January 2023
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The purpose of this proposed project is to provide guidance for the ongoing reintroduction of the Blotchside Logperch into Abrams Creek. Although within the species’ former range, isolation due to the Chilhowee Reservoir from source populations make it highly improbable Blotchside would independently recolonize Abrams Creek. Further, changes in habitat configurations since the 1950s may have altered the suitability of this system for logperch, highlighting the need for an assessment to insure enough adequate habitat is in Abrams Creek to sustain a logperch population and make ongoing reintroduction efforts worthwhile.
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The purpose of this proposed project is to provide guidance for the ongoing reintroduction of the Blotchside Logperch into Abrams Creek. Although within the species’ former range, isolation due to the Chilhowee Reservoir from source populations make it highly improbable Blotchside would independently recolonize Abrams Creek. Further, changes in habitat configurations since the 1950s may have altered the suitability of this system for logperch, highlighting the need for an assessment to insure enough adequate habitat is in Abrams Creek to sustain a logperch population and make ongoing reintroduction efforts worthwhile. This work complements ongoing work funded by the Tennessee Valley Authority investigating how to maintain genetically robust, viable, self-sustaining population.
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Creation of a Statewide Freshwater Mussel Database for the State of Tennessee
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January 2030
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This study represents the initiation project for the creation of a comprehensive freshwater mussel database for the state of Tennessee, which can not only serve the multiple agencies and stakeholders tasked with the management and conservation of the state’s biota, but also as the basis for multiple research and conservation initiatives (see attached). Our objective for this proposal is to compile freshwater mussel historic and current records from the Duck River Drainage, Tennessee and organize them into a concise, spatially explicit, expandable, and method-specific database, specifically using the McClung Museum database as a model and starting point. We will also organize the data in an expandable, attributable, spatial, and open-source format to improve user capacity and speed for analyzing trends of species distribution, richness, and abundance. We will produce not only the data outcomes below, but also an underlying structure, location, curation, presentation, and long-term plan for a living, statewide database that will be the core foundation of a long-term research program proposed by the Tennessee Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, with the goal of a long-term interactive database housed and maintained within the TN Tech Water Center (see letter of support attached).
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This study represents the initiation project for the creation of a comprehensive freshwater mussel database for the state of Tennessee, which can not only serve the multiple agencies and stakeholders tasked with the management and conservation of the state’s biota, but also as the basis for multiple research and conservation initiatives (see attached). Our objective for this proposal is to compile freshwater mussel historic and current records from the Duck River Drainage, Tennessee and organize them into a concise, spatially explicit, expandable, and method-specific database, specifically using the McClung Museum database as a model and starting point. We will also organize the data in an expandable, attributable, spatial, and open-source format to improve user capacity and speed for analyzing trends of species distribution, richness, and abundance. We will produce not only the data outcomes below, but also an underlying structure, location, curation, presentation, and long-term plan for a living, statewide database that will be the core foundation of a long-term research program proposed by the Tennessee Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, with the goal of a long-term interactive database housed and maintained within the TN Tech Water Center (see letter of support attached).
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A re-survey of the mussel fauna and a habitat assessment of the Wolf River, Tennessee
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January 2024
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The overarching goal of the proposed research is to determine the status of mussel populations and suitable habitat in the Wolf River, Tennessee.
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The overarching goal of the proposed research is to determine the status of mussel populations and suitable habitat in the Wolf River, Tennessee. The project is broken into two primary phases: the first phase is focused on repeating the mussel assemblage surveys conducted in the Wolf River in 2005-06 (Moles et al. 2007) to determine changes to the status of these populations in the last 15-16 years (Phase 1, funded, Fast Track FWS). The second phase is focused on habitat surveys of the system to identify likely threats to remaining mussel populations and opportunities for restoration in the system (this proposal)<b> </b><b><i>Project Deliverables</i></b><i>:</i>Updated information on the distribution of the mussel fauna of the Wolf River, TN, including 4 species of particular concern for the Fish and Wildlife Service. (Phase 1, Year 1)Where possible, information on the abundance, size frequency, and/or presence of recruitment for core areas of mussel abundance for all species in the Wolf River. (year 1-2)Identification of likely limiting factors for mussel concentrations in the Wolf River system. (Year 2-3)Identification of location and potential impact of threats to mussel assemblages in the Wolf River system. (Year 2-3)
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Assessment and Modeling of the Freshwater Mussel Distributions and Habitat Preferences in the Hatchie River, Tennessee
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January 2026
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We propose a three-year project to update freshwater mussel distributions in the Hatchie River and measure and model the physical habitat of the river in regards to its suitability for freshwater mussels. The results of this project may guide ongoing and future restorative efforts in other watersheds in WT for freshwater mussel conservation and reintroductions.
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We propose a three-year project to update freshwater mussel distributions in the Hatchie River and measure and model the physical habitat of the river in regards to its suitability for freshwater mussels. The results of this project may guide ongoing and future restorative efforts in other watersheds in WT for freshwater mussel conservation and reintroductions. Our specific objectives are as follows:Update the distribution of freshwater mussels in the Hatchie River drainage through field survey or directing surveys for collaborating partners.Describe hydrologic and geomorphic characteristics associated with observed and known mussel concentrations through physical habitat measurements and modeling using aerial imagery and remote sensing data.Investigate relationships between mussel presence and metrics used to determine the successfulness of restoration activities in WT.
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Update to Tennessee Status Assessments and Recovery Plans for Listed Mussel Species
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January 2025
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Research is designed to assist the Fish and Wildlife Service with their backlog of Status Assessments, Recovery Plans, and baseline information for species listed or proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act using the best available information, methodology, and scientific approaches.
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Research is designed to assist the Fish and Wildlife Service with their backlog of Status Assessments, Recovery Plans, and baseline information for species listed or proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act using the best available information, methodology, and scientific approaches.
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Environmental DNA Surveillance of Rare species
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January 2025
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The aim of the proposed project is to use environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance to monitor Little Chucky Creek and associated tributaries with similar habitat features within its known and former range for the presence of chucky madtom (a federally endangered catfish) known from only two systems, Little Chucky Creek and Dunn Creek.<br><br>While likely extirpated (doesn't exist in the wild) from Dunn Creek, the chucky madtom may still exist in a small stretch (3 km) of the Little Chucky Creek. However, given the rarity and cryptic behavior of this fish, surveillance with traditional methods (e.g., snorkeling or kick-seining) is time consuming, may yield inaccurate detection, or harm the species. <br><br>Environmental DNA may offer an alternative surveillance option for this small, cryptic, and extremely rare fish species. Environmental DNA surveillance works by collecting a water sample from targeted sites with no harm or harassment to the animal or habitat, and offers a less time-consuming and more sensitive surveillance method for rare and cryptic species.
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The Chucky Madtom (<i>Noturus crypticus</i>) is a federally endangered catfish known from only two systems, Little Chucky Creek and Dunn Creek. While likely extirpated from Dunn Creek, the Chucky Madtom may still exist in a small stretch (3 km) of the Little Chucky Creek. However, given the rarity and cryptic behavior of this fish, surveillance with traditional methods (e.g., snorkeling or kick-seining) is time consuming, may yield inaccurate detection, or harm the species. Environmental DNA may offer an alternative surveillance option for this small, cryptic, and extremely rare fish species. Environmental DNA surveillance works by collecting a water sample from targeted sites with no harm or harassment to the animal or habitat, and offers a less time-consuming and more sensitive surveillance method for rare and cryptic species.This method can be paired with targeted sampling in likely habitats based on historical information and habitat modeling intended to highlight similar habitats that may also contain the species to confirm its known distribution and discover other, undocumented populations. aim of the proposed project is to use environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance to monitor Little Chucky Creek and associated tributaries with similar habitat features within its known and former range for the presence of <i>Noturus crypticus</i>.Objectives:Develop a quantitative PCR assay(s) for use of eDNA surveillance on <i>N. crypticus. </i>Create sampling design aimed at surveying sites in the extant and historic distributionsCreate sampling design aimed at surveying sites along a seasonal gradient to determine optimized eDNA sampling windowCollect water and sediment/benthic samples to increase eDNA detection probabilityOur objectives aim to create an eDNA assay, sampling design, and sampling methods that allow resource agencies to rapidly and effectively survey for <i>N. crypticus</i> for current and future surveillance efforts. Sediment/benthic samples would allow us to determine a range of historic distributions given that benthic substrate can protect eDNA for months or years, which could help guide contemporary survey efforts. Water samples provide more contemporary signals of living or recently living individuals. Furthermore, collecting samples over a wide seasonal range will help encompass potential spawning season. Spawning events can greatly increase detection probability and conversely, eDNA surveillance may help determine important spawning timing and locations.
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Space Allocation in State Conservation Magazines
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August 2023
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State conservation agencies often publish magazines for the general public in which they discuss various topics and taxa important to hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and conservation. This project seeks to determine how much attention is given to specific topics and taxa in these magazines to see if certain topics or taxa receive greater attention than others. This collaborative undergraduate research project involving the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit will address this question and bring attention to topics or taxa that may be underrepresented to the public by state agencies.
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State conservation agencies often publish magazines for the general public in which they discuss various topics and taxa important to hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and conservation. This project seeks to determine how much attention is given to specific topics and taxa in these magazines to see if certain topics or taxa receive greater attention than others. This collaborative undergraduate research project involving the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit will address this question and bring attention to topics or taxa that may be underrepresented to the public by state agencies.
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Novel Sediment Compaction Sampling Methodology
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May 2023
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Compaction of bed sediments in streams can result in reduced habitat utility for benthic organisms such as fish, crayfish, and mussels. Currently, sediment compaction levels are often estimated using qualitative measures. A quantitative measurement method would allow researchers to more accurately assess bed compaction as an important component of benthic organism habitat. In this study we developed and tested a new method to reliably quantify sediment compaction. We anticipate that this new methodology will be adopted by scientists and managers to better understand aquatic habitats and benthic species. This project is a collaborative effort between the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit.
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Compaction of bed sediments in streams can result in reduced habitat utility for benthic organisms such as fish, crayfish, and mussels. Currently, sediment compaction levels are often estimated using qualitative measures. A quantitative measurement method would allow researchers to more accurately assess bed compaction as an important component of benthic organism habitat. In this study we developed and tested a new method to reliably quantify sediment compaction. We anticipate that this new methodology will be adopted by scientists and managers to better understand aquatic habitats and benthic species. This project is a collaborative effort between the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit.
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Distribution of Threatened Endemic Crayfishes of the St. Francis River Drainage, MO and Spread of the Invasive Woodland Crayfish
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June 2024
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The St. Francis River Crayfish (<i>Faxonius quadruncus</i>) and the Big Creek Crayfish (<i>Faxonius peruncus</i>) have been proposed for listing as federally threatened and a final listing rule formalizing the proposed status is expected during 2022. Both species are stream-dwelling crayfish endemic to portions of the upper St. Francis River drainage in Missouri and their primary threat is displacement by the invasive Woodland Crayfish (<i>Faxonius hylas</i>). We plan to sample over 100 locations throughout the upper St. Francis River drainage to determine the current distribution of all three species. Using those data, we will create a species distribution model to predict the probability of species presence in un-sampled stream segments. We will also intensively sample the leading edges of the invasion to estimate the spread of the invasive. Study results will provide current and comprehensive distributional records for the invasive and two native crayfishes proposed for federal listing, define the leading edges of the invasion in all known invaded streams, and produce more accurate estimates of invasion rates and native declines. This information is essential to recovery planning to identify potential refugia where natives occur and the invasive has not yet reached. This is a cooperative project between the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Missouri Department of Conservation, and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit.
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The St. Francis River Crayfish (<i>Faxonius quadruncus</i>) and the Big Creek Crayfish (<i>Faxonius peruncus</i>) have been proposed for listing as federally threatened and a final listing rule formalizing the proposed status is expected during 2022. Both species are stream-dwelling crayfish endemic to portions of the upper St. Francis River drainage in Missouri and their primary threat is displacement by the invasive Woodland Crayfish (<i>Faxonius hylas</i>). We plan to sample over 100 locations throughout the upper St. Francis River drainage to determine the current distribution of all three species. Using those data, we will create a species distribution model to predict the probability of species presence in un-sampled stream segments. We will also intensively sample the leading edges of the invasion to estimate the spread of the invasive. Study results will provide current and comprehensive distributional records for the invasive and two native crayfishes proposed for federal listing, define the leading edges of the invasion in all known invaded streams, and produce more accurate estimates of invasion rates and native declines. This information is essential to recovery planning to identify potential refugia where natives occur and the invasive has not yet reached. This is a cooperative project between the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Missouri Department of Conservation, and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit.
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Crayfish Movement Ecology
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December 2024
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Invasive crayfish are increasingly common around the world, including in Missouri where there are over 30 documented invasions. These invasions disrupt the functioning of native ecosystems, threaten native species, and have economic consequences. Despite their importance, we know little about how fast the invasions occur or about the movement ecology of crayfish. This project will use expertise from the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit to investigate movement capacity for multiple invasive crayfishes. Results from the the study will inform managers of how long they have to enact conservation measures before invasive species spread to new areas.
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Invasive crayfish are increasingly common around the world, including in Missouri where there are over 30 documented invasions. These invasions disrupt the functioning of native ecosystems, threaten native species, and have economic consequences. Despite their importance, we know little about how fast the invasions occur or about the movement ecology of crayfish. This project will use expertise from the Missouri Department of Conservation and the USGS Missouri Coop Unit to investigate movement capacity for multiple invasive crayfishes. Results from the the study will inform managers of how long they have to enact conservation measures before invasive species spread to new areas.
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Inventory of Freshwater Mussels at Ozark National Scenic Riverways
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December 2024
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Freshwater mussel populations have not been recently surveyed in the Current River and the National Park Service wishes to develop a standardized and repeatable survey methodology to assess species richness, habitat associations, and occupancy. This project will use spatially replicated sampling at numerous sites within the mainstem Current River to estimate the desired metrics. Results of the work will be used to inform park planning, assist with mussel recovery efforts, and will be employed in future surveys as a way to monitor the status of mussel populations through time.
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Freshwater mussel populations have not been recently surveyed in the Current River and the National Park Service wishes to develop a standardized and repeatable survey methodology to assess species richness, habitat associations, and occupancy. This project will use spatially replicated sampling at numerous sites within the mainstem Current River to estimate the desired metrics. Results of the work will be used to inform park planning, assist with mussel recovery efforts, and will be employed in future surveys as a way to monitor the status of mussel populations through time.
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Conservation and Management of At-Risk and Listed Species in Missouri
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December 2026
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is tasked with protecting Threatened, Endangered, or At-Risk species throughout the United States, which has over 1,600 plants and animal listed and another 500 that need protections. However, a challenge with managing these species is there is often limited information about their distribution and the biology, or the current and future threats are unknown. The primary objective of this project is to determine the life history and distribution of selected at-risk species, with additional emphasis on threats to their populations. Information from this study will be used to inform Species Status Assessments and recovery planning actions.
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is tasked with protecting Threatened, Endangered, or At-Risk species throughout the United States, which has over 1,600 plants and animal listed and another 500 that need protections. However, a challenge with managing these species is there is often limited information about their distribution and the biology, or the current and future threats are unknown. The primary objective of this project is to determine the life history and distribution of selected at-risk species, with additional emphasis on threats to their populations. Information from this study will be used to inform Species Status Assessments and recovery planning actions.
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Big Piney River Aquatic Organism Passage Assessment
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September 2027
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This project will assess the ability of aquatic organisms, including fish hosts of rare freshwater mussels, to move through an engineered bypass reach in the Big Piney River of Missouri. There is currently a fish passage barrier at the site in the form a water intake weir. We will use stationary passive integrated transponder antenna arrays to determine if focal species of fish and amphibians are able to successfully use the bypass in both upstream and downstream directions. Results of this work will inform local managers of potential barriers to aquatic organism movement, thus allowing them to take alternate measures if organism passage is not feasible given the installed design
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This project will assess the ability of aquatic organisms, including fish hosts of rare freshwater mussels, to move through an engineered bypass reach in the Big Piney River of Missouri. There is currently a fish passage barrier at the site in the form a water intake weir. We will use stationary passive integrated transponder antenna arrays to determine if focal species of fish and amphibians are able to successfully use the bypass in both upstream and downstream directions. Results of this work will inform local managers of potential barriers to aquatic organism movement, thus allowing them to take alternate measures if organism passage is not feasible given the installed design.
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Mule deer in changing British Columbia forests
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August 2024
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Humans have direct and indirect effects on wildlife behavior, habitat, and communities. The complexity of causal mechanisms that link humans to wildlife make it difficult to understand and predict effects of management and conservation actions. To make progress, we will couple large data sets with sophisticated statistical models. Data come from motion-sensing trail cameras (n = 250 sites) deployed from 2019–2022 across gradients of human disturbance, including logging, fires, road density, and human presence. We will develop structural equation models, generalized additive models, and mixed effects models to link image data to objectives. Our first objective is to assess the effects of human disturbance on mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>)<i> </i>daily activity patterns and quantify whether the response alters mule deer exposure to predator and competitor species. Our second objective is to quantify the cumulative effects of landscape disturbance and human presence on the occurrence of mule deer, including both direct and indirect effects. Our third objective is to quantify the influence of human disturbance on species richness in the Southern Interior British Columbia mammal community. This novel work will provide new insight into long-standing concerns about wildlife conservation and management in Southern Interior British Columbia.
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Humans have direct and indirect effects on wildlife behavior, habitat, and communities. The complexity of causal mechanisms that link humans to wildlife make it difficult to understand and predict effects of management and conservation actions. To make progress, we will couple large data sets with sophisticated statistical models. Data come from motion-sensing trail cameras (n = 250 sites) deployed from 2019–2022 across gradients of human disturbance, including logging, fires, road density, and human presence. We will develop structural equation models, generalized additive models, and mixed effects models to link image data to objectives. Our first objective is to assess the effects of human disturbance on mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>)<i> </i>daily activity patterns and quantify whether the response alters mule deer exposure to predator and competitor species. Our second objective is to quantify the cumulative effects of landscape disturbance and human presence on the occurrence of mule deer, including both direct and indirect effects. Our third objective is to quantify the influence of human disturbance on species richness in the Southern Interior British Columbia mammal community. This novel work will provide new insight into long-standing concerns about wildlife conservation and management in Southern Interior British Columbia.
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Development of a basis for allocation of fish production between management needs and double-crested cormorant predation within their nesting range
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September 2022
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Double-crested cormorants (DCCO) are a native waterbird that consume fish species that anglers prefer to catch (e.g., yellow perch) or that are prey for preferred fish. As populations of DCCO grow around the country, anglers have voiced concerns about these birds consuming too many fish and removing angling opportunity. The goal of this project is to provide decision support to the USFWS for allocating fish production in lake systems in the US between stakeholders (e.g., recreational fishers) and predators (i.e., DCCO). In an this project we are conducting a series of structured decision making workshops with biologists and managers around the region to determine objectives for DCCO control, creating quantitative models of fish and DCCO to predict the outcomes of management actions on each objective, and making tradeoffs among objectives.
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Double-crested cormorants (DCCO) are a native waterbird that consume fish species that anglers prefer to catch (e.g., yellow perch) or that are prey for preferred fish. As populations of DCCO grow around the country, anglers have voiced concerns about these birds consuming too many fish and removing angling opportunity. The goal of this project is to provide decision support to the USFWS for allocating fish production in lake systems in the US between stakeholders (e.g., recreational fishers) and predators (i.e., DCCO). In an this project we are conducting a series of structured decision making workshops with biologists and managers around the region to determine objectives for DCCO control, creating quantitative models of fish and DCCO to predict the outcomes of management actions on each objective, and making tradeoffs among objectives.
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Using stock assessment information to inform harvest policy in data-limited fisheries
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April 2023
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We are developing and demonstrating the capacity to guide discussions about assessment and management of data-limited fisheries in the Great Lakes, based on a tool named FishPath that has been developed by a team of international fisheries experts. We will apply FishPath to 2 selected case study fisheries, and engage managers and stakeholders in the FishPath process at 2 workshops, one in Canada and one in the US. At the end of the project academics, managers, and Great Lakes Fishery Commission staff will have been trained and gained practical experience with FishPath, for potential future application in the Great Lakes and beyond, and a select group of managers and stakeholders will be in a position to assess the tool’s potential for future use.
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We are developing and demonstrating the capacity to guide discussions about assessment and management of data-limited fisheries in the Great Lakes, based on a tool named FishPath that has been developed by a team of international fisheries experts. We will apply FishPath to 2 selected case study fisheries, and engage managers and stakeholders in the FishPath process at 2 workshops, one in Canada and one in the US. At the end of the project academics, managers, and Great Lakes Fishery Commission staff will have been trained and gained practical experience with FishPath, for potential future application in the Great Lakes and beyond, and a select group of managers and stakeholders will be in a position to assess the tool’s potential for future use.
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Midwest Tribal Wild Rice Coordination and Planning in Partnership with the Center for Cooperative Ecological Resilience
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March 2024
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We are collaborating with the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians' Wildlife Program and Michigan State University’s Center for Cooperative Ecological Resilience to provide coordination for the Midwest Tribal Wild Rice Collaborative, including hosting regular working group meetings, hosting annual in-person meetings, producing a regional wild rice stewardship plan, and providing training opportunities for the Ambient Water Quality Monitoring System. The final product of this planning process will be a framework for adaptive management of manoomin, or wild rice, throughout the midwest.
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We are collaborating with the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians' Wildlife Program and Michigan State University’s Center for Cooperative Ecological Resilience to provide coordination for the Midwest Tribal Wild Rice Collaborative, including hosting regular working group meetings, hosting annual in-person meetings, producing a regional wild rice stewardship plan, and providing training opportunities for the Ambient Water Quality Monitoring System. The final product of this planning process will be a framework for adaptive management of manoomin, or wild rice, throughout the midwest.
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Inter-agency planning for St. Marys River (MI) coastal wetland resiliency
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May 2025
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This project is in collaboration with the Salt Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Over the course of the project, we will convene a group of governmental agencies, stakeholders, community members, and decision analysis and technical experts to participate in a structured, facilitated process focused on prioritization of coastal wetlands for protection and restoration in the St. Marys River, Michigan and development of a comprehensive inter-agency resilience plan. The St. Marys River is the major connecting channel between Lakes Superior and Huron and is a critical waterway for Tribal and non-Tribal communities, wildlife (e.g., threatened waterbirds, marshbirds, and waterfowl), fisheries, wetlands, and international commercial freighter traffic and is subject to water level fluctuations related to lake level changes and storm events as well as chronic stressors resulting from the impacts of wakes created by intensive freighter traffic.
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This project is in collaboration with the Salt Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Over the course of the project, we will convene a group of governmental agencies, stakeholders, community members, and decision analysis and technical experts to participate in a structured, facilitated process focused on prioritization of coastal wetlands for protection and restoration in the St. Marys River, Michigan and development of a comprehensive inter-agency resilience plan. The St. Marys River is the major connecting channel between Lakes Superior and Huron and is a critical waterway for Tribal and non-Tribal communities, wildlife (e.g., threatened waterbirds, marshbirds, and waterfowl), fisheries, wetlands, and international commercial freighter traffic and is subject to water level fluctuations related to lake level changes and storm events as well as chronic stressors resulting from the impacts of wakes created by intensive freighter traffic.
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Developing a holistic approach to evaluate and communicate natural resource assets and management actions for Michigan’s large rivers: Focus on the Au Sable River
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March 2025
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Michigan's cold-water streams support important fisheries, including native brook trout. These streams are threatened by climate change and land-use change, which has led to increased concern by managers and stakeholders. We are implementing a decision analysis framework to convene agency biologists and managers, as well as stakeholders, in determining how to enhance resilience of these systems in the face of uncertainty about climate and land-use change. We are focusing on the Au Sable River as our case study for this work, and we hope to take the knowledge gained from this system to apply it to other streams in Michigan and beyond.
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Michigan's cold-water streams support important fisheries, including native brook trout. These streams are threatened by climate change and land-use change, which has led to increased concern by managers and stakeholders. We are implementing a decision analysis framework to convene agency biologists and managers, as well as stakeholders, in determining how to enhance resilience of these systems in the face of uncertainty about climate and land-use change. We are focusing on the Au Sable River as our case study for this work, and we hope to take the knowledge gained from this system to apply it to other streams in Michigan and beyond.
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OA 99: Avian community response and focal species survival to treatment of pinyon-juniper woodlands.
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April 2024
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Pinyon-juniper woodlands are an extensive and biologically important vegetation community across the western United States. A history of overgrazing and fire suppression has resulted in pinyon-juniper woodlands expanding beyond its historical distribution and encroaching into predominantly grassland vegetation communities. This has led to efforts to reduce pinyon-juniper as part of grassland restoration, but it also has been documented that pinyon-juniper thinning and removal reduces avian diversity and abundance. This is of concern due to pinyon-juniper having the highest diversity of birds, highest density of nesting birds, and the highest number of bird species throughout the year compared to other upland habitats in the west. Of special concern is how thinning practices may influence pinyon-juniper obligate species of concern, especially the Juniper Titmouse and the Pinyon Jay. We are working with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to address this issue in New Mexico. Specifically, we are assessing avian community structure in pinyon-juniper areas in thinned and un-thinned plots, and before and after thinning occurs, to acquire data that facilitates informed management decision analysis for landscape level management.
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Pinyon-juniper woodlands are an extensive and biologically important vegetation community across the western United States. A history of overgrazing and fire suppression has resulted in pinyon-juniper woodlands expanding beyond its historical distribution and encroaching into predominantly grassland vegetation communities. This has led to efforts to reduce pinyon-juniper as part of grassland restoration, but it also has been documented that pinyon-juniper thinning and removal reduces avian diversity and abundance. This is of concern due to pinyon-juniper having the highest diversity of birds, highest density of nesting birds, and the highest number of bird species throughout the year compared to other upland habitats in the west. Of special concern is how thinning practices may influence pinyon-juniper obligate species of concern, especially the Juniper Titmouse and the Pinyon Jay. We are working with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to address this issue in New Mexico. Specifically, we are assessing avian community structure in pinyon-juniper areas in thinned and un-thinned plots, and before and after thinning occurs, to acquire data that facilitates informed management decision analysis for landscape level management.
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Using flow-ecology relationships to inform the state water planning in South Carolina
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July 2024
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Appropriation of water resources will continually increase with the rapidly growing human population in South Carolina, increasing 11.3% from 2010 to 2019. Protecting instream flows for ecosystem services will be one of society’s great challenges this century. South Carolina is a water-rich state that will face unique challenges and opportunities as demand increases. Protecting instream flow from anthropogenic alterations and maintaining ecosystem services of water resources first requires an understanding of the relationship between aquatic organisms and instream flow. Accordingly, the goal of the proposed project is to identify key relationships between flow metrics and biotic response (flow-ecology relationships) in the State’s eight, major river basins and to use these relationships to predict the response of aquatic organisms to changes in streamflow and water withdrawals to inform river basin planning across the State.
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Appropriation of water resources will continually increase with the rapidly growing human population in South Carolina, increasing 11.3% from 2010 to 2019. Protecting instream flows for ecosystem services will be one of society’s great challenges this century. South Carolina is a water-rich state that will face unique challenges and opportunities as demand increases. Protecting instream flow from anthropogenic alterations and maintaining ecosystem services of water resources first requires an understanding of the relationship between aquatic organisms and instream flow. Accordingly, the goal of the proposed project is to identify key relationships between flow metrics and biotic response (flow-ecology relationships) in the State’s eight, major river basins and to use these relationships to predict the response of aquatic organisms to changes in streamflow and water withdrawals to inform river basin planning across the State. We will provide technical assistance to, and work in cooperation with, Clemson University, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, River Basin Councils, the River Basin Council Facilitator, and the River Basin Council Surface Water Technical Support Contractor. The flow-ecology relationships identified by this work will be incorporated in the river basin planning process.
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An Atlas and Registry for Seabird Colonies and Associated Habitats in the Northern Gulf of Mexico
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December 2024
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The coastal zone of the northern Gulf supports a diverse array of breeding nearshore seabirds most of which are colonial and nest on islands, marshes, mainland beaches, or human-made structures. Although nest-site fidelity is common among seabirds, the dynamic nature of the coastal zone in the northern Gulf can result in inter-annual shifts in the locations of colonies and in the existence, size, or stability of the islands or habitats that support them.<br><br>Overlaid on this dynamic system is a stakeholder network responsible for management of these species and their breeding habitats that includes natural resource agencies from five states, multiple federal agencies (e.g., USFWS, NPS, BLM, DOD, ACOE), and numerous private organizations (e.g., National Audubon Society, Nature Conservancy).<br><br>In an effort to coordinate and facilitate the management and conservation of avian taxa throughout this wide range of habitats and across this complex network of stakeholders in the northern Gulf, the Gulf of Mexico Avian Monitoring Network (GoMAMN) recently released strategic monitoring guidelines that highlighted the need for a spatial inventory of breeding sites of seabirds in the region.<br><br>The development of this Atlas will build from efforts by the Gulf Coast Joint Venture’s Bird Nesting Island Cooperative, and it’s “Atlas” Team. Stakeholders from each Gulf state and from regional NGOs will also be participating.<br><br>The Atlas will support inventory, monitoring, management, disaster response, and research. The atlas and register also will be valuable for marine spatial planning issues, including but not limited to sighting wind turbines, scheduling and siting sand-dredging and beach nourishment operations, managing recreation and access, and land/marine conservation planning.
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The coastal zone of the northern Gulf also supports a diverse array of breeding nearshore seabirds most of which are colonial and nest on islands, marshes, mainland beaches, or human-made structures. Although nest-site fidelity is common among seabirds, the dynamic nature of the coastal zone in the northern Gulf can result in inter-annual shifts in the locations of colonies and in the existence, size, or stability of the islands or habitats that support them. Overlaid on this dynamic system is a stakeholder network responsible for management of these species and their breeding habitats that includes natural resource agencies from five states, multiple federal agencies (e.g., USFWS, NPS, BLM, DOD, ACOE), and numerous private organizations (e.g., National Audubon Society, Nature Conservancy). In an effort to coordinate and facilitate the management and conservation of avian taxa throughout this wide range of habitats and across this complex network of stakeholders in the northern Gulf, the Gulf of Mexico Avian Monitoring Network (GoMAMN) recently released strategic monitoring guidelines that highlighted the need for a spatial inventory of breeding sites of seabirds in the region. The development of this Atlas will build from efforts by the Gulf Coast Joint Venture’s Bird Nesting Island Cooperative, and it’s “Atlas” Team. Stakeholders from each Gulf state and from regional NGOs will also be participating. The Atlas will support inventory, monitoring, management, disaster response, and research. The atlas and register also will be valuable for marine spatial planning issues, including but not limited to sighting wind turbines, scheduling and siting sand-dredging and beach nourishment operations, managing recreation and access, and land/marine conservation planning.
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Deer behavioral and population responses to fire, hunting, and predation
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December 2023
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As global changes continue to intensify in severity and frequency, it is essential to understand not just their effects on the environment, but also their broader effects on social-ecological systems. Using a range of tools from genetic analysis to stakeholder interviews, this project examines a diverse range of topics, from wildfire to human-wildlife conflict, from the lens of social-ecological change in the Anthropocene.
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As global changes continue to intensify in severity and frequency, it is essential to understand not just their effects on the environment, but also their broader effects on social-ecological systems. Using a range of tools from genetic analysis to stakeholder interviews, this project examines a diverse range of topics, from wildfire to human-wildlife conflict, from the lens of social-ecological change in the Anthropocene.
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Environmental Justice and Wildlife Conservation
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December 2028
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As global environmental changes continue to accelerate, research and practice in the field of <i>conservation biology</i> may be essential to help forestall precipitous declines in the earth’s ability to sustain a diversity of life. However, many conservation programs have faced scrutiny for the social injustices they create, especially within the paradigm of demarcating protected lands. Currently, a new conservation paradigm emphasizing landscapes shared by people and wildlife is emerging, and with it, an opportunity to ensure that justice for both human and beyond-human groups is given consideration. Here, we draw from theories in <i>environmental justice</i> to detail the many forms of justice at stake in these efforts. Our analysis shows that a pluralistic application of justice is required to ensure that new conservation practices do not produce and reproduce injustices for people. In addition, we show that the success of these emerging programs in meeting their conservation goals in fact depends on meaningfully addressing a range of justice concerns. By developing this framework, we also identify domains in which environmental justice scholarship can expand its scope. To this end, we introduce the novel concept of affective environmental justice, which describes the complex role of emotions as environmental harms, as disruptors of understanding other forms of justice, and as links between logics of oppression. Our framework offers a comprehensive resource to work through in planning and implementing wildlife management and recovery programs, and we conclude by describing the challenges and opportunities for further aligning conservation and environmental justice in research and practice.
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As global environmental changes continue to accelerate, research and practice in the field of <i>conservation biology</i> may be essential to help forestall precipitous declines in the earth’s ability to sustain a diversity of life. However, many conservation programs have faced scrutiny for the social injustices they create, especially within the paradigm of demarcating protected lands. Currently, a new conservation paradigm emphasizing landscapes shared by people and wildlife is emerging, and with it, an opportunity to ensure that justice for both human and beyond-human groups is given consideration. Here, we draw from theories in <i>environmental justice</i> to detail the many forms of justice at stake in these efforts. Our analysis shows that a pluralistic application of justice is required to ensure that new conservation practices do not produce and reproduce injustices for people. In addition, we show that the success of these emerging programs in meeting their conservation goals in fact depends on meaningfully addressing a range of justice concerns. By developing this framework, we also identify domains in which environmental justice scholarship can expand its scope. To this end, we introduce the novel concept of affective environmental justice, which describes the complex role of emotions as environmental harms, as disruptors of understanding other forms of justice, and as links between logics of oppression. Our framework offers a comprehensive resource to work through in planning and implementing wildlife management and recovery programs, and we conclude by describing the challenges and opportunities for further aligning conservation and environmental justice in research and practice.
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Interdisciplinary evaluation of grizzly bear reintroduction to California
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December 2024
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Large carnivore reintroductions play an increasingly large role in global conservation efforts, yet they have been at the center of social conflicts that remain poorly understand. Improving our understanding of public support and opposition for these programs, especially at the local scale, is essential to sound decision-making that supports long-term conservation successes. In this research, I employ multiple methods in a case study of brown bear ("grizzly bear") reintroductions under consideration in California. Using novel spatial methods, I reconsider notions of habitat suitability by incorporating multiple approaches for understanding human tolerance for reintroduction. Simultaneously, using social science methods, I am conducting a longitudinal study of local attitudes and values around reintroduction at sites throughout the state. The findings of this research will support a well informed public conversation and first-of-its-kind data on how attitudes evolve in time and space before - and potentially during and after - a reintroduction.
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Large carnivore reintroductions play an increasingly large role in global conservation efforts, yet they have been at the center of social conflicts that remain poorly understand. Improving our understanding of public support and opposition for these programs, especially at the local scale, is essential to sound decision-making that supports long-term conservation successes. In this research, I employ multiple methods in a case study of brown bear ("grizzly bear") reintroductions under consideration in California. Using novel spatial methods, I reconsider notions of habitat suitability by incorporating multiple approaches for understanding human tolerance for reintroduction. Simultaneously, using social science methods, I am conducting a longitudinal study of local attitudes and values around reintroduction at sites throughout the state. The findings of this research will support a well informed public conversation and first-of-its-kind data on how attitudes evolve in time and space before - and potentially during and after - a reintroduction.
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Integrating social tolerance into wolf habitat suitability models
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December 2024
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As gray wolves (<i>Canis lupus</i>) recolonize Washington state, they provoke strong, polarized responses among the state’s diverse human communities. While numerous studies have investigated the unique reaction of people to wolves and wolf management, managing wolves and human-wolf interactions remains challenging, and new methods in the environmental social sciences offer great promise in revealing patterns and supporting management. In this study, we will work with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife in three new methodological domains that have been urgently called for but rarely applied in the scientific literature. These domains are 1) longitudinal studies of attitudes and perspectives over time in an area experiencing recolonization; 2) mapping social phenomena to complement ecological understandings of habitat suitability and connectivity; and 3) including robust understandings of attitudes and values in science communication. Taken together, these methods can offer insights at local and broad scales and help identify systems under stress and prioritize management. The support provided by this funding will train a graduate student investigator in this important but understudied research domain and will directly lead to the production of a dissertation chapter.
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As gray wolves (<i>Canis lupus</i>) recolonize Washington state, they provoke strong, polarized responses among the state’s diverse human communities. While numerous studies have investigated the unique reaction of people to wolves and wolf management, managing wolves and human-wolf interactions remains challenging, and new methods in the environmental social sciences offer great promise in revealing patterns and supporting management. In this study, we will work with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife in three new methodological domains that have been urgently called for but rarely applied in the scientific literature. These domains are 1) longitudinal studies of attitudes and perspectives over time in an area experiencing recolonization; 2) mapping social phenomena to complement ecological understandings of habitat suitability and connectivity; and 3) including robust understandings of attitudes and values in science communication. Taken together, these methods can offer insights at local and broad scales and help identify systems under stress and prioritize management. The support provided by this funding will train a graduate student investigator in this important but understudied research domain and will directly lead to the production of a dissertation chapter.
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Proactive development of CWD outreach, education, and policy to guide disease management in Washington
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August 2026
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The mission of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is to preserve, protect, and perpetuate the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities. This mission represents the deeply held value of connection with the natural world that all Washingtonians share and forms the basis of the Department’s commitment to respond to significant risks to the health of the state’s native wildlife. In the case of disease risks to resident cervid species, the consequences of inaction could profoundly affect Washington’s vibrant hunting and outdoor recreation culture, as well as the economic benefits that support communities and conservation throughout the state.<br>Chronic wasting disease (CWD) represents a potentially significant long-term threat to Washington’s diverse native cervid species, one of which is federally protected (Columbian white-tailed deer), and to populations that are co-managed with Tribes (29 federally-recognized in Washington). Currently, the disease has been identified in 26 states and 4 Canadian provinces, with the closest positive 70 miles from Washington. A comprehensive CWD response must include biological and sociological components, ideally developed before the disease is detected. Proactive CWD management is paramount given the increasing evidence that long-term population declines are likely when outbreaks persist, further reducing hunting participation and diminishing public trust in management agencies. Unfortunately, Agency responses are almost always reactive, which further reduces support and subverts opportunities for disease elimination. Examples from other states indicate that a successful CWD response is predicated on stakeholder support for management actions. <b>Essentially, Agency success will increase if a strong human dimensions component is developed and incorporated <i>before </i>an outbreak</b>.<br>The WDFW developed a CWD management plan in 2021, and this proposed project will align with its first objective, “Proactively build trust with and support from the public and stakeholders regarding CWD management activities during each phase of the Plan.” Here, we will employ accepted social science methods to guide CWD-related decision-making, with an emphasis on education and outreach. We will conduct focus groups/interviews of key parties, including (but not limited to) Tribal representatives, agricultural producers, cervid hunting groups, agency personnel, and other influential individuals. Knowledge gained from focus groups/interviews will be used to develop a quantitative survey using a random sample of Washington hunters. The survey will address issues such as CWD knowledge, risk perceptions, behavior, support for regulatory alternatives (e.g., increased harvest, deer feeding bans, financial incentives), and agency trust. The survey items will provide information essential to selecting management actions that garner public support, as well as anticipating opposition.<br>Finally, and crucially, we will produce public-facing education and outreach materials based on the findings of our interviews and surveys. These brochures, videos, and presentations will reach a large portion of Washington’s cervid hunters and help WDFW effectively communicate about CWD and its management, minimizing opposition and building trust in the agency. Ultimately, this project outlines a cost-effective yet comprehensive approach to meeting Objective 5 of the USDA funding priorities, “Develop and/or deliver educational outreach materials or programs to wild cervid stakeholders or Tribal entities.”
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The mission of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is to preserve, protect, and perpetuate the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities. This mission represents the deeply held value of connection with the natural world that all Washingtonians share and forms the basis of the Department’s commitment to respond to significant risks to the health of the state’s native wildlife. In the case of disease risks to resident cervid species, the consequences of inaction could profoundly affect Washington’s vibrant hunting and outdoor recreation culture, as well as the economic benefits that support communities and conservation throughout the state.Chronic wasting disease (CWD) represents a potentially significant long-term threat to Washington’s diverse native cervid species, one of which is federally protected (Columbian white-tailed deer), and to populations that are co-managed with Tribes (29 federally-recognized in Washington). Currently, the disease has been identified in 26 states and 4 Canadian provinces, with the closest positive 70 miles from Washington. A comprehensive CWD response must include biological and sociological components, ideally developed before the disease is detected. Proactive CWD management is paramount given the increasing evidence that long-term population declines are likely when outbreaks persist, further reducing hunting participation and diminishing public trust in management agencies. Unfortunately, Agency responses are almost always reactive, which further reduces support and subverts opportunities for disease elimination. Examples from other states indicate that a successful CWD response is predicated on stakeholder support for management actions. <b>Essentially, Agency success will increase if a strong human dimensions component is developed and incorporated <i>before </i>an outbreak</b>.The WDFW developed a CWD management plan in 2021, and this proposed project will align with its first objective, “Proactively build trust with and support from the public and stakeholders regarding CWD management activities during each phase of the Plan.” Here, we will employ accepted social science methods to guide CWD-related decision-making, with an emphasis on education and outreach. We will conduct focus groups/interviews of key parties, including (but not limited to) Tribal representatives, agricultural producers, cervid hunting groups, agency personnel, and other influential individuals. Knowledge gained from focus groups/interviews will be used to develop a quantitative survey using a random sample of Washington hunters. The survey will address issues such as CWD knowledge, risk perceptions, behavior, support for regulatory alternatives (e.g., increased harvest, deer feeding bans, financial incentives), and agency trust. The survey items will provide information essential to selecting management actions that garner public support, as well as anticipating opposition.Finally, and crucially, we will produce public-facing education and outreach materials based on the findings of our interviews and surveys. These brochures, videos, and presentations will reach a large portion of Washington’s cervid hunters and help WDFW effectively communicate about CWD and its management, minimizing opposition and building trust in the agency. Ultimately, this project outlines a cost-effective yet comprehensive approach to meeting Objective 5 of the USDA funding priorities, “Develop and/or deliver educational outreach materials or programs to wild cervid stakeholders or Tribal entities.”
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Assessing Perceptions of Risk and Uncertainty during Adaptive Management: A Case Study of the Washington State Forest Practices Habitat Conservation Plan
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June 2023
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The adaptive management program (AMP) of the Washington Forest Practices HCP (FPHCP) is perhaps the largest nonfederal adaptive management program in the United States. Its successes and failures during its 20-year term can inform both local policy in Washington state as well as broader discussions about science-driven environmental management. This project will strive to understand how AMP participants, composed of scientists and policy makers (hereafter program participants), perceive the AMP; how the AMP addresses key scientific uncertainties, risks, goals, and performance targets identified by the AMP; the role of science in reducing uncertainty and resolving policy issues; and the ways these issues affect policy discussions among the participants. Using social science methods, including but not limited to semi-structured interviews and Q-methodological approaches, this project’s objectives are to better understand latent perspectives, conflicts, and shared values that can help improve our understanding of the AMP as well as adaptive management programs more broadly. The project will involve close collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, WDFW cooperators spearheading other aspects of the broader research program, and a postdoctoral researcher hired to achieve the objectives outlined below.<br><br>Work with the University of Washington (Dr. Alex McInturff, Assistant Unit Leader – Wildlife at the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit) is composed of five tasks. The collective goal of these tasks is to understand how program participant groups perceive the AMP’s scope, purpose, outcomes, and how these perceptions can affect policy decisions. The tasks described in more detail below include: i) Characterizing the program-participant groups’ satisfaction with ultimate policy outcomes based on new knowledge, i.e., were outcomes rationale, fair, transparent, decisive, true to Forests and Fish goals, and reasons for perceptions of these outcomes, ii) An exploration of hypotheses that could explain why program participants were unable to agree on rule change and dissatisfied with certain policy outcomes, and iii) How the AMP process could be improved to build common understanding and avoid future dissatisfaction. Ultimately, this research should improve the AMP, it will also serve as a major case study for understanding how participant perceptions influence environmental policy outcomes.<br><b><u> </u></b>
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The adaptive management program (AMP) of the Washington Forest Practices HCP (FPHCP) is perhaps the largest nonfederal adaptive management program in the United States. Its successes and failures during its 20-year term can inform both local policy in Washington state as well as broader discussions about science-driven environmental management. This project will strive to understand how AMP participants, composed of scientists and policy makers (hereafter program participants), perceive the AMP; how the AMP addresses key scientific uncertainties, risks, goals, and performance targets identified by the AMP; the role of science in reducing uncertainty and resolving policy issues; and the ways these issues affect policy discussions among the participants. Using social science methods, including but not limited to semi-structured interviews and Q-methodological approaches, this project’s objectives are to better understand latent perspectives, conflicts, and shared values that can help improve our understanding of the AMP as well as adaptive management programs more broadly. The project will involve close collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, WDFW cooperators spearheading other aspects of the broader research program, and a postdoctoral researcher hired to achieve the objectives outlined below. Work with the University of Washington (Dr. Alex McInturff, Assistant Unit Leader – Wildlife at the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit) is composed of five tasks. The collective goal of these tasks is to understand how program participant groups perceive the AMP’s scope, purpose, outcomes, and how these perceptions can affect policy decisions. The tasks described in more detail below include: i) Characterizing the program-participant groups’ satisfaction with ultimate policy outcomes based on new knowledge, i.e., were outcomes rationale, fair, transparent, decisive, true to Forests and Fish goals, and reasons for perceptions of these outcomes, ii) An exploration of hypotheses that could explain why program participants were unable to agree on rule change and dissatisfied with certain policy outcomes, and iii) How the AMP process could be improved to build common understanding and avoid future dissatisfaction. Ultimately, this research should improve the AMP, it will also serve as a major case study for understanding how participant perceptions influence environmental policy outcomes.<b><u> </u></b>
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Salmon habitat and shoreline vulnerability to recreational boat wakes in Big Lake, Alaska
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December 2025
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The Matanuska-Susitna Borough, in south-central Alaska, implements a successful cost share program to restore shorelines along freshwaters. However, landowners are concerned that an increase in recreational boating to create large wakes for jet skis and other watersports are undercutting these efforts, leading to increased erosion and potential sedimentation on vulnerable salmon habitat. This research aims to quantify the extent of this potential issue, both in terms of bank erosion and effects on salmon egg-laying habitat. It will inform potential future management decisions to limit ballast boat use for wake generation, and identify the shorelines and underwater habitats where implementing such actions might be most important for conservation. Key partners on the project include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, as well as the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation and private landowners who implement the cost-share program. Results of this research will yield a model of shoreline and salmon egg-laying habitat vulnerability. Presentations to stakeholders are also anticipated as part of the management and decision-making process.
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The Matanuska-Susitna Borough, in south-central Alaska, implements a successful cost share program to restore shorelines along freshwaters. However, landowners are concerned that an increase in recreational boating to create large wakes for jet skis and other watersports are undercutting these efforts, leading to increased erosion and potential sedimentation on vulnerable salmon habitat. This research aims to quantify the extent of this potential issue, both in terms of bank erosion and effects on salmon egg-laying habitat. It will inform potential future management decisions to limit ballast boat use for wake generation, and identify the shorelines and underwater habitats where implementing such actions might be most important for conservation. Key partners on the project include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, as well as the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation and private landowners who implement the cost-share program. Results of this research will yield a model of shoreline and salmon egg-laying habitat vulnerability. Presentations to stakeholders are also anticipated as part of the management and decision-making process.
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Development of an Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Framework for the ACEP-WRE Program
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February 2026
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This project is part of a national evaluation of the USDA NRCS ACEP Program, which enrolls wetlands in easements for conservation purposes.
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To be completed.
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From Beavers to Bats: Assessing the Importance of Beaver and Beaver-based Restoration to Riparian Communities in Prairie Systems
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December 2027
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We plan to use standardized sampling methods (e.g., night-time sticky traps and acoustic monitoring) to estimate (1) insect production, (2) bat foraging activity, and (3) species richness of bats at beaver sites, BDA sites, other available water bodies (human-made ponds/reservoirs/wetlands), as well as corresponding control stream sites. There has been very little work done on the ecosystem effects of beaver in Northern Plains systems, and even less on their potential benefits to non-aquatic species. Because bats in our region forage on flying invertebrates, they are closely associated with water. Water is scarce in the Northern Plains. To help land managers make effective resource decisions and to better understand the role of beaver in prairie systems, we plan to measure the role of natural and artificial beaver ponds (e.g., beaver dam analogs) in insect product and local bat activity.
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We plan to use standardized sampling methods (e.g., night-time sticky traps and acoustic monitoring) to estimate (1) insect production, (2) bat foraging activity, and (3) species richness of bats at beaver sites, BDA sites, other available water bodies (human-made ponds/reservoirs/wetlands), as well as corresponding control stream sites. There has been very little work done on the ecosystem effects of beaver in Northern Plains systems, and even less on their potential benefits to non-aquatic species. Because bats in our region forage on flying invertebrates, they are closely associated with water. Water is scarce in the Northern Plains. To help land managers make effective resource decisions and to better understand the role of beaver in prairie systems, we plan to measure the role of natural and artificial beaver ponds (e.g., beaver dam analogs) in insect product and local bat activity.
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Environmental interactions of floating solar with aquatic ecosystems
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July 2025
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<b>Environmental interactions of emerging energy technologies: </b>With funding<b> </b>from the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, we are studying ponds with and without floating solar arrays to elucidate interactions between floating solar and aquatic ecosystems (greenhouse gas emissions, water chemistry, aquatic plants and insects, phytoplankton, and microbial communities) in phases with varying percent cover of floating solar arrays.
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The study is aimed at elucidating ecological interactions with and mechanisms driving ecological responses to floating solar.
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At-Risk Species Conservation in the Connecticut River
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June 2025
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We are investigating ecology and conservation of anadromous river herring and freshwater mussels in the Connecticut River. There are two main components of the project:<br>1) Determine which species of freshwater mussels are using migratory fishes (blueback herring, alewife, American shad, striped bass) as hosts in the Connecticut River. Approaches will include examining temporal and spatial patterns in mussel glochidia infestation, using genetic or morphologic techniques to identify mussel species and develop an identification key, assessing ecological and anthropogenic (e.g. fish passage) ramifications of results, evaluating results in light of emerging benthic habitat and species distribution information, and determining conservation and management implications.<br>2) Develop a standardized approach for sub-sampling aged fish to re-examine scales and determine individual spawning history, and, using the standardized approach, examine existing scale samples (2013-2021) to assess the distribution of annual spawning history and glochidia infestation of the Connecticut River blueback herring population.<br>An understanding of how freshwater mussels use anadromous fish species in this large river will inform conservation and restoration of at-risk freshwater mussel species and river herring.
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Freshwater mussels require host fishes for completing their life cycle, and anadromous fishes that only spend a small portion of their lives in freshwater may be important for reproduction and dispersal of mussels. The Connecticut River harbors at-risk and endangered freshwater mussel and river herring species, and an understanding of the spatial and temporal dynamics of mussel glochidia on river herring is important for conservation of both taxonomic groups. This project is a collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and will inform river herring management and freshwater mussel restoration decisions in the Connecticut River.
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Advancing conservation and restoration of Brook Floater and associated freshwater mussels
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December 2024
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The Brook Floater (<i>Alasmidonta varicosa</i>) is a stream-dwelling freshwater mussel (Bivalvia, Unionoida), native to the Atlantic Slope of the United States and Canada and has experienced significant population declines throughout its range. The species’ distribution has been restricted to approximately 50% of its historic sites, and local population declines have been observed from Nova Scotia to Georgia. Identified threats include decreased habitat and water quality associated with shoreline and watershed development, habitat fragmentation caused by dams and stream crossings, and potential stochastic events associated with a changing climate. This species has been identified by Northeastern states as one of the most critically imperiled species in the region and was one of the few mussel species identified as “At-Risk” by the US Fish and Wildlife Service in 2021. A range wide, collaborative approach to conservation is needed to reverse the trend of habitat loss and reduce the risk of local and regional extirpations. A nationally competitive State Wildlife Grant involving four funded states was awarded to address this issue. To assist in the coordination of this project, and to serve as a technical lead on project activities, the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) has partnered with the Massachusetts Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (UMass).<br><br>To increase rangewide cooperative conservation efforts and strategic planning towards reducing further population losses and defining approaches for recovery of Brook Floater throughout the species’ range from Georgia to Nova Scotia. UMass will assist in mussel surveys and habitat assessments to evaluate responses to dam removals for mussel (SGCN) species of greatest conservation need, develop pre-stocking and post-stocking mussel monitoring and habitat assessment protocols to identify and track introduced Brook Floater populations, perform rapid mussel and habitat assessments in Massachusetts and Connecticut to update mussel SGCN distributions, develop multi-species occupancy and detection models using reach- and landscape- scale covariates, and help to maintain the Brook Floater Working Group. Our hope is that State partners will utilize approaches and information outcomes of this grant to assess and maintain populations of Brook Floater and other SGCN using an Adaptive Management Framework and prioritize site-specific actions that will prevent further declines of Brook Floater.
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The Brook Floater (<i>Alasmidonta varicosa</i>) is a stream-dwelling freshwater mussel (Bivalvia, Unionoida), native to the Atlantic Slope of the United States and Canada and has experienced significant population declines throughout its range. A range wide, collaborative approach to conservation is needed to reverse the trend of habitat loss and reduce the risk of local and regional extirpations. This project is part of a large research and management collaborative involving state agencies, federal agencies, academics, and consultants across the species' range from Georgia to Nova Scotia, which is funded by a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service multi-state competitive state wildlife grant. Our hope is that State partners will utilize approaches and information outcomes of this grant to assess and maintain populations of Brook Floater and other SGCN using an Adaptive Management Framework and prioritize site-specific actions that will prevent further declines of Brook Floater.
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Review of Georgia reservoir fish monitoring data and sampling procedures
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June 2024
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The Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has regularly sampled fish populations across Georgia’s freshwater systems for over 30 years. The data collected are maintained in the Division’s Long-Term Fish Monitoring Database. Attributes recorded in the database include sampling event details (location and date), methods (gear and effort), and metrics on individual fish (e.g., species, length, weight). We are working with the Division’s Fisheries Section to identify research questions that can be addressed by the data and conduct analyses relevant to those questions. We will make determinations about the utility of the data for assessing status and trends of populations or fish communities, increasing monitoring efficiency, and designing focused monitoring or research efforts.
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The Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has regularly sampled fish populations across Georgia’s freshwater systems for over 30 years. The data collected are maintained in the Division’s Long-Term Fish Monitoring Database. Attributes recorded in the database include sampling event details (location and date), methods (gear and effort), and metrics on individual fish (e.g., species, length, weight). We are working with the Division’s Fisheries Section to identify research questions that can be addressed by the data and conduct analyses relevant to those questions. We will make determinations about the utility of the data for assessing status and trends of populations or fish communities, increasing monitoring efficiency, and designing focused monitoring or research efforts.
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[GADNR] DMAP Camera Trap Image Classification
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August 2022
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The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) launched the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) in 2019 to provide site-specific deer management to private landowners in Georgia. As part of this effort, landowners enrolled in DMAP conduct camera trap surveys on their properties. Data from these surveys may prove valuable for improving site-specific deer management plans by providing an independent source of data that can be used alone or be integrated with other data sources (e.g., deer harvest data) to estimate parameters such as deer distribution and possibly abundance on private properties. Under this project, we began classifying camera images to determine the utility of camera data for estimating deer population parameters.
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The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) launched the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) in 2019 to provide site-specific deer management to private landowners in Georgia. As part of this effort, landowners enrolled in DMAP conduct camera trap surveys on their properties. Data from these surveys may prove valuable for improving site-specific deer management plans by providing an independent source of data that can be used alone or be integrated with other data sources (e.g., deer harvest data) to estimate parameters such as deer distribution and possibly abundance on private properties. Under this project, we began classifying camera images to determine the utility of camera data for estimating deer population parameters.
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[GADNR] Entry of Point-Count Data for Sandhill Restoration Project
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October 2022
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The Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the lead organization for planning, data collection, and analysis of data from bird monitoring point-count stations established on experimental sandhill restoration sites in the southeast. Data from the 2022 breeding season have now been collected and recorded on paper-based field forms. To analyze the information, the data must be transcribed and entered into a digital database. We are working with the Division’s Wildlife Conservation Section to digitally enter and organize these data.
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The Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the lead organization for planning, data collection, and analysis of data from bird monitoring point-count stations established on experimental sandhill restoration sites in the southeast. Data from the 2022 breeding season have now been collected and recorded on paper-based field forms. To analyze the information, the data must be transcribed and entered into a digital database. We are working with the Division’s Wildlife Conservation Section to digitally enter and organize these data.
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Development of point-of-use invasive species eDNA screening approaches
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September 2024
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Invasive species are ecologically damaging, economically costly, and increasingly prevalent throughout the world. Eradicating invasive species is notoriously difficult; therefore, preventing their introduction is critical to control their spread. Many invasive species originate via trade and commerce, such as through the ballast water of shipping vessels or through the food trade. Enabling invasive species surveillance at discrete points of entry is a promising avenue to detecting and preventing new invasions before they begin. Environmental (e)DNA provides a means of detecting species through their shed DNA that may be present in water, on various substrates, or in the air. Recently developed techniques have shown promise for point-of-use eDNA-based monitoring; however, these methods generally require sample processing techniques that are not feasible in most non-laboratory settings. Through this research project, we will improve the ease-of-use for these emerging eDNA screening approaches for invasive species monitoring using a two-step research process. First, we will perform a thorough literature review across diverse fields to identify alternative approaches that will streamline the method’s implementation. Secondly, we will work with end-user stakeholders to develop and validate newly developed techniques. With goals directed toward end-user ease-of-use, frequent communication with our research stakeholders throughout the lifespan of the project will be critical to its success. To that end, port and customs agency personnel will be engaged to share research plans and findings at various phases of the project, including during study design, following collection of initial results, and upon completion of the project. In addition to the newly developed methods this research will establish, deliverables will include presentations at professional conferences such as the North American Invasive Species Management Association’s annual meeting and publications in at least two peer-reviewed manuscripts that will focus on the literature review and the developed eDNA detection protocols.
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Invasive species are ecologically damaging, economically costly, and increasingly prevalent throughout the world. Eradicating invasive species is notoriously difficult; therefore, preventing their introduction is critical to control their spread. Many invasive species originate via trade and commerce, such as through the ballast water of shipping vessels or through the food trade. Enabling invasive species surveillance at discrete points of entry is a promising avenue to detecting and preventing new invasions before they begin. We are developing environmental DNA tools to enable point-of-entry screening of various substrates for numerous invasive species. This work in a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and the USGS Upper Midwest Science Center. The developed tools will allow port agents to detect invasive species before they enter the country, reducing the likelihood of establishing new invasive species.
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Impact of climate driven water-level fluctuations on recreational fisheries in the Northern Glaciated Plains
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September 2025
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The Northern Glaciated Plains (NGP) of the upper Midwest, USA is an area where fishing generates millions of dollars a year for local and state economies. Maintaining these resources requires angler-desired fish populations and angler access to fishing sites (boat ramps, public land access). Fisheries throughout the world are currently undergoing unprecedented changes due to water level fluctuations and altered water quality resulting from climate change. The consequences of climate change to NGP fisheries are unknown but pose an immediate challenge for resource managers as angler access and opportunities can be jeopardized when boat ramps become inaccessible due to changing water levels and altered water quality could negatively affect desired fish species. This project aims to provide fisheries managers with information about how climate change will alter the hydrology of NGP lakes and subsequent changes in fish communities, angler access, angler behavior, and angler expenditures. A hydrologic model will be used to predict changes in lake size and water quality based on weather conditions under climate change. This information will then be used to predict changes in fish communities, identify current angler access locations that are at risk of becoming inaccessible, determine whether anglers will change the amount of time they spend fishing, and how these changes ultimately affect the amount of money anglers spend. By understanding which lakes will undergo these changes, fisheries managers will be able to make proactive decisions at state or regional levels about infrastructure development (number and location of new boat ramps) and ecosystem management (species and locations of fish stocking) that will maintain angler satisfaction and the economic benefits of recreational fisheries.
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The Northern Glaciated Plains (NGP) of the upper Midwest, USA is an area where fishing generates millions of dollars a year for local and state economies. Maintaining these resources requires angler-desired fish populations and angler access to fishing sites (boat ramps, public land access). Fisheries throughout the world are currently undergoing unprecedented changes due to water level fluctuations and altered water quality resulting from climate change. The consequences of climate change to NGP fisheries are unknown but pose an immediate challenge for resource managers as angler access and opportunities can be jeopardized when boat ramps become inaccessible due to changing water levels and altered water quality could negatively affect desired fish species. This project aims to provide fisheries managers with information about how climate change will alter the hydrology of NGP lakes and subsequent changes in fish communities, angler access, angler behavior, and angler expenditures. A hydrologic model will be used to predict changes in lake size and water quality based on weather conditions under climate change. This information will then be used to predict changes in fish communities, identify current angler access locations that are at risk of becoming inaccessible, determine whether anglers will change the amount of time they spend fishing, and how these changes ultimately affect the amount of money anglers spend. By understanding which lakes will undergo these changes, fisheries managers will be able to make proactive decisions at state or regional levels about infrastructure development (number and location of new boat ramps) and ecosystem management (species and locations of fish stocking) that will maintain angler satisfaction and the economic benefits of recreational fisheries.
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Movement and distribution of Lake Sturgeon in the Coosa River
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May 2024
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Efforts to restore Lake Sturgeon to northwest Georgia began nearly 20 years ago. These large prehistoric fish were historically present in the Coosa River basin but were thought to be extirpated by the late 1970s due to overfishing and degraded water quality. Following improvements in water quality via the Clean Water Act of 1972, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources commenced a Lake Sturgeon reintroduction program that included annual stocking of fish with the goal of producing a self-sustaining population. The initial cohorts have theoretically reached sexual maturity. <br><br>The specific objective of this study is to determine seasonal habitat use and movement of Lake Sturgeon in the Coosa River basin. New information about reproductive status and behaviors, movement, and habitat use will aid in recovery efforts and inform managers on the status of the population.<br><br>This project will use radio telemetry to track Lake Sturgeon movements. We anticipate targeting 40 Lake Sturgeon for tagging.<br><b> </b>
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Efforts to restore Lake Sturgeon to northwest Georgia began nearly 20 years ago. These large prehistoric fish were historically present in the Coosa River basin but were thought to be extirpated by the late 1970s due to overfishing and degraded water quality. Following improvements in water quality via the Clean Water Act of 1972, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources commenced a Lake Sturgeon reintroduction program that included annual stocking of fish with the goal of producing a self-sustaining population. The initial cohorts have theoretically reached sexual maturity. The specific objective of this study is to determine seasonal habitat use and movement of Lake Sturgeon in the Coosa River basin. New information about reproductive status and behaviors, movement, and habitat use will aid in recovery efforts and inform managers on the status of the population.This project will use radio telemetry to track Lake Sturgeon movements. We anticipate targeting 40 Lake Sturgeon for tagging. <b> </b>
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Evaluation of Contaminant Stressors to Endangered and At-Risk Freshwater Mussel Health in the Conasauga River Basin
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May 2024
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The Conasauga River, in southeast Tennessee and northwest Georgia, is a biodiversity hotspot for fishes and freshwater mussels. Some of these species are rare, at-risk, or listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. Additionally, two species of mussels have been characterized as extinct from the basin. We propose a collaborative multiyear research study to evaluate the threat of contaminants on freshwater mussels in the Conasauga River. This study will examine the use of sediment and <i>in situ</i> water exposures to non-point source pollutants to further understand toxicant effects on juvenile freshwater mussels. We intend to collect information that will help the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Georgia Ecological Services Field Office prioritize conservation or management actions to support freshwater mussels. Further, data collected on the effects of contaminants on mussel growth and survival could be used in population models to evaluate population-level effects in contaminated vs non-contaminated sites. More broadly, such results may improve understanding of the potential effects of non-point-source pollution on freshwater mussels.
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The Conasauga River, in southeast Tennessee and northwest Georgia, is a biodiversity hotspot for fishes and freshwater mussels. Some of these species are rare, at-risk, or listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. Additionally, two species of mussels have been characterized as extinct from the basin. We propose a collaborative multiyear research study to evaluate the threat of contaminants on freshwater mussels in the Conasauga River. This study will examine the use of sediment and <i>in situ</i> water exposures to non-point source pollutants to further understand toxicant effects on juvenile freshwater mussels. We intend to collect information that will help the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Georgia Ecological Services Field Office prioritize conservation or management actions to support freshwater mussels. Further, data collected on the effects of contaminants on mussel growth and survival could be used in population models to evaluate population-level effects in contaminated vs non-contaminated sites. More broadly, such results may improve understanding of the potential effects of non-point-source pollution on freshwater mussels.
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Continuation of model development for Sicklefin Redhorse (GA DNR)
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June 2023
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Sex-specific population demographics has relevance for commercial and sport fishes, but relatively little is understood for native fishes of conservation concern. We are extending model development to add additional data and explore potential variability between males and females for a Georgia population of a rare fish species (<i>Moxostoma</i> sp.).
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We are extending model development to add additional data and explore potential variability (e.g., between males and females, over seasons) for estimating parameters for a rare fish species (<i>Moxostoma</i> sp.).
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Spot-tailed earless lizard status assessment
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December 2022
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We developed a population viability simulation model for the Spot-tailed earless lizard status assessment and listing decision.
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We developed a population viability simulation model for the Spot-tailed earless lizard status assessment and listing decision.
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Research and development of a suitable method for estimating weekly-stratified abundances of migrating juvenile salmonids in the absence of mark-recpature experiments
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January 2026
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This project will develop new methods for computing statistically valid abundance estimates without mark-recapture data. Innumerable fish monitoring projects rely upon mark-recapture data to track various population metrics, such as long-term trends in abundance, fish health, and outmigration timing. However, marking and recapturing fish is an invasive process that causes fish stress. Furthermore, this becomes more difficult as populations decline and become threatened and endangered. The objective of this study is to develop new methods for estimating abundances that does not depend on mark-recapture data. These methods must be biologically and technically sound, since these monitoring data are often subject to intense scrutiny and relied on in court cases.
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For several decades, the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has been working in close collaboration with tribal partners to run juvenile salmonid outmigration monitoring stations on the Klamath and Trinity rivers of north-western California. The monitoring stations employ the use of rotary screw traps that capture juvenile salmonids during their seasonal emigration from, or spatial redistribution within, the Klamath Basin. The various data products generated from this monitoring program are evaluated to track long-term trends in abundance, fish health, and outmigration timing, and provide vital real-time status data to inform water management decision making in a landscape with many interests competing for scare water resources. The annual outmigrant abundance estimates generated by this study have also been relied on extensively in various court documents and mandates (i.e. population-level prevalence of infection, 80% outmigration date predictor, etc.), particularly with regard to the Service’s use of the estimates in calculating population-level effects of disease and mortality of juvenile Chinook and Coho salmon in the Klamath River. In recent years, adult returns of fall-run Chinook Salmon have been so low that Iron Gate Hatchery has not been able to meet its annual egg take goal, resulting a dramatic reduction in hatchery production. Given this trend, it is becoming increasingly likely that there will not be a sufficient number of hatchery fish available to meet the defined mitigation goals of the hatchery program, as well as to provide hatchery fish for the mark-recapture experiments. Additionally, four dams on the Klamath River mainstem are slated for removal that is tentatively proposed to occur in January 2023. A hatchery associated with one of these dams will also be decommissioned. Hence, regardless of the abundance of returning adult salmon stocks in the near future, it is assured that there will not be a sufficient number of hatchery fish available to conduct the mark-recapture experiments needed to estimate annual abundance of outmigrating juvenile salmonids. Given the importance of the estimates generated from this monitoring program, it is essential that a new method for computing statistically valid abundance estimates be developed that is biologically and technically sound, cost efficient to implement, and externally peer reviewed. The objective of this study is to develop this new methodology for estimating abundances that does not depend on the availability of hatchery fish for mark-recapture experiments.
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Water Management to support endangered species in the ACF river basin
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September 2022
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Researchers use a science decision-making SDM approach to organize the decision making process and the relevant uncertainties to manage water flow in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) river basin to minimize harm to endangered species. The ACF basin includes Alabama, Florida, and Georgia and is a water resource for the Atlanta, Georgia and downstream cities.<br><br>In this project, researchers propose a re-evaluation of the ACF river basin species at risk adaptive management problem framing and management objectives. Researchers will use virtual meetings and an in-person workshops setting to clearly define the management problem and develop an objectives hierarchy that links what the management agencies fundamentally care about with means objectives and measurable attributes.<br><br>The purposes of this project are to clearly define the decision/management challenges and help to develop objectives for at-risk species in the ACF river basin. The team will also review existing monitoring plans to identify gaps between what is being measured in the field and measurable attributes of objectives to ensure monitoring efforts support future decision making.
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We used an SDM approach to organize the decision making process and the relevant uncertainties to manage water flow in the ACF to minimize harm to endangered species.
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Developing communities of expert practice (COEP) to apply intergenerational expertise to challenging aquatic conservation problems. PI: M. E, Mather, Collaborators: Sean Hitchman, Joseph Smith, Dan Shoup, Quinton Phelps, John Dettmers, Kristen Faull-Chestnut. 2021-2026.
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December 2025
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<i>Developing communities of expert practice (COEP) to apply intergenerational expertise to challenging aquatic conservation problems.</i> PI: M. E, Mather, Collaborators: Sean Hitchman, Joseph Smith, Dan Shoup, Quinton Phelps, John Dettmers, Kristen Faull-Chestnut. 2021-2022.<b> </b><br><br><i>A community of expert practice (COEP) is an organized network of intergenerational experts who agree to focus their combined skills across multiple projects to identify better “best” practices for important research and management issues. I have provided leadership to organize COEPs on: (1) appropriate spatial scales for field sampling, (2) research and management of prairie stream fish, (3) questions that guide effective research and conservation, and (4) digital conservation </i>
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<i>Developing communities of expert practice (COEP) to apply intergenerational expertise to challenging aquatic conservation problems.</i> PI: M. E, Mather, Collaborators: Sean Hitchman, Joseph Smith, Dan Shoup, Quinton Phelps, John Dettmers, Kristen Faull-Chestnut. 2021-2022.<b> </b><i>A community of expert practice (COEP) is an organized network of intergenerational experts who agree to focus their combined skills across multiple projects to identify better “best” practices for important research and management issues. I have provided leadership to organize COEPs on: (1) appropriate spatial scales for field sampling, (2) research and management of prairie stream fish, (3) questions that guide effective research and conservation, and (4) digital conservation </i>
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Native Fish Conservation Assessment in Desert Rivers of the IMW.
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January 2022
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Efficacy of Conservation Actions for Imperiled Colorado River Fishes in the Grand Canyon, Arizona
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April 2022
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Linking annual waterfowl productivity and Louisiana hunter-harvest to natal / molt origins using stable isotope ecology
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June 2026
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Identifying linkages between source origins (e.g. natal or molt origins) and wintering locations of waterfowl is important when developing sustainable harvest management strategies. However, traditional methods for determining migratory connectivity requires a capture-mark-recovery framework and the current distribution of capture locations may not be representative of the entire breeding range of a species due to limited accessibility. Our research compares estimates of harvest derivation from available banding data and stable isotope analyses of flight feathers in harvested blue-winged teal, green-winged teal, gadwall, mallard, northern pintail, and lesser scaup. This project is a collaboration of researchers from the Louisiana Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and University of Western Ontario and biologists with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Data acquired in this study will inform biologists on the representativeness of capture-mark-recovery methods to assess source-origins and migratory connectivity of managed waterfowl species. Further, this study may demonstrate the utility of incorporating source-origins estimates via stable isotope analyses into long-term monitoring programs of harvested waterfowl used to track hunter harvest and population productivity.
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While continental populations of waterfowl are still above the long-term average, mid-winter waterfowl counts in coastal Louisiana have been on a steady decline. Traditional methods of determining migratory connectivity to wintering grounds requires prior capture at an earlier life stage and accessible capture locations may not be representative of the entire breeding range of a species. For harvested waterfowl, understanding the strength of migratory connectivity and identifying links between source origins (e.g. natal or molt origins) are important when developing sustainable management strategies. Throughout the Mississippi Flyway, state agencies independently make decisions where to send agency dollars throughout the breeding grounds to support conservation / restoration efforts and decisions are largely informed through capture-mark-recovery techniques. This project is a collaboration of researchers from the Louisiana Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and University of Western Ontario and biologists with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to compare estimates of harvest derivation from available banding data and stable isotope analyses of flight feathers in harvested blue-winged teal, green-winged teal, gadwall, mallard, and lesser scaup. Data acquired in this study will inform biologists on the representativeness of capture-mark-recovery methods to assess source-origins and migratory connectivity of managed waterfowl species. Further, this study may demonstrate the utility of incorporating source-origins estimates via stable isotope analyses into long-term monitoring programs of harvested waterfowl used to track hunter harvest and population productivity.
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Using a Bayesian belief network to structure Species Status Assessments of data-deficient species: a case study with Piebald Madtom
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August 2026
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The southeastern US supports hundreds of freshwater mussels, fishes, and crayfishes, but many are likely at risk of imperilment because of rarity, limited distributions, and declining populations. Currently, there is no standardized quantitative framework for evaluating imperilment of data-deficient southeastern freshwater fishes. Therefore, we are using Piebald Madtom as a case study for implementing a Species Status Assessment using a Bayesian belief network and elicitation techniques from experts with US Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, US Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi State University, University of Tennessee at Martin, and Austin Peay State University. This research will be used to predict current and future condition of Piebald Madtom for this species’ Status Assessment under the Endangered Species Act.
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The southeastern US supports hundreds of freshwater mussels, fishes, and crayfishes, but many are likely at risk of imperilment because of rarity, limited distributions, and declining populations. Currently, there is no standardized quantitative framework for evaluating imperilment of data-deficient southeastern freshwater fishes. Therefore, we are using Piebald Madtom as a case study for implementing a Species Status Assessment using a Bayesian belief network and elicitation techniques from experts with US Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, US Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi State University, University of Tennessee at Martin, and Austin Peay State University. This research will be used to predict current and future condition of Piebald Madtom for this species’ Status Assessment under the Endangered Species Act.
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Big game migration mapping - developing methods for atypical migrants
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September 2027
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Many ungulates migrate to access key resources and avoid harsh weather. Despite the importance of ungulate migration for many ecosystems, the traditional migration corridors used by populations around the world face unprecedented change from the expanding footprint of human development. To conserve ungulate migration in the face of rapid environmental change and anthropogenic disturbance, an important first step is mapping the migration corridors. Currently, methodology exists to map corridors of migratory taxa with high fidelity to their migration routes and seasonal ranges (i.e., “typical migration”). However, when these approaches are applied to atypical migrants (i.e., wide-ranging but less predictable movement patterns), the results are often less than desirable – identifying areas that are too large for realistic landscape-scale prioritization or failing to capture key areas used outside the data collection window. The goal of this work is to derive generalizable and scalable methods to prioritize areas critical for maintaining connectivity for atypical migrants and to advance our ecological understanding of such wide-ranging movements. The project is a collaboration between researchers and State and Federal wildlife managers from across the western USA.
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Many ungulates migrate to access key resources and avoid harsh weather. Despite the importance of ungulate migration for many ecosystems, the traditional migration corridors used by populations around the world face unprecedented change from the expanding footprint of human development. To conserve ungulate migration in the face of rapid environmental change and anthropogenic disturbance, an important first step is mapping the migration corridors. Currently, methodology exists to map corridors of migratory taxa with high fidelity to their migration routes and seasonal ranges (i.e., “typical migration”). However, when these approaches are applied to atypical migrants (i.e., wide-ranging but less predictable movement patterns), the results are often less than desirable – identifying areas that are too large for realistic landscape-scale prioritization or failing to capture key areas used outside the data collection window. The goal of this work is to derive generalizable and scalable methods to prioritize areas critical for maintaining connectivity for atypical migrants and to advance our ecological understanding of such wide-ranging movements. The project is a collaboration between researchers and State and Federal wildlife managers from across the western USA.
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Using adaptive genetic variation to improve genetic stock assignment in Lake Erie
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September 2024
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Continued restoration of Lake Whitefish requires managers to evaluate differential spawning, recruitment, and harvest among stocks. Our project aims to use new genetic tools to quantify spawning stock structure and identify genetic variants that could be used to distinguish between closely related Lake Whitefish spawning aggregates in Lake Erie. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes Purdue University, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The ability to identify the natal origin of Lake Whitefish would enable mixed-stock assessments and analysis of straying behavior, facilitating targeted management strategies for specific spawning shoals.
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Continued restoration of Lake Whitefish requires managers to evaluate differential spawning, recruitment, and harvest among stocks. Our project aims to use new genetic tools to quantify spawning stock structure and identify genetic variants that could be used to distinguish between closely related Lake Whitefish spawning aggregates in Lake Erie. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes Purdue University, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The ability to identify the natal origin of Lake Whitefish would enable mixed-stock assessments and analysis of straying behavior, facilitating targeted management strategies for specific spawning shoals.
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Wildlife species data acquisition and analysis for understanding the influence of habitat degradation on sportfishes in SD impoundments
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June 2025
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Small impoundments (<150 acres) provide important angling opportunities in South Dakota. Although they represent a small amount of total surface water in the state, small impoundments receive relatively high angling pressure for species including bluegill, largemouth bass, and crappies. Management of these fishes, however, can be hindered by poor water quality and reduced habitat availability. Nutrient loading to the lake causes seasonal hypoxia that further alters prey composition and limits sportfish growth and abundance. The objective of this study is to evaluate reservoir renovation efforts designed to improve water quality and habitat conditions for sportfish.
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Small impoundments (<150 acres) provide important angling opportunities in South Dakota. Although they represent a small amount of total surface water in the state, small impoundments receive relatively high angling pressure for species including bluegill, largemouth bass, and crappies. Management of these fishes, however, can be hindered by poor water quality and reduced habitat availability. Nutrient loading to the lake causes seasonal hypoxia that further alters prey composition and limits sportfish growth and abundance. The objective of this study is to evaluate reservoir renovation efforts designed to improve water quality and habitat conditions for sportfish.
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Invasive carp population modeling: ecosystem impacts of control methods
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December 2025
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Ongoing invasive carp modeling work has produced population-level model (SEICarP) that has been used to inform fish removal programs in the Illinois River. SEICarP outputs have helped plan targeted harvest efforts in the Illinois River and identified possible barrier/deterrent locations. Although SEICarP is a powerful tool to evaluate management actions, it does not consider ecological impacts of invasive carp removal. SEICarp is currently being expanded to other river basins containing invasive carps. This study will combine SEICarP outcomes where management should occur with an ecological assessment of carp removal to better refine harvest levels and targets (e.g., size of fish targeted for removal) that produce the greatest possible ecological benefit.
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Ongoing invasive carp modeling work has produced population-level model (SEICarP) that has been used to inform fish removal programs in the Illinois River. SEICarP outputs have helped plan targeted harvest efforts in the Illinois River and identified possible barrier/deterrent locations. Although SEICarP is a powerful tool to evaluate management actions, it does not consider ecological impacts of invasive carp removal. SEICarp is currently being expanded to other river basins containing invasive carps. This study will combine SEICarP outcomes where management should occur with an ecological assessment of carp removal to better refine harvest levels and targets (e.g., size of fish targeted for removal) that produce the greatest possible ecological benefit.
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Modeling host behavior and environmental transmission of chronic wasting disease
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July 2027
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Chronic wasting disease (CWD) threatens cervids across North America and impacts human communities that hunt, raise, or subsist on deer. This emerging disease is caused by an infectious, misfolded protein, known as a prion, that can be transmitted directly between hosts or via environmental reservoirs. Understanding the principles of infectious disease transmission is crucial for identifying management tools for disease control and prevention. Elucidating such principles is challenging in host-pathogen systems when transmission occurs both directly and indirectly through the environment. Researchers must disentangle diverse multi-scale drivers, from fine-scale host interactions with pathogens in environmental reservoirs to large-scale movements of natural populations in heterogeneous landscapes. This project is a collaboration among researchers across multiple agencies and universities including USGS Cooperative Wildlife Research Units (Wisconsin and Montana), Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Montana, and Utah State University. This project proposes a deterministic model scaffold that formally incorporates heterogeneities in social behavior and movement with pathogen retention, transport, and infection potential in complex landscapes. A novel application of multi-scale homogenization to these models will analytically link fine-scale pathways of infection with large-scale population processes. These models will be developed using novel datasets based on new diagnostic techniques to determine the spatial extent and transmission potential of prions in the environment, and modern observation methods to give unprecedented insight into how host behavior and movement, in concert with individual interactions with environmental prion reservoirs, lead to disease transmission in complex environments. Predicted and forecasted prevalence surfaces, with measures of uncertainty, will guide future CWD prevention and control efforts.
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Chronic wasting disease (CWD) threatens cervids across North America and impacts human communities that hunt, raise, or subsist on deer. This emerging disease is caused by an infectious, misfolded protein, known as a prion, that can be transmitted directly between hosts or via environmental reservoirs. Understanding the principles of infectious disease transmission is crucial for identifying management tools for disease control and prevention. Elucidating such principles is challenging in host-pathogen systems when transmission occurs both directly and indirectly through the environment. Researchers must disentangle diverse multi-scale drivers, from fine-scale host interactions with pathogens in environmental reservoirs to large-scale movements of natural populations in heterogeneous landscapes. This project is a collaboration among researchers across multiple agencies and universities including USGS Cooperative Wildlife Research Units (Wisconsin and Montana), Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Montana, and Utah State University. This project proposes a deterministic model scaffold that formally incorporates heterogeneities in social behavior and movement with pathogen retention, transport, and infection potential in complex landscapes. A novel application of multi-scale homogenization to these models will analytically link fine-scale pathways of infection with large-scale population processes. These models will be developed using novel datasets based on new diagnostic techniques to determine the spatial extent and transmission potential of prions in the environment, and modern observation methods to give unprecedented insight into how host behavior and movement, in concert with individual interactions with environmental prion reservoirs, lead to disease transmission in complex environments. Predicted and forecasted prevalence surfaces, with measures of uncertainty, will guide future CWD prevention and control efforts.
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Development of New Generation ‘Mixture-Aware’ Stock Analysis Models Based on Catch-at-Age Data for Lake Whitefish in Lake Michigan
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December 2023
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Statistical catch-at-age (SCAA) models are used across the Great Lakes to assess lake whitefish stocks and harvest levels. Unless auxiliary data (e.g., tag-recovery, genetic) are included, SCAA models only estimate a single recruitment time-series that represents the aggregation of all stocks contributing individuals to the modeled harvest region, limiting the model’s ability to assess recruitment trends and other dynamic rates for individual stocks. Given frequent occurrence of lake whitefish mixed-stock fisheries, the ability to use SCAA models to track dynamics of individual stocks based on mixed-stock harvests would be valuable for management purposes. Genetic advances have reduced the costs of large-scale mixed stock analyses (MSAs) while increasing discriminatory power, generating data that could be easily incorporated in SCAA models to account for stock-specific dynamics. We are using an MSA based on genomic data to inform an empirical evaluation of the effects and feasibility of integrating stock-specific harvest contributions into lake whitefish SCAA models. This project is a collaboration between the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, NOAA, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan State University, and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. The developed models could serve as the basis for a new generation of 'mixture-aware' statistical catch-at-age models that produce more accurate estimates of stock-specific recruitment than current approaches.
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Statistical catch-at-age (SCAA) models are used across the Great Lakes to assess lake whitefish stocks and harvest levels. Unless auxiliary data (e.g., tag-recovery, genetic) are included, SCAA models only estimate a single recruitment time-series that represents the aggregation of all stocks contributing individuals to the modeled harvest region, limiting the model’s ability to assess recruitment trends and other dynamic rates for individual stocks. Given frequent occurrence of lake whitefish mixed-stock fisheries, the ability to use SCAA models to track dynamics of individual stocks based on mixed-stock harvests would be valuable for management purposes. Genetic advances have reduced the costs of large-scale mixed stock analyses (MSAs) while increasing discriminatory power, generating data that could be easily incorporated in SCAA models to account for stock-specific dynamics. We are using an MSA based on genomic data to inform an empirical evaluation of the effects and feasibility of integrating stock-specific harvest contributions into lake whitefish SCAA models. This project is a collaboration between the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, NOAA, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan State University, and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. The developed models could serve as the basis for a new generation of 'mixture-aware' statistical catch-at-age models that produce more accurate estimates of stock-specific recruitment than current approaches.
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Advancing broodstock selection to optimize brook trout stocking in Wisconsin
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December 2023
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Conservation agencies often stocks hatchery-raised trout to restore or rehabilitate wild trout fisheries and to support put-and-take fisheries. Agencies are increasingly concerned that domestic strains of hatchery-reared trout may exhibited poor post-stocking survival and fail to successfully reproduce. We are experimentally evaluating that concern by quantifying relative reproductive success of domestic brook trout and those with wild parents that were stocked into a stream that previously contained no brook trout. Additionally, we are conducting a broad-scale survey of over 60 brook trout populations to identify those that could serve as suitable broodstock sources based on their genetic characteristics. This project is a collaboration between the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Our research results may help inform brook trout propagation strategies to better achieve conservation, restoration, and recreational fishery goals.
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Conservation agencies often stocks hatchery-raised trout to restore or rehabilitate wild trout fisheries and to support put-and-take fisheries. Agencies are increasingly concerned that domestic strains of hatchery-reared trout may exhibited poor post-stocking survival and fail to successfully reproduce. We are experimentally evaluating that concern by quantifying relative reproductive success of domestic brook trout and those with wild parents that were stocked into a stream that previously contained no brook trout. Additionally, we are conducting a broad-scale survey of over 60 brook trout populations to identify those that could serve as suitable broodstock sources based on their genetic characteristics. This project is a collaboration between the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Our research results may help inform brook trout propagation strategies to better achieve conservation, restoration, and recreational fishery goals.
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Evaluating Potential Factors Limiting Lake Sturgeon Reproductive Success in the Upper Fox River
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December 2023
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The Lake Winnebago System (LWS) in east-central Wisconsin supports one of the largest lake sturgeon populations in the world and the population supports a socially- and economically-important winter spear fishery that is closely managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). Lake sturgeon spawn at many sites within the LWS, and many fish make extensive spawning migrations into the Fox and Wolf Rivers and their tributaries. The contribution of different spawning sites to the overall lake sturgeon population is unknown and this information is critical to developing management strategies. Ongoing research is helping to address this need. As part of this ongoing research, sampling has demonstrated that larval lake sturgeon successfully hatch at several known spawning sites in the Wolf, Little Wolf, and Embarrass rivers. However, in two years of sampling, no lake sturgeon larvae were captured at the Princeton spawning site on the upper Fox Rive despite spawning activity being observed in both years. Determining what factors are limiting successful spawning of lake sturgeon in the Fox River could help guide efforts to increase recruitment and may help in determining whether direct habitat improvement may be beneficial or if changes at the watershed level would be required to overcome these limiting factors. We hypothesize that siltation rates and periphyton growth may be two factors that are primarily limiting successful hatching of lake sturgeon in the Fox River. Additionally, potential differences in abundance of egg and larval predators at spawning sites could affect reproductive success.
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The Lake Winnebago System (LWS) in east-central Wisconsin supports one of the largest lake sturgeon populations in the world and the population supports a socially- and economically-important winter spear fishery. The contribution of different spawning sites to the overall lake sturgeon population in LWS is unknown and this information is critical to developing management strategies. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Aquatic Biomonitoring Lab and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Determining what factors are limiting successful spawning of lake sturgeon in the Fox River could help guide efforts to increase recruitment and may help in determining whether direct habitat improvement may be beneficial or if changes at the watershed level would be required to overcome these limiting factors.
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Understanding smallmouth bass recruitment in relation to nest fishing along Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula
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October 2024
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Smallmouth bass support important fisheries along Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula, but recent declines in catch rates for smallmouth bass ≥ 18 inches have prompted concerns among stakeholders. Determining reasons for declining catch rates is difficult because the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources lacks a method for indexing smallmouth bass recruitment before bass enter the fishery at ages 3 and 4. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Our research will help fishery managers determine a sampling method to index recruitment before smallmouth bass enter the fishery and address concerns regarding the effects of nest fishing on recruitment.
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Smallmouth bass support important fisheries along Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula, but recent declines in catch rates for smallmouth bass ≥ 18 inches have prompted concerns among stakeholders. Determining reasons for declining catch rates is difficult because the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources lacks a method for indexing smallmouth bass recruitment before bass enter the fishery at ages 3 and 4. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Our research will help fishery managers determine a sampling method to index recruitment before smallmouth bass enter the fishery and address concerns regarding the effects of nest fishing on recruitment.
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American bullfrog control to promote Chiricahua leopard frog conservation in southeast Arizona
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December 2027
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American bullfrogs are an invasive non-native species in Arizona and have contributed to the declines of many native aquatic species including the federally threatened Chiricahua leopard frog and northern Mexican gartersnake. The high reproductive output and dispersal potential of bullfrogs makes landscape-scale eradication and control logistically challenging. Nevertheless, previous management efforts have successfully eradicated bullfrogs in several areas of southeast Arizona which has greatly facilitated increases in Chiricahua leopard frog distribution and abundance. These bullfrog-free regions are maintained by intensively monitoring adjacent buffer zones where any immigrating bullfrogs are immediately removed. This project will preserve these conservation gains by continuing to monitor these buffer zones and remove any detected bullfrogs. We also monitor Chiricahua leopard frog metapopulations and assist with Chiricahua leopard frog translocations. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Arizona, Arizona Game and Fish Department, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. We will use data collected during these management efforts to provide information to better guide bullfrog control and Chiricahua leopard frog recovery.
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American bullfrogs are an invasive non-native species in Arizona and have contributed to the declines of many native aquatic species including the federally threatened Chiricahua leopard frog and northern Mexican gartersnake. The high reproductive output and dispersal potential of bullfrogs makes landscape-scale eradication and control logistically challenging. Nevertheless, previous management efforts have successfully eradicated bullfrogs in several areas of southeast Arizona which has greatly facilitated increases in Chiricahua leopard frog distribution and abundance. These bullfrog-free regions are maintained by intensively monitoring adjacent buffer zones where any immigrating bullfrogs are immediately removed. This project will preserve these conservation gains by continuing to monitor these buffer zones and Chiricahua leopard frog metapopulations. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Arizona, Arizona Game and Fish Department, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. We are in the process of developing concurrent research projects that will provide information to better guide bullfrog control and Chiricahua leopard frog recovery.
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Walleye fisheries bright spots in a changing climate
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December 2026
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Habitat loss, pollution, species introductions, and overfishing have impacted inland fisheries for decades. The impact of climate change threatens to compound these other factors. Our proposed work focuses on walleye fisheries of inland lakes of the Upper Great Lakes region, which have been declining since the early 2000s. Rather than the usual focus on understanding walleye population declines, our research emphasizes ‘bright spots’ - fisheries success stories. We seek to understand the drivers associated with fisheries that perform far better than expectations (‘bright’ fisheries). We will combine a suite of different approaches to provide new insights into walleye fishery bright spots: an ongoing whole-lake experimental removal of basses and sunfishes, observational studies of thermal-optical habitat use, a synthesis of how walleye fisheries responded to management restoration efforts, and a statistical analysis aimed at detecting walleye fishery bright spots. Members of the research team will work in partnership with state (MI, MN, WI) and tribal (GLIFWIC) biologists. Combining the results of these multiple approaches will yield new insights in what makes for a successful walleye fishery, and will generate knowledge that will inform climate-smart fisheries management given that already-stressed fisheries are increasingly subject to a rapidly changing climate.
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Habitat loss, pollution, species introductions, and overfishing have impacted inland fisheries for decades. The impact of climate change threatens to compound these factors. We seek to understand the drivers associated with fisheries that perform far better than expectations (‘bright’ fisheries). We will combine a suite of different approaches to provide new insights into walleye fishery bright spots: an ongoing whole-lake experimental removal of basses and sunfishes, observational studies of thermal-optical habitat use, a synthesis of how walleye fisheries responded to management restoration efforts, and a statistical analysis aimed at detecting walleye fishery bright spots. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Center for Limnology, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the Climate Adaptation Science Center.
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Assessing threats to Cascade red foxes in Washington
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September 2025
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The Cascade red fox (CRF) is one of the rarest and most genetically distinct carnivores in North America. Today, CRF appear to be absent from the North Cascades and are found primarily in Washington’s South Cascades including Mount Rainier National Park (MORA) and surrounding wilderness. A lack of information about threats to CRF, and the lack of a process for identifying and evaluating potential conservation actions, is complicating efforts to conserve this state-endangerd species. In this collaborative effort with partners including the National Park Service and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, we are combining existing data and new radio-tracking data to understand effects of threats on fox movements and demography. Based on results, we will engage partners in a decision-making process to identify and evaluate management actions. This work will inform ongoing conservation of CRF throughout their range in Washington, including development of a recovery plan for CRF in Washington.
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The Cascade red fox (CRF) is one of the rarest and most genetically distinct carnivores in North America. Today, CRF appear to be absent from the North Cascades and are found primarily in Washington’s South Cascades including Mount Rainier National Park (MORA) and surrounding wilderness. A lack of information about threats to the CRF, a candidate for listing in Washington, is complicating efforts to conserve it. In this collaborative effort with partners including the National Park Service and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, we are using a combination of existing scat and camera trap sampling, radio-tagging foxes, and interviews, to: 1) Develop estimates of density and survival of CRF in MORA and the surrounding area, and evaluate the effect of spatial covariates, including those related to threats, on density and survival, 2) Understand how coyotes influence CRF habitat use in MORA and the surrounding area, and 3) Use Indigenous and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) to understand pre-colonization versus contemporary coyote distribution in the southern Washington Cascades. This work will inform ongoing conservation of CRF throughout their range in Washington.
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Optimizing sampling efforts for estimating urban and rural coyote density and determining coyote diet using a noninvasive framework
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March 2022
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Coyotes (<i>Canis latrans</i>) in North America are supreme generalists and have readily colonized urban landscapes (Gehrt et al. 2009), including those in Florida. We will utilize a noninvasive approach to fill several knowledge gaps for coyotes in Florida. Our overall goals are to identify the most efficient (i.e. minimal cost per successful sample) and robust (i.e., adequate sampling effort) spatio-temporal design for future capture–recapture monitoring efforts through determination of scat accumulation rates, an understanding of DNA degradation rates, and estimates of area to sample. A secondary objective is to examine coyote diet using a traditional morphometric approach and noninvasive scat DNA sampling.
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Coyotes (<i>Canis latrans</i>) in North America are supreme generalists and have readily colonized urban landscapes (Gehrt et al. 2009), including those in Florida. We will utilize a noninvasive approach to fill several knowledge gaps for coyotes in Florida. Our overall goals are to identify the most efficient (i.e. minimal cost per successful sample) and robust (i.e., adequate sampling effort) spatio-temporal design for future capture–recapture monitoring efforts through determination of scat accumulation rates, an understanding of DNA degradation rates, and estimates of area to sample. A secondary objective is to examine coyote diet using a traditional morphometric approach and noninvasive scat DNA sampling.
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Assessing threats to critical seabird foraging habitat in the Salish Sea
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September 2024
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Seabirds are recognized as critical indicators of oceanic conditions. However, in the Salish Sea, increasing threats to seabird foraging habitat are not well understood in terms of their potential effects on seabird populations. A better understanding of threats to seabird foraging habitat could guide regional efforts to conserve these habitats. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple organizations, including US Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and University of Washington. We are developing a model to understand foraging habitat selection by Pigeon Guillemots and Rhinoceros Auklets nesting at Protection Island, mapping critical foraging habitat for these species, and developing a model linking breeding outcomes with foraging conditions.
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Seabirds are recognized as critical indicators of oceanic conditions. However, in the Salish Sea, increasing threats to seabird foraging habitat are not well understood in terms of their potential effects on seabird populations. A better understanding of threats to seabird foraging habitat could guide regional efforts to conserve these habitats. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple organizations, including US Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and University of Washington. We are developing a model to understand foraging habitat selection by Pigeon Guillemots and Rhinoceros Auklets nesting at Protection Island, mapping critical foraging habitat for these species, and developing a model linking breeding outcomes with foraging conditions.
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Maximizing the value of Salish Sea aerial surveys for sea duck management
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June 2024
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Many sea duck populations are in decline, and the Salish Sea - as one of the main North American overwintering sites for sea ducks - is critical to their conservation. Salish Sea data have the potential to greatly improve our understanding of factors driving sea duck populations both locally and range-wide. This project is a collaboration with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. We are developing a model for nearly 20 years of aerial survey data on sea ducks in the Salish Sea, to better understand factors driving both their annual growth and their distribution within the Salish Sea.
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Many sea duck populations are in decline, and the Salish Sea - as one of the main North American overwintering sites for sea ducks - is critical to their conservation. Salish Sea data have the potential to greatly improve our understanding of factors driving sea duck populations both locally and range-wide. This project is a collaboration with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. We are developing a model for nearly 20 years of aerial survey data on sea ducks in the Salish Sea, to better understand factors driving both their annual growth and their distribution within the Salish Sea.
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Factors Influencing Detection and Occurrence of Plains Spotted Skunks in Oklahoma
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December 2025
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Spotted skunks (<i>Spilogale</i> spp.) were historically widespread across much of North America, but long-term harvest trends and anecdotal evidence suggested notable population declines, leading to a petition to list the plains spotted skunk (<i>S. interrupta</i>) under the Endangered Species Act. Although the plains spotted skunk was determined to be “not warranted” for protection, information regarding the distribution and ecology of plains spotted skunks is lacking across much of their distribution. Plains spotted skunks are rare and elusive, making them difficult to monitor. Cameras have become the predominant monitoring approach for spotted skunks, but low detection rates have limited success of monitoring programs. Consequently, we initiated a project with a robust study design to assess camera-based sampling strategies for plains spotted skunk and determine factors influencing spotted skunk occurrence. By addressing both detection and occurrence, this project will inform future monitoring strategies and management actions for plains spotted skunks.
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The plains spotted skunk, a subspecies of the eastern spotted skunk, was petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act and a review of the subspecies’ status is currently being conducted. To aid managers, fill key knowledge gaps, and decrease the likelihood of the plains spotted skunk being listed, this project will use camera traps, a study design based in sampling theory, and occupancy modeling approaches to (1) characterize camera-based plains spotted skunk detection and identify optimal sampling intensities, (2) estimate plains spotted skunk occupancy, and (3) identify environmental factors associated with plains spotted skunk space use. Information gained will be essential to enhancing conservation efforts for plains spotted skunks in Oklahoma and more broadly.
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Assessment of Prairie Gray Fox Population Distribution, Dynamics, and Genetics in Oklahoma
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June 2027
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The prairie gray fox (<i>Urocyon cinereoargenteus ocythous</i>) was petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act due to concerns over perceived declines in abundance and distribution, and the federal status review has requested information on (1) habitat use and distribution, (2) population trends, (3) genetics, and (4) the impacts of coyotes (<i>Canis latrans</i>) and bobcats (<i>Lynx rufus</i>). To aid managers, inform the status review, and decrease the likelihood of the prairie gray fox being listed, we will combine camera trapping and two methods of genetic sampling (i.e., trapper-harvested and fecal DNA samples) to conduct the most comprehensive study to date on the status and ecology of the prairie gray fox. Camera trapping within the primary distribution of prairie gray foxes in Oklahoma will be analyzed with multi-season and multi-species occupancy models to evaluate gray fox distribution and relative abundance, population trend, factors influencing gray fox space use, and the influence of intraguild predators. Genetic sampling will be used to evaluate genetic structure, genetic diversity and sex ratios, and effective population size (<i>N<sub>e</sub></i>) of prairie gray foxes in Oklahoma.
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The prairie gray fox (<i>Urocyon cinereoargenteus ocythous</i>) was petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act due to concerns over perceived declines in abundance and distribution, and the federal status review has requested information on (1) habitat use and distribution, (2) population trends, (3) genetics, and (4) the impacts of coyotes (<i>Canis latrans</i>) and bobcats (<i>Lynx rufus</i>). To aid managers, inform the status review, and decrease the likelihood of the prairie gray fox being listed, we will combine camera trapping and two methods of genetic sampling (i.e., trapper-harvested and fecal DNA samples) to conduct the most comprehensive study to date on the status and ecology of the prairie gray fox. Camera trapping within the primary distribution of prairie gray foxes in Oklahoma will be analyzed with multi-season and multi-species occupancy models to evaluate gray fox distribution and relative abundance, population trend, factors influencing gray fox space use, and the influence of intraguild predators. Genetic sampling will be used to evaluate genetic structure, genetic diversity and sex ratios, and effective population size (<i>N<sub>e</sub></i>) of prairie gray foxes in Oklahoma.
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Evaluation of Cougar Predation and Bear Kleptoparasitism on Vermejo Park Ranch, New Mexico
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December 2026
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Over the last 15 years, in response to drought, declining range and riparian conditions, and projected drought conditions in the future, Vermejo Park Ranch (VPR; northern New Mexico) has made an effort to determine the carrying capacity for large ungulates (e.g., elk [<i>Cervus canadensis</i>] and American bison [<i>Bison bison</i>]) of the ranch during an average dry year. Understanding large predator populations and their role in regulating elk (and other ungulate) populations is an important, but relatively unexplored question at VPR.<br>Vermejo Park Ranch is home to black bears (<i>Ursus americanus</i>) and cougars (<i>Puma concolor</i>). Black bear predation can be a primary source of mortality on elk calves. Similarly, cougar predation can be a significant source of elk mortality. Black bears may benefit from, and negatively affect cougars, through kleptoparasitism of cougar kills, which may indirectly impact prey (ungulate) populations by increasing cougar kill rates to make up for the loss of food resources. The primary goal of this study is to document cougar prey selection on VPR and the influence of bear kleptoparasitism on frequency and volume of cougar prey. We anticipate this information will provide insights on the magnitude of elk and mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>) killed by cougars annually and inform future considerations of predator management to support the mission of VPR.
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Over the last 15 years, in response to drought, declining range and riparian conditions, and projected drought conditions in the future, Vermejo Park Ranch (VPR; northern New Mexico) has made an effort to determine the carrying capacity for large ungulates (e.g., elk [<i>Cervus canadensis</i>] and American bison [<i>Bison bison</i>]) of the ranch during an average dry year. Understanding large predator populations and their role in regulating elk (and other ungulate) populations is an important, but relatively unexplored question at VPR.Vermejo Park Ranch is home to black bears (<i>Ursus americanus</i>) and cougars (<i>Puma concolor</i>). Black bear predation can be a primary source of mortality on elk calves. Similarly, cougar predation can be a significant source of elk mortality. Black bears may benefit from, and negatively affect cougars, through kleptoparasitism of cougar kills, which may indirectly impact prey (ungulate) populations by increasing cougar kill rates to make up for the loss of food resources. The primary goal of this study is to document cougar prey selection on VPR and the influence of bear kleptoparasitism on frequency and volume of cougar prey. We anticipate this information will provide insights on the magnitude of elk and mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>) killed by cougars annually and inform future considerations of predator management to support the mission of VPR.
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Targeted surveys to prevent the extinction of Slender Chub Erimystax cahni
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October 2023
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Slender Chub (SC; <i>Erimystax cahni</i>), known only from a few sites in Clinch River and Powell River (TN and VA) has not been formally collected since the mid-1990s. The species’ biology and habitat make it difficult to capture SC without targeted efforts specific to SC. The purpose of this project is to identify the most likely remaining extant locations for the species and survey them with targeted methods to maximize the likelihood of its capture if still extant. If captured, SC specimens will be photographed, then transferred for captive propagation to Conservation Fisheries Inc. (CFI; Knoxville, TN), who have successfully spawned congeneric species in captivity. The primary goal is to survey suitable locations in the Clinch River and Powell River watersheds, and if found, transfer SC to CFI. Selected survey locations will include locations with previous collection records as well as locations with high probability of occurrence based on the species distribution models (SDMs) developed via the proposed work.<br><b> </b><br><b>OBJECTIVES: </b><br>1) Conduct targeted field surveys to find and collect Slender Chubs in stream reaches predicted to have high probability of presence;2)Develop multi-scale SDMs for slender chub based on historically (pre-1990) verified collection locations and observed species associations; and3) Use field observations to validate and refine the SDMs so they can inform future survey and/or translocation efforts.
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Slender Chub (SC; <i>Erimystax cahni</i>), known only from a few sites in Clinch River and Powell River (TN and VA) has not been formally collected since the mid-1990s. The species’ biology and habitat make it difficult to capture SC without targeted efforts specific to SC. The purpose of this project is to identify the most likely remaining extant locations for the species and survey them with targeted methods to maximize the likelihood of its capture if still extant. If captured, SC specimens will be photographed, then transferred for captive propagation to Conservation Fisheries Inc. (CFI; Knoxville, TN), who have successfully spawned congeneric species in captivity. The primary goal is to survey suitable locations in the Clinch River and Powell River watersheds, and if found, transfer SC to CFI. Selected survey locations will include locations with previous collection records as well as locations with high probability of occurrence based on the species distribution models (SDMs) developed via the proposed work.<b> </b><b>OBJECTIVES: </b>1) Conduct targeted field surveys to find and collect Slender Chubs in stream reaches predicted to have high probability of presence;2)Develop multi-scale SDMs for slender chub based on historically (pre-1990) verified collection locations and observed species associations; and3) Use field observations to validate and refine the SDMs so they can inform future survey and/or translocation efforts.
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Identification of larval darters collected near Niagara Dam on Roanoke River
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December 2022
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HDR Engineering, Inc. (HDR), on behalf of Appalachian Power Company, has requested laboratory services in support of their Larval Roanoke Logperch Study related to the relicensing of Appalachian’s Niagara Hydroelectric Project, located on the Roanoke River in Roanoke County, Virginia. Ours is the only lab that has developed methods to identify larval Roanoke Logperch. The contracted work encompasses laboratory processing, taxonomic identification, and DNA barcoding to identify larval darters of the genus <i>Percina</i> collected by HDR.<br><b> </b><br><b>OBJECTIVES: </b><br>1) Sort larval darters from drift-net samples;<br>2) preliminarily identify <i>Etheostoma</i> and <i>Percina</i> larvae via morphometric characteristics;<br>3) use DNA barcoding to ascertain species identities of all putative <i>Percina</i> larvae.
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HDR Engineering, Inc. (HDR), on behalf of Appalachian Power Company, has requested laboratory services in support of their Larval Roanoke Logperch Study related to the relicensing of Appalachian’s Niagara Hydroelectric Project, located on the Roanoke River in Roanoke County, Virginia. Ours is the only lab that has developed methods to identify larval Roanoke Logperch. The contracted work encompasses laboratory processing, taxonomic identification, and DNA barcoding to identify larval darters of the genus <i>Percina</i> collected by HDR.<b> </b><b>OBJECTIVES: </b>1) Sort larval darters from drift-net samples;2) preliminarily identify <i>Etheostoma</i> and <i>Percina</i> larvae via morphometric characteristics;3) use DNA barcoding to ascertain species identities of all putative <i>Percina</i> larvae.
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Developing population viability models for eastern indigo snakes
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December 2026
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The eastern indigo snake (EIS; <i>Drymarchon couperi</i>) was federally listed as threatened in 1978, with population declines largely caused by anthropogenically-induced habitat loss. The species has declined throughout its range such that natural populations no longer occur in Alabama, Mississippi, or the Florida panhandle. While EIS persist throughout much of southeastern Georgia and peninsular Florida, ongoing habitat fragmentation, particularly from road mortality, may threaten the long-term viability of remaining populations. As such, empirical modeling approaches are needed to make spatially explicit predictions about the viability of EIS populations.<br><br>This project represents a collaboration across multiple state, federal, and non-profit partners to develop spatially explicit population viability models for EIS that incorporate landscape effects on habitat suitability, connectivity, and survival as well as demographic processes such as fecundity and individual growth. The Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is contributing to several components of this project. First, we developed a range-wide connectivity model that explicitly incorporates landscape effects on EIS connectivity. Second, we are developing a survival model to predict EIS survival as a function of road density, sex, and body size. Third, we are assisting in the development of an individual growth model which will allow us to estimate changes in EIS body size over time and thereby predict survival as a function of body size throughout the life of an individual snake. We will continue to collaborate on the development and application of the final population viability model.
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The eastern indigo snake (EIS; <i>Drymarchon couperi</i>) was federally listed as threatened in 1978, with population declines largely caused by anthropogenically-induced habitat loss. The species has declined throughout its range such that natural populations no longer occur in Alabama, Mississippi, or the Florida panhandle. While EIS persist throughout much of southeastern Georgia and peninsular Florida, ongoing habitat fragmentation, particularly from road mortality, may threaten the long-term viability of remaining populations. As such, empirical modeling approaches are needed to make spatially explicit predictions about the viability of EIS populations.This project represents a collaboration across multiple state, federal, and non-profit partners to develop spatially explicit population viability models for EIS that incorporate landscape effects on habitat suitability, connectivity, and survival as well as demographic processes such as fecundity and individual growth. The Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is contributing to several components of this project. First, we developed a range-wide connectivity model that explicitly incorporates landscape effects on EIS connectivity. Second, we are developing a survival model to predict EIS survival as a function of road density, sex, and body size. Third, we are assisting in the development of an individual growth model which will allow us to estimate changes in EIS body size over time and thereby predict survival as a function of body size throughout the life of an individual snake. We will continue to collaborate on the development and application of the final population viability model.
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Eastern indigo snake population monitoring in north-central Florida
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September 2023
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The eastern indigo snake (EIS; <i>Drymarchon couperi</i>) was federally listed as threatened in 1978, with population declines largely caused by anthropogenically-induced habitat loss. The species has declined throughout its range such that natural populations no longer occur in Alabama, Mississippi, or the Florida panhandle, and they are thought to be in decline throughout much of their range in Georgia and Florida. Although peninsular Florida is considered a stronghold for the species, their contemporary distribution in north-central Florida is largely unknown. Understanding EIS occurrence in north-central Florida is important for better understanding this species' range-wide status and connectivity. This project will conduct surveys for EIS in north-central Florida in collaboration with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Orianne Society. This study will focus on surveys at potential overwintering habitat. These surveys will improve our understanding of EIS in north-central Florida and help better understand this species' status in this region. Our data will also provide a set of baseline occupancy data for follow-up surveys to monitor trends over time.
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The eastern indigo snake (EIS; <i>Drymarchon couperi</i>) was federally listed as threatened in 1978, with population declines largely caused by anthropogenically-induced habitat loss. The species has declined throughout its range such that natural populations no longer occur in Alabama, Mississippi, or the Florida panhandle, and they are thought to be in decline throughout much of their range in Georgia and Florida. Although peninsular Florida is considered a stronghold for the species, their contemporary distribution in north-central Florida is largely unknown.The proposed research will address three components of the EIS recovery strategy, focusing on the North Florida Region, which is considered critical for connectivity of peninsular Florida populations with the species’ only other remaining stronghold in southeastern Georgia. We will use occupancy surveys at potential overwintering sites, a protocol used successfully to monitor EIS in southeastern Georgia, to better understand the distribution and status of EIS in the North Florida Region. The surveys will also provide a set of baseline occupancy data for follow-up surveys to monitor trends over time. Additionally, we will conduct more intensive mark-recapture surveys at two focal population monitoring sites in order to collect data to estimate demographic parameters (e.g., survival, population size). Finally, we will also collect blood samples for subsequent hormonal, and toxicologic, and genetic analyses. The genetic analysis will provide an estimate of the effective population size, which can be used to monitor changes in population size over time. It will also be used to evaluate the current level of genetic connectivity across the region, which will inform the recovery process because maintenance of genetic connectivity is listed as a criterion that must be met for delisting.
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Investigating the Role of Host Behavior and Environmental Transmission in CWD Dynamics
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September 2025
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Chronic wasting disease (CWD), an invariably fatal neurologic disease of cervids, is a major concern for the health of herds in affected regions of North America. Conservation activities for game and non-game species of many wildlife agencies are funded by hunter license sales, and therefore negative effects of CWD on cervid populations and/or hunter participation will have broad, down-stream impacts on wildlife conservation. This makes CWD a major management concern for wildlife agencies and has created demand for tools to monitor and manage CWD spread. Understanding the principles of transmission is crucial for developing effective CWD control tools to target key weaknesses in transmission. Elucidating such principles is challenging for CWD because it is transmitted both directly and indirectly, through environment exposure, and requires an understanding of diverse multi-scale drivers, from fine-scale host interactions with pathogens in environmental reservoirs to large-scale movements of natural populations in heterogeneous landscapes. To date, and often at high political cost, CWD managers have focused on mechanisms of direct transmission, because risk posed by indirect transmission is not understood. Therefore, in collaboration with the WI Department of Natural Resources, the WICWRU and University of Wisconsin, we will leverage and integrate our on-going innovations in CWD modeling, laboratory methods/experiments and field investigation to explore how heterogeneities in host habitat, behavior, and movement mediate direct transmission, deposition of prions into the environment, and subsequent indirect transmission via environmental reservoirs. This will guide managers’ decision-making and help focus response efforts on high-impact transmission mechanisms.
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Chronic wasting disease (CWD), an invariably fatal neurologic disease of cervids, is a major concern for the health of herds in affected regions of North America. Conservation activities for game and non-game species of many wildlife agencies are funded by hunter license sales, and therefore negative effects of CWD on cervid populations and/or hunter participation will have broad, down-stream impacts on wildlife conservation. This makes CWD a major management concern for wildlife agencies and has created demand for tools to monitor and manage CWD spread. Understanding the principles of transmission is crucial for developing effective CWD control tools to target key weaknesses in transmission. Elucidating such principles is challenging for CWD because it is transmitted both directly and indirectly, through environment exposure, and requires an understanding of diverse multi-scale drivers, from fine-scale host interactions with pathogens in environmental reservoirs to large-scale movements of natural populations in heterogeneous landscapes. To date, and often at high political cost, CWD managers have focused on mechanisms of direct transmission, because risk posed by indirect transmission is not understood. Therefore, in collaboration with the WI Department of Natural Resources, the WICWRU and University of Wisconsin, we will leverage and integrate our on-going innovations in CWD modeling, laboratory methods/experiments and field investigation to explore how heterogeneities in host habitat, behavior, and movement mediate direct transmission, deposition of prions into the environment, and subsequent indirect transmission via environmental reservoirs. This will guide managers’ decision-making and help focus response efforts on high-impact transmission mechanisms.
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Statistical model development to inform disease management in Montana
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June 2027
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Understanding the epidemiologically processes driving disease dynamics and their resulting impacts on population health is a fundamental need for management agencies tasked with maintaining the health of wildlife populations. However, because of the complexity of disease systems that invariably involve multiple players including the host, pathogen and environment acting on multiple spatio-temporal scales, developing modeling tools to understand these systems and inform management decisions is an important need. Such models are critical for not only understanding past and current effects of disease on the health of populations, but also forecasting future impacts. Thus, they can inform decision-making aimed at protecting and restoring the health of wildlife communities. The goal of this project in collaboration with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is to develop and apply statistical approaches to meet this need.
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Understanding the epidemiologically processes driving disease dynamics and their resulting impacts on population health is a fundamental need for management agencies tasked with maintaining the health of wildlife populations. However, because of the complexity of disease systems that invariably involve multiple players including the host, pathogen and environment acting on multiple spatio-temporal scales, developing modeling tools to understand these systems and inform management decisions is an important need. Such models are critical for not only understanding past and current effects of disease on the health of populations, but also forecasting future impacts. Thus, they can inform decision-making aimed at protecting and restoring the health of wildlife communities. The goal of this project in collaboration with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is to develop and apply statistical approaches to meet this need.
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Highland's Sheep Project
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December 2027
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<b>Many bighorn sheep populations across the West are struggling with population numbers that are stagnant to decreasing. The cause of this poor population performance can generally be attributed to effects of bighorn sheep respiratory disease. The major causative agent of primary atypical pneumonia in bighorn sheep is <i>Mycoplasma ovi</i> <i>pneumoniae</i> (M. ovi). The disease usually expresses itself as an all-age die-off within a newly infected herd. Subsequently, years to decades of poor lamb survival occur with lambs dying of pneumonia. This mortality prevents the population from rebounding after the initial infection of the herd and is a major concern for managers trying to restore the vigor of the herd. </b><br><b> </b><br><b>The purpose of this project is to test the efficacy of management actions designed to improve performance of struggling bighorn sheep populations by increasing lamb survival and ultimately ensure the conservation of the species. To that end, we will evaluate the effects of testing and removal of M. ovi positive animals. This management strategy is based on the theory that only a few individuals within the herd serve as chronic shedders of M. ovi, and they maintain and pass the pathogen on to doomed naïve lambs born each year. By identifying these few individuals and removing them, we will improve lamb survival. This strategy has been successfully demonstrated in other herds across the West in both free-ranging and captive herds, and during this project we will apply it in the Highlands Sheep herd in Montana.</b><br><br><b>We will also explore the impact of mineral supplementation on lamb survival and population growth. Many bighorn herds demonstrate trace mineral deficiency (based on domestic sheep reference standards). Of particular interest is selenium which has been linked to immune function. The hypothesis we will test is whether access to mineral supplements will increase lamb survival by providing a more robust immune response to M. ovi and other respiratory pathogens.</b><br><br><b>Thus, the overarching goal of our research is to explore whether management actions to improve the health of bighorn sheep herds will be successful.</b>
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<b>Many bighorn sheep populations across the West are struggling with population numbers that are stagnant to decreasing. The cause of this poor population performance can generally be attributed to effects of bighorn sheep respiratory disease. The major causative agent of primary atypical pneumonia in bighorn sheep is <i>Mycoplasma ovi</i> <i>pneumoniae</i> (M. ovi). The disease usually expresses itself as an all-age die-off within a newly infected herd. Subsequently, years to decades of poor lamb survival occur with lambs dying of pneumonia. This mortality prevents the population from rebounding after the initial infection of the herd and is a major concern for managers trying to restore the vigor of the herd. </b><b> </b><b>The purpose of this project, in collaboration with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, is to test the efficacy of management actions designed to improve performance of struggling bighorn sheep populations by increasing lamb survival and ultimately ensure the conservation of the species. To that end, we will evaluate the effects of testing and removal of M. ovi positive animals. This management strategy is based on the theory that only a few individuals within the herd serve as chronic shedders of M. ovi, and they maintain and pass the pathogen on to doomed naïve lambs born each year. By identifying these few individuals and removing them, we will improve lamb survival. This strategy has been successfully demonstrated in other herds across the West in both free-ranging and captive herds, and during this project we will apply it in the Highlands Sheep herd in Montana.</b><b>We will also explore the impact of mineral supplementation on lamb survival and population growth. Many bighorn herds demonstrate trace mineral deficiency (based on domestic sheep reference standards). Of particular interest is selenium which has been linked to immune function. The hypothesis we will test is whether access to mineral supplements will increase lamb survival by providing a more robust immune response to M. ovi and other respiratory pathogens.</b><b>Thus, the overarching goal of our research is to explore whether management actions to improve the health of bighorn sheep herds will be successful.</b>
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How will methods to suppress an invasive fish affect Yellowstone Lake water quality?
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December 2025
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Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i>) and restore natural ecological function since invasive lake trout (<i>Salvelinus namaycush</i>) were first discovered there in 1994 (Koel et al. 2020a). Lake trout are apex predators that have decimated native trout populations following introductions in several large western lakes (Martinez et al. 2009). The lake trout population of Yellowstone Lake is resilient to gillnetting probably because of high survival of early life stages. Our primary objective is to estimate the degree to which adding carcasses and pellets to lake trout spawning sites may alter the water quality of Yellowstone Lake, and estimate how these changes may affect algal biomass and lake primary production. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the National Park Service and the University of Wyoming. The study will provide standard operating procedures for a water quality monitoring program so that Yellowstone National Park can continue collecting data to estimate changes into the future. The water quality monitoring program will be based on methods developed in this study and suggest the best procedures moving forward.
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Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i>) and restore natural ecological function since invasive lake trout (<i>Salvelinus namaycush</i>) were first discovered there in 1994 (Koel et al. 2020a). Lake trout are apex predators that have decimated native trout populations following introductions in several large western lakes (Martinez et al. 2009). The lake trout population of Yellowstone Lake is resilient to gillnetting probably because of high survival of early life stages. Our primary objective is to estimate the degree to which adding carcasses and pellets to lake trout spawning sites may alter the water quality of Yellowstone Lake, and estimate how these changes may affect algal biomass and lake primary production. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the National Park Service and the University of Wyoming. The study will provide standard operating procedures for a water quality monitoring program so that Yellowstone National Park can continue collecting data to estimate changes into the future. The water quality monitoring program will be based on methods developed in this study and suggest the best procedures moving forward.
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Implications of Stream Fragmentation for Climate Change Resilience of Northern Prairie Fishes
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December 2028
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Fishes native to the northern prairie ecoregion of North America are adapted to harsh conditions such as seasonal flooding and drying, often recolonizing habitats from refuge habitats. However, climate change induced drought and anthropogenic barriers are fragmenting streams and disrupting natural recolonization pathways. Our goal is to evaluate the vulnerability of prairie stream fishes to stream fragmentation and climate-induced drought, and explore potential mitigation strategies. We are also collaborating with partners to evaluate the efficacy of stream restoration to increase the extent and availability of drought-refuge habitats. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS North Central Climate Adaptation Science Center, fisheries in Wyoming and Montana, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Bureau of Land Management, and the University of Wyoming. Our research will provide products that will help manage for processes (e.g., habitat connectivity to allow recolonization post-disturbance or drying events) that can maintain resilient fish populations in the face of climate change.
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Fishes native to the northern prairie ecoregion of North America are adapted to harsh conditions such as seasonal flooding and drying, often recolonizing habitats from refuge habitats. However, climate change induced drought and anthropogenic barriers are fragmenting streams and disrupting natural recolonization pathways. Our goal is to evaluate the vulnerability of prairie stream fishes to stream fragmentation and climate-induced drought, and explore potential mitigation strategies. We are also collaborating with partners to evaluate the efficacy of stream restoration to increase the extent and availability of drought-refuge habitats. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS North Central Climate Adaptation Science Center, fisheries in Wyoming and Montana, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Bureau of Land Management, and the University of Wyoming. Our research will provide products that will help manage for processes (e.g., habitat connectivity to allow recolonization post-disturbance or drying events) that can maintain resilient fish populations in the face of climate change.
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Application of systems modeling to identify novel approaches for wildlife health management
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September 2025
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Chronic wasting disease, a fatal neurologic disease of cervids that causes population declines and is increasing in intensity and spatial extent, has proven extremely difficult to manage despite intensive control efforts that have spanned several decades. CWD is a significant management challenge in part because the etiological agent, an infectious prion, is extremely difficult to destroy, and can be transmitted directly or indirectly. The majority of management interventions to date require altering densities of deer which is not universally supported by stakeholders. Thus, management agencies are in desperate need of new management tools and approaches that account for these socio-political pressures. To meet this need, we in collaboration with the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, WI Department of Natural Resources, Willamette University and Ventana Systems Inc will use a systems approach to dynamically map the complex relationships between biological, social, and political processes for CWD. Through participatory modeling, we will involve stakeholder groups and experts in CWD, social science, and deer and forest health to integrate the wealth of existing knowledge of the system into a systems map that describes its functioning and the linkages between ecological and social processes. The outcome will be a framework for examining CWD and its impact on deer and forest health that managers can use to discover potential novel management approaches or new means of implementing existing management tools to improve deer health while explicitly accounting for socio-political challenges.
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Chronic wasting disease, a fatal neurologic disease of cervids that causes population declines and is increasing in intensity and spatial extent, has proven extremely difficult to manage despite intensive control efforts that have spanned several decades. CWD is a significant management challenge in part because the etiological agent, an infectious prion, is extremely difficult to destroy, and can be transmitted directly or indirectly. The majority of management interventions to date require altering densities of deer which is not universally supported by stakeholders. Thus, management agencies are in desperate need of new management tools and approaches that account for these socio-political pressures. To meet this need, we in collaboration with the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, WI Department of Natural Resources, Willamette University and Ventana Systems Inc will use a systems approach to dynamically map the complex relationships between biological, social, and political processes for CWD. Through participatory modeling, we will involve stakeholder groups and experts in CWD, social science, and deer and forest health to integrate the wealth of existing knowledge of the system into a systems map that describes its functioning and the linkages between ecological and social processes. The outcome will be a framework for examining CWD and its impact on deer and forest health that managers can use to discover potential novel management approaches or new means of implementing existing management tools to improve deer health while explicitly accounting for socio-political challenges.
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Mitigating the Effects of Prescribed Fire on Eastern Box Turtle Populations
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May 2023
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Eastern Box Turtle (<i>Terrapene carolina</i>)<i> </i>mortality during prescribed fire is a management concern in Massachusetts and other northeastern states from RI to NJ. Numerous observational and experimental studies have examined fire effects on Box Turtles and Box Turtle populations across their range, finding indications that individual Box Turtles exhibit a range of complex behavioral responses to fire, and that early growing season fires may be most lethal under normal circumstances. However, the effect of fire is highly variable, and likely to influence populations differently based on habitat, landscape connectivity, population structure, season, fuel conditions, and weather. Fire mortality of Box Turtles has been documented in Massachusetts populations from the Connecticut Valley to Cape Cod. In part due to the complexity of the issue, we lack a coherent, empirically informed, locally tested management protocol for Box Turtles in the context of fire management in Massachusetts. We propose to undertake a 4-year intensive field study to build upon the existing body of literature and test specific, relevant hypotheses about the effect of fire on Massachusetts Box Turtle populations.<br><br>The primary objective of this multifaceted study is to evaluate the population-level effects of a range of prescribed fire conditions on Massachusetts box turtle populations, to better identify priority box turtle populations at risk of extirpation or substantial decline resulting from prescribed fire management and to minimize the mortality/morbidity rate through practical modifications where feasible. This study will incorporate new data from a reference box turtle population at Camp Edwards and conduct experimental and observational studies at Camp Edwards and adjacent conserved areas. MassWildlife envisions a focused and practical study with a range of opportunistic and experimental components, recognizing that some of these objectives are subject to the frequency accessibility of prescribed fire events and the cooperation of fire managers.
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Eastern Box Turtle (<i>Terrapene carolina</i>)<i> </i>mortality during prescribed fire is a management concern in Massachusetts and other northeastern states from RI to NJ. Numerous observational and experimental studies have examined fire effects on Box Turtles and Box Turtle populations across their range, finding indications that individual Box Turtles exhibit a range of complex behavioral responses to fire, and that early growing season fires may be most lethal under normal circumstances. However, the effect of fire is highly variable, and likely to influence populations differently based on habitat, landscape connectivity, population structure, season, fuel conditions, and weather. Fire mortality of Box Turtles has been documented in Massachusetts populations from the Connecticut Valley to Cape Cod. In part due to the complexity of the issue, we lack a coherent, empirically informed, locally tested management protocol for Box Turtles in the context of fire management in Massachusetts. We propose to undertake a 4-year intensive field study to build upon the existing body of literature and test specific, relevant hypotheses about the effect of fire on Massachusetts Box Turtle populations.The primary objective of this multifaceted study is to evaluate the population-level effects of a range of prescribed fire conditions on Massachusetts box turtle populations, to better identify priority box turtle populations at risk of extirpation or substantial decline resulting from prescribed fire management and to minimize the mortality/morbidity rate through practical modifications where feasible. This study will incorporate new data from a reference box turtle population at Camp Edwards and conduct experimental and observational studies at Camp Edwards and adjacent conserved areas. MassWildlife envisions a focused and practical study with a range of opportunistic and experimental components, recognizing that some of these objectives are subject to the frequency accessibility of prescribed fire events and the cooperation of fire managers.
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Assessing effects of Tilapia on Largemouth Bass and Bluegill reproduction, recruitment, and growth
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June 2025
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Quantitative research evaluating the effects of non-native freshwater fishes on native species in Florida is lacking despite the importance of this information for management. To address this knowledge gap, we will conduct a pond study evaluating the effects of one of the most widespread genera of non-native freshwater fish, Tilapia <i>Oreochromis</i> spp. (<i>Oreochromis</i> <i>aureus</i>, <i>Oreochromis</i> <i>niloticus</i>, and their hybrids), on two ecologically and socioeconomically important native fishes, Largemouth Bass <i>Micropterus salmoides</i> and Bluegill <i>Lepomis macrochirus</i>. Introduced in the 1960s, Tilapia spp. have become widely established throughout peninsular Florida. Previous research on the impacts of high densities of Blue Tilapia <i>Oreochromis aureus </i>demonstrated reduced age-0 production, recruitment, and growth of Largemouth Bass. However, these studies were limited in that they only evaluated the effects of high densities of Blue Tilapia on age-0 Largemouth Bass production and growth. We aim to build on these studies by evaluating the impacts of both low and high density Tilapia populations on age-0 and age-1 Largemouth Bass and Bluegill in 0.4-ha ponds (n = 9). The proposed study site is located near the current latitudinal limit of established Tilapia populations in Florida, which makes it an opportune location to study interactions of Tilapia with Largemouth Bass and Bluegill given possible Tilapia range expansion and/or population growth in north central Florida and the panhandle due to climate change.
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Quantitative research evaluating the effects of non-native freshwater fishes on native species in Florida is lacking despite the importance of this information for management. To address this knowledge gap, we will conduct a pond study evaluating the effects of one of the most widespread genera of non-native freshwater fish, Tilapia <i>Oreochromis</i> spp. (<i>Oreochromis</i> <i>aureus</i>, <i>Oreochromis</i> <i>niloticus</i>, and their hybrids), on two ecologically and socioeconomically important native fishes, Largemouth Bass <i>Micropterus salmoides</i> and Bluegill <i>Lepomis macrochirus</i>. Introduced in the 1960s, Tilapia spp. have become widely established throughout peninsular Florida. Previous research on the impacts of high densities of Blue Tilapia <i>Oreochromis aureus </i>demonstrated reduced age-0 production, recruitment, and growth of Largemouth Bass. However, these studies were limited in that they only evaluated the effects of high densities of Blue Tilapia on age-0 Largemouth Bass production and growth. We aim to build on these studies by evaluating the impacts of both low and high density Tilapia populations on age-0 and age-1 Largemouth Bass and Bluegill in 0.4-ha ponds (n = 9). The proposed study site is located near the current latitudinal limit of established Tilapia populations in Florida, which makes it an opportune location to study interactions of Tilapia with Largemouth Bass and Bluegill given possible Tilapia range expansion and/or population growth in north central Florida and the panhandle due to climate change.
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Strategic confiscation and placement of illegally collected turtles for maximizing conservation outcomes
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July 2025
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The US Fish and Wildlife Service, working with state and federal agencies with regulatory authority over turtles in the northeastern U.S., makes decisions about the confiscation and disposition of multiple species of turtles encountered via legal and extra-legal trade routes. Illegal collection of wild animals for the pet trade has resulted in population declines (Stanford et al. 2020), and U.S. freshwater turtles are particularly vulnerable to illegal collection (Mali et al 2014). Decision-makers wish to maximize the conservation status of turtle populations in the wild, which are declining (or locally extirpated) in part because of illegal harvest, but also because of other threats such as climate change, urbanization, and disease. The decision is complicated by risk to both individuals and populations, primarily of the disease and genetic (i.e., originating-recipient population mismatch) status of confiscated turtles. <b><u>Here, we propose to use tools from decision analysis and population viability analysis to frame and address this problem.</u></b> We will use wood turtles as a case study, as a model species listed under Appendix II of CITES (at risk for extinction given current levels of trade). The USFWS and partners will use this analysis as a basis for expanding this case study for other turtle species of trade concern (spotted turtles, eastern box turtles, Blanding’s turtles, and diamondback terrapins). The analysis and approach we propose will improve coordination in repatriating or releasing confiscated turtles to the wild.
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The US Fish and Wildlife Service, working with state and federal agencies with regulatory authority over turtles in the northeastern U.S., makes decisions about the confiscation and disposition of multiple species of turtles encountered via legal and extra-legal trade routes. Illegal collection of wild animals for the pet trade has resulted in population declines (Stanford et al. 2020), and U.S. freshwater turtles are particularly vulnerable to illegal collection (Mali et al 2014). Decision-makers wish to maximize the conservation status of turtle populations in the wild, which are declining (or locally extirpated) in part because of illegal harvest, but also because of other threats such as climate change, urbanization, and disease. The decision is complicated by risk to both individuals and populations, primarily of the disease and genetic (i.e., originating-recipient population mismatch) status of confiscated turtles. <b><u>Here, we propose to use tools from decision analysis and population viability analysis to frame and address this problem.</u></b> We will use wood turtles as a case study, as a model species listed under Appendix II of CITES (at risk for extinction given current levels of trade). The USFWS and partners will use this analysis as a basis for expanding this case study for other turtle species of trade concern (spotted turtles, eastern box turtles, Blanding’s turtles, and diamondback terrapins). The analysis and approach we propose will improve coordination in repatriating or releasing confiscated turtles to the wild.
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Applications of structured-decision making to disease systems
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February 2027
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This work involves collaborating with federal and state agencies with decision-making authority to improve the long-term management of CWD, Bsal, and WNS. Work involves helping agencies frame the decision they face within their jurisdiction, and identify management alternatives, knowledge gaps, and optimal decisions. Potential partnerships include scientists from the USGS Fort Collins Science center, USGS National Health Center, and USGS Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center (Paul Cross and colleagues), among others.<br><br>Management of most diseases are challenging because of trade-offs among important management objectives, uncertainty in the dynamics of the disease, some risks that are well understood and some that are not, jurisdictional overlap, disjunct authorities, and potentially different tradeoffs in individual decisions made by Federal, Tribal, State, and private management entities. Over the past several decades, there are several diseases of great concern in the United States, which include chronic wasting disease (CWD), the salamander killing fungus (Bsal), white-nose syndrome (WNS), SARS-CoV-2, and others. <b>In this proposal, our objective is to frame and analyze the decisions for several disease systems, as well as develop models for supporting surveillance and management decisions other disease systems for their management on federally and state managed lands.</b><br><br>For example, it is well documented that CWD has spread across Wyoming and was detected for the first time in Grand Teton National Park in the fall of 2020. The detection of CWD in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) has created concern among wildlife managers and the public of the potential impacts that the disease may have on affected host populations, public enjoyment, and local economies. Decision analysis facilitation and technical support could help management agencies understand the diverse needs of affected stakeholders and design actions that align with their long-term management goals for the GYE under the threat of CWD.
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Management of most diseases are challenging because of trade-offs among important management objectives, uncertainty in the dynamics of the disease, some risks that are well understood and some that are not, jurisdictional overlap, disjunct authorities, and potentially different tradeoffs in individual decisions made by Federal, Tribal, State, and private management entities. Over the past several decades, there are several diseases of great concern in the United States, which include chronic wasting disease (CWD), the salamander killing fungus (Bsal), white-nose syndrome (WNS), SARS-CoV-2, and others. <b>In this proposal, our objective is to frame and analyze the decisions for several disease systems, as well as develop models for supporting surveillance and management decisions other disease systems for their management on federally and state managed lands.</b>For example, it is well documented that CWD has spread across Wyoming and was detected for the first time in Grand Teton National Park in the fall of 2020. The detection of CWD in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) has created concern among wildlife managers and the public of the potential impacts that the disease may have on affected host populations, public enjoyment, and local economies. Decision analysis facilitation and technical support could help management agencies understand the diverse needs of affected stakeholders and design actions that align with their long-term management goals for the GYE under the threat of CWD.
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Limiting Factors for Declining Loggerhead Shrikes in Western Wyoming
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June 2025
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The Loggerhead Shrike is a migratory songbird listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) and that is declining steeply range-wide. In Wyoming, shrikes nest along tall drainages within sagebrush steppe habitats that have been affected substantially by oil and natural gas development. No targeted or rigorous study of Loggerhead Shrikes has ever been conducted in Wyoming, however, and optimal habitats, breeding success, and causes of decline remain unclear. Maintaining the necessary habitats and conditions for sensitive species while balancing the economic needs of the state is a key challenge for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and other management agencies. The project was developed and is in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. A better understanding of preferred and high-quality habitats will clarify threats to Loggerhead Shrikes in Wyoming and inform future management objectives and approaches. Moreover, by documenting migratory routes and wintering locations, our project will provide foundational information for the species across the full annual cycle, and help assess the extent to which limiting factors exist outside of the breeding period and will inform the next revision of the Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan.
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The Loggerhead Shrike is a migratory songbird listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) and that is declining steeply range-wide. In Wyoming, shrikes nest along tall drainages within sagebrush steppe habitats that have been affected substantially by oil and natural gas development. No targeted or rigorous study of Loggerhead Shrikes has ever been conducted in Wyoming, however, and optimal habitats, breeding success, and causes of decline remain unclear. Maintaining the necessary habitats and conditions for sensitive species while balancing the economic needs of the state is a key challenge for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and other management agencies. The project was developed and is in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. A better understanding of preferred and high-quality habitats will clarify threats to Loggerhead Shrikes in Wyoming and inform future management objectives and approaches. Moreover, by documenting migratory routes and wintering locations, our project will provide foundational information for the species across the full annual cycle, and help assess the extent to which limiting factors exist outside of the breeding period and will inform the next revision of the Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan.
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Understanding and mapping mule deer migration across Utah.
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December 2025
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Compelling evidence now suggest substantial anthropogenically driven reductions in seasonal migrations across multiple ungulate species. Despite the cultural and economical importance of mule deer in Utah, we currently have little knowledge of the variability in migratory behavior and timing (between populations, individuals, and years), and the whereabouts, environmental characteristics, and intensity of use of migratory routs across the state. This project is a partnership between the Utah State University Department of Wildland Resources, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and the USGS UT Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Completion of this project will enhance our understanding of mule deer migration in Utah, while providing managers with forecasting tools, allowing identification of areas where migratory benefits might be loss in the future, or have already been lost in the past.
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Compelling evidence now suggest substantial anthropogenically driven reductions in seasonal migrations across multiple ungulate species. Despite the cultural and economical importance of mule deer in Utah, we currently have little knowledge of the variability in migratory behavior and timing (between populations, individuals, and years), and the whereabouts, environmental characteristics, and intensity of use of migratory routs across the state. This project is a partnership between the Utah State University Department of Wildland Resources, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and the USGS UT Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Completion of this project will enhance our understanding of mule deer migration in Utah, while providing managers with forecasting tools, allowing identification of areas where migratory benefits might be loss in the future, or have already been lost in the past.
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Demography, Movement, and Population Dynamics of White Pelicans on the Great Salt Lake
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March 2024
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Despite recent apparent population rebounds, white pelicans are still considered a sensitive species across the Pacific flyway, including Utah. This work aims to continue GPS transmitter deployment on white pelicans and fill critical gaps in our understanding of white pelican movement and space-use, including connectivity between regional colonies, critical migratory routes, high-use breeding and foraging habitat, and airspace use within airport property. In the face of regional drought, climate uncertainty, and development severely affecting Great Salt Lake and other regionally imperiled habitats, filling these knowledge gaps will provide crucial information to managers and researchers, thus aiding conservation of white pelicans and other waterbird species. This project is a possible through partnerships between Utah State University, the University of Georgia, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and the Salt Lake City International Airport. The population dynamics model developed here will inform environmental scenario planning to inform ways to maintain the Gunnison Island pelican population, and analyses of pelican airspace use can inform management plans to lower airstrikes in the airport airspace.
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Despite recent apparent population rebounds, white pelicans are still considered a sensitive species across the Pacific flyway, including Utah. This work aims to continue GPS transmitter deployment on white pelicans and fill critical gaps in our understanding of white pelican movement and space-use, including connectivity between regional colonies, critical migratory routes, high-use breeding and foraging habitat, and airspace use within airport property. In the face of regional drought, climate uncertainty, and development severely affecting Great Salt Lake and other regionally imperiled habitats, filling these knowledge gaps will provide crucial information to managers and researchers, thus aiding conservation of white pelicans and other waterbird species. This project is a possible through partnerships between Utah State University, the University of Georgia, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and the Salt Lake City International Airport. The population dynamics model developed here will inform environmental scenario planning to inform ways to maintain the Gunnison Island pelican population, and analyses of pelican airspace use can inform management plans to lower airstrikes in the airport airspace.
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Chronic Wasting Disease in Utah – development of a risk based CWD surveillance system with updates for the statewide CWD management plan
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June 2022
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The overall goal of this research is to expand and combine the existing CWD surveillance data needs with information on cervid movements, habitat use, and landscape factors in order to understand the most likely paths of CWD spread, and provide the foundation for creating a revised, scientifically sound, risk based CWD surveillance system. This project is part of a collaboration between the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Utah State University Department of Wildland Resources, and the USGS UT Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Evaluating current and past CWD data and creating a comprehensive risk map for the state will serve to better understand what is currently known, identify high risk locations for CWD spread, help prioritize areas for sampling, and formulate appropriate management actions or alterations that should be considered in order to slow the spread of the disease.
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The overall goal of this research is to expand and combine the existing CWD surveillance data needs with information on cervid movements, habitat use, and landscape factors in order to understand the most likely paths of CWD spread, and provide the foundation for creating a revised, scientifically sound, risk based CWD surveillance system. This project is part of a collaboration between the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Utah State University Department of Wildland Resources, and the USGS UT Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Evaluating current and past CWD data and creating a comprehensive risk map for the state will serve to better understand what is currently known, identify high risk locations for CWD spread, help prioritize areas for sampling, and formulate appropriate management actions or alterations that should be considered in order to slow the spread of the disease.
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Infection rates and effects of ectoparasites on declining sagebrush songbirds
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December 2025
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Sagebrush steppe ecosystems throughout western North America have been converted and altered extensively by human activities, and many sagebrush-obligate species have experienced significant population declines. We are quantifying the rate of infection by parasitic bird blow flies (<i>Protocalliphora </i>spp. and <i>Trypocalliphora braueri</i>) in nestlings of declining sagebrush songbirds in relation to weather patterns and proximity to human disturbance. We also will determine the extent to which parasite loads may be contributing to songbird declines via slower nestling growth, offspring condition, rates of fledging, and post-fledging survival. The project is collaborative in nature, with funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USGS (WLCI), and Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Results will inform the management and conservation of declining sagebrush-obligate songbirds for numerous state and federal management agencies, with implications for land use and effects of a changing climate.
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Sagebrush steppe ecosystems throughout western North America have been converted and altered extensively by human activities, and many sagebrush-obligate species have experienced significant population declines. We are quantifying the rate of infection by parasitic bird blow flies (<i>Protocalliphora </i>spp. and <i>Trypocalliphora braueri</i>) in nestlings of declining sagebrush songbirds in relation to weather patterns and proximity to human disturbance. We also will determine the extent to which parasite loads may be contributing to songbird declines via slower nestling growth, offspring condition, rates of fledging, and post-fledging survival. The project is collaborative in nature, with funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USGS (WLCI), and Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Results will inform the management and conservation of declining sagebrush-obligate songbirds for numerous state and federal management agencies, with implications for land use and effects of a changing climate.
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Integrating Population Modeling for Laysan and Black-Footed Albatross
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July 2023
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TBD
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TBD
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Evaluation of Cripple Creek (mule deer herd D16) and Wet Mountain (mule deer D34) Demographics (Auction and Raffle funded M.S. project)
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March 2024
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Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) initiated a research project in 2017 to examine predator-prey dynamics between cougars and mule deer in the Upper Arkansas drainage within the South East region of Colorado. These data include GPS location data for deer (does and fawns) across all years of the study. Although a thorough examination of habitat use and movement patterns of mule deer has been conducted on migratory deer populations the western slope of Colorado, a similar evaluation of the mostly non-migratory population on the eastern slope is needed. The project is a collaboration with researchers and managers of CPW. Results will be used to inform population and habitat management of mule deer in Colorado.
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Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) initiated a research project in 2017 to examine predator-prey dynamics between cougars and mule deer in the Upper Arkansas drainage within the South East region of Colorado. These data include GPS location data for deer (does and fawns) across all years of the study. Although a thorough examination of habitat use and movement patterns of mule deer has been conducted on migratory deer populations the western slope of Colorado, a similar evaluation of the mostly non-migratory population on the eastern slope is needed. The project is a collaboration with researchers and managers of CPW. Results will be used to inform population and habitat management of mule deer in Colorado.
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Burrowing Owl population assessment on Colorado's black tailed prairie dog colonies
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December 2024
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Burrowing owls (<i>Athene cunicularia, </i>hereafter BUOW) are classified as a Tier 1 species of greatest conservation need in Colorado’s State Wildlife Action Plan, and are associated with prairie dog colonies. However, there is little information on population status or trends for this species, with the last previous assessment conducted 18 years ago. A current assessment of BUOW distribution, reproductive success, and abundance, and how these relate to prairie dog colony attributes is needed. The project is a collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, with the cooperation of numerous private landowners. The models for species distribution, abundance, and reproductive success, and their relationship with prairie dog colony attributes, will be useful to managers for assessing the status of BUOW in Colorado, and will inform their interactions with landowners in managing prairie dogs.
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Burrowing owls (<i>Athene cunicularia, </i>hereafter BUOW) are classified as a Tier 1 species of greatest conservation need in Colorado’s State Wildlife Action Plan, and are associated with prairie dog colonies. However, there is little information on population status or trends for this species, with the last previous assessment conducted 18 years ago. A current assessment of BUOW distribution, reproductive success, and abundance, and how these relate to prairie dog colony attributes is needed. The project is a collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, with the cooperation of numerous private landowners. The models for species distribution, abundance, and reproductive success, and their relationship with prairie dog colony attributes, will be useful to managers for assessing the status of BUOW in Colorado, and will inform their interactions with landowners in managing prairie dogs.
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Resource selection and movements of mule deer and pronghorn: responses to Kermit overland conveyor
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March 2026
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BLM permitted a 16-mile overland conveyor system to transport sand for use in the oil fields in southeastern New Mexico. Given the potential for the conveyor to impede movements and home range utilization of wild ungulates, we are assessing the response of mule deer and pronghorn to construction and operation of the conveyor. Partners on this project include New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Bureau of Land Management and Atlas Sand. By determining if there are any adverse impacts on movements, home range utilization or habitat selection of mule deer and pronghorn, we can contribute to development of mitigation efforts, as applicable.
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The purpose of this project are to assess the responses of mule deer and pronghorn to construction activities and operation of Kermit Conveyor System in southeastern New Mexico. The goal is to determine if there are any adverse impacts on movements, home range utilization or habitat selection of mule deer and pronghorn and to contribute to development of mitigation efforts, as applicable.
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Invasive carp distribution in MAV
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July 2024
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Population distribution and their spatial patterns are crucial for informing the conservation and management of fish populations. In the LMAV, mitigation of the effects of invasive carp expansion is dependent on a strategic approach to conservation assisted by access to large-scale inventories. Knowledge of invasive carp distribution is needed to identify conservation and research needs, adapt monitoring and management programs, customize environmental programs, and use conservation resources more effectively to achieve large-scale management objectives. Equipped with knowledge about distribution, distribution patterns, and factors shaping such patterns, a conservation organization can develop management plans and budgets based on a clearer concept of invasive carp distribution. Therefore, the goal of this study is to improve our understanding of distribution patterns of invasive carps across lakes of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley
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Population distribution and their spatial patterns are crucial for informing the conservation and management of fish populations. In the LMAV, mitigation of the effects of invasive carp expansion is dependent on a strategic approach to conservation assisted by access to large-scale inventories. Knowledge of invasive carp distribution is needed to identify conservation and research needs, adapt monitoring and management programs, customize environmental programs, and use conservation resources more effectively to achieve large-scale management objectives. Equipped with knowledge about distribution, distribution patterns, and factors shaping such patterns, a conservation organization can develop management plans and budgets based on a clearer concept of invasive carp distribution. Therefore, the goal of this study is to improve our understanding of distribution patterns of invasive carps across lakes of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley
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Evaluating tiger muskellunge as a multi-purpose management tool: protecting native fish species from multiple conservation threats
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June 2026
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Under the supervision of Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s (CPW) Aquatic Research Section, and with specialized equipment and expertise provided by CPW, the Research Associate will implement an evaluation of stocking tiger muskellunge (sterile northern pike and muskellunge hybrids) as a means to disadvantage introduced species (northern pike, smallmouth bass, white sucker), while simultaneously diminishing motivation to illicitly transplant non-native predators that negatively impact native fish species and whole ecosystems. This approach compliments native fish protection efforts in the Yampa and Colorado river basins.One of the biggest threats to the protection and conservation of native fishes in Colorado is the spread of invasive species. The information gained from this project will provide an indication of the efficacy of tiger muskellunge stocking as a management tool in Shadow Mountain and Elkhead reservoirs to combat factors threatening native fishes in Colorado. Tiger muskellunge have the potential to provide several benefits to fisheries and native species (i.e., cutthroat trout, native three-species, mountain whitefish) including:<br><br>• Improving conditions for native fish by disadvantaging non-native predators (northern pike and smallmouth bass) that have been illegally introduced, and undesirable species that are spreading in Colorado like white suckers<br><br>• A controllable method for disadvantaging nuisance species that is compatible (sterile hybrid) with native fish conservation goals, and discouraging further spread/introduction of non-native predators
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One of the biggest threats to the protection and conservation of native fishes in Colorado is the spread of invasive species. The information gained from this project will provide an indication of the efficacy of tiger muskellunge stocking as a management tool in Shadow Mountain and Elkhead reservoirs to combat factors threatening native fishes in Colorado.The project is being done in collaboration with Colorado Parks and is funded by CPW.Improving conditions for native fish by disadvantaging non-native predators (northern pike and smallmouth bass) that have been illegally introduced, and undesirable species that are spreading in Colorado like white suckers
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Latitudinal gradients in clutch size of reptiles
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June 2026
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For many terrestrial vertebrates, clutch size is positively correlated with latitude, with animals producing more offspring per reproductive attempt at higher latitudes. Three hypotheses have been proposed to explain this global latitudinal gradient, but the highly mobile nature of most endotherms has confounded previous attempts to identify the causal mechanism(s). This project uses 2 approaches to test the alternative hypotheses for this global pattern: 1) test explicit predictions across species based on >1,000 species of extant snakes, and 2) test those same predications within one species (the western rattlesnake). In 2023, we collected clutch size data for more than 60 gravid female rattlesnakes at field sites and museums. This work will continue into 2024, where the project will expand to assess seasonal movement variation in prairie rattlesnakes in response to human disturbance, habitation, and roads. The results will help determine the cause(s) of geographic clutch size variation in these species, which will allow us to 1) quantify the role of intraspecific plasticity in latitudinal clutch size variation 2) identify the mechanisms responsible for intraspecific clutch size variation, and 3) improve our understanding of the risks faced by one of North America's most widespread snakes.
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Coop Unit Administrative Support from CPW
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June 2027
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The Colorado Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit receives annual contributions from Colorado Parks and Wildlife to aid in the administrative functions of the Unit and to enhance ongoing graduate student research projects.
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The Colorado Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit receives annual contributions from Colorado Parks and Wildlife to aid in the administrative functions of the Unit.These funds are critical to the ongoing research, graduate education and technical assistance mission of the unit. The funds are part of the cooperative agreement with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.These funds help support all aspects of the Unit mission.
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Assessing living shoreline development in an estuarine lake
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May 2024
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As living shoreline technologies continue to grow in popularity, there is continued need to evaluate existing projects to determine their long-term sustainability, and understand conditions conducive to their resilience. This project follows on previous work in an estuarine lake in Louisiana to evaluate the development of the reef community, and the impacts on the adjacent shoreline.
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As living shoreline technologies continue to grow in popularity, there is continued need to evaluate existing projects to determine their long-term sustainability, and understand conditions conducive to their resilience. This project follows on previous work in an estuarine lake in Louisiana to evaluate the development of the reef community, and the impacts on the adjacent shoreline.
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Develop genomic markers to select stressor tolerant oysters
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January 2024
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Increased interest in restoration and production of a key ecosystem engineer, the eastern oyster, has led to significant investment and interest in identifying broodstock useful to develop populations with tolerance to specific stressors they may experience across different estuaries. This project, in collaboration with geneticists, and other researchers, seeks to identify genetic biomarkers that can be used to develop genetic breeding values for oyster broodstocks to select them for specific tolerances.
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Increased interest in restoration and production of a key ecosystem engineer, the eastern oyster, has led to significant investment and interest in identifying broodstock useful to develop populations with tolerance to specific stressors they may experience across different estuaries. This project, in collaboration with geneticists, and other researchers, seeks to identify genetic biomarkers that can be used to develop genetic breeding values for oyster broodstocks to select them for specific tolerances.
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Cumulative Effects Assessment
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September 2024
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With significant investment in restoration projects across the Gulf of Mexico, there is a need to evaluate and quantify the overall ecosystem-level effects derived from the accumulation of the effects of individual projects. This is a pilot study to develop methods to accomplish this.
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With significant investment in restoration projects across the Gulf of Mexico, there is a need to evaluate and quantify the overall ecosystem-level effects derived from the accumulation of the effects of individual projects. This is a pilot study to develop methods to accomplish this.
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Assessing multiple stressors on oysters
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January 2025
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Management of oysters requires understanding their tolerance to multiple stressors. As estuarine conditions are changed through climate impacts, and human activities, more extreme conditions impact oyster grounds; identifying these impacts on individual oyster populations, and ploidies informs the development of more accurate models of oyster growth, survival and production, and helps identify critical broodstock to support the oyster industry.
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Management of oysters requires understanding their tolerance to multiple stressors. As estuarine conditions are changed through climate impacts, and human activities, more extreme conditions impact oyster grounds; identifying these impacts on individual oyster populations, and ploidies informs the development of more accurate models of oyster growth, survival and production, and helps identify critical broodstock to support the oyster industry.
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Edisto River Flow Effects on Summertime Water Temperatures: Are Thermal Tolerances of SWAP Fishes Exceeded at Low Flows?
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December 2027
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The Edisto River has the highest number of water withdrawal registrations and the highest maximum monthly withdrawals of any river basin in the state of South Carolina (SCDHEC 2020). Reduced flows may negatively impact SWAP listed fish species through a variety of mechanisms, but elevated water temperatures during low flow events could be especially detrimental to SWAP species such as Striped Bass <i>Morone saxatilis</i> that require coolwater habitat. The genetically unique Striped Bass population endemic to the ACE basin seeks thermal refuge in the upper portions of the basin (e.g., North and South Fork Edisto River) during summer. For such species, decreased flow during summer may cause water temperatures to exceed thermal tolerances as has been observed for other coolwater riverine species. Key knowledge gaps limit our ability to understand how increases in summertime flow-dependent temperature may negatively impact species of greatest conservation need in the Edisto River Basin. First, there is no knowledge of the relationship between flow, summer air temperature, and water temperature. Developing a statistical relationship between these variables would be a first step towards assessing the thermal impacts of low flow during summer. Second, for many SWAP species, such as Bannerfin Shiner <i>Cyprinella leedsi</i>, there is no published data on thermal tolerance meaning that even if a relationship between flow and summertime water temperature were developed, we would be unable to understand the biological implications. These knowledge gaps are especially relevant given the large, predicted increases in water demand in the Edisto Basin and projected changes in temperature and precipitation due to climate change over the next several decades.This project will provide critical information necessary for protecting SWAP listed freshwater and diadromous fish species in the Edisto River Basin. Specifically, this project will determine maximum thermal tolerances for two SWAP freshwater fish species in the Edisto River Basin (Bannerfin Shiner [high priority], Edisto River Stiped Bass [moderate priority]) and create detailed maps of available thermal habitat under a range of current and projected, future flow scenarios for the two SWAP fish species listed above as well as the Shortnose Sturgeon [listed under ESA as endangered throughout its range]).
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The Edisto River has the highest number of water withdrawal registrations and the highest maximum monthly withdrawals of any river basin in the state of South Carolina. Reduced flows may negatively impact SWAP listed fish species through a variety of mechanisms, but elevated water temperatures during low flow events could be especially detrimental to SWAP species such as Striped Bass <i>Morone saxatilis</i> that require coolwater habitat. The genetically unique Striped Bass population endemic to the ACE basin seeks thermal refuge in the upper portions of the basin (e.g., North and South Fork Edisto River) during summer. For such species, decreased flow during summer may cause water temperatures to exceed thermal tolerances as has been observed for other coolwater riverine species. The project will occur with the support of SCDNR adn Clemson University. This project will provide critical information necessary for protecting SWAP listed freshwater and diadromous fish species in the Edisto River Basin. Specifically, this project will determine maximum thermal tolerances for two SWAP freshwater fish species in the Edisto River Basin (Bannerfin Shiner [high priority], Edisto River Stiped Bass [moderate priority]) and create detailed maps of available thermal habitat under a range of current and projected, future flow scenarios for the two SWAP fish species listed above as well as the Shortnose Sturgeon [listed under ESA as endangered throughout its range]).
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Analyzing movements and habitat use of white sturgeon in response to limited recruitment in the John Day Reservoir
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June 2025
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White sturgeon (<i>Acipenser transmontanus</i>) are native to major river systems in the western United States and Canada. In the Columbia River, state, federal, and tribal agencies have been actively managing and monitoring sturgeon populations since 1989. Since the construction of the Federal Columbia River Power System, white sturgeon populations have become reproductively isolated, leading to declining recruitment rates, especially in the middle and upper river impoundments. To address these challenges, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife implanted acoustic tags in 61 adult white sturgeon captured in the John Day Reservoir (between McNary and John Day dams) from 2018 to 2021. This research aims to pair telemetry data with locational data collected from stock assessment monitoring to gain a comprehensive understanding of the large-scale seasonal movements of different sexes and age classes in the reservoir. Additionally, we will use side-scan sonar images and other environmental data to identify suitable spawning and rearing grounds, and telemetry data will be used to characterize movements within these spawning grounds. The outcomes of this research will inform management strategies aimed at improving spawning and recruitment success for white sturgeon in the Columbia River, thus supporting the conservation of a valuable native species.
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The construction of dams on the Columbia River has fragmented Pacific White Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) habitats, producing essentially isolated populations between mainstem impoundments. Observations of young-of-the-year (YOY) White Sturgeon in the lower three Columbia River reservoirs (Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day) have been declining over the past two decades. The John Day reservoir appears to be particularly vulnerable, where only 1 YOY sturgeon has been observed since 2012 during annual reservoir sampling. Based on the current length frequency distribution of sturgeon in the John Day reservoir, conservation metrics are likely not being met for the desired proportion of juveniles and subadults within the population. To address potential recruitment bottlenecks conceivably associated with spawning activity, we will use acoustic telemetry receivers throughout the John Day reservoir to characterize seasonal movements of adult White Sturgeon and formulate a habitat utilization model to identify likely spawning habitats. Additionally, if measurable YOY recruitment occurs within the next 6-9 years (estimated acoustic tag life), we hope to refine our understanding of environmental parameters conducive for spawning success. As effects of climate change become increasingly prevalent, having a contemporary understanding of White Sturgeon spawning patterns is essential. This research not only addresses critical uncertainties for lower Columbia River White Sturgeon, but also for North American sturgeon populations in general. Recruitment declines are being observed in many sturgeon populations—most famously in the Fraser River—and insights gained from this research may benefit other management agencies to help conserve these ancient fish that many people refer to as “living fossils.”
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Winter space use and habitat selection of migratory-subadult Golden Eagle (Aquila Chrystaetos) in Wyoming
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April 2023
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Migratory wildlife can experience unique challenges and stressors across seasons, yet information often is lacking for one or more portions of the annual cycle. We are partnering with the Teton Raptor Center in Jackson WY to investigate the habitat use of golden eagles that winter in Wyoming. The first project objective is to investigate the use of risky landscape elements, with a focus on major roadways because of carrion availability, and the factors (e.g., snow depth, temperature, time of season) that may modulate such use. The second objective is to evaluate how habitat selection by over-wintering eagles changes with age and experience. The project is leveraging a large existing data set of transmittered eagles across multiple years. Results will inform the extent to which this sensitive species may be at risk of mortality from automobiles and other landscape stressors, and under which contexts.
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Migratory wildlife can experience unique challenges and stressors across seasons, yet information often is lacking for one or more portions of the annual cycle. We are partnering with the Teton Raptor Center in Jackson WY to investigate the habitat use of golden eagles that winter in Wyoming. The first project objective is to investigate the use of risky landscape elements, with a focus on major roadways because of carrion availability, and the factors (e.g., snow depth, temperature, time of season) that may modulate such use. The second objective is to evaluate how habitat selection by over-wintering eagles changes with age and experience. The project is leveraging a large existing data set of transmittered eagles across multiple years. Results will inform the extent to which this sensitive species may be at risk of mortality from automobiles and other landscape stressors, and under which contexts.
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An assessment of the limiting factors for boreal toads in the La Barge Creek watershed
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June 2025
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Boreal toads (<i>Anaxyrus boreas boreas</i>) once were widespread and common but have suffered substantial population declines in the Rocky Mountain region. Declines have been attributed to climate change, habitat loss and alteration, and morbidity and mortality from the fungal pathogen <i>Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis </i>(<i>Bd</i>).<br><br>Mechanisms underlying boreal toad declines in the LaBarge drainage remain enigmatic but may include the introduction of Bd (~2003-2006) and/or habitat alteration associated with a reclamation treatment that removed beaver dams (~2000-2006). Given the on-going and range-wide population declines of boreal toads, understanding of boreal toad population status and drivers of population dynamics in the La Barge watershed is timely.<br><br>The project is a collaboration of researchers between the USGS Wyoming Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and state partners at the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.<br><br>The improved understanding of multi-scale habitat associations, factors associated with breeding success, movement patterns, disease prevalence and home ranges size that should result from the work will greatly enhance the ability of state and federal agencies to assess threats and develop effective mitigation strategies for boreal toads.
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Boreal toads (<i>Anaxyrus boreas boreas</i>) once were widespread and common but have suffered substantial population declines in the Rocky Mountain region. Declines have been attributed to climate change, habitat loss and alteration, and morbidity and mortality from the fungal pathogen <i>Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis </i>(<i>Bd</i>). Mechanisms underlying boreal toad declines in the LaBarge drainage remain enigmatic but may include the introduction of Bd (~2003-2006) and/or habitat alteration associated with a reclamation treatment that removed beaver dams (~2000-2006). Given the on-going and range-wide population declines of boreal toads, understanding of boreal toad population status and drivers of population dynamics in the La Barge watershed is timely.The project is a collaboration of researchers between the USGS Wyoming Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and state partners at the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.The improved understanding of multi-scale habitat associations, factors associated with breeding success, movement patterns, disease prevalence and home ranges size that should result from the work will greatly enhance the ability of state and federal agencies to assess threats and develop effective mitigation strategies for boreal toads.
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Quantifying restorable wetlands in the Prairie Pothole Region of Eastern South Dakota
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June 2025
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Wetland loss in South Dakota has been substantial where an estimated 35% of historic wetlands have been lost primarily to agricultural conversion which continues today. These land-use changes have resulted in reduced wetland habitat for wildlife and loss of other ecosystem services. Wetland conservation and restoration contribute to improved watershed functions through providing both water quantity benefits in terms of flood attenuation and water quality benefits such as retention of sediment and nutrients. Potentially restorable wetland basins remain unmapped today limiting voluntary conservation opportunities. Our goal is to identify the location and type of wetlands in South Dakota with altered hydrology to inform voluntary and incentive-based wetland restoration opportunities and develop an application for project partners to encourage targeted use of these data.
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Wetland loss in South Dakota has been substantial where an estimated 35% of historic wetlands have been lost primarily to agricultural conversion which continues today. These land-use changes have resulted in reduced wetland habitat for wildlife and loss of other ecosystem services. Wetland conservation and restoration contribute to improved watershed functions through providing both water quantity benefits in terms of flood attenuation and water quality benefits such as retention of sediment and nutrients. Potentially restorable wetland basins remain unmapped today limiting voluntary conservation opportunities. Natural resource managers are interested in the current and historic distribution and extent of wetlands to help evaluate wetland and grassland restoration potential for voluntary and incentive-based conservation opportunities to improve wildlife habitat and address water quality and quantity issues. Recent advances in remote sensing technologies, analytical frameworks, and data availability offers a valuable opportunity to map historic wetland basins with spatial precision needed by conservation program managers. Our goal is to identify the location and type of wetlands in South Dakota with altered hydrology to inform voluntary and incentive-based wetland restoration opportunities.
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Blanding's Turtle conservation in Iowa
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June 2025
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This project will allow our states to focus on assisting populations of this endangered turtle in both Iowa and Illinois. We will use radio-telemetry to follow the turtles to determine how the respond to habitat management and utilize the study areas. Additionally, we will estimate survival probability to better understand population demographics of this species. This project will increase our knowledge of where populations currently exist in each state and how they respond to the management actions. The purpose of this application is to implement habitat management on private lands and continue habitat management on public lands in order to provide additional areas to expand and support known populations of Blanding’s turtles. In addition, we will follow the turtles using radio-telemetry in order to collect and evaluate information about their response to the habitat manipulation in an adaptive management framework. Illinois DNR will also initiate an intensive monitoring effort in an under-surveyed area of the state. Iowa DNR will begin a head-starting program for these turtles by collecting eggs, hatching and raising the turtles, and then releasing the turtles onto the property from which they were collected. The Iowa head-starting program will be overseen by the Blank Park Zoo, an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited zoo.
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The purpose of this application is to implement habitat management on private lands and continue habitat management on public lands in order to provide additional areas to expand and support known populations of Blanding’s turtles. In addition, we will follow the turtles using radio-telemetry in order to collect and evaluate information about their response to the habitat manipulation in an adaptive management framework. Illinois DNR will also initiate an intensive monitoring effort in an under-surveyed area of the state. Iowa DNR will begin a head-starting program for these turtles by collecting eggs, hatching and raising the turtles, and then releasing the turtles onto the property from which they were collected. The Iowa head-starting program will be overseen by the Blank Park Zoo, an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited zoo.
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Imperiled bumble bee occupancy and health status in Iowa
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December 2024
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The rusty patched bumble bee (<i>Bombus affinis</i>) is a federally Endangered species that was once widespread across the eastern U.S. and Upper Midwest. While the rusty patched bumble bee is the only species in this region currently on the Endangered Species List, many other bumble bee species have been documented to be in decline as well, including the American bumble bee, <i>Bombus pensylvanicus</i>. Creation, restoration and maintenance of habitat in the Midwestern region, therefore, may be crucial for threatened species’ recovery, and will also support priorities for conservation of pollinators more broadly. This project uses surveys of sites throughout Iowa to better understand the local and landscape habitat characteristics that influence the distribution and occurrence of rusty patched and American bumble bees. Additionally, we are taking measurements of individual bees to understand bee health. This work will inform habitat management strategies for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program as well as targets for rusty patched bumble bee recovery planning.
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The rusty patched bumble bee (<i>Bombus affinis</i>) is a federally Endangered species that was once widespread across the eastern U.S. and Upper Midwest. While <i>B. affinis </i>is the only species in this region currently protected under the ESA, many other bumble bee species have been documented to be in decline as well, including the American bumble bee, <i>Bombus pensylvanicus</i>. Creation, restoration and maintenance of habitat in the Midwestern region, therefore, may be crucial for threatened species’ recovery, and will also support priorities for conservation of pollinators more broadly. This project will use structured surveys of sites throughout Iowa to estimate the effect of local and landscape characteristics on occupancy of <i>B. affinis</i> and <i>B. pensylvanicus</i>, as well as intensive surveys of occupied sites to measure metrics related to individual bee health. The proposed project will also contribute samples to several ongoing efforts to monitor <i>B. affinis</i> population genetic structure and threats to resilience (e.g., pesticides, pathogens). This work will inform habitat management strategies for the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program as well as targets for <i>B. affinis</i> recovery planning.
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Using new transmitter technology to evaluate the effects of environmental change and disturbance on shorebird breeding phenology, behavior, and nest success
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September 2024
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Arctic-breeding shorebirds are declining, and predation is a leading cause of nest predation. Some scientists argue that predation is increasing due to climate change, but others assert that increased human disturbance as a result of intensive nest monitoring is alterting predators to nest sites. To better understand this issue, we attached GPS tags to dunlin during the pre-breeding season, and used location data (downloaded remotely) to estimate nest success. Paired with estimated nest success from nearby long-term monitoring plots, we aim to understand nest survival in the absence of human disturbance. We are also investigating how environmental conditions influence adult behaviors and reproductive success.
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Arctic-breeding shorebirds are one of the bird species experiencing the most severe declines in North America. They face several threats throughout the annual cycle, but predation is the main cause of nest failure in the Arctic. A recent study indicated nest predation had increased threefold in the Arctic during the past 20 years, changing the Arctic into “ecological trap” for migrating birds. These authors attributed this uptick in predation to climate-driven changes in the Arctic. However, Bulla et al. (2019) suggested that much of the increase in predation during the past 20 years might be explained by changes in research methods that lead to an artificially high predation rate. With this study, we are using a hands-off method to estimate nest survival using location data from GPS tags. Birds are captured during the pre-breeding season, and locations are downloaded remotely. We aim to: (1) obtain the first true estimates of nest survival in a shorebird species, (2) assess how conventional, human intensive monitoring techniques affect nest survival under different environmental conditions, (3) develop a best practice guide for accounting for human disturbance effects on shorebird nest survival, and (4) evaluate in an unbiased way how adult behavior prior to and during nesting varies with environmental conditions.
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Automated Real-Time Analysis of Bald Eagle Nest Camera Imagery Using Machine Learning: with applications for investigating food resource use and nesting ecology in urbanized landscapes.
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December 2022
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Bald eagles populations are increasing rapidly in the lower 48 United States. As habitats become saturated, eagles are expanding into novel environments and encountering human stressors. We seek to use bald eagle nest cameras to quantify and monitor forage and demography throughout the urban-rural gradient. The volume of data provided by camera monitoring requires the development of machine-learning algorithms that once trained, will eventually be able to create demographic and provisioning data in near real time. Our project seeks to build and pilot novel computer vision tools using remote camera footage.
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Bald eagles populations are increasing rapidly in the lower 48 United States. As habitats become saturated, eagles are expanding into novel environments and encountering human stressors. We seek to use bald eagle nest cameras to quantify and monitor forage provisioning and demography throughout the urban-rural gradient. The volume of data generated by camera monitoring requires the development of machine-learning algorithms to replace the need for manual processing and image-tagging. This project is a collaboration between US Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Migratory Birds, the Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the University of Massachusetts Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences. Our project seeks to build and pilot novel computer vision tools using remote camera footage. Once built and fully trained, we hope to be able to create demographic and provisioning data in near real time.
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Trophic phenotypes as eco-evolutionary mediators of resilience to climate change
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July 2026
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Many glacial relic populations of fishes and other taxa inhabitat small refuge habitats that are often isolated and thus presumed vulnerable to interacting abiotic and biotic factors that could compress their niche to the point of collapse. However, this outcome, and many future species range models, assume a relatively fixed species niche and do not factor in that glacial relics exhibit intraspecific trophic diversity, representing the capacity to exploit multiple alternative niches. We propose an organismal-eco-evolutionary framework for assessing the role of trophic trait diversity and change (via evolution or plasticity) in resilience to climate change, that links the genetic and plastic components of trophic trait variation, to population demography, and environmental context effects on eco-evolutionary potential. Landlocked Arctic charr in Maine, USA, are the most southern populations of this species in North America and present a powerful system to address these linkages by means of an exceptional long-term dataset of Arctic charr trait and mark-recapture data, combined with genomic analyses, movement behavior, diet and bioenergetics, food web structure analysis, limnology, and climate projection models.
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Many glacial relic populations of fishes and other taxa inhabitat small refuge habitats that are often isolated and thus presumed vulnerable to interacting abiotic and biotic factors that could compress their niche to the point of collapse. However, this outcome, and many future species range models, assume a relatively fixed species niche and do not factor in that glacial relics exhibit intraspecific trophic diversity, representing the capacity to exploit multiple alternative niches. We propose an organismal-eco-evolutionary framework for assessing the role of trophic trait diversity and change (via evolution or plasticity) in resilience to climate change, that links the genetic and plastic components of trophic trait variation, to population demography, and environmental context effects on eco-evolutionary potential. Landlocked Arctic charr in Maine, USA, are the most southern populations of this species in North America and present a powerful system to address these linkages by means of an exceptional long-term dataset of Arctic charr trait and mark-recapture data, combined with genomic analyses, movement behavior, diet and bioenergetics, food web structure analysis, limnology, and climate projection models.
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Wetland ecology of Northeastern lowland forests
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December 2024
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The Northern Forest is a working forest that provides benefits, including timber production, from a range of natural community types broadly classified as lowlands and uplands. Northern Forest lowlands, including forested swamps and seeps, contain regionally important commercial tree species such as northern white-cedar, balsam fir and red spruce. Though widely harvested, impacts of forestry operations on these ecosystems are poorly understood. Yet demand for products such as softwood pulp, studwood, and shingles from tree species common in seasonally wetted lowlands remains strong. The lack of baseline information and standardized methods for assessing these Northern Forest wetland habitats limits the ability of local and regional planners to guide forest management and evaluate outcomes. This gap in ecological understanding is of concern, as intermittent waters, including seasonally wetted forested swamps and seeps, are increasingly recognized for their important roles in supporting water quality, biodiversity, and as critical habitat for wildlife of conservation concern. These waters are likely to encounter increased regulation as the jurisdictional definition of “Waters of the United States” is revised. Our goal for this project is to inform understanding of the intermittent wetland habitats and processes associated with management of northeastern lowland forests, focusing on northern white-cedar forests. This includes quantifying ecological impacts in these systems and developing standardized measurement protocols. Our specific objectives are to: 1) compare wetland processes across harvesting treatments in northern white cedar forests, with particular focus on decomposition, and insect biomass, assemblages, and biodiversity within the wetted environment; 2) develop standard quantification methods for aquatic leaf litter processing, wood decomposition and insect biodiversity in seasonally wetted lowlands that can be applied throughout the Northern Forest; and 3) communicate about tradeoffs in wetland ecosystem condition and biodiversity associated with harvest regimes to forestry practitioners to aid lowland forest management planning. By developing our understanding of these ecosystems and how they respond to harvest, this study will inform sustainable management and prepare stakeholders for questions regarding ecological tradeoffs in management of intermittent waters throughout Northern Forest lowlands.
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The Northern Forest is a working forest that provides benefits, including timber production, from a range of natural community types broadly classified as lowlands and uplands. Northern Forest lowlands, including forested swamps and seeps, contain regionally important commercial tree species such as northern white-cedar, balsam fir and red spruce. Though widely harvested, impacts of forestry operations on these ecosystems are poorly understood. Yet demand for products such as softwood pulp, studwood, and shingles from tree species common in seasonally wetted lowlands remains strong. The lack of baseline information and standardized methods for assessing these Northern Forest wetland habitats limits the ability of local and regional planners to guide forest management and evaluate outcomes. This gap in ecological understanding is of concern, as intermittent waters, including seasonally wetted forested swamps and seeps, are increasingly recognized for their important roles in supporting water quality, biodiversity, and as critical habitat for wildlife of conservation concern. These waters are likely to encounter increased regulation as the jurisdictional definition of “Waters of the United States” is revised. Our goal for this project is to inform understanding of the intermittent wetland habitats and processes associated with management of northeastern lowland forests, focusing on northern white-cedar forests. This includes quantifying ecological impacts in these systems and developing standardized measurement protocols. Our specific objectives are to: 1) compare wetland processes across harvesting treatments in northern white cedar forests, with particular focus on decomposition, and insect biomass, assemblages, and biodiversity within the wetted environment; 2) develop standard quantification methods for aquatic leaf litter processing, wood decomposition and insect biodiversity in seasonally wetted lowlands that can be applied throughout the Northern Forest; and 3) communicate about tradeoffs in wetland ecosystem condition and biodiversity associated with harvest regimes to forestry practitioners to aid lowland forest management planning. By developing our understanding of these ecosystems and how they respond to harvest, this study will inform sustainable management and prepare stakeholders for questions regarding ecological tradeoffs in management of intermittent waters throughout Northern Forest lowlands.
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Effects of Alewife Reintroductions
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December 2023
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Efforts to restore Alewife populations on the Atlantic coast have increased in recent years. However, freshwater habitats, specifically lakes and ponds, have altered food web structures and dynamics reflecting the long period of anadromous Alewives’ absence. Restoration of anadromous populations may alter the lake and pond ecosystem dynamics, resulting in possible positive and negative effects on other food web components, including important recreational fisheries.
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Efforts to restore Alewife populations on the Atlantic coast have increased in recent years. However, freshwater habitats, specifically lakes and ponds, have altered food web structures and dynamics reflecting the long period of anadromous Alewives’ absence. Restoration of anadromous populations may alter the lake and pond ecosystem dynamics, resulting in possible positive and negative effects on other food web components, including important recreational fisheries.
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Investigating trends in turtle abundance from REEF data
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December 2025
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The Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) collects citizen science surveys for a variety of marine species. REEF volunteers use the Roving Diver Technique (RDT), a visual survey method specifically designed for volunteer data. The only materials needed are an underwater slate and pencil, a good reference book, and access to the internet to submit the data online. The data is collated using a log scale for abundance where things are single (n=1), few (n=2-10), many (n=11-100), and abundant (n=101+). Recently Dr. Dan Greenberg developed a Bayesian model which can create area- and species- specific abundance estimates through time based on REEF RDT surveys. The abundance estimates have been used for species that are data-limited (e.g., Goliath Grouper in the southeastern US) and have been compared to scientific abundance estimates (e.g., coral reef fishes in Florida). This project seeks to build estimates of abundance for a variety of turtles species(Green turtles, Loggerhead turtles, and Hawksbill turtles) in multiple locations (Hawaii, Tropical Atlantic, and the Tropical Eastern Pacific). We hope to collaborate with scientists from NOAA to compare the abundance indices derived from REEF data to other indices and indicators of turtle populations.
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The Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) collects citizen science surveys for a variety of marine species. REEF volunteers use the Roving Diver Technique (RDT), a visual survey method specifically designed for volunteer data. The only materials needed are an underwater slate and pencil, a good reference book, and access to the internet to submit the data online. The data is collated using a log scale for abundance where things are single (n=1), few (n=2-10), many (n=11-100), and abundant (n=101+). Recently Dr. Dan Greenberg developed a Bayesian model which can create area- and species- specific abundance estimates through time based on REEF RDT surveys. The abundance estimates have been used for species that are data-limited (e.g., Goliath Grouper in the southeastern US) and have been compared to scientific abundance estimates (e.g., coral reef fishes in Florida). This project seeks to build estimates of abundance for a variety of turtles species(Green turtles, Loggerhead turtles, and Hawksbill turtles) in multiple locations (Hawaii, Tropical Atlantic, and the Tropical Eastern Pacific). We hope to collaborate with scientists from NOAA to compare the abundance indices derived from REEF data to other indices and indicators of turtle populations.
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Assessing the role of turbidity on foraging by pre-rostral juvenile Paddlefish
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December 2022
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We are testing how turbidity (water clarity) may affect feeding by larval Paddlefish. Paddlefish begin life after hatching by feeding on individual prey zooplankton (water fleas). We anticipate that water clarity may affect the Paddlefish's ability to find zooplankton to eat. We will test this hypothesis by setting up tanks that vary in the amount of turbidity, including a tank with no turbidity (control tank), and let larval Paddlefish feed over the course of 2-3 hours. The tanks will all have the same amount of zooplankton in them for Paddlefish to feed on. At the end of the feeding time, the Paddlefish will be removed and humanely euthanized, and the amount of zooplankton eaten will be counted by dissecting the fish.
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OK Department of Wildlife Conservation, OK Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, and Department of Integrative Biology scientists are conducting lab-based research on the effect of turbidity on foraging by larval Paddlefish. We are testing how turbidity (water clarity) may affect feeding by larval Paddlefish. Paddlefish begin life after hatching by feeding on individual prey zooplankton (water fleas). We anticipate that water clarity may affect the Paddlefish's ability to find zooplankton to eat. We will test this hypothesis by setting up tanks that vary in the amount of turbidity, including a tank with no turbidity (control tank), and let larval Paddlefish feed over the course of 2-3 hours. The tanks will all have the same amount of zooplankton in them for Paddlefish to feed on. At the end of the feeding time, the Paddlefish will be removed and humanely euthanized, and the amount of zooplankton eaten will be counted by dissecting the fish.
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Assessing Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Communities in Ephemeral Ponds
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December 2024
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Ponds are increasingly being recognized as a major contributor to aquatic invertebrate diversity that is nested within larger terrestrial networks. Ponds are ubiquitous across the globe, but have been relatively little studied. Temporary aquatic habitats like ponds create environments that sometimes harbor distinct species and assemblages, showing how these environments contribute to overall diversity in the landscape. Working with partners from Oklahoma State University and the Osage Nation, we are studying the aquatic macroinvertebrate communities in ponds and how the presence of fish may influence the structure of those assemblages. Data from this study will be especially useful for managers of the Osage Nation Ranch as it helps complete their knowledge of the biodiversity contain within.
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In this study, we are investigating the role that hydroperiod and fish predators influence aquatic insect diversity by studying a set of research ponds at Oklahoma State University and sampling ponds at the Osage Nation Ranch, located in Osage County, Oklahoma.
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Gopher tortoise conservation through translocations
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October 2026
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Relocation is an important management technique that has the potential to save individuals from mortality and bolster populations that are below the carrying capacity of their habitats. Thousands of gopher tortoises (<i>Gopherus polyphemus</i>) have been translocated from development sites to permitted recipient sites throughout the state of Florida, and this process will be needed more frequently as development in the state continues. For relocation programs to be successful it is critical to understand whether recipient sites are adequately supporting translocated individuals through time. This project investigates demographic outcomes for gopher tortoise populations and also devises population monitoring techniques for translocated populations.
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Relocation is an important management technique that has the potential to save individuals from mortality and bolster populations that are below the carrying capacity of their habitats. Thousands of gopher tortoises (<i>Gopherus polyphemus</i>) have been translocated from development sites to permitted recipient sites throughout the state of Florida, and this process will be needed more frequently as development in the state continues. For relocation programs to be successful it is critical to understand whether recipient sites are adequately supporting translocated individuals through time. This project investigates demographic outcomes for gopher tortoise populations and also devises population monitoring techniques for translocated populations.
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A Bayesian integrated population model for Kootenai River burbot
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December 2024
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The abundance of burbot in the Kootenai River and the associated fishery is unknown. We are developing open-population abundance estimates. Our work will inform hatchery stocking rates needed to sustain a burbot fishery with cultural significance.
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Diversity and Access to Wildlife Opportunities
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June 2025
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Profound changes with how the American public values and relates to nature and wildlife are occurring. Participation rates in traditional activities associated with fish and wildlife have dropped dramatically putting into jeopardy the funding mechanisms for fish and wildlife conservation and potentially motivations to sustain these resources. In addition, there is an apparent broader disconnection of the American public to the outdoors and wildlife that could lead to substantive negative impacts on human health and well-being which depend on beneficial contact with nature. In response to this challenge, a variety of programs targeting the recruitment, reactivation, and retention of fish and wildlife-based recreationists have been developed. Because of the fundamental social and demographic changes in America that are driving much of the disconnection with nature and wildlife, however, the success of such programs is very uncertain. There is growing recognition that continuation of the conservation enterprise which oversees stewardship of our fish and wildlife resources will likely require more fundamental changes to broaden opportunities and inclusion for diverse communities.<br>A fundamental problem and opportunity in this endeavor is how to engage the communities that have not been actively encouraged to participate in nature- and wildlife-based activities. Extremely limited information exists concerning the value of and desire for experiences with nature and wildlife from African-American communities in Minnesota as well as the barriers that constrain African-Americans from desired experiences with nature and wildlife.The proposed project will collect information from African-American Minnesotans concerning their values, attitudes, experiences, awareness of, and preferences for learning about, experiencing, or conserving nature and wildlife. This information will be collected during a two-year period in two phases. The first year we will conduct focus groups and in depth interviews with members of the communities to develop a deep and nuanced understanding of their awareness of and connections to nature and wildlife. In the second phase, we will collect more broadly generalizable information from these communities through multi-modal social surveys using established psychometric approaches for measuring values, beliefs, attitudes, motivations, and experience preferences. This information will serve as foundational information across Minnesota for better engaging and understanding these communities. In addition, the information will assist natural resource management agencies to design programming, experiences, and services that match to the motivations and desired experiences of members of these communities. Doing so could increase their participation in nature- and wildlife-based activities and conservation behaviors.
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Profound changes with how the American public values and relates to nature and wildlife are occurring. Participation rates in traditional activities associated with fish and wildlife have dropped dramatically putting into jeopardy the funding mechanisms for fish and wildlife conservation and potentially motivations to sustain these resources. In addition, there is an apparent broader disconnection of the American public to the outdoors and wildlife that could lead to substantive negative impacts on human health and well-being which depend on beneficial contact with nature. In response to this challenge, a variety of programs targeting the recruitment, reactivation, and retention of fish and wildlife-based recreationists have been developed. Because of the fundamental social and demographic changes in America that are driving much of the disconnection with nature and wildlife, however, the success of such programs is very uncertain. There is growing recognition that continuation of the conservation enterprise which oversees stewardship of our fish and wildlife resources will likely require more fundamental changes to broaden opportunities and inclusion for diverse communities. A fundamental problem and opportunity in this endeavor is how to engage the communities that have not been actively encouraged to participate in nature- and wildlife-based activities. Extremely limited information exists concerning the value of and desire for experiences with nature and wildlife from African-American communities in Minnesota as well as the barriers that constrain African-Americans from desired experiences with nature and wildlife.The proposed project will collect information from African-American Minnesotans concerning their values, attitudes, experiences, awareness of, and preferences for learning about, experiencing, or conserving nature and wildlife. This information will be collected during a two-year period in two phases. The first year we will conduct focus groups and in depth interviews with members of the communities to develop a deep and nuanced understanding of their awareness of and connections to nature and wildlife. In the second phase, we will collect more broadly generalizable information from these communities through multi-modal social surveys using established psychometric approaches for measuring values, beliefs, attitudes, motivations, and experience preferences. This information will serve as foundational information across Minnesota for better engaging and understanding these communities. In addition, the information will assist natural resource management agencies to design programming, experiences, and services that match to the motivations and desired experiences of members of these communities. Doing so could increase their participation in nature- and wildlife-based activities and conservation behaviors.
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Guiding present and future native fish restoration using a strategic planning process, literature synthesis, database analysis, field protocol development/testing, and adaptive management. To PI: M. E. Mather, 2020-2024, $428,358, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism – Ecological Services (Grant #: F20AF00207, Mod. #2; # T-59-R-2).
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November 2027
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The overarching issue that we address here is how to extract clearer and more actionable ecological insights from ”messy” biodiversity monitoring data. At present, only partial solutions exist for this well-established challenge of translating real-world data into environmental protection. Our adaptive management process for conserving native species threatened by adverse human impacts uses an iterative 10+6 step framework to address this challenge. Our weight-of-evidence (WOE) approach links ecological interpretations from multiple information streams (e.g., literature predictions, taxa and resource maps, exploratory data analysis plots, multiple logistic regression models, and model accuracy assessments). By systematically and repeatedly using our framework, researcher-manager teams can cumulatively integrate insights, address relevant gaps, and propose testable predictions that connect present understanding to future information needs. The proof-of-concept example we develop asks “<i>if, when, and why might a specific fish taxon be present or absent</i>?” However, our structured process can be adapted for multiple taxa, locations, questions, and other resource conservation problems. Our innovative team approach transforms the analysis of monitoring data into a series of iterative hypothesis tests that connect present and future analyses, direct upcoming data collections, and guide impending restoration initiatives. Considering multiple visualizations and analyses as individual pieces of a shared puzzle for which each piece provides partial insights into the bigger picture is a different way of thinking about using biodiversity monitoring data to protect native biota from human impacts.
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<i>Background.</i>Natural resource agencies are charged with conserving native species. Freshwater biodiversity is decreasing at an alarming rate even though protecting freshwater is a priority for human security and environmental management. The ecological services sections of state natural resource agencies need new tools in their conservation toolboxes to combat the increasing number of obstacles to the successful conservation of native freshwater biodiversity. <i>Objectives. </i>To provide these new tools that enhance the effectiveness of existing conservation approaches, here we seek to combine the efforts of university personnel, graduate students, and agency partners to provide guidance for present and future native fish restoration through five directions related to the project objectives:(a) identify and implement a strategic planning process,(b) synthesize existing literature on habitat needed by Kansas fish and impacts that adversely affect Kansas fish,(c) analyze monitoring databases related to habitat and native fish distribution,(d) as appropriate, develop / test field data protocols, and(e) as possible, propose a program of adaptive management.Ultimately, in this project, we seek to provide long-term guidance on conservation approaches rather than one-time one-place remedies.
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Mather (and 9 Co-PIs). 2023. NRT-HDR-FW-HTF: Building interdisciplinary connectivity and convergence: an integrated research and management plan to promote biologically-involved sustainability. ($2,997,328). Submitted but Declined
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October 2024
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Our mission of adding strong interdisciplinary understanding, statistics, policy, and a more diverse workforce to established technical disciplinary expertise is a critical strategy towards addressing society’s environmental goals. Through identification of meaningful connections among distinct, established academic disciplines that play a consistent role in BIS projects and are regularly funded at land grant universities, we will develop novel integrated, education, training and research directions that will intellectually inform and conceptually advance environmental problems which are commonly encountered by state, federal, or industry environmental organizations.<br><br>This project is a high priority for the University cooperator.<br><br><i>The Provost of the university (second highest administrator at Kansas State University writes</i><br>“I write this letter to indicate both strong and enthusiastic institutional support from Kansas State University (KSU) for the… grant proposal, ….which enhances the university mission. ….The university will benefit from visionary ideas and first-class capacity building in interdisciplinary research. New (r<i>esearch and teaching</i>) resources will enhance our graduate educational programs, our interdisciplinary research capacity, and solutions for the complex environmental and biologically-involved sustainability issues facing Kansas and beyond.<br><i> </i><br><i>The Dean of the Graduate School said of this grant</i><br>“ proposed …grant. is one of the initiatives that has the potential to strategically change how we prepare our workforce. . The proposed grant can be a game changer in how we approach interdisciplinary graduate education. The Graduate School is thrilled about this proposal and ready to provide all the support it needs.”
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Our mission of adding strong interdisciplinary understanding, statistics, policy, and a more diverse workforce to established technical disciplinary expertise is a critical strategy towards addressing society’s environmental goals. Through identification of meaningful connections among distinct, established academic disciplines that play a consistent role in BIS projects and are regularly funded at land grant universities, we will develop novel integrated, education, training and research directions that will intellectually inform and conceptually advance environmental problems which are commonly encountered by state, federal, or industry environmental organizations. This project is a high priority for the University cooperator.<i>The Provost of the university (second highest administrator at Kansas State University writes</i>“I write this letter to indicate both strong and enthusiastic institutional support from Kansas State University (KSU) for the… grant proposal, ….which enhances the university mission. ….The university will benefit from visionary ideas and first-class capacity building in interdisciplinary research. New (r<i>esearch and teaching</i>) resources will enhance our graduate educational programs, our interdisciplinary research capacity, and solutions for the complex environmental and biologically-involved sustainability issues facing Kansas and beyond.<i> </i><i>The Dean of the Graduate School said of this grant</i>“ proposed …grant. is one of the initiatives that has the potential to strategically change how we prepare our workforce. . The proposed grant can be a game changer in how we approach interdisciplinary graduate education. The Graduate School is thrilled about this proposal and ready to provide all the support it needs.”
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Historical analysis of Yellowstone cutthroat trout growth in Yellowstone Lake
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December 2025
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Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone cutthroat trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> and restore natural ecological function since invasive lake trout <i>Salvelinus namaycush</i> were first discovered there in 1994 (Kaeding et al. 1996). Gillnetting was implemented in 1995 to suppress the lake trout population, but despite annual increases in gillnetting effort, the population expanded throughout Yellowstone Lake (Syslo et al. 2020). The lake trout population of Yellowstone Lake is highly resilient to gillnetting, probably because of high early life history survival. Interstitial embryo predators, which are a common source of embryo mortality in the native range of lake trout, do not inhabit Yellowstone Lake.<br><br>Cutthroat trout abundance declined precipitously in Yellowstone Lake until lake trout suppression efforts reached sufficient levels to reduce lake trout abundances in 2012 (Koel et al. 2020). The number of cutthroat trout caught during annual long-term gillnetting assessments varied subsequently, with mean catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) ranging from a low of 12.5 per 100-m net night in 2011 to highs of 27.3 and 26.4 in 2014 and 2018, respectively. Lake trout predation was also associated with a long-term shift in cutthroat trout lengths from dominance by small (100–280 mm) and midsized (290–390 mm) individuals to dominance by large individuals (400+ mm) in annual gillnetting assessments. The mean CPUE of small and midsized cutthroat trout declined from 18.6 per 100-m net night and 15.1, respectively, in the 1980s to just 6.9 and 3.9, respectively in the 2010s. Concurrently, the mean CPUE of large cutthroat trout nearly doubled, from 7.5 in the 1980s to 14.6 in the 2010s. Lake trout also caused increases in individual weights and condition of cutthroat trout. The average weight of midsized and large cutthroat trout increased from 408.0 g and 682.8 g, respectively, in the 1980s to 463.4 g and 1418.6 g, respectively, in the 2010s. Relative weights (condition factors) of individual cutthroat trout also increased during this period. Mean relative weights of small, midsize, and large cutthroat trout were 58.8, 56.5, and 55.8, respectively, in the 1980s and increased to 68.4, 70.4, and 67.7, respectively, in the 2010s. Lower densities of cutthroat trout with higher individual weights and conditions should have higher fecundity, which should aid further recovery.<br><br>Cutthroat trout abundance of all sizes remains below recovery benchmarks, but large individuals (> 400 mm) have become more abundant and individual weights have doubled, probably because of reduced density. A large (400+ mm) cutthroat trout in 2020 weighs twice what it did in 1980, prior to the lake trout invasion. Currently, the benchmarks for cutthroat trout recovery described in the 2010 conservation plan are all based upon abundance, and include gillnet CPUE, angler catch per hour, and spawner counts in streams (Koel et al. 2010). There is strong evidence that annual growth of cutthroat trout individuals greatly increased following the lake trout-driven decline in the cutthroat trout population. Existing recovery benchmarks do not account for shifts in individual growth. There is a need to examine patterns in cutthroat trout growth relative to periods of lake trout invasion over the past four decades on Yellowstone Lake. Results will be used to refine cutthroat trout recovery benchmarks to account for shifts in growth, greater individual weights, and overall population biomass.
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Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone cutthroat trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> and restore natural ecological function since invasive lake trout <i>Salvelinus namaycush</i> were first discovered there in 1994 (Kaeding et al. 1996). Gillnetting was implemented in 1995 to suppress the lake trout population, but despite annual increases in gillnetting effort, the population expanded throughout Yellowstone Lake (Syslo et al. 2020). The lake trout population of Yellowstone Lake is highly resilient to gillnetting, probably because of high early life history survival. Interstitial embryo predators, which are a common source of embryo mortality in the native range of lake trout, do not inhabit Yellowstone Lake. Cutthroat trout abundance declined precipitously in Yellowstone Lake until lake trout suppression efforts reached sufficient levels to reduce lake trout abundances in 2012 (Koel et al. 2020). The number of cutthroat trout caught during annual long-term gillnetting assessments varied subsequently, with mean catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) ranging from a low of 12.5 per 100-m net night in 2011 to highs of 27.3 and 26.4 in 2014 and 2018, respectively. Lake trout predation was also associated with a long-term shift in cutthroat trout lengths from dominance by small (100–280 mm) and midsized (290–390 mm) individuals to dominance by large individuals (400+ mm) in annual gillnetting assessments. The mean CPUE of small and midsized cutthroat trout declined from 18.6 per 100-m net night and 15.1, respectively, in the 1980s to just 6.9 and 3.9, respectively in the 2010s. Concurrently, the mean CPUE of large cutthroat trout nearly doubled, from 7.5 in the 1980s to 14.6 in the 2010s. Lake trout also caused increases in individual weights and condition of cutthroat trout. The average weight of midsized and large cutthroat trout increased from 408.0 g and 682.8 g, respectively, in the 1980s to 463.4 g and 1418.6 g, respectively, in the 2010s. Relative weights (condition factors) of individual cutthroat trout also increased during this period. Mean relative weights of small, midsize, and large cutthroat trout were 58.8, 56.5, and 55.8, respectively, in the 1980s and increased to 68.4, 70.4, and 67.7, respectively, in the 2010s. Lower densities of cutthroat trout with higher individual weights and conditions should have higher fecundity, which should aid further recovery. Cutthroat trout abundance of all sizes remains below recovery benchmarks, but large individuals (> 400 mm) have become more abundant and individual weights have doubled, probably because of reduced density. A large (400+ mm) cutthroat trout in 2020 weighs twice what it did in 1980, prior to the lake trout invasion. Currently, the benchmarks for cutthroat trout recovery described in the 2010 conservation plan are all based upon abundance, and include gillnet CPUE, angler catch per hour, and spawner counts in streams (Koel et al. 2010). There is strong evidence that annual growth of cutthroat trout individuals greatly increased following the lake trout-driven decline in the cutthroat trout population. Existing recovery benchmarks do not account for shifts in individual growth. There is a need to examine patterns in cutthroat trout growth relative to periods of lake trout invasion over the past four decades on Yellowstone Lake. Results will be used to refine cutthroat trout recovery benchmarks to account for shifts in growth, greater individual weights, and overall population biomass.
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Age-structured model of the Missouri River trout fishery
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April 2025
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To estimate the age structure of rainbow trout and brown trout in the Missouri and Madison rivers:<br>Compile relevant data from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) database for rainbow trout and brown trout populations for the Madison and Missouri rivers.Age otoliths (provided by MFWP) for rainbow trout and brown trout from the Madison and Missouri rivers.<br>Sagittal otoliths will be provided by MFWP. Otoliths will be mounted in clear epoxy, and transversely sectioned about the nucleus using a low speed IsoMet saw (Quist et al. 2012). Cross sections (0.8–1.0 mm) will be affixed to microscope slides and polished using fine grit sandpaper until the otolith nucleus and annuli are clearly visible at 40× magnification. A length–frequency histogram will be constructed from the electrofishing samples to visualize population length structure. Somatic growth of rainbow trout and brown trout sampled will be described using the von Bertalanffy (VBF) growth model. Age-length keys will be used to assign ages to unaged fish. Age-length keys will be constructed using the FSA package in R (Ogle 2016; Ogle 2018; R Core Development Team 2021) and applied to the rainbow trout and brown trout in the Madison and Missouri rivers.
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To estimate the age structure of rainbow trout and brown trout in the Missouri and Madison rivers:Compile relevant data from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) database for rainbow trout and brown trout populations for the Madison and Missouri rivers.Age otoliths (provided by MFWP) for rainbow trout and brown trout from the Madison and Missouri rivers.Sagittal otoliths will be provided by MFWP. Otoliths will be mounted in clear epoxy, and transversely sectioned about the nucleus using a low speed IsoMet saw (Quist et al. 2012). Cross sections (0.8–1.0 mm) will be affixed to microscope slides and polished using fine grit sandpaper until the otolith nucleus and annuli are clearly visible at 40× magnification. A length–frequency histogram will be constructed from the electrofishing samples to visualize population length structure. Somatic growth of rainbow trout and brown trout sampled will be described using the von Bertalanffy (VBF) growth model. Age-length keys will be used to assign ages to unaged fish. Age-length keys will be constructed using the FSA package in R (Ogle 2016; Ogle 2018; R Core Development Team 2021) and applied to the rainbow trout and brown trout in the Madison and Missouri rivers.
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Using dietary dynamics to assess the efficacy of biocontrol and to predict the effects of warming water temperatures on salmonids in Georgetown Lake
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December 2024
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Georgetown Lake is a high elevation reservoir located in southwestern Montana, about 13 kilometers south of the town of Philipsburg. It is about 845 hectares at full pool making it the largest lentic waterbody in the upper Clark Fork River drainage. The fishery is managed as a put, grow, and take fishery for rainbow trout (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>) and brook trout (<i>Salvelinus fontinalis</i>) and as a wild, self-sustaining kokanee salmon (kokanee, <i>Oncorhynchus nerka</i>) fishery. Georgetown Lake routinely ranks in the top 10 in Montana for angling pressure and is equally important as a summer and winter ice-fishing destination. Georgetown Lake is a highly productive reservoir and known for producing large numbers of quality-sized rainbow trout, abundant kokanee, and is a premier location for catching trophy brook trout.<br>The rainbow trout fishery in Georgetown Lake is sustained by annual stocking from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) hatcheries. Rainbow trout spawning occurs in Stuart Mill Creek and North Fork Flint Creek, but little recruitment occurs from these areas. Rainbow trout stocking densities and strains have varied temporally. Gerrard-strain rainbow trout stocking ended in 2009 due to the brood source being determined to not be an actual Gerrard strain. Eggs from a Canadian Gerrard-strain rainbow trout were obtained by MFWP and stocking in Georgetown Lake in 2015. Other strains of rainbow trout used for maintaining the rainbow trout fishery are the Arlee and Eagle Lake strains, which are raised in several production hatcheries in Montana.<br>The rainbow trout fishery in Georgetown Lake has undergone changes in the previous five years since MFWP began stocking the Canadian Gerrard strain into the system. One of the primary changes has been the increase in average size of rainbow trout. The average length of rainbow trout greater than 300 mm has increased from 363 mm (2004-2015) to 402 mm (2017-2020). This length increase suggests that the use of the Gerrard strain may be improving average size in the fishery.
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Georgetown Lake is a high elevation reservoir located in southwestern Montana, about 13 kilometers south of the town of Philipsburg. It is about 845 hectares at full pool making it the largest lentic waterbody in the upper Clark Fork River drainage. The fishery is managed as a put, grow, and take fishery for rainbow trout (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>) and brook trout (<i>Salvelinus fontinalis</i>) and as a wild, self-sustaining kokanee salmon (kokanee, <i>Oncorhynchus nerka</i>) fishery. Georgetown Lake routinely ranks in the top 10 in Montana for angling pressure and is equally important as a summer and winter ice-fishing destination. Georgetown Lake is a highly productive reservoir and known for producing large numbers of quality-sized rainbow trout, abundant kokanee, and is a premier location for catching trophy brook trout. The rainbow trout fishery in Georgetown Lake is sustained by annual stocking from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) hatcheries. Rainbow trout spawning occurs in Stuart Mill Creek and North Fork Flint Creek, but little recruitment occurs from these areas. Rainbow trout stocking densities and strains have varied temporally. Gerrard-strain rainbow trout stocking ended in 2009 due to the brood source being determined to not be an actual Gerrard strain. Eggs from a Canadian Gerrard-strain rainbow trout were obtained by MFWP and stocking in Georgetown Lake in 2015. Other strains of rainbow trout used for maintaining the rainbow trout fishery are the Arlee and Eagle Lake strains, which are raised in several production hatcheries in Montana. The rainbow trout fishery in Georgetown Lake has undergone changes in the previous five years since MFWP began stocking the Canadian Gerrard strain into the system. One of the primary changes has been the increase in average size of rainbow trout. The average length of rainbow trout greater than 300 mm has increased from 363 mm (2004-2015) to 402 mm (2017-2020). This length increase suggests that the use of the Gerrard strain may be improving average size in the fishery.
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Development of an evidence-based management framework for invasive species and seabird habitat in the Oregon Coast Refuge Complex
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June 2026
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The Oregon Coast is home to diverse seabird populations that play crucial ecological, economic, and cultural roles—supporting ecotourism, transporting marine nutrients to terrestrial ecosystems, and acting as biological indicators of ocean health. However, many seabird species, including the iconic tufted puffin (<i>Fratercula cirrhata</i>), have experienced sharp population declines over recent decades. To protect these populations and their habitats, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) established Oregon Islands, Three Arch Rocks, and Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuges as National Wilderness Areas, designated to promote long-term stewardship and public enjoyment of Oregon’s seabird biodiversity. Despite the importance of these refuges, baseline data to support adaptive seabird management is limited. Resource managers lack crucial insights into how seabird habitats have changed, the characteristics of suitable habitats for burrow-nesting species, and accurate data on burrow occupancy and habitat use. This research addresses these gaps by examining seabird habitat requirements, establishing a baseline of vegetative habitat dynamics, and developing a structured decision-making model for adaptive management. By assessing how seabird breeding habitat characteristics have evolved over time, this study will provide USFWS refuge managers with essential data to guide targeted habitat restoration and adaptive management decisions, ultimately supporting the resilience and recovery of Oregon’s seabird populations.
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The Oregon Coast hosts a diverse suite of seabirds that provide a wide range of ecological, economic, and culturally important services such as ecotourism for local communities, bringing marine derived nutrients to terrestrial habitats, and serving as biological indicators of ocean conditions. Many seabird populations, including the iconic tufted puffin (<i>Fratercula cirrhata</i>), have significantly declined along the Oregon Coast over the past few decades. Oregon Islands, Three Arch Rocks, and Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuges are designated National Wilderness Areas set aside in part to promote the protection, stewardship, and enjoyment of Oregon’s seabird populations and their habitats in perpetuity. Currently, baseline monitoring data to support the adaptive management of seabirds and seabird habitat is sparse. Managers have little to no knowledge regarding how seabird habitat has changed over the last few decades, inadequate information about what characteristics constitute suitable habitat for some burrow-nesting seabirds, and are facing a lack of reliable baseline information on burrow occupancy and habitat use. The proposed research directly addresses these knowledge gaps by investigating the specific habitat requirements of tufted puffin, establishing a baseline of vegetative habitat dynamics, and developing a structured decision-making model. Assessing how suitable seabird breeding habitat characteristics have changed over time will provide necessary information to guide refuge managers in habitat restoration and support adaptive management decisions.
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Evaluating a habitat suitability index for Bluenose Shiner populations in peninsular and panhandle Florida rivers
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December 2024
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The Bluenose Shiner is a threatened species in the state of Florida. This project aims to evaluate the ecology of Bluenose Shiner across its spatially disjunct range in Florida to develop conservation strategies for this imperiled species. We will monitor Bluenose Shiner abundance along with water velocity, depth, substrate, and other habitat factors to develop a range-wide Habitat Suitability Index.
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The Bluenose Shiner is a threatened species in the state of Florida. This project aims to evaluate the ecology of Bluenose Shiner across its spatially disjunct range in Florida to develop conservation strategies for this imperiled species. We will monitor Bluenose Shiner abundance along with water velocity, depth, substrate, and other habitat factors to develop a range-wide Habitat Suitability Index.
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Ecology and conservation of endangered Smalltooth Sawfish
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December 2024
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The Smalltooth Sawfish is a Federally endangered species that is confined to a small portion of Florida’s coast. This project aims to fill existing knowledge gaps about sawfish in the Charlotte Harbor region of Florida. Specifically, we will identify ontogenetic shifts in sawfish habitat use and evaluate residency of juvenile sawfish in Charlotte Harbor by quantifying patterns in habitat use and home range as related to sex, size, and environmental factors.
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The Smalltooth Sawfish is a Federally endangered species that is confined to a small portion of Florida’s coast. This project aims to fill existing knowledge gaps about sawfish in the Charlotte Harbor region of Florida. Specifically, we will identify ontogenetic shifts in sawfish habitat use and evaluate residency of juvenile sawfish in Charlotte Harbor by quantifying patterns in habitat use and home range as related to sex, size, and environmental factors.
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Retrospective recruitment analysis of bigheaded carp in the Upper Mississippi River.
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October 2024
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This project examines microchemical signatures of otolith cores from invasive bigheaded carp to determine whether their natal origin was upstream or downstream of Lock and Dam #19, a partial dispersal barrier, in the Upper Mississippi River and whether yearclass strength is associated with environmental variables. This information is key for managing carp populations near the leading edge of the invasion in the Mississippi River.
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Invasive carp continue to increase in abundance and distribution above LD 19 in the Upper Mississippi River. This increase may be due to either dispersal of adults and/or through successful reproduction and recruitment in newly invaded areas. Adult invasive Carp move upstream past LD 19, but movement rates are relatively low for the number of adults encountered in pools 19 and above. Conversely, larval invasive carp have been captured in pools 19-17 on an annual basis since 2014; yet, captures of juvenile invasive carp in the fall are quite rare. The lack of juvenile captures could indicate that larvae are not successfully surviving until the juvenile phase or that juveniles are very difficult to locate and capture despite extensive sampling efforts that have occurred in the UMR. Age structure of adult invasive carp above LD 19 indicates recruitment is consistent. However, whether recruitment of these fish into the population above LD 19 is occurring due to adults migrating upstream through LD 19 or due to recruitment of offspring produced above LD 19 is unknown. Otolith microchemistry can be a useful tool to identify locations where recruited fish are produced. Previous otolith microchemistry work on the Upper Mississippi River indicated <20% of adult invasive carp recruited above LD 19. However, this analysis was conducted with a limited number of fish and it remains unknown whether this recruitment was the result of one large year class or due to low levels of consistent recruitment on an annual basis. Understanding where recruitment is occurring and the frequency of recruitment (e.g., annually or periodically) is critical for implementing management actions such as commercial harvest and installation of barriers. Therefore, we propose to assess the historical recruitment of invasive carp above LD 19 using adult age structure to determine if they are recruiting above LD 19 and if so, the temporal variation in recruitment. This information will be critical to assess if the larvae being produced above LD 19 annually are not recruiting or if they are surviving but going undetected despite extensive sampling efforts. Silver Carp will be collected by commercial anglers in pools 17-19, fish will be measured for total length, and otoliths will be removed for age estimation. Because an estimated 15% of the population was produced above LD 19, we will need to collect approximately 1,000 fish per pool for adequate sample size. Fish will be randomly subsampled per 1 cm group and age-length keys will be used to develop age-frequency histograms for each pool. Once age-structure is determined, we will assess which age-classes are considered recruited to the gear and can be used for Maciena’s catch curve analysis to assess historical recruitment of Silver Carp in pools 17-19 of the Upper Mississippi River. Most Silver Carp captured above LD 19 are 5-10 years old, with peak catches not occurring until age 6-7. Therefore, we anticipate having approximately five age-classes where recruitment can be assessed (6-10 year old fish). Otolith microchemistry will be completed on approximately 60 fish per year class at Southern Illinois University to assess if their natal origin is above or below LD 19. The proportion of Silver Carp produced above versus below LD 19 per year class will be applied to the age-structure of fish captured from each pool to construct separate age-frequency histograms for fish originating from above versus below LD 19. Finally, catch curves will be constructed and residuals will be used to estimate year class strength for fish originating above and below LD 19 for both pools 17, 18, and 19. Finally, environmental conditions (e.g., mean June discharge) can be used to predict variation in recruitment based on environmental conditions. <b> </b>
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Incorporating climate, disease and invasive species into the conservation of a First Food, Klamath redband trout
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December 2025
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In the Upper Klamath Basin (UKB), redband trout (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss newberrii</i>) support the only remaining subsistence fishery for the Klamath Tribes and serve as an important proxy for the conservation of Chinook salmon (<i>O. tshawytscha</i>), a traditional First Food for the Klamath Tribes that is slated for reintroduction after the removal of several downstream dams. While two major conservation plans guide the restoration and management of UKB fisheries, neither plan incorporates disease and invasive species impacts, both of which are critical drivers of the Basin’s ecological balance. This project addresses this gap by examining the role of the parasite <i>C. shasta </i>in influencing species distributions within the Basin. Previous research suggests that <i>C. shasta </i>may confine invasive trout to cooler, spring-fed habitats while allowing native salmonids to coexist under intermediate temperatures. Under certain conditions, <i>C. shasta </i>may act as a “beneficial enemy” by limiting invasive trout presence, indirectly supporting native salmonid populations. For this project, we are analyzing the prevalence of <i>C. shasta</i>, native redband trout, and invasive trout in relation to specific habitat features using spatial data sets, and modeling their distributions based on water temperature and other environmental variables. These findings will inform fisheries risk assessments under future climate scenarios, providing data essential for adaptive management strategies that support the resilience of UKB’s native fish populations and the cultural and subsistence needs of the Klamath Tribes.
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This research will provide actionable science to incorporate the interacting threats of climate change, disease, and invasive species into conservation plans seeking to restore subsistence fisheries for the Klamath Tribes. To address specific knowledge gaps expressed by our partners, we will identify the redband trout habitats most susceptible to both invasive trout and the salmonid parasite Ceratonova shasta. In doing so we will evaluate an unrecognized ecosystem dynamic, in which native pathogens restrict the thermal niche of invasive species, conferring indirect benefits to a native fish.
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Wildlife response to the 2020 Labor Day fires in the Oregon Cascade Mountains
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June 2025
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In Oregon and across the Pacific Northwest, there is an urgent need to understand how wildlife species and their habitats recover following severe, large-scale wildfires. The 2020 wildfire season was unprecedented, with five major fires in western Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, each burning over 100,000 acres. This large-scale disturbance has created significant uncertainty about wildlife conservation and management in the face of future megafires, which are expected to increase with hotter, drier summers. Historically, there has been limited information on how wildlife respond to such major fire events, as megafires were previously less frequent; however, today’s conditions demand insight into how wildlife recolonize areas affected by different burn intensities, the duration needed for population recovery, and the challenges that certain species may face in reestablishing within these habitats. In response, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) established 120 long-term monitoring sites in 2021 and 2022 (roughly 60 each for the Archie Creek and Jack fires). These sites include trail cameras, autonomous recording units, and cover boards, and will be monitored over three years with further assessments at 5- to 10-year intervals. Additionally, remotely sensed data will be used to evaluate vegetation recovery and the effects of forest management practices near monitoring sites. The findings from this project will be critical for ODFW and other agencies to inform wildfire recovery strategies for wildlife and to guide future forest management practices, ensuring a proactive approach to conservation in a landscape increasingly shaped by megafires.
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In Oregon State and throughout the Pacific Northwest, there is an urgent need to document how wildlife species and their habitats recover from severe, large-scale fires. 2020 was an unprecedented wildfire season in western Oregon with five wildfires each exceeding 100,000 acres in size, all in the Cascade Mountains. Understanding how these large-scale disturbances influence wildlife resources in Oregon is extremely important for their conservation and management. To date, there is limited information on how wildlife have responded to these major fire events, primarily because megafires were not as abundant and did not present as great a challenge to the future of wildlife as they do now. With long-term projections of longer, hotter, drier summers, megafires may be inescapable. Understanding how wildlife recolonize areas with different burn intensities and management histories, the length of time it takes for population recovery, and what species fail to recolonize in wildfire affected areas will be extremely important for agencies to manage wildlife resources and for informing forest management practices. In 2021 and 2022, ODFW established 120 long-term monitoring sites (60 for Archie Creek and 60 for Beachie Creek) including trail camera units, audio recording units, and cover boards. Monitoring sites will be maintained for two full years, with continued monitoring at 5- to 10-year intervals conducted by ODFW. Habitat assessments using UAS and remotely sensed data will provide valuable information on vegetation response to fire and management practices near each monitoring site.
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Reconciling range-wide uncertainties in alligator snapping turtle population viability using expert elicitation
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August 2024
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We are assisting the USFWS Alligator Snapping Turtle Species Status assessment team to develop a population viability model that predicted future abundance and extinction probability. In this project phase we are extending the model to include the entire species' range using expert elicited parameters. The results were used in the forth coming listing decision for both species of alligator snapping turtle.
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We are assisting the USFWS Alligator Snapping Turtle Species Status assessment team to develop a population viability model that predicted future abundance and extinction probability. In this project phase we are extending the model to include the entire species' range using expert elicited parameters. The results were used in the forth coming listing decision for both species of alligator snapping turtle.
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Inferring Rosy-Finch demography and breeding distribution trends from long-term wintering data in New Mexico
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December 2026
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Alpine tundra biomes are expected to undergo massive changes in habitat structure and function under climate change. Many populations of summit-dwelling species have already been extirpated in recent years, because they are unable to migrate in elevation to escape warming temperatures or habitat loss. Rosy-finches are among the most climate-threatened species in North America and are notoriously difficult to study due to breeding in high elevation cliff habitats of alpine region, though during the winter they readily approach birdfeeders in a variety of habitats. Therefore, studying wintering populations may provide important clues as to the status, structure, and trends of breeding populations. This study is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Management, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and Rio Grande Bird Research, Inc. Our study will delineate connectivity among breeding areas and the southernmost wintering area in which Rosy-Finches occur, and identify long-term trends in survival and abundance. These data will help managers identify potential populations in need of conservation, and identify potential actions to support wintering populations.
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The three Rosy-Finch species (Black, Brown-capped, and Gray-crowned) are among the most climate-threatened species in the United States. Rosy-Finches breed within high alpine and artic tundra biomes of North America, which are predicted to be disproportionately impacted by climate change. Therefore, identifying potential drivers of vital rates, abundance, and breeding distributions can potentially important environmental and habitat needs. Our study will evaluate long-term trends in demography and breeding distribution trends (inferred from stable isotopes) using long-term data form wintering birds captured on the Sandia Crest, New Mexico, which is also the southernmost point in which all three species co-occur. This project is a collaboration between the USGS New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, USFWS Migratory Bird Management, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, and Rio Grande Bird Research Inc. The research will be used to identify potential conservation actions, including habitat restoration, that could improve conditions for Rosy-Finches in a warming climate.
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Adaptive monitoring for salmonids in Yellowstone River
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June 2023
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The Yellowstone cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i>), rainbow trout (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>), and brown trout (<i>Salmo trutta</i>) fisheries in the upper Yellowstone River, Montana are important recreational fisheries that are highly valued by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and anglers within and outside Montana. Though the Yellowstone River trout fishery is predominantly catch-and-release, fish populations are still susceptible to stressors including increases in angling pressure (i.e., mortality does occur from catch and release angling), increased susceptibility to disease due to elevated water temperatures, and changes in the seasonal hydrograph pattern (as a consequence of a changing climate). Maintaining a monitoring program for salmonid populations in the Yellowstone River can provide important information to natural resource agencies regarding population structure, vital rates, abundance, and distribution in response to environmental stressors. Moreover, identifying and understanding trends in the fishery can provide natural resource agencies with information necessary to adapt management strategies to mitigate for stressors and ensure the salmonid fisheries in the Yellowstone River are available for future generations to enjoy.<br>Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has been sampling Yellowstone cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout in the Yellowstone River in Region 3 from Corwin Springs, Montana to Springdale, Montana since the early 1980s (Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 2018). In 1981, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks established a standardized monitoring program to evaluate the abundance, size structure, and geographic distributions of Yellowstone cutthroat trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout in the upper Yellowstone River using batch mark-recapture techniques. These data have been used to monitor the trout populations and inform management decisions. However, fisheries biologists have recently found that standardized sampling events are becoming less effective or cannot be completed due to changing snowmelt patterns, resulting in an altered hydrograph and turbidity regime. Consequently, fisheries biologists have considered implementing novel analytical methods that could account for the logistical challenges and would continue to provide time-series abundance data. Such analytical methods would be especially pertinent for native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, a species of Special Concern for the state of Montana. The objectives for the upper Yellowstone River monitoring program include providing robust estimates of abundance and survival under the changing hydrological and turbidity regime. The estimates would continue the historical time series of estimates but be more flexible for changing environmental conditions. In addition, the proposed new analytical methods would provide estimates of survival that could be useful in managing the fisheries.<br>The goal of this project is to determine if the current Yellowstone River trout mark-recapture database contains the appropriate data structure to estimate abundance and survival using more robust methods (e.g., N-mixture). In addition, we will determine if the current sampling plan could be improved to provide more efficient and effective sampling. Given the changing abiotic conditions, an improved sampling plan could be of value so that mark-recapture based abundance or occupancy models can be implemented.
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The Yellowstone cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i>), rainbow trout (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>), and brown trout (<i>Salmo trutta</i>) fisheries in the upper Yellowstone River, Montana are important recreational fisheries that are highly valued by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and anglers within and outside Montana. Though the Yellowstone River trout fishery is predominantly catch-and-release, fish populations are still susceptible to stressors including increases in angling pressure (i.e., mortality does occur from catch and release angling), increased susceptibility to disease due to elevated water temperatures, and changes in the seasonal hydrograph pattern (as a consequence of a changing climate). Maintaining a monitoring program for salmonid populations in the Yellowstone River can provide important information to natural resource agencies regarding population structure, vital rates, abundance, and distribution in response to environmental stressors. Moreover, identifying and understanding trends in the fishery can provide natural resource agencies with information necessary to adapt management strategies to mitigate for stressors and ensure the salmonid fisheries in the Yellowstone River are available for future generations to enjoy.Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has been sampling Yellowstone cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout in the Yellowstone River in Region 3 from Corwin Springs, Montana to Springdale, Montana since the early 1980s (Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 2018). In 1981, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks established a standardized monitoring program to evaluate the abundance, size structure, and geographic distributions of Yellowstone cutthroat trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout in the upper Yellowstone River using batch mark-recapture techniques. These data have been used to monitor the trout populations and inform management decisions. However, fisheries biologists have recently found that standardized sampling events are becoming less effective or cannot be completed due to changing snowmelt patterns, resulting in an altered hydrograph and turbidity regime. Consequently, fisheries biologists have considered implementing novel analytical methods that could account for the logistical challenges and would continue to provide time-series abundance data. Such analytical methods would be especially pertinent for native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, a species of Special Concern for the state of Montana. The objectives for the upper Yellowstone River monitoring program include providing robust estimates of abundance and survival under the changing hydrological and turbidity regime. The estimates would continue the historical time series of estimates but be more flexible for changing environmental conditions. In addition, the proposed new analytical methods would provide estimates of survival that could be useful in managing the fisheries.The goal of this project is to determine if the current Yellowstone River trout mark-recapture database contains the appropriate data structure to estimate abundance and survival using more robust methods (e.g., N-mixture). In addition, we will determine if the current sampling plan could be improved to provide more efficient and effective sampling. Given the changing abiotic conditions, an improved sampling plan could be of value so that mark-recapture based abundance or occupancy models can be implemented.
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Putting the sampling design to work: enhancing monitoring programs for improved management and inference of ecological responses to changes in climate.
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December 2025
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Studying the impacts of climate on important ecological responses is a priority of monitoring programs throughout the Northeast. Established sampling protocols for data collection, whether to inform estimates of abundance or occupancy, were designed to evaluate the effects of non-climate stressors and related management actions. Traditional modeling approaches, such as generalized linear models, may not accurately identify important relationships between species and climate nor elicit useful information on how these species will be impacted by a changing climate. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the National Park Service. The goal of this work is to develop statistical methods to enhance and/or modify existing monitoring programs' abilities to understand climate effects on fish and wildlife populations. Specifically, given existing monitoring programs, our objectives are to (1) develop statistical models that quantify and account for the impacts of the sampling design in understanding the relationship between climate and species abundance or occupancy, and (2) develop an optimal supplemental sampling design that factors in spatial and temporal effects, precision, and cost tradeoffs to enhance the monitoring program’s ability to track climate change and provide early indicators for fish and wildlife responses.
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Studying the impacts of climate on important ecological responses is a priority of monitoring programs throughout the Northeast. Established sampling protocols for data collection, whether to inform estimates of abundance or occupancy, were designed to evaluate the effects of non-climate stressors and related management actions. Traditional modeling approaches, such as generalized linear models, may not accurately identify important relationships between species and climate nor elicit useful information on how these species will be impacted by a changing climate. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the National Park Service. The goal of this work is to develop statistical methods to enhance and/or modify existing monitoring programs' abilities to understand climate effects on fish and wildlife populations. Specifically, given existing monitoring programs, our objectives are to (1) develop statistical models that quantify and account for the impacts of the sampling design in understanding the relationship between climate and species abundance or occupancy, and (2) develop an optimal supplemental sampling design that factors in spatial and temporal effects, precision, and cost tradeoffs to enhance the monitoring program’s ability to track climate change and provide early indicators for fish and wildlife responses.
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Risk assessment for Giant Salvinia in Arkansas waters
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June 2023
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Giant salvinia (<i>Salvinia molesta</i>) is the second worst aquatic weed in the world, and in North America, it causes millions of dollars in damages per year to agriculture, fishing industries, recreation, ecosystem health, and human health. Giant salvinia is spreading rapidly throughout the Southeastern United States, including in Arkansas, and climate change is likely to exacerbate the risk and rate of its spread. A preventative management approach that focuses on early detection and rapid eradication responses will be the most successful and cost effective. Thus, there is a critical need to develop a risk assessment tool that both facilitates early detection of giant salvinia and assesses the feasibility of rapid eradication. Here, our goal is to develop and implement a risk assessment tool that 1) facilitates early detection of giant salvinia by quantifying the likelihood of giant salvinia invasion in Arkansas under multiple potential future climate scenarios and 2) determines the feasibility of successfully eradicating giant salvinia in water bodies if giant salvinia is introduced. This risk assessment tool will help Arkansas Game & Fish Commission develop and improve preventative management strategies such as prioritizing monitoring efforts, developing rapid response plans tailored to specific water bodies, and targeted public outreach.
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Giant salvinia (<i>Salvinia molesta</i>) is the second worst aquatic weed in the world, and in North America, it causes millions of dollars in damages per year to agriculture, fishing industries, recreation, ecosystem health, and human health. Giant salvinia is spreading rapidly throughout the Southeastern United States, including in Arkansas, and climate change is likely to exacerbate the risk and rate of its spread. A preventative management approach that focuses on early detection and rapid eradication responses will be the most successful and cost effective. Thus, there is a critical need to develop a risk assessment tool that both facilitates early detection of giant salvinia and assesses the feasibility of rapid eradication. Here, our goal is to develop and implement a risk assessment tool that 1) facilitates early detection of giant salvinia by quantifying the likelihood of giant salvinia invasion in Arkansas under multiple potential future climate scenarios and 2) determines the feasibility of successfully eradicating giant salvinia in water bodies if giant salvinia is introduced. This risk assessment tool will help Arkansas Game & Fish Commission develop and improve preventative management strategies such as prioritizing monitoring efforts, developing rapid response plans tailored to specific water bodies, and targeted public outreach.
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Evaluating reproduction, harvest, timing of season, connectivity, and spatial ecology of wild turkeys in Nebraska
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December 2026
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Wild turkeys are an important game species in Nebraska and across the United States of America. Managers and hunters have reported declines in the number of wild turkeys in Nebraska, similar to declines in other states and regions. Though specific causes of the declines have not been identified, most populations have reported low productivity (e.g., nest success, brood survival), but other causes also may exist. To reverse this decline, state wildlife agencies have reduced wild turkey bag limits and prioritized habitat management efforts to increase recruitment and adult female survival in the breeding season. These efforts have slowed wild turkey population declines across the country, but populations continue to decrease in certain areas, suggesting there are other site-specific factors affecting growth rates (e.g., landcover availability, brood and hen survival). Knowledge of ecology and population dynamics at local scales is needed to understand the causes of decline and inform conservation efforts in statewide and nationwide efforts to reduce (and ultimately reverse) current population trends. <br> <br>We are applying a multifaceted approach to examine the ecology and population dynamics of wild turkeys in Nebraska and specifically aim to: (1) estimate annual reproductive parameters, (2) determine space use and habitat selection of males and females, (3) examine the influence of habitat patch connectivity on effective dispersal (gene flow), (4) estimate survival and harvest rates, (5) evaluate the influence of male social status on patterns of parentage in clutches, and (6) describe gobbling activity. We are partnering with University of Georgia, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Nebraska Chapter of The National Wild Turkey Federation for field data collection.
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Wild turkeys are an important game species in Nebraska and across the United States of America. Managers and hunters have reported declines in the number of wild turkeys in Nebraska, similar to declines in other states and regions. Though specific causes of the declines have not been identified, most populations have reported low productivity (e.g., nest success, brood survival), but other causes also may exist. To reverse this decline, state wildlife agencies have reduced wild turkey bag limits and prioritized habitat management efforts to increase recruitment and adult female survival in the breeding season. These efforts have slowed wild turkey population declines across the country, but populations continue to decrease in certain areas, suggesting there are other site-specific factors affecting growth rates (e.g., landcover availability, brood and hen survival). Knowledge of ecology and population dynamics at local scales is needed to understand the causes of decline and inform conservation efforts in statewide and nationwide efforts to reduce (and ultimately reverse) current population trends. We are applying a multifaceted approach to examine the ecology and population dynamics of wild turkeys in Nebraska and specifically aim to: (1) estimate annual reproductive parameters, (2) determine space use and habitat selection of males and females, (3) examine the influence of habitat patch connectivity on effective dispersal (gene flow), (4) estimate survival and harvest rates, (5) evaluate the influence of male social status on patterns of parentage in clutches, and (6) describe gobbling activity. We are partnering with University of Georgia, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Nebraska Chapter of The National Wild Turkey Federation for field data collection.
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Impacts of Wild Hogs on Birds
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December 2024
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Wild hogs are a widespread and destructive species worldwide. While many of the economic and ecological impacts of wild hogs have been quantified, we know relatively little about their effects on birds through direct predation or through habitat alteration. Given that hogs can reach high densities in bottomland hardwood forests where a number of sensitive bird species occur, understanding the interactions between hogs and the avian community is of high interest to land managers. Working with partners at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as well as USGS Headquarters in Reston, VA - we are evaluating how the presence and relative abundance of hogs influences the occupancy and distribution of birds in bottomland hardwood forests across several National Wildlife Refuges. Understanding how hogs interact with birds will help managers to understand which bird species are vulnerable and allow them to target hog removal and population reduction in areas where these vulnerable species occur.
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Finish later
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Northern Mexican gartersnake demographics and movement ecology
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June 2024
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The Northern Mexican Gartersnake (<i>Thamnophis eques</i>, hereafter THEQ) is a federally threatened species that has declined extensively in Arizona due to invasive species, loss of native prey, and habitat loss and alterations. Data on THEQ population demographics and movement patterns are needed to inform ongoing recovery efforts. While previous studies have examined some aspects of THEQ ecology in central Arizona, very little is known about the ecology of THEQ in grassland landscapes of southeastern Arizona. Information specific to THEQ in these landscapes, particularly the San Rafael Valley where an apparently robust population of THEQ occurs, is therefore needed to ensure that appropriate management and conservation measures are taken and to increase our understanding of THEQ ecology. This project will continue ongoing mark-recapture surveys on THEQ in the San Rafael Valley previously conducted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. This project is conducted in collaboration with Arizona Game and Fish Department and Dr. Matt Goode at the University of Arizona. This project will provide demographic parameter estimates for THEQ and test the application of GPS telemetry to collect fine-scale movement data on THEQ. These data will provide new opportunities to better understand THEQ ecology in this landscape and inform future management and conservation decisions.
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The Northern Mexican Gartersnake (<i>Thamnophis eques</i>, hereafter THEQ) is a federally threatened species that has declined extensively due to invasive species, loss of native prey, and habitat loss and alterations. Data on THEQ population demographics and movement patterns are needed to inform ongoing recovery efforts. While previous studies have examined some aspects of THEQ ecology in central Arizona, very little is known about the ecology of THEQ along the Santa Cruz River in the San Rafael Valley of southeastern Arizona. This habitat of the San Rafael Valley is markedly different from that in other parts of THEQ’s range in Arizona being dominated by narrow riparian corridors surrounded by xeric grassland with isolated cattle stock tanks. Information specific to THEQ in the San Rafael Valley is therefore needed to ensure that appropriate management and conservation measures are taken and to increase our understanding of the ecology of THEQ. This project will continue ongoing mark-recapture surveys conducted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department to provide demographic parameter estimates for THEQ and test the application of GPS telemetry to collect fine-scale movement data on THEQ. This project is conducted in collaboration with Arizona Game and Fish Department and Dr. Matt Goode at the University of Arizona.
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Predicting from the past - identifying characteristics of invasion-resistant and invasion-prone waterbodies to aid horizon scanning
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December 2024
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Waterbodies in the Upper Mississippi River Basin are at high risk of invasion by several aquatic invasive species (AIS), with often devastating ecological impacts to water quality and economic consequences for water-related infrastructure and management. Yet understanding which sites are most prone to invasion, and by which species, is lacking, making it difficult for managers and policy makers to know where to focus prevention and mitigation efforts. Some waterbodies in the region have proved resistant to forecasted invasion, and these situations may provide clues as to the conditions and processes producing this apparent resistance. If patterns can be revealed, this would allow managers to more accurately predict invasion risk throughout the region and thus to triage sites for prevention and mitigation efforts. Additionally, such knowledge may allow managers to develop and apply strategies that promote resistance to invasion in other waterbodies. We will use a combination of machine learning and statistical modeling to leverage region-wide waterbody invasion histories and datasets on the physical, biological, chemical, anthropogenic, and geographic characteristics of these waterbodies to: a) identify that increase or decrease invasion risk, b) categorize all waterbodies in the region based on their invasion risk, and c) provide a decision support tools for managers and policy makers to identify at-risk sites.
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Waterbodies in the Upper Mississippi River Basin are at high risk of invasion by several aquatic invasive species (AIS), with often devastating ecological impacts to water quality and economic consequences for water-related infrastructure and management. Yet understanding which sites are most prone to invasion, and by which species, is lacking, making it difficult for managers and policy makers to know where to focus prevention and mitigation efforts. Some waterbodies in the region have proved resistant to forecasted invasion, and these situations may provide clues as to the conditions and processes producing this apparent resistance. If patterns can be revealed, this would allow managers to more accurately predict invasion risk throughout the region and thus to triage sites for prevention and mitigation efforts. Additionally, such knowledge may allow managers to develop and apply strategies that promote resistance to invasion in other waterbodies. We will use a combination of machine learning and statistical modeling to leverage region-wide waterbody invasion histories and datasets on the physical, biological, chemical, anthropogenic, and geographic characteristics of these waterbodies to: a) identify that increase or decrease invasion risk, b) categorize all waterbodies in the region based on their invasion risk, and c) provide a decision support tools for managers and policy makers to identify at-risk sites.
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Improving outcomes for hatchery-reared Chinook salmon through microbiome monitoring and enhancement
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January 2024
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Hatchery rearing and release programs have long been integral to Pacific salmon fisheries management, helping to supplement commercial and recreational harvests as wild stocks decline; however, these programs have faced significant challenges, including poor performance of hatchery-reared salmon. Addressing these challenges is critical for achieving improved economic and ecological outcomes for Pacific salmon fisheries. This project tackled a key aspect of this issue by investigating how hatchery rearing practices impact microbial communities in the gastrointestinal (GI) tracts of juvenile Chinook salmon, specifically focusing on the gut microbiome’s role in fish health and disease resistance. In salmonid species, the gut microbiome has shown potential as a useful tool for monitoring hatchery fish health and for reducing disease risk through probiotic enhancement. The goal of this research was to identify hatchery rearing practices that resulted in improved gut microbiomes for hatchery-reared juvenile salmon (i.e., gut microbiomes that were more likely to resemble those of wild fish). Through collaboration with pathologists and microbiologists at Oregon State University, this study was one of the first to directly address the causes and consequences of microbiome differences between hatchery and wild salmon and to link these differences to potential disease resistance. The results will inform hatchery management practices that enhance disease resistance and ecological compatibility, supporting healthier fisheries and laying the foundation for further studies on the long-term effects of microbiome disruption in Pacific salmon populations.
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Hatchery rearing and release programs have long been integral to salmon fisheries management as a way to supplement commercial and recreational harvests, and these programs have become increasingly important to fishers as wild stocks continue to decline. However, hatchery programs are also fraught with major challenges including poor hatchery fish performance. Improving the success of hatchery salmon and reducing the risks they present for wild populations could lead to greatly improved economic and ecological outcomes for Pacific salmon fisheries. This project directly addresses this management need by investigating the impacts of hatchery rearing on the microbial communities that populate the gastrointestinal (GI) tracts of Pacific salmon, specifically juvenile Chinook salmon. In salmonid species, the gut microbiome has shown potential as a useful tool for monitoring hatchery fish health and for reducing disease risk through probiotic enhancement. The goal of our research is to identify hatchery rearing practices that result in improved gut microbiomes for hatchery-reared juvenile salmon (i.e., gut microbiomes that are more likely to resemble those of wild fish). This information will inform hatchery management practices to improve disease resistance, enhance fitness, and potentially mitigate some of the negative effects of hatchery fish on wild populations by reducing disease transmission and competition. This work will be the first to address the causes and consequences of microbiome differences between hatchery and wild Pacific salmon and will lay the groundwork for future studies assessing the long-term effects of gut microbiome disruption on Pacific salmon populations.
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Characterization of Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout Below the Little Red River Tailwater
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June 2025
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The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service created trout fisheries in the tailwater of the dam constructed on the Little Red River which created the Greers Ferry Reservoir. There is a put and take Rainbow Trout fishery and a naturalized Brown Trout population in the tailwater below the dam. Rainbow Trout stocking occurs throughout the tailwater down as far as the Monaghan/Womack Access (MWA). The section of the Little Red River below the MWA does not routinely receive stocked Rainbow Trout. Quantified information regarding the population characteristics for Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout below the MWA and the extent to which this river section of interest consists of transient or permanent residents is limited. Any future management actions would benefit from the empirical data regarding both Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout from the section of the Little Red River below the MWA. Hence, there is a need for characterization of the two trout species in that section of the river. Furthermore, thermal dynamics of the Little Red River below the MWA would influence trout growth and survival. Hence there is also a need to understand the relationship between dam releases, air temperatures and water temperatures in the portions of the Little Red River above as well as below the MWA. However, water temperature data from this section of the river and interannual changes in thermal habitat availability below the MWA are nonexistent.
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There exists a need to understand basic population demographics of Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout below the current management boundaries for trout within the Little Red River, Arkansas. Further, basic information regarding water temperature suitability for sustaining trout populations within the Little Red Tailwater is needed. This project is a collaboration between the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and the Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Decisions regarding trout management boundaries and water releases to maintain adequate water temperatures will results from this research.
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Brown Trout Movement in Little Red River tailwater
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June 2025
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The population of Brown Trout below the Greers Ferry dam on the Little Red River (Greers Ferry Tailwater) is unique among trout populations in Arkansas. It is the only self-sustaining trout fishery in the State. While other trout fisheries in tailwaters below dams on the White River and its tributaries require stocking to sustain the fishery, no Brown Trout stocking is required in the Greers Ferry tailwater. This unique situation calls for a considered approach to managing this Brown Trout fishery, because of the inability to influence the fishery by varying stocking levels. Management of this Brown Trout fishery requires some understanding of spawning within the tailwater. This issue was the subject of a previous research project. Trout are managed in the Greers Ferry tailwater from the dam to the Monaghan/Womack Access (MWA) at the Hwy 305 bridge, east of Pangburn, Arkansas (~48 km or 30 miles). The magnitude and persistence of a Brown Trout fishery below the MWA is unclear. Data on trout movement within this section of the Little Red River or between this section and the tailwater above the MWA do not exist. This data gap regarding Brown Trout movement patterns will be addressed by this proposed project.
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The magnitude and persistence of a Brown Trout fishery below the trout management zone in the Little Red River is unclear. Data on trout movement within this section of the Little Red River or between this section and the tailwater above do not exist. As such, it is unknown what levels of protection are needed for trout that readily move among river segments. This data gap regarding Brown Trout movement patterns will be addressed by this proposed project. This project is a partnership between the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and the Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Decisions regarding extension of trout management boundaries will result from this work.
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Caribou recovery modeling
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September 2023
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Southern mountain caribou have declined precipitously in western North America in recent decades and both the US and Canadian government s are working collaboratively on recovery efforts for this species. We do not have a solid understanding about the needs, availability, and spatial distribution of high quality habitat for caribou. This project is a collaboration between USGS, USFWS, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and Canadian and First Nations governments. We will assess habitat suitability across space and time and project habitat suitability as a function of future human land use patterns in western N. Am. The resulting models can be used to guide the spatial design of recovery options and guide southern mountain caribou conservation in western North America.
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Southern mountain caribou have declined precipitously in western North America in recent decades and both the US and Canadian government s are working collaboratively on recovery efforts for this species. We do not have a solid understanding about the needs, availability, and spatial distribution of high quality habitat for caribou. This project is a collaboration between USGS, USFWS, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and Canadian and First Nations governments. We will assess habitat suitability across space and time and project habitat suitability as a function of future human land use patterns in western N. Am. The resulting models can be used to guide the spatial design of recovery options and guide southern mountain caribou conservation in western North America.
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Population Dynamics of Burrowing Owls on Naval Air Station Lemoore
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September 2025
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Western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) are declining or have disappeared from many portions of their historic breeding range. The decline of burrowing owl populations is often attributed to conversion of native grasslands to agriculture and urban development, and to declines in abundance of burrowing mammals that the owls rely on for creation of nest burrows. One place where urban development and burrowing owl habitat intersect is Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore. We plan to thoroughly monitor burrowing owls on NAS Lemoore with the objectives of: 1) documenting burrowing owl return rates, 2) quantifying reproductive success, 3) examining the effects of human disturbance on return rate and reproductive success, 4) providing managers with data and information that will ensure minimal conflicts between owls and base operations, and 5) when development in burrowing owl habitat is critical to the Department of Defense mission, examining the efficacy of mitigation strategies. The results of this research will provide insight into the status of the NAS Lemoore burrowing owl population and how to mitigate the effects of development when development is unavoidable.
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Effects of aircraft noise on greater sage-grouse
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December 2025
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In southern Idaho, the U.S. Air Force conducts aviation military training and combat simulations. These combat simulations involve jet planes flying at low altitude and high speeds focused around two bombing ranges and a collection of emitter stations in Owyhee County. These installations and flyovers occur through greater sage-grouse habitat. Since 1965, greater sage-grouse have experienced a range-wide population decline and are impacted by other types of noise disturbance and human infrastructure. The military has restricted use of some emitters to minimize impacts on sage-grouse attending leks, but we lack information on the effectiveness of these restrictions, or the impacts of intermittent noise on greater sage-grouse. In addition, low-altitude flyovers occur outside of these restrictions, and their impacts on sage-grouse lekking and nesting behavior are still unknown. The primary objective of this project is to document the effects of intermittent noise disturbance from low-level military overflight on nest survival, lek attendance, and behavior of greater sage-grouse. We placed audio recorders and cameras at sage-grouse nests and leks to document sound levels, nest survival, lek attendance, and behavioral responses by lekking sage-grouse. From 2022-2023, we attached radio collars to 53 sage-grouse hens and monitored 26 nests, recording 7,200 hours of audio. We monitored 18 leks from 2022-2023 and collected 13,247 hours of audio and 22,413 scan-sampled behavioral observations. Our results will provide insight into the effectiveness of existing restrictions on military flights near sage-grouse leks and the impacts of intermittent anthropogenic noise disturbance on greater sage-grouse.
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Multi-scale habitat needs of at-risk fishes in Nebraska
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February 2025
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The distribution and abundance of prairie-river fishes is maintained through demographic processes that occur over multiple scales embedded within a habitat matrix. Degradation of the habitat matrix in rivers, however, can limit completion of demographic processes (e.g., recruitment and movement) that may exacerbate the time for recolonization or permanently reduce their distribution and abundance. A major limitation exists, however, due to a lack of understanding of fish-habitat relationships at multiple spatial and temporal scales for many SGCN. A prominent question that remains unanswered includes 1) what habitat features at different spatial scales promote the presence of a species? This research is being conducted with support from and in collaboration with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. This study will set the stage for future work assessing fish-habitat relations by identifying locations most likely to contain species of interest. Benefits from this study may also feed data into the Nebraska Conservation and Environmental Review Tool (CERT), commonly used as a review for proposed projects and potential impacts within areas of at-risk species presence.
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The distribution and abundance of prairie-river fishes is maintained through demographic processes that occur over multiple scales embedded within a habitat matrix. Degradation of the habitat matrix in rivers, however, can limit completion of demographic processes (e.g., recruitment and movement) that may exacerbate the time for recolonization or permanently reduce their distribution and abundance. A major limitation exists, however, due to a lack of understanding of fish-habitat relationships at multiple spatial and temporal scales for many SGCN. A prominent question that remains unanswered includes 1) what habitat features at different spatial scales promote the presence of a species? This research is being conducted with support from and in collaboration with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. This study will set the stage for future work assessing fish-habitat relations by identifying locations most likely to contain species of interest. Benefits from this study may also feed data into the Nebraska Conservation and Environmental Review Tool (CERT), commonly used as a review for proposed projects and potential impacts within areas of at-risk species presence.
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Identifying environmental and demographic drivers of American kestrel population declines to inform conservation actions
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June 2024
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American kestrels have been steadily declining across their North American range for several decades. Kestrels are primarily associated with open country and grasslands, and grassland birds are among the most rapidly declining avian groups in North America. Though kestrels are among the most heavily studied raptor species, previously published demographic analyses at local-scales have failed to identify potential causes of population declines. Thus, broad, continental-scale population analyses that use more available data sources may offer insights into causes of population declines that can inform conservation actions. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, USFWS National Raptor Program, USFWS Migratory Bird Management Southwest Region, USFWS Migratory Birds, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. This research will be used to identify potential conservation actions that could address the causes of population declines identified by the population models. We will use decision analysis tools to then identify regional-scale research priorities that could test the effectiveness of conservation actions and further elucidate drivers of kestrel population dynamics.
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American kestrels have been steadily declining across their North American range for several decades. Kestrels are primarily associated with open country and grasslands, and grassland birds are among the most rapidly declining avian groups in North America. Though kestrels are among the most heavily studied raptor species, previously published demographic analyses at local-scales have failed to identify potential causes of population declines. Thus, broad, continental-scale population analyses that use more available data sources may offer insights into causes of population declines that can inform conservation actions. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, USFWS National Raptor Program, USFWS Migratory Bird Management Southwest Region, USFWS Migratory Birds, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. This research will be used to identify potential conservation actions that could address the causes of population declines identified by the population models. We will use decision analysis tools to then identify regional-scale research priorities that could test the effectiveness of conservation actions and further elucidate drivers of kestrel population dynamics.
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Eastern Black Rail Species Distribution Model
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September 2021
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Predicting a species’ distribution is fundamental to conservation, yet models developed in one region may not accurately predict occurrence in other locations. This variation can limit accuracy when species distribution models are used to predict the location of high-quality habitat in new regions. The eastern black rail was recently listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, and we need to predict the distribution of high-quality habitat to aide in conservation, monitoring, and recovery efforts. We are working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Atlantic Coast Joint Venture to adapt range-wide habitat models and predict the location of important breeding habitats for eastern black rails along the Atlantic Coast. We are using hierarchical occupancy models and predictive Bayesian model selection (i.e., Bayesian Lasso) to develop habitat relationship models for eastern black rails in tidal wetlands, and mapping habitat quality at a fine resolution along the entire Atlantic Coast. These analyses will provide a foundation for development of range-wide monitoring protocols and adaptive habitat conservation programs for this subspecies.
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Central Alaska aquatic inventory & monitoring data synthesis
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June 2027
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The purpose of this award is to assess the status and trends of freshwater communities and habitats in streams on Alaskan public lands utilizing a long-term water quality dataset. These data originate from within central Alaska national parks managed by the U.S. National Park Service as well as other lands in the region managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Research under this award will be guided by the following questions: To what extent can sites across Alaskan public lands be classified meaningfully based on a suite of shared environmental conditions, and do these classes, in turn, contain clearly defined ecological communities? How are species and habitat distributions altered across Alaskan public lands based on habitat conditions and expected environmental shifts under climate change or human use such as mining, and are certain ecological communities or habitats at particularly high risk of decline?
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Streams and rivers on public lands in central Alaska are subject to acute and increasing ecological stress from climate change and in-stream mining. However, long-term trends in water quality and biomonitoring-relevant species are rarely assessed to determine how these stressors are affecting the ecological function of these aquatic habitats. The project is a collaboration of researchers and partners within the Department of the Interior, including the USGS, National Park Service, and Bureau of Land Management. Data synthesis will be aimed at delivering results that facilitate prediction of habitat and species population change as a result of ecological stressors in these central Alaskan freshwaters.
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Assessment of Silver Carp and Bighead Carp in the Platte River, Nebraska: emphasis on distribution, population demographics and reproduction
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January 2024
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Understanding the population characteristics and recruitment of Silver Carp and Bighead Carp within the Platte River system is imperative to prevent further expansion and mitigate the risks to human interests and the native fish communities. The study objectives of this project are to: (1) assess the prevalence of spawning, reproductive success, early recruitment, and habitat use of young-of-year Silver Carp and Bighead Carp within the lower Platte River, and (2) assess the temporal and spatial distribution and reproductive characteristics including—but not limited too—size, age at reproductive maturity and fecundity of Silver Carp and Bighead Carp populations on the Platte River and lower reaches of major tributaries of the Platte River.
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Invasive Bighead Carp and Silver Carp are expanding into Great Plains rivers and limited information regarding basic population demographics exists. Information on population demographics including abundance and reproduction can highlight areas where populations are expanding and possibly contributing individuals to other aquatic systems. This project is a collaboration with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. This work will help direct removal efforts and aid in informing risk assessments within interior rivers of Nebraska and other Great Plains river systems.
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Steelhead run reconstruction modeling
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August 2024
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Snake River Basin steelhead are listed under the ESA and subject to harvest and hatchery programs. Spawning escapement throughout the basin is calculated from numerous data sets. We are conducting a sensitivity analysis on procedures used to calculate steelhead spawning escapement throughout the Snake River Basin. Our results will improve transparency, implementation, and accuracy of the methods used to generate management metrics. The project is imbedded within an existing collaboration between three state agencies and tribal comanagers.
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Snake River Basin steelhead are listed under the ESA and subject to harvest and hatchery programs. Spawning escapement throughout the basin is calculated from numerous data sets. We are conducting a sensitivity analysis on procedures used to calculate steelhead spawning escapement throughout the Snake River Basin. Our results will improve transparency, implementation, and accuracy of the methods used to generate management metrics. The project is imbedded within an existing collaboration between three state agencies and tribal comanagers.
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Yellow Perch in Lake Cascade
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December 2022
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The purpose of this better understand factors influencing recruitment dynamics of Yellow Perch in Lake Cascade, Idaho. In particularly, we are evaluating the trophic ecology of Yellow Perch and potential predators (Northern Pikeminnow, Smallmouth Bass) to provide insight on species interactions. Results of this research will prove resource managers with insight on management options that provide for a continued trophy Yellow Perch fishery.
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The purpose of this better understand factors influencing recruitment dynamics of Yellow Perch in Lake Cascade, Idaho. In particularly, we are evaluating the trophic ecology of Yellow Perch and potential predators (Northern Pikeminnow, Smallmouth Bass) to provide insight on species interactions. Results of this research will prove resource managers with insight on management options that provide for a continued trophy Yellow Perch fishery.
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Effects of agricultural pesticides on migrating shorebirds
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July 2025
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Many shorebirds that breed in Canada and Alaska use the Prairie Potholes as migratory stopover sites for refueling and many of the species have been declining in abundance. Pesticides used by farmers in the uplands surrounding the wetlands could be responsible for population declines. Documenting the causes responsible for population declines is a necessary first step in designing solutions to help reverse declines and stabilize populations.
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Patterns and processes in multi-predator dynamical systems
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June 2025
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Wildlife managers could use knowledge of the effects of one predator species on other predator species to achieve management objectives. However, community dynamics are difficult to predict. We will analyze a large camera trap dataset for spatiotemporal patterns of co-occurrence and covariance in abundance among wolves, mountain lions, black bears, bobcats, and coyotes throughout Idaho. The project is a collaboration of researchers from Idaho Fish and Game and the US Geological Survey.
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Wildlife managers could use knowledge of the effects of one predator species on other predator species to achieve management objectives. However, community dynamics are difficult to predict. We will analyze a large camera trap dataset for spatiotemporal patterns of co-occurrence and covariance in abundance among wolves, mountain lions, black bears, bobcats, and coyotes throughout Idaho. The project is a collaboration of researchers from Idaho Fish and Game and the US Geological Survey.
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Habitat Use and Survival of Reintroduced Juvenile Bolson Tortoises
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December 2025
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The Bolson tortoise is the largest and rarest of the six Gopherus species native to North America. With the exception of captive breeding populations in New Mexico, the Bolson tortoise has been extirpated from its U.S. range for over 12,000 years. In cooperation with the USFWS and the Turner Ecoagriculture Institute, this study will evaluate survival rates and habitat use of juvenile Bolson tortoises released on a large private ranch in southern New Mexico. The results from this study will be used to inform future reintroduction decisions within the species historic range in the Chihuahuan Desert.
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The Bolson tortoise is the largest and rarest of the six Gopherus species native to North America. With the exception of captive breeding populations in New Mexico, the Bolson tortoise has been extirpated from its U.S. range for over 12,000 years. In cooperation with the USFWS and the Turner Ecoagriculture Institute, this study will evaluate survival rates and habitat use of juvenile Bolson tortoises released on a large private ranch in southern New Mexico. The results from this study will be used to inform future reintroduction decisions within the species historic range in the Chihuahuan Desert.
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Grouper Moon: Conservation of Groupers in The Cayman Islands
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December 2028
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Many grouper species have seen declines in their populations driven by fishing targeting their spawning aggregations. The Cayman Islands have had a variety of protections in place with the goal of conserving their grouper populations. As a result of the protections in place and the relative ease of accessing the spawning aggregations, the Cayman Islands grouper populations can serve as study population for Caribbean grouper populations. The Grouper Moon Project was starting in 2003 as a collaboration between the Cayman Island Department of the Environment, Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), and various university partners (Scripps Institution of Oceanography at University of California San Diego and Oregon State University) with the goal of providing the Cayman Islands government information on their grouper populations. The science products from this project will help inform management decisions and better understand the impacts from climate change on grouper populations.
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Many grouper species have seen declines in their populations driven by fishing targeting their spawning aggregations. The Cayman Islands have had a variety of protections in place with the goal of conserving their grouper populations. As a result of the protections in place and the relative ease of accessing the spawning aggregations, the Cayman Islands grouper populations can serve as study population for Caribbean grouper populations. The Grouper Moon Project was starting in 2003 as a collaboration between the Cayman Island Department of the Environment, Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), and various university partners (Scripps Institution of Oceanography at University of California San Diego and Oregon State University) with the goal of providing the Cayman Islands government information on their grouper populations. The science products from this project will help inform management decisions and better understand the impacts from climate change on grouper populations.
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Investigating Biodiversity and Abundance of Reef Predators in The Bahamas using Baited Remote Underwater Video Surveys
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December 2024
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The Bahamas has a goal of protecting 30% of their habitat by the year 2030 through marine protected areas and land-based parks. There is a need for scientific evidence to justify the selection of areas for protections. Additionally, The Bahamas relies heavily on its marine resources as a source of tourism-based income along with commercial, recreational, and artisanal fishing. Stereo Baited Remote Underwater Video Surveys (Stereo BRUVS) will be used to assess the abundance, biodiversity, and length composition of populations of elasmobranchs and predatory reef fish (e.g., groupers and snappers). The objectives of this project are to (1) assess biodiversity and abundance from BRUVS footage, (2) identify any critical habitats for species of concern, and (3) compare BRUVS from the Berry Islands across multiple years to assess if populations are changing.
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The Bahamas has a goal of protecting 30% of their habitat by the year 2030 through marine protected areas and land-based parks. There is a need for scientific evidence to justify the selection of areas for protections. Additionally, The Bahamas relies heavily on its marine resources as a source of tourism-based income along with commercial, recreational, and artisanal fishing. Stereo Baited Remote Underwater Video Surveys (Stereo BRUVS) will be used to assess the abundance, biodiversity, and length composition of populations of elasmobranchs and predatory reef fish (e.g., groupers and snappers). The objectives of this project are to (1) assess biodiversity and abundance from BRUVS footage, (2) identify any critical habitats for species of concern, and (3) compare BRUVS from the Berry Islands across multiple years to assess if populations are changing.
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Development of a Mississippi River Basin Invasive Carp Population Assessment Team
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December 2021
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Bighead (<i>Hypophthalmichthys nobilis</i>), black (<i>Mylopharyngodon piceus</i>), grass (<i>Ctenopharyngodon idella</i>), and silver carp (<i>H. molitrix</i>), collectively referred to as invasive carp, have caused a wide range of negative ecological, economic, and social impacts since their introduction to the United States and subsequent escapement and spread. As a result, the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force charged the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to develop a national management and control plan. With passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA), Congress charged the Service with leading a multi-agency effort to slow the spread of invasive carp in the Upper Mississippi and Ohio river basins by carrying out activities designed to slow, and eventually eliminate, the threat posed by invasive carp. In addition, the Service is mandated by Congress to coordinate multi-agency efforts to manage and control invasive carp nationally, to report the effectiveness of these cooperative efforts, and to document progress implementing the National Plan and controlling the spread of invasive carp. In FY20, Congress expanded invasive carp control activities throughout the Mississippi River and its sub-basins, including the Lower Mississippi River, Arkansas-Red-White, Missouri River, Tennessee-Cumberland, Ohio River, and Upper Mississippi River sub-basins. To begin addressing this need, the Service formed an Ad Hoc Team with representatives from each sub-basin partnership and select federal agencies (see Appendix 1) to develop initial goals and objectives for an invasive carp population assessment and to identify an organizational structure, roles, responsibilities, and expectations that provide the necessary coordination and communication to develop a comprehensive basin wide approach for population assessment. This approach will be shared with the sub-basin partnerships and respective state management authorities and revised as needed based on input received.
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Bighead (<i>Hypophthalmichthys nobilis</i>), black (<i>Mylopharyngodon piceus</i>), grass (<i>Ctenopharyngodon idella</i>), and silver carp (<i>H. molitrix</i>), collectively referred to as invasive carp, have caused a wide range of negative ecological, economic, and social impacts since their introduction to the United States and subsequent escapement and spread. As a result, the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force charged the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to develop a national management and control plan. With passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA), Congress charged the Service with leading a multi-agency effort to slow the spread of invasive carp in the Upper Mississippi and Ohio river basins by carrying out activities designed to slow, and eventually eliminate, the threat posed by invasive carp. In addition, the Service is mandated by Congress to coordinate multi-agency efforts to manage and control invasive carp nationally, to report the effectiveness of these cooperative efforts, and to document progress implementing the National Plan and controlling the spread of invasive carp. In FY20, Congress expanded invasive carp control activities throughout the Mississippi River and its sub-basins, including the Lower Mississippi River, Arkansas-Red-White, Missouri River, Tennessee-Cumberland, Ohio River, and Upper Mississippi River sub-basins. To begin addressing this need, the Service formed an Ad Hoc Team with representatives from each sub-basin partnership and select federal agencies (see Appendix 1) to develop initial goals and objectives for an invasive carp population assessment and to identify an organizational structure, roles, responsibilities, and expectations that provide the necessary coordination and communication to develop a comprehensive basin wide approach for population assessment. This approach will be shared with the sub-basin partnerships and respective state management authorities and revised as needed based on input received.
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Assessing Nesting Status of Black-capped Petrels Following Acute Disturbance Events
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December 2023
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The Black-capped Petrel <i>Pterodroma hasitata</i> (known regionally as Diablotin) is a medium-size gadfly petrel endemic to the Caribbean. The species has a declining population and is considered Endangered throughout its range. The species is currently proposed by FWS as Threatened under the US Endangered Species Act. Population estimates based on at-sea observations range from 2,000 to 4,000 individuals, with a fragmented breeding population estimated at 500 to 1,000 pairs. Currently, the only confirmed breeding areas are located on the island of Hispaniola. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2018) predicted that the two major breeding areas on Hispaniola are likely to face extirpation by 2070 and, if no additional nest sites are found, this would represent a potential loss of up to 85-95% of the currently known breeding population. We will assess the nesting status of Black-capped Petrels following acute predation and fire events, and evaluate the deployment of artificial burrows as a recovery technique. Such an assessment of resiliency is consistent with objectives of the 2018 SSA developed for the species.
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The Black-capped Petrel <i>Pterodroma hasitata</i> is a medium-size gadfly petrel endemic to the Caribbean. The species has a declining population and is considered Endangered throughout its range. The species is currently proposed by FWS as Threatened under the US Endangered Species Act. Currently, the only confirmed breeding areas are located on the island of Hispaniola with <100 nests discovered. We will be partnering with the non-profit Grupo Jaragua (GJ), which leads the conservation efforts for the Black-capped Petrel in the Dominican Republic. GJ coordinates conservation actions for the species, including capacity building, nest searches, colony monitoring and predator control. The project will determine if breeding Black-capped Petrels are resilient to catastrophic threat events that destroy or degrade nests/nesting habitat and kill birds, and will evaluate the use and efficacy of artificial burrows as a practical and beneficial conservation intervention. Such an assessment of resiliency is consistent with objectives of the 2018 SSA developed for the species.<i> </i>
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TCU 438: Evaluating resilience and vulnerability of fish assemblage structure to intermittent flow
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December 2024
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Growing human populations, irrigation water demands, and plans to increase water storage capacity intensify the need to understand how fish respond to drought to establish realistic targets for managing populations and at-risk species. This project proposes to address species resilience and vulnerability to drying events to provide fish-habitat association and distribution data that could be used to inform Native Fish Conservation Area planning and instream flow recommendations in the middle Colorado River basin. Information on species responses with respect to the severity and extent (spatial and temporal) of drying will provide evidence-based inferences about how projected increases in climate- or anthropogenically-driven intermittence may influence recruitment dynamics and fish assemblage structure, including fish species of greatest conservation need.
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Growing human populations, irrigation water demands, and plans to increase water storage capacity intensify the need to understand how fish respond to drought to establish realistic targets for managing populations and at-risk species. This project proposes to address species resilience and vulnerability to drying events to provide fish-habitat association and distribution data that could be used to inform Native Fish Conservation Area planning and instream flow recommendations in the middle Colorado River basin. This project is a collaboration between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the USGS Texas Cooperative Research Unit at Texas Tech University. Information on species responses with respect to the severity and extent (spatial and temporal) of drying will provide evidence-based inferences about how projected increases in climate- or anthropogenically-driven intermittence may influence recruitment dynamics and fish assemblage structure, including fish species of greatest conservation need.
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Assessment of angler use and catch during 2022 at Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska
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March 2023
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The Nebraska Public Power District is a publicly-owned utility and a political subdivision of the State of Nebraska. Its chartered service territory is vast, including all or parts of 86 of Nebraska's 93 counties. The utility works through partnerships to help serve more than an estimated 600,000 Nebraskans with retail and wholesale electric power and energy-related services. The Nebraska Public Power District owns and manages Sutherland Reservoir, a 3,000-surface-acre reservoir located three miles south of the Interstate 80 Exit at Sutherland, Nebraska, as part of its hydropower system, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission oversees most of the recreation areas at this reservoir. The purpose of this study is to estimate angler use and catch at Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska, from April through October 2022. Specifically, we obtained monthly estimates of angler pressure, catch, and harvest. This information will allow the Nebraska Public Power District to evaluate angler use and influence of the fishery at Sutherland Reservoir, and is a required component of its hydropower operating license.
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Sutherland Reservoir (1,220 hectares) is the first canal reservoir downstream from Lake McConaughy and is utilized for the cooling of Nebraska Public Power District’s (NPPD) Gerald Gentleman Station. Permitting requires ongoing monitoring of activities, including recreational fishing. The purpose of this study is to estimate angler use and catch of Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska, during 2022. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Nebraska—Lincoln and the Nebraska Public Power District. Information gained on angler behavior will be important for increased effectiveness of fishery management, as well as increased effectiveness of plant operations.
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Evaluating the effects of nest management on bald eagles in Arizona
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June 2024
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Arizona's breeding population of Bald Eagles is largely isolated demographically from other Bald Eagle breeding populations within North America making it necessary to evaluate the current and future status of this population. The breeding population of bald eagles in Arizona has steadily increased in recent decades yet it is necessary to determine the likelihood of future population growth. Multiple nest-level management programs are currently implemented making it important to determine if continuing these programs is necessary to sustain positive future population growth. This project is being conducted in collaboration with Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. We used multiple long-term datasets for Bald Eagles in Arizona including band-resight data, nest occupancy surveys, GPS telemetry data, and nest productivity surveys to create an integrated population model (IPM). This IPM allows us to leverage the information across all datasets to estimate population demographic parameters and simulate future population projections under different management scenarios.
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Problem statement (1-2 sentences):The Arizona breeding population of Bald Eagle appears largely demographically isolated from other Bald Eagle breeding populations. It is therefore necessary to understand the viability of this population and how changes to key demographic rates (e.g., nest productivity) may ultimately affect the viability of this population. The Arizona Game and Fish Department has collected an impressive long-term dataset on Bald Eagles in Arizona including band-resight data, nest productivity and occupancy data, telemetry data, and nest parasite data. This provides an excellent collaborative opportunity to combine these data sources within an integrated population modeling framework to project population trends forward in time while fully propagating parameter uncertainty and conduct scenario analyses to determine how changes in demographic rates may affect population viability. This is turn will allow for a more informed decision making process when managing Bald Eagles in Arizona.
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Heavy Metals in Cape Krusenstren National Monument
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June 2024
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N/A
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N/A
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Burrowing Owl population assessment on Colorado's black tailed prairie dog colonies
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June 2022
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N/A
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N/A
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Modeling and Decision Analysis for Plague in Prairie Dog Colonies
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February 2023
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N/A
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N/A
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Integrated Ecosystem Modeling Fish In the Grand Canyon
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September 2024
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Several fish species of interest to federal and state managers occupy the Colorado River within the Grand Canyon, including humpback chub (<i>Gila cypha</i>), flannel mouth suckers (<i>Catostomus latipinnis</i>), and rainbow trout (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>). A better understanding of how environmental variation and various management actions affect population and ecosystem dynamics requires development of new models that integrate disparate data informing both population and food web processes. Therefore an integrated ecosystem model for the Grand Canyon that includes the dynamics of humpback chub, flannelmouth sucker, and rainbow trout, combined with the dynamics of invertebrates and primary productivity, and assesses the transfer energy efficiency among trophic levels, is needed. This project is a collaboration with USGS Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center. The model and its results can be used by federal and state managers to better understand the ecosystem and fish populations, to evaluate which flows are best for meeting multiple management goals.
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Several fish species of interest to federal and state managers occupy the Colorado River within the Grand Canyon, including humpback chub (<i>Gila cypha</i>), flannel mouth suckers (<i>Catostomus latipinnis</i>), and rainbow trout (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>). A better understanding of how environmental variation and various management actions affect population and ecosystem dynamics requires development of new models that integrate disparate data informing both population and food web processes. Therefore an integrated ecosystem model for the Grand Canyon that includes the dynamics of humpback chub, flannelmouth sucker, and rainbow trout, combined with the dynamics of invertebrates and primary productivity, and assesses the transfer energy efficiency among trophic levels, is needed. This project is a collaboration with USGS Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center. The model and its results can be used by federal and state managers to better understand the ecosystem and fish populations, to evaluate which flows are best for meeting multiple management goals.
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Beaver Ecology and Relocation Ecology
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March 2025
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This study will provide critical information on beaver space use and behavioral ecology to increase the effectiveness of future stream restoration projects using beaver translocations. This research will aid directly in the management of public lands, help evaluate beaver-based restoration project success, aid in the conservation of species, provide information on beaver ecology and movement, and demonstrate how beaver restoration can be a creative, cost-effective approach to integrate management of private, state, and federal lands in Utah.
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American beavers (<i>Castor canadensis</i>) are a keystone species and ecosystem engineer. They are especially important to water storage, increasing livestock forage, and creating native fish habitat in arid western ecosystems. For these reasons, beaver translocations are becoming a popular method to enhance stream restoration projects (http://beaver.joewheaton.org). However, using beaver to scale up restoration efforts to the actual scope of stream degradation may sound promising, but the reality is that the logistics of doing so are not simple. Here we are assessing methods to maximize the success of beaver translocation as part of the evaluation of restoration using beavers. We are partnering with USFS, BLM, UDWR, PacifiCorps, and landowners. This study will provide critical information on beaver space use and behavioral ecology to increase the effectiveness of future stream restoration projects using beaver translocations. This research will aid directly in the management of public lands, help evaluate beaver-based restoration project success, aid in the conservation of species, provide information on beaver ecology and movement, and demonstrate how beaver restoration can be a creative, cost-effective approach to integrate management of private, state, and federal lands in Utah.
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Contribution of Different Spawning Strategies and Locations to Lake Whitefish Fisheries in Southern Green Bay
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December 2025
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Lake whitefish recruitment has declined in several management zones around the Great Lakes, yet recruitment has markedly increased in southern Green Bay following a resurgence of spawning in some tributaries. This progression seems to suggest that restoring tributary spawning might help offset declines in whitefish recruitment in other areas. However, assuming that tributary spawning is primarily responsible for the expansion of lake whitefish in southern Green Bay is purely speculative. In reality, the importance of tributary spawning to the lake whitefish stock in southern Green Bay remains unknown and available evidence (e.g., telemetry, larval sampling) suggests that whitefish also spawn outside of tributaries at locations that have yet to be identified, representing a major obstacle in understanding stock dynamics. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State-Hammond Bay Biological Station, Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Great Lakes Acoustic Telemetry Observation System. If most whitefish in southern Green Bay spawn in tributaries, restoring this spawning strategy might provide a viable management tool in other places. Conversely, if a relatively low proportion of lake whitefish in southern Green Bay spawn in tributaries, restoring river spawning may be less likely to offset population declines in other portions of the Great Lakes.
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Lake whitefish recruitment has declined in several management zones around the Great Lakes, yet recruitment has markedly increased in southern Green Bay following a resurgence of spawning in some tributaries. This progression seems to suggest that restoring tributary spawning might help offset declines in whitefish recruitment in other areas. However, assuming that tributary spawning is primarily responsible for the expansion of lake whitefish in southern Green Bay is purely speculative. In reality, the importance of tributary spawning to the lake whitefish stock in southern Green Bay remains unknown and available evidence (e.g., telemetry, larval sampling) suggests that whitefish also spawn outside of tributaries at locations that have yet to be identified, representing a major obstacle in understanding stock dynamics. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State-Hammond Bay Biological Station, Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Great Lakes Acoustic Telemetry Observation System. If most whitefish in southern Green Bay spawn in tributaries, restoring this spawning strategy might provide a viable management tool in other places. Conversely, if a relatively low proportion of lake whitefish in southern Green Bay spawn in tributaries, restoring river spawning may be less likely to offset population declines in other portions of the Great Lakes.
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Assessment of movement of prions across the captive-wild interface
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August 2023
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Pennsylvania has detected chronic wasting disease (CWD) in captive and wild white-tailed deer since 2012. Since first detection occurred in the same year in both captive and wild deer, it is difficult to ascertain the role the captive-wild interface has on disease transmission in the state. Since 2012, over 10 captive facilities and 250 wild deer have tested positive for CWD. Considering Pennsylvania is second only to Texas in the number of captive facilities statewide, assessment of various components of the captive-wild interface appears warranted. Previous studies have documented crows were able to transmit infectious prions responsible for CWD in a controlled laboratory setting but field evaluation of this possibility has yet to be tested. Furthermore, limited information exists as to species’ use of captive facilities or areas surrounding these facilities to evaluate the role these species play, if any, of movement of prions around the landscape.
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Pennsylvania has detected chronic wasting disease (CWD) in captive and wild white-tailed deer since 2012. Since first detection occurred in the same year in both captive and wild deer, it is difficult to ascertain the role the captive-wild interface has on disease transmission in the state. Since 2012, over 10 captive facilities and 250 wild deer have tested positive for CWD. Considering Pennsylvania is second only to Texas in the number of captive facilities statewide, assessment of various components of the captive-wild interface appears warranted. Previous studies have documented crows were able to transmit infectious prions responsible for CWD in a controlled laboratory setting but field evaluation of this possibility has yet to be tested. Furthermore, limited information exists as to species’ use of captive facilities or areas surrounding these facilities to evaluate the role these species play, if any, of movement of prions around the landscape.
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Modeling the risk of West Nile virus to ruffed grouse populations
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June 2022
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Since its arrival in North America in 1999, West Nile virus (WNV) has had unprecedented adverse effects on the health of native birds across numerous taxa. In Pennsylvania, WNV was first documented statewide in 2002, with concurrent and precipitous population declines in ruffed grouse (<i>Bonasa umbellus</i>). Recovery of grouse populations has not since been observed. Infected grouse may experience mortality rates as high as 70% or greater. The ongoing influence of WNV can be seen in statewide population indices such as hunter flush rates and late-summer brood sighting survey data. Recent analysis indicates that WNV and availability of young forest on the landscape synergistically influence colonization, persistence and extinction of local grouse populations. Susceptibility of ruffed grouse to ongoing cycles of high-WNV prevalence has important implications for managing this species. Monitoring vector species abundance can assist in understanding areas of the landscape that pose a risk to sustaining grouse populations.
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Since its arrival in North America in 1999, West Nile virus (WNV) has had unprecedented adverse effects on the health of native birds across numerous taxa. In Pennsylvania, WNV was first documented statewide in 2002, with concurrent and precipitous population declines in ruffed grouse (<i>Bonasa umbellus</i>). Recovery of grouse populations has not since been observed. Infected grouse may experience mortality rates as high as 70% or greater. The ongoing influence of WNV can be seen in statewide population indices such as hunter flush rates and late-summer brood sighting survey data. Recent analysis indicates that WNV and availability of young forest on the landscape synergistically influence colonization, persistence and extinction of local grouse populations. Susceptibility of ruffed grouse to ongoing cycles of high-WNV prevalence has important implications for managing this species. Monitoring vector species abundance can assist in understanding areas of the landscape that pose a risk to sustaining grouse populations.
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Muskrat ecology and disease
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August 2023
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Wildlife disease surveillance is important for understanding wildlife health and can also provide insight into human and domestic animal health. Monitoring wildlife for diseases can be used to initiate preventative measures or management efforts against outbreaks in other wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. Passive surveillance involves investigation of mortality events to determine the cause(s) of disease. Results of passive surveillance give researchers insight into what is currently causing or has previously caused morbidity and mortality. Active surveillance consists of targeted investigations of pathogens, toxicants, and diseases through systematic collections of animals or their samples. Through various surveillance frameworks, researchers can assess current and future risk to outbreaks and diseases.
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Wildlife disease surveillance is important for understanding wildlife health and can also provide insight into human and domestic animal health. Monitoring wildlife for diseases can be used to initiate preventative measures or management efforts against outbreaks in other wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. Passive surveillance involves investigation of mortality events to determine the cause(s) of disease. Results of passive surveillance give researchers insight into what is currently causing or has previously caused morbidity and mortality. Active surveillance consists of targeted investigations of pathogens, toxicants, and diseases through systematic collections of animals or their samples. Through various surveillance frameworks, researchers can assess current and future risk to outbreaks and diseases.
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Parturition timing and calf survival in Pennsylvania elk
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June 2023
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Novel methods are available to understand the ecology of large mammals in various regions of the US. From the use of global positioning technology (GPS) for movements to vaginal implant transmitters (VITs) to document parturition, information on various life stages of elk can be determined. This project focuses on using improvements in technology or novel methods to assess elk diet, reproduction, genetics, and survival.
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Novel methods are available to understand the ecology of large mammals in various regions of the US. From the use of global positioning technology (GPS) for movements to vaginal implant transmitters (VITs) to document parturition, information on various life stages of elk can be determined. This project focuses on using improvements in technology or novel methods to assess elk diet, reproduction, genetics, and survival.
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Uinta Mule Deer Survival, Movement, and Habitat Use
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January 2025
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Interstate 80 crosses the range of the Uinta Mule Deer Herd which comprises approximately 12,000 to 14,000 animals. These deer are known to cross I-80, which dissects the winter range for this herd. As deer navigate between seasonal ranges they are exposed to being hit by vehicles along the I-80 corridor and in other locations in the herd unit. There is a need for comprehensive assessment of the movements and migratory routes of the Uinta herd to provide information for effective mitigation of the wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs). The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Wyoming, Wyoming Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, Wyoming Migration Initiative, Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), and the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). Mule deer migration corridors have never been mapped in this part of Wyoming, and this collaring study is providing this critical information to identify current mule deer use of existing crossing structures along the I-80 corridor. This study will collect movement and habitat use data for mule deer to aid WYDOT, WGFD, and partners in reducing wildlife vehicle collisions and conserving ungulate migrations along the I-80 corridor in western Wyoming.
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Interstate 80 crosses the range of the Uinta Mule Deer Herd which comprises approximately 12,000 to 14,000 animals. These deer are known to cross I-80, which dissects the winter range for this herd. As deer navigate between seasonal ranges they are exposed to being hit by vehicles along the I-80 corridor and in other locations in the herd unit. There is a need for comprehensive assessment of the movements and migratory routes of the Uinta herd to provide information for effective mitigation of the wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs). The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Wyoming, Wyoming Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, Wyoming Migration Initiative, Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), and the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). Mule deer migration corridors have never been mapped in this part of Wyoming, and this collaring study is providing this critical information to identify current mule deer use of existing crossing structures along the I-80 corridor. This study will collect movement and habitat use data for mule deer to aid WYDOT, WGFD, and partners in reducing wildlife vehicle collisions and conserving ungulate migrations along the I-80 corridor in western Wyoming.
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Can ribbed mussels augment coastal restoration projects in a world of rising seas?
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July 2023
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This project examines the role of ribbed mussels in stabilizing shorelines directly through the structure they provide, and indirectly by promoting saltmarsh vegetation growth through their impact on nutrient availability in the soils. In collaboration with researchers at Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium, and funded by the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority of Louisiana and Louisiana Sea Grant, this project will provide information to help guide and inform future restoration efforts.
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This project examines the role of ribbed mussels in stabilizing shorelines directly through the structure they provide, and indirectly by promoting saltmarsh vegetation growth through their impact on nutrient availability in the soils. In collaboration with researchers at Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium, and funded by the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority of Louisiana and Louisiana Sea Grant, this project will provide information to help guide and inform future restoration efforts.
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Inventory of models to support decision making to address oyster restoration
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May 2021
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<i>Along the coast of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico (GoM), the eastern oyster, <i>Crassostrea virginica</i>, plays important ecological and economic roles. Commercial landings from this region account for more than 50% of all U.S. landings; these oyster reefs also provide varied ecosystem services including nursery habitat for many fish and macroinvertebrate species, shoreline protection, and water quality maintenance. Declining trends in both total oyster production and functional reef area across this area have spurred investment in restoration of oyster resources, with specific calls for restoration projects to develop a network of reefs, identifying broodstock and sanctuary reef restoration sites, specifically. Numerous efforts related to oyster reefs exist in identifying sites for restoration, and location of broodstock sanctuaries. Along with PEW Charitable Trusts, this project created a database and summary of existing models that can be used to inform oyster restoration. This review provides a complete overview of oyster modeling in the Gulf of Mexico, identifying the tools available, and the gaps related to informing oyster restoration. </i>
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<i>Along the coast of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico (GoM), the eastern oyster, <i>Crassostrea virginica</i>, plays important ecological and economic roles. Commercial landings from this region account for more than 50% of all U.S. landings; these oyster reefs also provide varied ecosystem services including nursery habitat for many fish and macroinvertebrate species, shoreline protection, and water quality maintenance. Declining trends in both total oyster production and functional reef area across this area have spurred investment in restoration of oyster resources, with specific calls for restoration projects to develop a network of reefs, identifying broodstock and sanctuary reef restoration sites, specifically. Numerous efforts related to oyster reefs exist in identifying sites for restoration, and location of broodstock sanctuaries. Along with PEW Charitable Trusts, this project created a database and summary of existing models that can be used to inform oyster restoration. This review provides a complete overview of oyster modeling in the Gulf of Mexico, identifying the tools available, and the gaps related to informing oyster restoration. </i>
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Model Updates and Improvements: ICM-HSIs
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June 2020
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This project examined Habitat Suitability Models for key species in coastal Louisiana. The habitat suitability models are used to inform the state of Louisiana's Coastal Master Plan which informs restoration and management activities along the coast. In this project, we examined the newest literature on oyster habitat suitability, and updated the existing habitat suitability model for oysters.
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This project examined Habitat Suitability Models for key species in coastal Louisiana. The habitat suitability models are used to inform the state of Louisiana's Coastal Master Plan which informs restoration and management activities along the coast. In this project, we examined the newest literature on oyster habitat suitability, and updated the existing habitat suitability model for oysters.
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Gear Comparison Study for Sampling Nekton in Barataria Basin Marshes
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December 2020
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Long-term fisheries-independent sampling data inform population status and trends of species-specific biomass and are often used to drive biomass-based food web models such as the Comprehensive Aquatic Systems Model (CASM). Indicators such as total biomass and mean trophic level derived from these data and from CASM outputs inform management and facilitate assessments of on-going and predicted coastal change and restoration activities on fisheries, but rely on consistent sampling to enable comparisons across space and time. Changes in coastal estuarine gradients, combined with the availability of new sampling technologies, highlight a need to assess the potential consequences of changing sampling technologies on fisheries data and the cascading impact on model outputs. In Louisiana, USA, CASM models are used to inform coastal restoration projects, relying on 40 years of fisheries-independent data derived from 50’ seine sampling. However, alternative use of electrofishers as a sampling method has been proposed to replace the seine sampling. In this study, we examine data from concurrent seine and electrofisher sampling in Barataria Basin, Louisiana, and compare biomass, assemblage data and CASM outputs related to species biomass, food web structure and energy cycling. In a paired comparison of data in 2018-2019, the electrofisher captured higher total catch and diversity compared to the seine. The electrofisher samples were dominated by shrimp (grass, white, brown) and larger bodied fish, while seine samples were dominated by smaller-bodied fish (i.e., anchovy, menhaden). Ecosystem indicators derived from running the CASM using biomass data from seine and electrofisher sampling separately in two different simulation exercises provide contrasting results. In Simulation Exercise 1, the use of different datasets (long-term CASM calibration, 2018-2019 seine, 2018-2019 electrofisher) to initialize the CASM biomasses did not result in large or long-running changes in the simulated biomasses over time. In contrast, in Simulation Exercise 2, CASM model outputs using adjusted gear ratios indicated changes in biomass structure when using electrofisher data, with a doubling of total food web biomass due to the increased shrimp count, and a 13% increase in total energy flow through the food web. Conversions based on area and gear efficiency for overall catch may be useful in maintaining the continuity of historical data. However, differences in species-specific catch due to gear selectivity could have large consequences for constructing and calibrating fish and ecosystem models and remain difficult to reconcile. These differences in assemblages, and estimated biomasses for key food web species, suggest careful consideration in changing gears.
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Long-term fisheries independent sampling data inform fisheries management and drive models. Changing environment and sampling gear impact ecological indicators and outcomes from food web model simulations. Consideration of changes in long-term estuarine fisheries independent sampling methods by the state of Louisiana prompted a study to examine the potential consequences of changing methods after 40 years of data collection. In collaboration with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, The Water Institute of the Gulf and the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority of Louisiana, comparisons of electrofisher, seine and throw trap sampling were conducted, examining species composition, size distribution, and environmental conditions. Changing sampling could have large consequences for indicators used to assess fisheries and ecosystem health if used in fish and ecosystem models.
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Assessment of NRDA Funded Oyster Restoration in the Gulf of Mexico
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September 2026
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Across coastal areas of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill resulted in significant ecological injury and over 8 billion USD directed to restoration activities. The eastern oyster (<i>Crassostrea virginica</i>), an organism valued as a commercial fishery and as an ecosystem engineer, was identified specifically as being negatively impacted (injured) by the event. Oyster restoration projects were implemented with regional goals of restoring oyster abundance, spawning stock, and population resilience. Measuring regional or large-scale ecosystem restoration outcomes challenges traditional project-specific monitoring and outcome reporting collected at local scales. We examined the outcomes of oyster restoration at the project-level and identify and discuss potential pathways to measure progress toward region-level goals. An estimated 15 km<sup>2</sup> of oyster habitat was restored across 11 different estuaries with 62 individual reef footprints created, ranging in size from > 0.2 to 0.64 km<sup>2</sup>. Individual sites were distributed across the salinity gradient, and all reefs were subtidal. One-year post-restoration, mean total oyster density across all sites was 53.0 ± 60.7 ind m<sup>-2</sup> of which 38.4 ± 42.2 ind m<sup>-2</sup> were adult (> 25 mm shell height) oysters. Recent data available for all sites indicates reduced densities of total oysters (44.6 ± 70.9 ind m<sup>-2</sup>) and adult oysters (14.6 ± 21.6 ind m<sup>-2</sup>). These data provide insight into project specific results and outcomes, suggesting an overall enhancement in oyster abundance from restoration, but fall short of informing outcomes at the regional level that incorporate cumulative effects on adjacent and connected reef populations, or resiliency of the overall oyster resource. Inclusion of water quality and oyster resource data outside of specific restoration project areas remains necessary to assess the impact of these projects on regional oyster resource abundance and resilience. Developing outcome measures that incorporate cumulative and synergistic impacts of individual projects will require reconciliation and consideration of project-level planning and monitoring performance targets with broader spatial and temporal monitoring requirements.
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Across coastal areas of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill resulted in significant ecological injury and over 8 billion USD directed to restoration activities. The eastern oyster (<i>Crassostrea virginica</i>), an organism valued as a commercial fishery and as an ecosystem engineer, was identified specifically as being negatively impacted (injured) by the event. Oyster restoration projects were implemented with regional goals of restoring oyster abundance, spawning stock, and population resilience. This work measured outcomes of oyster restoration projects to assess impacts and inform future oyster restoration projects funded in this region. An estimated 15 km<sup>2</sup> of oyster habitat was restored across 11 different estuaries with 62 individual reef footprints created. One-year post-restoration, mean total oyster density across all sites was 53.0 ± 60.7 ind m<sup>-2</sup> . These data provide insight into project specific results and outcomes, suggesting an overall enhancement in oyster abundance from restoration, but fall short of informing outcomes at the regional level that incorporate cumulative effects on adjacent and connected reef populations, or resiliency of the overall oyster resource.
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Avian species resilience to habitat degradation
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December 2024
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The alteration of landscapes due to changes in natural disturbance regimes, grazing cycles, development, pollution, and changing climate, has led to habitat degradation, the purported main driver of population declines generally. Facing ecosystem alteration and degradation on multiple fronts, practitioners struggle to strategically prioritize land management actions to minimize their impacts and maximize benefits to wildlife, keeping species off of the endangered and threatened species list, and maintaining functioning ecosystems.<br><br>It is currently unknown how populations respond to ecosystems’ vegetation departure (a proxy for habitat quality), and subsequently whether measures of departure can be used to assess wildlife health, or guide restoration activities meant to improve wildlife populations. Wildlife species, like vegetation communities, are somewhat resilient to environmental change, and may persist across a range of environmental conditions. In this project we propose to analyze the UT IMBCR 5-year monitoring data set in conjunction with citizen science observations from the eBird monitoring platform to assess the relationships between both population status of SGCNs and avian community composition, and vegetation-based ecological departure scores.
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Habitat degradation is one of the main purported drivers of contemporary avian population declines, but the relationships between habitat quality and population status is not well-studied. Understanding the species that are resilient to habitat degradation, and those most sensitive to habitat degradation will help us plan for future environmental scenarios, and implement proactive conservation and management actions. This project brings together partners in USGS, DWR, USU, and the BLM.This work will enable partners to identify regions of population strongholds and decline for SGCN, and validate the proposed relationship between population status and habitat condition. Our results will enable managers to justify using vegetation departure score to rank regions where wildlife would most benefit from restoration activity, and scientifically ground expectations about how wildlife communities will respond to restoration activities implemented to improve ecosystem health.
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Bumble bee habitat relationships and distribution models
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December 2023
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Pollinators are directly responsible for one in three bites of food humans consume, they provide billions of dollars in free pollination services to agricultural producers, and pollinate many plants important to other wildlife species (such as fruiting plant species for bears and forb plant species for ungulates). Across the Pacific Northwest (PNW) and the nation, pollinator populations, including bumble bees (<i>Bombus sp.</i>), are negatively impacted by pesticide misuse, disease, and habitat loss. Species like <i>B. occidentalis</i> (Greene, 1858) and <i>B. suckleyi</i> (Greene, 1860) have been recently petitioned for listing as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Despite compounding evidence demonstrating declines in bumble bee populations, the distribution, habitat preferences, and status of bumble bees and other native pollinators are poorly understood, potentially hampering conservation efforts.<br><br>Leveraging the PNW Bumble Bee Atlas, a citizen science initiative, funded by a Competitive State Wildlife Grant (C-SWG) from the FWS, containing thousands of expert verified bumble bee observations, this project aims to address information gaps around the environmental associations of multiple bee species across the PNW. Additionally, the project seeks to document and describe the nest and hibernacula site selection of <i>B. occidentalis</i> through field-based targeted observation.
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Native pollinator populations have been in decline in the past few decades, and have recently been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Population declines have been linked to pesticide misuse, disease, and habitat loss, and despite the recognized economic importance of pollinators to the Agricultural industry, populations continue to decline. To ensure the ecosystem services continue, and species persist, knowledge gaps around habitat use across bee life stages must be filled. This project represents a partnership between the USGS, Idaho Fish and Game Department, and Xerces Society. Together, using data from a large, multi-state citizen science project, and primary data collected in the field, we aim to fill critical gaps in understanding related to habitat use across a wide geographic extent, and specific to hibernation and nesting sites to help inform habitat conservation and management decisions.
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Molt Timing and Sample Collection for Future Derivation of Harvest for Purple and Common Gallinules in Louisiana
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December 2022
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Gallinule harvest in Louisiana represents 85% and 60% of the total harvest of both Purple and Common Gallinules within the Mississippi Flyway and nationally, respectively. However, for both Purple and Common Gallinules, there are no available data for either species at any scale (state, flyway, or nationally) on which informed management actions can be made. The focus of our proposed work is to gather preliminary data on distribution and origin of harvested gallinules to provide data supporting an appropriate, data-driven management framework for Purple and Common Gallinule in the Mississippi Flyway. Specifically, our research will focus on gathering the first US data on distribution and origins of harvested gallinules and focus on first steps toward development of a management framework which addresses the situation of a migratory game bird on which no population demographic information is known.
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Gallinule harvest in Louisiana represents 85% and 60% of the total harvest of both Purple and Common Gallinules within the Mississippi Flyway and nationally, respectively. However, for both Purple and Common Gallinules, there are no available data for either species at any scale (state, flyway, or nationally) on which informed management actions can be made. The focus of our proposed work is to gather preliminary data on distribution and origin of harvested gallinules to provide data supporting an appropriate, data-driven management framework for Purple and Common Gallinule in the Mississippi Flyway. Partners include the US Fish and Wildlife Service Webless Program, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and LSU AgCenter,
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Rail and Gallinule Movements in Coastal Louisiana
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August 2025
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Little is known about how hydrologic variability influences movement of secretive marshbirds. In this study, we evaluate how seasonal movements of King and Clapper Rails and Purple and Common Gallinules are affected by hydrologic variability and habitat structure in coastal Louisiana. Understanding how birds use a dynamic and degrading landscape is important to help design restoration projects. The information gained from this study will provide insights into where restoration should occur and the target elevations of restored sites. The Louisiana Technical Implementation Group (LATIG) funded the study through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. This study will help determine the design and location of coastal restoration projects designed to benefit secretive marsh birds. The broader project has already been integrated into the Avian Guidance Document which was developed to guide restoration in coastal Louisiana. Water levels can have a significant effect on waterbird movements. However, little is known about how water levels influence movements of secretive marshibrds. In this study, we are using satellite telemetry to determine habitat use and movements of King Rails, Clapper Rails, Common Gallinules and Purple Gallinules.
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Water levels can have a significant effect on waterbird movements. However, little is known about how water levels influence movements of secretive marshibrds. In this study, we are using satellite telemetry to determine habitat use and movements of King Rails, Clapper Rails, Common Gallinules and Purple Gallinules. Partners include Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, and the Louisiana Technical Implementation Group.
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Distribution and Habitat Characteristics of Secretive Marshbirds in Southeastern Louisiana
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August 2024
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Louisiana has embarked on a $50 billion coastal restoration program. Numerous marshes have been restored under previous funding mechanisms but little attention has been paid to providing habitat for secretive marshbirds. Furthermore, following oil spills, determining loss of secretive marshbirds is difficult but could be improved by better understanding specific habitat characteristics. In this study, we are evaluating the effects of local and landscape habitat characteristics on secretive marshbird abundance in five hydrologic basins of southeastern coastal Louisiana.
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Louisiana has embarked on a $50 billion coastal restoration program. Numerous marshes have been restored under previous funding mechanisms but little attention has been paid to providing habitat for secretive marshbirds. Furthermore, following oil spills, determining loss of secretive marshbirds is difficult but could be improved by better understanding specific habitat characteristics. In this study, we are evaluating the effects of local and landscape habitat characteristics on secretive marshbird abundance in five hydrologic basins of southeastern coastal Louisiana. Partners include the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the Louisiana Technical Implementation Group (BP Oil Spill Recovery), and the Coastal Protection and Restoraton Authority.
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Comparison of Avian Communities and Hydrological Characteristics on Restored and Natural Marshes in Coastal Louisiana
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August 2024
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Louisiana has embarked on a $50 billion coastal restoration program. Numerous marshes have been restored under previous funding mechanisms but little evaluation has been conducted to determine the effects on bird communities. Surface flooding can have significant effects on bird communities, but we know little about hydrologic conditions on restored sites. In this study, we are evaluating bird communities and hydrologic conditions in restored marshes and paired natural marshes in close vicinity to the restored marsh.
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Louisiana has embarked on a $50 billion coastal restoration program. Numerous marshes have been restored under previous funding mechanisms but little evaluation has been conducted to determine the effects on bird communities. Surface flooding can have significant effects on bird communities, but we know little about hydrologic conditions on restored sites. In this study, we are evaluating bird communities and hydrologic conditions in restored marshes and paired natural marshes in close vicinity to the restored marsh. Partners are the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the LA Technical Implementation Group (BP Oil Spill Recovery), and the Coastal Wetland Protection and Restoration Authority. This research will allow us to identify restoration measures that improve bird habitats.
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Post delisting Surveys of Virginia northern flying squirrels and spruce restoration
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December 2022
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In the central Appalachians, population estimates of Virginia northern flying squirrels (VNFS) are extremely difficult to obtain due to extremely low trap success and even lower recapture rates . In 2014, 1308 trap nights in high quality habitat produced no captures of VNFS, although 674 nest box checks produced 12 adult individuals (56 box checks/squirrel). Since nest boxes are arranged in lines, population densities cannot be estimated. Additionally, nest box occupancy is generally low, although occupancy rates are steady. Therefore, the scale of the proposed red spruce restoration and low capture success of VNFS make it extremely difficult to determine how restoration may influence population sizes. However, the use of ultrasonic acoustic surveys may be used as a useful monitoring tool to determine the potential effects of treatments on VNFS occupancy of treated low quality habitats and adjacent high quality habitats. Acoustics has been used as a success monitoring tool on the Carolina northern flying squirrel in western North Carolina and to assess the effects of harvest on flying squirrel habitat occupancy. The ability to differentiate between VNFS and southern flying squirrels quantitatively and qualitatively make this survey method suitable in places where both species are sympatric. Pre-treatment acoustic surveys occurred prior to restoration treatments in the Upper Greenbrier on the Greenbrier Ranger District. More restoration treatments are proposed on the Monongahela. We propose the use of ultrasonic acoustics to monitor pre- and post-treatment VNFS occupancy in areas where restoration activities will occur in order to monitor the persistence of flying squirrel occupancy.
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The recently de-listed Virginia northern flying squirrel is an at-risk species of high conservation concern in West Virginia and Virginia. Efforts to restore its red spruce habitat are complicated by potential short-term impacts to the squirrel from restoration silviculture. The Virginia Unit is using new acoustic approaches to monitor for the presence of squirrels before, during and after stand and landscape treatments to help managers assess risks and balance future habitat improvement with short-term impacts.
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An Evaluation of Factors Limiting Plant Establishment at Malheur Lake
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May 2023
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During most of the 1900s, Malheur Lake at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge supported an abundant mixture of emergent and submergent vegetation. However, after deep and prolonged flooding in the 1980s, vegetation disappeared and has not reestablished throughout most of the lake. In this study, we are using seedbank experiments and exclosures to identify the factors affecting germination and establishment. The seedbank experiment will determine whether an adequate seedbank exists in the soils. The exclosures, placed across an elevation gradient, weill determine whether herbivory is affecting establishment. During the first year of the study, numerous germinants were observed in the seedbank experiment and extensive germination occurred in the exclosures. However, following germination in the exclosures, the majority of plants died presumably due to soil moisture declines. The second year of the study will include a seedbank analysis from a larger portion of the lake, continued evaluation of the exclosures, and more extensive soil moisture monitoring.
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During most of the 1900s, Malheur Lake at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge supported an abundant mixture of emergent and submergent vegetation. However, after deep and prolonged flooding in the 1980s, vegetation disappeared and has not reestablished throughout most of the lake. In this study, we are using seedbank experiments and exclosures to identify the factors affecting germination and establishment. Partners include the U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service and the High Desert Partnership.
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Quantifying the Effect of Instream Flow on Larval Fish Abundance in the Edisto River Basin
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December 2021
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Instream flow variability is widely considered as one of the principal factors shaping riverine ecosystems and biodiversity. Environmental variation linked with hydrology and seasonality interact with life history strategies of fishes to determine phenology of spawning in riverine systems. This study examines the patterns of larval fish abundance in relation to discharge and microhabitat water velocity to better understand fish spawning phenology and its connection to hydrology. From May 2021 to July 2021, we sampled larval fish weekly in Twelve Mile Creek using larval fish seines. We collected discharge data from an upstream USGS gage and microhabitat data was collected at each sample point within a 200m stream reach. We identified all larval fish specimens to family and measured their standard length. We detected temporal patterns in larval fish abundance, with peak Percidae and Leuciscidae abundance in late July and the highest Catostomidae abundance in late May-early June. We found Percidae abundance was associated with greater maximum discharge and increase variation in discharge, Leuciscidae was negatively related to mean discharge, and a negative association between Catostomidae abundance and variation in discharge. We also detected a positive association between Percidae abundance and microhabitat depth. Overall, our results suggest that the spatial and temporal patterns of larval fish abundance are influence by river hydrology and microhabitat variables.
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Environmental variation linked with instream flow variability and seasonality interact with life history strategies of fishes to determine phenology of spawning in riverine systems. However, little research on relationship between instream flow variability and fish spawning has been done in South Carolina. Understanding the relationship between instream flow variability and fish spawning will help determine the flow regime components that influence fish spawning and guide state flow standards. This project aims to: 1) identifying the timing, duration, and magnitude of stream flow driving spawning intensity in a lotic system, 2) quantifying the influence of environmental variables on larval fish assemblage in a lotic system. This project is in collaboration with the South Carolina Water Resources Center Research Program.
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Distribution and Habitat Associations of Snowshoe Hares in Pennsylvania
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June 2025
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Pennsylvania encompasses the southernmost range of snowshoe hares. Changes in climate or habitat conditions could result in hares becoming extirpated from Pennsylvania. Our study will be essential to the Pennsylvania Game Commission as it attempts to implement any management actions to offset potential effects of habitat changes and global climate change. Identifying if and how the distribution has changed and what habitat conditions impact those changes for hares in Pennsylvania will provide the PGC with the necessary information to make appropriate management decisions for harvest regulations, identify priority areas for conservation and management action, and to protect and manage existing habitat.<br><br>In year one, we will evaluate how distribution of snowshoe hares has changed by replicating the 2004 track and fecal pellet methods used by Diefenbach et al. (2016). We will delineate the geographic distribution and large-scale habitat associations of snowshoe hares across northern Pennsylvania by collecting fecal pellet groups deposited by cottontails and hares and then extract DNA from fecal pellets to discern the presence of snowshoe hares. If snow is present, tracks will also be used to identify presence of snowshoe hares and hares may be visually detected. Technicians will navigate to pre-selected sampling locations and sampling sites will be searched for sign of cottontails and hares, and fecal pellet groups will be collected and stored in ethanol. DNA will be extracted at the Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit genetics lab. Genetic analyses will be conducted by the Nucleic Acid Facility, Life Sciences Consortium, Pennsylvania State University. Mitochondrial DNA will be extracted from epithelial cells found in fecal pellets and gene sequences unique to each species of lagomorph will be used to identify the presence or absence of snowshoe hare, cottontail rabbit, and Appalachian cottontail. Additional genetic analyses will use microsatellite markers to investigate the spatial structure of genetic diversity to estimate levels of gene flow and identify isolated populations.<br><br>To ensure a representative sample of hare habitats, we will use a probability-based sampling design to select areas to search for fecal pellets. Repeated samples will be taken from a portion of the sample sites to obtain estimates of detectability, and hence correct for errors attributed to the failure to detect hares when they are in fact present. For each sampled site, we will use a geographic information system (GIS) with vegetation cover types and other digital layers to identify habitat characteristics associated with the presence of snowshoe hares. To suggest a plausible model for the effects of habitat characteristics, a logistic regression will initially be fit to the presence/absence data for snowshoe hares. However, logistic regression does not take into account non-detection errors, and so can lead to under-estimates of the probability that hares are present. Logistic regression is based on the untenable assumption that observations are independent and not spatially correlated. Therefore, new geostatistical methods shall be developed to correct for non-detection errors, to account for spatial dependence in the data, and to predict whether or not hares are present at unsampled sites. Once we have identified habitat or landscape characteristics associated with the presence or absence of hares we can use a GIS, coupled with the newly developed geostatistical procedures, to map the distribution of hares across Pennsylvania. Estimates of uncertainty of model predictions will be an essential component of our analyses.<br><br>In year two, we will identify focal areas in McKean, Cameron, and Elk counties to evaluate fine scale habitat features influence on local snowshoe hare population density and potentially population connectivity. Features we will evaluate include stem density of mid and understory vegetation, height of midstory, deer browse, and coarse woody debris among others. One-mi<sup>2</sup> focal areas will be identified within this core Pennsylvania hare range that was identified by Diefenbach et al (2016). Specific areas will be selected for landscape features such as scale of timber sales, aspect, cover type, and stand age.
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Pennsylvania encompasses the southernmost range of snowshoe hares. Changes in climate or habitat conditions could result in hares becoming extirpated from Pennsylvania. Our study will be essential to the Pennsylvania Game Commission as it attempts to implement any management actions to offset potential effects of habitat changes and global climate change. Identifying if and how the distribution has changed and what habitat conditions impact those changes for hares in Pennsylvania will provide the PGC with the necessary information to make appropriate management decisions for harvest regulations, identify priority areas for conservation and management action, and to protect and manage existing habitat.In year one, we will evaluate how distribution of snowshoe hares has changed by replicating the 2004 track and fecal pellet methods used by Diefenbach et al. (2016). We will delineate the geographic distribution and large-scale habitat associations of snowshoe hares across northern Pennsylvania by collecting fecal pellet groups deposited by cottontails and hares and then extract DNA from fecal pellets to discern the presence of snowshoe hares. If snow is present, tracks will also be used to identify presence of snowshoe hares and hares may be visually detected. Technicians will navigate to pre-selected sampling locations and sampling sites will be searched for sign of cottontails and hares, and fecal pellet groups will be collected and stored in ethanol. DNA will be extracted at the Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit genetics lab. Genetic analyses will be conducted by the Nucleic Acid Facility, Life Sciences Consortium, Pennsylvania State University. Mitochondrial DNA will be extracted from epithelial cells found in fecal pellets and gene sequences unique to each species of lagomorph will be used to identify the presence or absence of snowshoe hare, cottontail rabbit, and Appalachian cottontail. Additional genetic analyses will use microsatellite markers to investigate the spatial structure of genetic diversity to estimate levels of gene flow and identify isolated populations.To ensure a representative sample of hare habitats, we will use a probability-based sampling design to select areas to search for fecal pellets. Repeated samples will be taken from a portion of the sample sites to obtain estimates of detectability, and hence correct for errors attributed to the failure to detect hares when they are in fact present. For each sampled site, we will use a geographic information system (GIS) with vegetation cover types and other digital layers to identify habitat characteristics associated with the presence of snowshoe hares. To suggest a plausible model for the effects of habitat characteristics, a logistic regression will initially be fit to the presence/absence data for snowshoe hares. However, logistic regression does not take into account non-detection errors, and so can lead to under-estimates of the probability that hares are present. Logistic regression is based on the untenable assumption that observations are independent and not spatially correlated. Therefore, new geostatistical methods shall be developed to correct for non-detection errors, to account for spatial dependence in the data, and to predict whether or not hares are present at unsampled sites. Once we have identified habitat or landscape characteristics associated with the presence or absence of hares we can use a GIS, coupled with the newly developed geostatistical procedures, to map the distribution of hares across Pennsylvania. Estimates of uncertainty of model predictions will be an essential component of our analyses.In year two, we will identify focal areas in McKean, Cameron, and Elk counties to evaluate fine scale habitat features influence on local snowshoe hare population density and potentially population connectivity. Features we will evaluate include stem density of mid and understory vegetation, height of midstory, deer browse, and coarse woody debris among others. One-mi<sup>2</sup> focal areas will be identified within this core Pennsylvania hare range that was identified by Diefenbach et al (2016). Specific areas will be selected for landscape features such as scale of timber sales, aspect, cover type, and stand age.
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Observing Flight Initiation Distances of Florida Chelonia mydas in the Crystal Bay Area
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October 2022
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Vessel strikes have become a more significant threat as an increasing number of sea turtles around the world, and especially in Florida, are stranded (injured or killed) due to an increase in the number of strikes by recreational or commercial vessels over the past several decades. For effective management strategies to be established, threats to sea turtles must be thoroughly understood. Observing how green turtles (Chelonia mydas) react to oncoming vessels at varying speeds will allow for critical information surrounding these interactions to be recorded. We will conduct observational boat surveys to measure turtle response and flight initiation distance from the vessel and compare behaviors of turtles of different size classes. This research looks to improve the available information on a relevant threat for sea turtles not only in Florida but globally and will be useful for management organizations to help reduce vessel-related mortality.
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Vessel strikes have become a more significant threat as an increasing number of sea turtles around the world, and especially in Florida, are stranded (injured or killed) due to an increase in the number of strikes by recreational or commercial vessels over the past several decades. For effective management strategies to be established, threats to sea turtles must be thoroughly understood. Observing how green turtles (Chelonia mydas) react to oncoming vessels at varying speeds will allow for critical information surrounding these interactions to be recorded. We will conduct observational boat surveys to measure turtle response and flight initiation distance from the vessel and compare behaviors of turtles of different size classes. This research looks to improve the available information on a relevant threat for sea turtles not only in Florida but globally and will be useful for management organizations to help reduce vessel-related mortality.
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Investigating Drivers of Cisco Recruitment
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January 2024
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The Great Lakes featured high abundances of Cisco (Coregonus artedi) until the early-1900s when their stocks began to collapse, with Lake Superior declining in the mid-1900s. Since that time, the stocks have rebounded in Lake Superior, although they once again appear to be in decline. The original decline in the mid-1900s was attributed to a variety of anthropogenic factors including overfishing, pollution, and introduced species. Even when stocks were abundant, it was noted that large spawning stocks did not necessarily lead to large recruitment classes and, similarly, small spawning stocks could sometimes result in large recruitment classes. Factors quantitatively linked to recruitment have been evaluated previously using Ricker stock recruitment models. We propose using three quantitative methods to investigate the relationship of biotic and abiotic factors with Cisco recruitment, including: (1) Multivariate Auto-Regressive State Space Models; (2) Empirical Dynamic Models; and (3) Bayesian Spatial Delta-glmm models. This work will be done in collaboration with local, federal, tribal, and state agencies working on Lake Superior. Our proposed outreach plan includes numerous meetings with stakeholders, presentations at professional societies, peer-reviewed publications, and quantitative workshops focused on teaching the three methods we will be applying. Building on hypotheses established by prior researchers, we will be looking at climatic and temperature variables, indices of predators, indices of competitors, indices of spawners, and measures of habitat quality.
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The Great Lakes featured high abundances of Cisco (Coregonus artedi) until the early-1900s when their stocks began to collapse, with Lake Superior declining in the mid-1900s. Since that time, the stocks have rebounded in Lake Superior, although they once again appear to be in decline. The original decline in the mid-1900s was attributed to a variety of anthropogenic factors including overfishing, pollution, and introduced species. Even when stocks were abundant, it was noted that large spawning stocks did not necessarily lead to large recruitment classes and, similarly, small spawning stocks could sometimes result in large recruitment classes. Factors quantitatively linked to recruitment have been evaluated previously using Ricker stock recruitment models. We propose using three quantitative methods to investigate the relationship of biotic and abiotic factors with Cisco recruitment, including: (1) Multivariate Auto-Regressive State Space Models; (2) Empirical Dynamic Models; and (3) Bayesian Spatial Delta-glmm models. This work will be done in collaboration with local, federal, tribal, and state agencies working on Lake Superior. Our proposed outreach plan includes numerous meetings with stakeholders, presentations at professional societies, peer-reviewed publications, and quantitative workshops focused on teaching the three methods we will be applying. Building on hypotheses established by prior researchers, we will be looking at climatic and temperature variables, indices of predators, indices of competitors, indices of spawners, and measures of habitat quality.
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Growth Assessment of Atlantic Ocean Tropical Tunas
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February 2021
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The overall objective of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Atlantic Ocean Tropical Tuna Tagging Program (AOTTP) is to contribute to food security and economic growth of the Atlantic coastal states by ensuring sustainable management of tropical tuna resources in the Atlantic Ocean. Specifically it provided evidence-based scientific advice to developing Atlantic coastal states, and other ICCAT Contracting Parties, for them to adopt appropriate conservation and management measures within the framework of the ICCAT. The AOTTP awarded a contract to study the growth of 3 tropical tuna species from the Atlantic Ocean - Bigeye, Yellowfin, and Skipjack to Dr. John M. Hoenig of Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences (VIMS) at the College of William and Mary with Dr. Lynn Waterhouse (currently with the Minnesota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, then with the John G. Shedd Aquarium) as a co-Principal Investigator on the project. The growth studies utilized past data along with tagging data and hard part data (otoliths and spines) from the AOTTP program. The project also led to the development of a novel method for estimating ages from spines when vascularization may obscure the central rings of the spine. Vascularization is a problem for the spines of many tuna species along with other marine and freshwater species. Two of the papers from this project will be coming out in a special issue of Fisheries Research dedicated to projects from the AOTTP.
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Tuna species are highly valued marine resource. To keep this resource sustainable international agencies - the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) for the Atlantic Ocean - work to provide scientifically sound assessments for these resources. Many pieces of information go into a stock assessment, including species specific estimates of growth parameters. This project focuses on updating growth information for three Atlantic Ocean tropical tuna species - Bigeye, Yellowfin, and Skipjack Tuna. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple universities and agencies and includes Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences at the College of William and Mary, USGS Minnesota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and scientists from the Southwest Fisheries Science Center for the National Marine Fisheries Service. The updated growth estimates will be used for future assessment meetings for these three species. The work also highlights a variety of research needs (e.g., the need for samples from older fish).
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AquaPV Ecological modelling support
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September 2024
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Climate change has highlighted the need for continued development and expansion of renewable energy. Floating solar has been proposed as an efficient solution to meeting energy demands with a minimal footprint. This project with collaborators at OSU aims to model the ecological implications of floating solar for freshwater habitats as part of a larger DOE SETO project with INL and NREL.
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Climate change has highlighted the need for continued development and expansion of renewable energy. Floating solar has been proposed as an efficient solution to meeting energy demands with a minimal footprint. This project with collaborators at OSU aims to model the ecological implications of floating solar for freshwater habitats as part of a larger DOE SETO project with INL and NREL.
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The Impact of Future Climate Variability on Shorebirds and Their Wetland Habitats in the South-Central U.S.
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December 2022
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Predicting shorebird and other wildlife responses to climate-induced wetland changes is therefore key to developing regional wetland conservation plans that support biodiversity. We will expand on past studies by generating precise maps of future wetland extent and connectivity for the region; and integrating habitat use and movement information for shorebirds and other wildlife to better-inform projected wildlife responses to changes in wetland connectivity.
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Predicting shorebird and other wildlife responses to climate-induced wetland changes is therefore key to developing regional wetland conservation plans that support biodiversity. In the South-Central U.S., we propose to: (1) Project future wetland extent (i.e., surface water area) and connectivity relative to climate change; (2) Assess how future wetland availability will affect habitat suitability for shorebirds; (3) Track shorebirds to validate and refine habitat suitability and connectivity models. We will expand on past studies by generating precise maps of future wetland extent and connectivity for the region; and integrating habitat use and movement information for shorebirds and other wildlife to better-inform projected wildlife responses to changes in wetland connectivity.
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A collaborative organizational network analysis of the Cooperative Research Units program
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August 2024
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The U.S. Geological Survey’s Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program (CRU) establishes a relationship among the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Wildlife Management Institute (WMI), a host university, and state resource agencies. The program’s mission is to provide education and technical assistance through graduate research in order to address the information needs of its members. Originating in 1935, it currently consists of 41 units in 39 states. Staff within the CRU have conducted decades’ worth of research while mentoring graduate students and providing technical assistance to cooperators on wildlife management issues. While the program’s mission has remained largely unchanged, the issues challenging fish and wildlife conservation have changed. Landscapes are increasingly fragmented, individuals are generally less attracted to outdoor activities, and wildlife use has shifted towards non-consumptive uses. This raises questions about the CRU’s support and sustainability into the future. Our study examines the CRU model that integrates graduate education in research and technical assistance to address Cooperator information needs, to explore the relevancy of the model in the current context of natural resources conservation. We are evaluating the program’s structure and socio-technical connectivity to identify motivations, relationships, and layered networks among members and their relationships to outcomes through an Organizational Network Analysis and Dynamic Network Analysis. Our investigation will include simulations informed by statistical analysis of the social networks and their evolutions and adaptations, to predict conditions under which outcomes may change. The goal is to elucidate how organizational factors may contribute to each cooperator network, how the networks have evolved, and how factors may influence future conditions of individual units and the CRU Program in general.
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The U.S. Geological Survey’s Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program (CRU) establishes a relationship among the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Wildlife Management Institute (WMI), a host university, and state resource agencies. The program’s mission is to provide education and technical assistance through graduate research in order to address the information needs of its members. Originating in 1935, it currently consists of 41 units in 39 states. Staff within the CRU have conducted decades’ worth of research while mentoring graduate students and providing technical assistance to cooperators on wildlife management issues. While the program’s mission has remained largely unchanged, the issues challenging fish and wildlife conservation have changed. Landscapes are increasingly fragmented, individuals are generally less attracted to outdoor activities, and wildlife use has shifted towards non-consumptive uses. This raises questions about the CRU’s support and sustainability into the future. Our study examines the CRU model that integrates graduate education in research and technical assistance to address Cooperator information needs, to explore the relevancy of the model in the current context of natural resources conservation. We are evaluating the program’s structure and socio-technical connectivity to identify motivations, relationships, and layered networks among members and their relationships to outcomes through an Organizational Network Analysis and Dynamic Network Analysis. Our investigation will include simulations informed by statistical analysis of the social networks and their evolutions and adaptations, to predict conditions under which outcomes may change. The goal is to elucidate how organizational factors may contribute to each cooperator network, how the networks have evolved, and how factors may influence future conditions of individual units and the CRU Program in general.
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Pilot test for treating mange in wild canids and felids in the Santa Monica Mountains, California
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December 2023
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Mange has plagued wildlife populations around the world for decades. Animals infested with such mites lose hair, body weight and can ultimately die. Bobcats and coyotes in the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area in southern California suffer from manage. Bobcats in the area appear quite susceptible to mange due in part to weakened immune systems from ingesting rodenticides used by humans to poison rodents. California banned the private use of such highly toxic rodenticides in January 2021 but we do not yet know the potential positive effect on wildlife in the region. Most recently, observations by field personnel and the interested public suggest bobcats may be entering a mange outbreak period where high mortality rates and negative effects on the population can be expected. Outside of capturing and treating every individual in the population – an impossible task - area managers do not have a tool to address the burgeoning mange outbreak.<br>Treating mange with topical medicines has been effective for animals in captivity or those captured in the wild as part of research and monitoring efforts. There are no examples, however, of attempts to noninvasively treat mange in wild, free-ranging animals. We want to test a novel, noninvasive technique - medicinal rub stations - for treating mange in free-ranging felids and canids by exploiting their propensity to roll and scent-mark in foreign odors. We hypothesize that stations treated with topical medicine and scent will reduce the prevalence of mange in the wild.
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Mange has plagued wildlife populations around the world for decades. Animals infested with such mites lose hair, body weight and can ultimately die. Outside of capturing and treating every individual in the population – an impossible task - area managers do not have a tool to address the burgeoning mange outbreak. We want to test a novel, noninvasive technique - medicinal rub stations - for treating mange in free-ranging felids and canids by exploiting their propensity to roll and scent-mark in foreign odors.
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Mesocarnivore survey in southern Idaho
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December 2023
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Rare mesocarnivores such as kit foxes, ringtails, and spotted skunks, occupy southern Idaho. However, we do not know their current distribution, occupancy, or abundance<b> </b>in the state. We attempted to detect not only these small carnivores, but also more common ones, such as badgers, bobcats, and coyotes. Specifically, 1) are there extant populations of rare mesocarnivores in Idaho (e.g., kit fox) and, 2) can data from cameras be used in population monitoring programs for more common, harvested mesocarnivore species (e.g., bobcats)? Beginning in July 2021, we deployed and maintained 98 camera traps in grassland and canyon habitats in southern Idaho. In fall of 2021, we analyzed a total of 45,965 images and videos from camera traps. While we successfully detected a large variety of species, we did not detect kit foxes or ringtails. We detected one spotted skunk, demonstrating that although infrequent, these animals exist in southern Idaho. Our detections of more common mesocarnivores (badgers, bobcats, coyotes, red foxes) demonstrate future survey efforts could frequently detect these animals and such data could be used effectively in a population monitoring program. We found three out of five of our canyon habitat cameras captured multiple mountain lions, indicating such canyons are occupied habitat for these large carnivores. The resulting data have been shared with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. We plan to survey southern Idaho again in fall 2022.
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Rare mesocarnivores such as kit foxes, ringtails, and spotted skunks, occupy southern Idaho. However, we do not know their current distribution, occupancy, or abundance<b> </b>in the state. Future survey efforts could be used effectively in a population monitoring program. The resulting data have been shared with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. We plan to survey southern Idaho again in fall 2022.
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AGFC State base funds
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June 2021
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Multiple projects using state base funds.
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Multiple projects using state base funds.
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REU: Site: assessment and sustainable management of ecosystem services at the nexus of food, energy, and water systems
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August 2025
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This project supports 10 Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) students per year to examine sustainable management of ecosystem services at the nexus of food, energy, and water systems. I am one of several Co-PIs on this very large scale project.
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This project supports 10 Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) students per year to examine sustainable management of ecosystem services at the nexus of food, energy, and water systems. I am one of several Co-PIs on this very large scale project.
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The role of drought on taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity of fishes
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August 2021
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Drought is an important disturbance in most natural systems, especially freshwater systems. We plan to examine the role of drought on taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity of stream fishes.
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Drought is an important disturbance in most natural systems, especially freshwater systems. We plan to examine the role of drought on taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity of stream fishes.
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Winter stonefly distribution, habitat requirements, life history, and population status in Arkansas
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June 2023
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Globally, stoneflies are one of the most threatened aquatic orders in the world as a result of climate change, pollution, and benthic substrate loss. In Arkansas, a group of winter stonefly (Capniidae: <i>Allocapnia</i>) includes multiple rare and endemic species that have not been surveyed since the 1980s because species-level identification requires the adult form, which is rarely collected. Our study objectives were to use existing larval <i>Allocapnia</i> data collected in Arkansas to examine what stream environmental conditions could be associated with presence and to determine how <i>Allocapnia</i> distribution may have shifted with climate change since the 1980s. We used species distribution modeling to predict where there species occur within the region. This information will be used to inform sampling design and effort across Arkansas study sites in winter 2020-2021 that will provide species-specific population distribution and status in Arkansas.
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Globally, stoneflies are one of the most threatened aquatic orders in the world as a result of climate change, pollution, and benthic substrate loss. In Arkansas, a group of winter stonefly (Capniidae: <i>Allocapnia</i>) includes multiple rare and endemic species that have not been surveyed since the 1980s because species-level identification requires the adult form, which is rarely collected. Our study objectives were to use existing larval <i>Allocapnia</i> data collected in Arkansas to examine what stream environmental conditions could be associated with presence and to determine how <i>Allocapnia</i> distribution may have shifted with climate change since the 1980s. We used species distribution modeling to predict where there species occur within the region. This information will be used to inform sampling design and effort across Arkansas study sites in winter 2020-2021 that will provide species-specific population distribution and status in Arkansas.
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Landscape- and local-scale habitat influences on distribution and abundance of the crayfish Faxonius eupunctus, Faxonius wagneri and Faxonius roberti in the Spring River, Strawberry River and Eleven Point River drainages
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September 2025
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Crayfish are extremely important in most freshwater systems, typically acting as keystone species. <i>Faxonius eupunctus</i> was already a rare, endemic that occurs in the Ozark Highlands of Arkansas and Missouri and was under consideration by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for listing under the Endangered Species Act. However, recent research has indicated <i>F. eupunctus</i> consists of three separate species: one species occurring in the upper Eleven Point River (<i>Faxonius eupunctus</i>), one in the lower Eleven Point River (<i>Faxonius wagneri</i>), and one in the Spring River and Strawberry River drainages (<i>Faxonius roberti</i>). Previous research by our team has examined factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of <i>F. roberti</i> in the Spring River drainage, as well as factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of the <i>F. eupunctus</i> complex as a whole. However, little, if any, research has examined factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of these newly described species within their native ranges. We propose to determine landscape- and local-scale factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i> by modeling species distribution then probabilistically sampling stream sites from their known range. We will also examine streambank erosion and instability in the study area and relate this, along with other environmental factors, to <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i> distribution and abundance. It is important for managers to understand the status and threats to SGCN crayfish species, especially <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i>, given that they are geographically restricted and potentially susceptible to anthropogenic and natural disturbance. Information gained here will ultimately be used to make decisions regarding the conservation of <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i>, and will inform decisions regarding other species that are potentially at risk from similar threats (e.g., <i>Cambarus hubbsi</i>, <i>Faxonius meeki, Faxonius williamsi,</i> <i>Faxonius luteus, Faxonius punctimanus,</i> <i>Faxonius ozarkae, Faxonius neglectus chaeondactylus</i>).
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Crayfish are extremely important in most freshwater systems, typically acting as keystone species. <i>Faxonius eupunctus</i> was already a rare, endemic that occurs in the Ozark Highlands of Arkansas and Missouri and was under consideration by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for listing under the Endangered Species Act. However, recent research has indicated <i>F. eupunctus</i> consists of three separate species: one species occurring in the upper Eleven Point River (<i>Faxonius eupunctus</i>), one in the lower Eleven Point River (<i>Faxonius wagneri</i>), and one in the Spring River and Strawberry River drainages (<i>Faxonius roberti</i>). Previous research by our team has examined factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of <i>F. roberti</i> in the Spring River drainage, as well as factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of the <i>F. eupunctus</i> complex as a whole. However, little, if any, research has examined factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of these newly described species within their native ranges. We propose to determine landscape- and local-scale factors affecting habitat use, selection, distribution and abundance of <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i> by modeling species distribution then probabilistically sampling stream sites from their known range. We will also examine streambank erosion and instability in the study area and relate this, along with other environmental factors, to <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i> distribution and abundance. It is important for managers to understand the status and threats to SGCN crayfish species, especially <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i>, given that they are geographically restricted and potentially susceptible to anthropogenic and natural disturbance. Information gained here will ultimately be used to make decisions regarding the conservation of <i>F. eupunctus, F. roberti and F. wagneri</i>, and will inform decisions regarding other species that are potentially at risk from similar threats (e.g., <i>Cambarus hubbsi</i>, <i>Faxonius meeki, Faxonius williamsi,</i> <i>Faxonius luteus, Faxonius punctimanus,</i> <i>Faxonius ozarkae, Faxonius neglectus chaeondactylus</i>).
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Mesopredator Density Along an Urban to Rural Gradient
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December 2024
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Mesopredators play important ecological roles in most systems. This group of wildlife is often well-adapted to human development and their densities can vary according to the human-subsidized resources with trickle down effects on other animals. Here, we are using wildlife cameras to evaluate the density and community composition of mammalian mesopredators along an urban to rural gradient in northwest Arkansas.
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Mesopredators play important ecological roles in most systems. This group of wildlife is often well-adapted to human development and their densities can vary according to the human-subsidized resources with trickle down effects on other animals. Here, we are using wildlife cameras to evaluate the density and community composition of mammalian mesopredators along an urban to rural gradient in northwest Arkansas.
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Woody debris export to large rivers following wildfire
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September 2022
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Large woody debris (LWD) in Interior Alaska provides fish habitat and serves as a human fuel source while also posing a danger for river navigation and infrastructure. However, there is limited understanding of the extent to which wildfire may affect recruitment of LWD, especially into larger rivers. Because wildfire risk and frequency are increasing, understanding its impacts on LWD recruitment into rivers is becoming more important as a freshwater management concern. In this study I will quantify the magnitude of LWD export out of smaller streams into large rivers in Interior Alaska and explore how this recruitment is affected by wildfire. The results of this study will underscore how fish habitat and other factors associated with LWD may change as Interior Alaska experiences more wildfire.
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Large woody debris (LWD) in Interior Alaska provides fish habitat and serves as a human fuel source while also posing a danger for river navigation and infrastructure. However, there is limited understanding of the extent to which wildfire may affect recruitment of LWD, especially into larger rivers. Because wildfire risk and frequency are increasing, understanding its impacts on LWD recruitment into rivers is becoming more important as a freshwater management concern. In this study I will quantify the magnitude of LWD export out of smaller streams into large rivers in Interior Alaska and explore how this recruitment is affected by wildfire. I am developing collaborations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a local Alaska Native organization, the Tanana Chiefs Conference to guide the research and to deliver more meaningful results. Broadly, the results of this study will underscore how fish habitat and other factors associated with LWD may change as Interior Alaska experiences more wildfire.
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Upland Habitat Use by Crawfish Frogs
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December 2024
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The crawfish frog is rapidly declining across its geographic range. This unique frog species spends most of its life in upland habitat occupying crayfish or mammal burrows. However, we know relatively little about how from from wetlands these frogs travel or how they selected and use terrestrial burrows. Effective conservation plans require detailed information about how far from wetlands these essential upland habitat features occur. Here, we are using radiotelemetry to follow frogs from breeding wetlands to summer burrows to better understand their habitat requirements.
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The crawfish frog is rapidly declining across its geographic range. This unique frog species spends most of its life in upland habitat occupying crayfish or mammal burrows. However, we know relatively little about how from from wetlands these frogs travel or how they selected and use terrestrial burrows. Effective conservation plans require detailed information about how far from wetlands these essential upland habitat features occur. Here, we are using radiotelemetry to follow frogs from breeding wetlands to summer burrows to better understand their habitat requirements.
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Collaborative Research: RAPID: lake ecosystem responses to fire along gradients of burn characteristics and hydrologic connectivity
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February 2024
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Although wildfire activity is increasing across the US and concern is mounting over fire effects on water resources, few studies have documented fire effects on lake ecosystems. At 10844 ha, the 2021 Greenwood Fire in Superior National Forest was the largest lightning-caused Minnesota wildfire in 10 years and covered all or parts of 28 lake watersheds through October 2021. This fire event presents an unprecedented opportunity to study lake responses to fire in an especially lake-rich landscape, which may represent a harbinger of ecological change in northern forests that are expected to experience more warm, dry fire weather under climate change. This study will evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological responses of northern Minnesota lakes to the Greenwood Fire.
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Although wildfire activity is increasing across the US and concern is mounting over fire effects on water resources, few studies have documented fire effects on lake ecosystems. At 10844 ha, the 2021 Greenwood Fire in Superior National Forest was the largest lightning-caused Minnesota wildfire in 10 years and covered all or parts of 28 lake watersheds through October 2021. This fire event presents an unprecedented opportunity to study lake responses to fire in an especially lake-rich landscape, which may represent a harbinger of ecological change in northern forests that are expected to experience more warm, dry fire weather under climate change. This study will evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological responses of northern Minnesota lakes to the Greenwood Fire. Partners involved in this research include several academic institutions and state and federal land and resource management agencies.
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A rapid mapping tool for quantifying grassland management outcomes
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August 2024
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In grasslands, the North American biome with the greatest loss of biodiversity, documentation of successful restoration and management is imperative for building large-scale restoration programs. However, quantifying outcomes from grassland management efforts is made difficult by the lack of tools to rapidly map and track core grassland habitats and grassland biodiversity responses to management. In this project, we will address this need by developing a rapid mapping tool to quantify grassland management outcomes on public and private lands. To accomplish this, we will complete two objectives: 1) develop a tool to identify and map grassland habitat cores, and 2) use this tool to quantify grassland habitat core and grassland bird community responses to management in and surrounding three US Fish & Wildlife Service Arkansas refuges, focusing on Southeastern grassland species of conservation concern. Tools and products from this project will facilitate grassland management strategies in the Arkansas FWS refuges, provide grassland bird community and population trends, and will help determine the applicability of this approach for public and private lands across the Southeast region. Other collaborators include Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Quail Forever.
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In grasslands, the North American biome with the greatest loss of biodiversity, documentation of successful restoration and management is imperative for building large-scale restoration programs. However, quantifying outcomes from grassland management efforts is made difficult by the lack of tools to rapidly map and track core grassland habitats and grassland biodiversity responses to management. In this project, we will address this need by developing a rapid mapping tool to quantify grassland management outcomes on public and private lands. To accomplish this, we will complete two objectives: 1) develop a tool to identify and map grassland habitat cores, and 2) use this tool to quantify grassland habitat core and grassland bird community responses to management in and surrounding three US Fish & Wildlife Service Arkansas refuges, focusing on Southeastern grassland species of conservation concern. Tools and products from this project will facilitate grassland management strategies in the Arkansas FWS refuges, provide grassland bird community and population trends, and will help determine the applicability of this approach for public and private lands across the Southeast region. Other collaborators include Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Quail Forever.
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Abiotic and biotic factors affecting fish occurrence, abundance, and growth in sixty Florida lakes
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June 2026
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Studying the effects of abiotic and biotic factors on fish populations is a long-standing tradition in fisheries science. However, there is less information on how fish populations and communities respond to abiotic and biotic factors across broad spatial extents, diverse lake types, and associated gradients in lake surface area, trophic state, and aquatic macrophyte coverage, particularly in Florida. There is a need to evaluate how environmental factors varying across large regions affect fish populations, fish communities, and fisheries management. Addressing these knowledge gaps could reveal useful information for managing fish populations and communities in regions with wide-ranging environmental conditions, and predicting how fish populations and communities may respond to environmental changes. The objective of this study is to investigate fish population and community characteristics in relation to abiotic and biotic factors across wide-ranging conditions of lake surface area, trophic state, and macrophyte abundance in Florida. Our research will generate data summaries and statistical models to quantify and predict fish occurrence, abundance, growth, and related population/community characteristics in Florida lakes.
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Studying the effects of abiotic and biotic factors on fish populations is a long-standing tradition in fisheries science. However, there is less information on how fish populations and communities respond to abiotic and biotic factors across broad spatial extents, diverse lake types, and associated gradients in lake surface area, trophic state, and aquatic macrophyte coverage, particularly in Florida. There is a need to evaluate how environmental factors varying across large regions affect fish populations, fish communities, and fisheries management. Addressing these knowledge gaps could reveal useful information for managing fish populations and communities in regions with wide-ranging environmental conditions, and predicting how fish populations and communities may respond to environmental changes. The objective of this study is to investigate fish population and community characteristics in relation to abiotic and biotic factors across wide-ranging conditions of lake surface area, trophic state, and macrophyte abundance in Florida. Our research will generate data summaries and statistical models to quantify and predict fish occurrence, abundance, growth, and related population/community characteristics in Florida lakes.
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Using long-term monitoring data to evaluate Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics amid environmental change
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December 2023
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Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie are popular sport fishes that are widely distributed across Florida and most of the United States. However, there is limited information about how long-term environmental alterations (e.g., changes in climate, aquatic vegetation coverage, lake trophic status) affect these species and the valuable fisheries they support. This knowledge gap, combined with the ecological and socioeconomic significance of centrarchid fisheries, makes it important to study the effects of environmental alterations on Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics (e.g., growth, survival). Such information will fulfill a management need for these high-profile species in Florida. Our primary objective is to evaluate if and how climate change, hydrilla expansion, and cultural oligotrophication have affected Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics in lakes across Florida over the last 15 years. We will develop a variety of statistical models to understand historical trends in Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics using data from the FWC Freshwater Fisheries Long-term Monitoring Program. We will also conduct a detailed social-ecological investigation of a unique, intensively managed reservoir fishery noted for its Largemouth Bass abundance and size structure to understand interactions among fish populations, aquatic habitats, and fisheries stakeholders. Our research will yield insights for understanding long-term trends in Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics and interrelationships among fish, habitats, and people across Florida, yielding management-relevant information for FWC and other partners in fisheries management.
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Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie are popular sport fishes that are widely distributed across Florida and most of the United States. However, there is limited information about how long-term environmental alterations (e.g., changes in climate, aquatic vegetation coverage, lake trophic status) affect these species and the valuable fisheries they support. This knowledge gap, combined with the ecological and socioeconomic significance of centrarchid fisheries, makes it important to study the effects of environmental alterations on Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics (e.g., growth, survival). Such information will fulfill a management need for these high-profile species in Florida. Our primary objective is to evaluate if and how climate change, hydrilla expansion, and cultural oligotrophication have affected Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics in lakes across Florida over the last 15 years. We will develop a variety of statistical models to understand historical trends in Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics using data from the FWC Freshwater Fisheries Long-term Monitoring Program. We will also conduct a detailed social-ecological investigation of a unique, intensively managed reservoir fishery noted for its Largemouth Bass abundance and size structure to understand interactions among fish populations, aquatic habitats, and fisheries stakeholders. Our research will yield insights for understanding long-term trends in Largemouth Bass and Black Crappie population dynamics and interrelationships among fish, habitats, and people across Florida, yielding management-relevant information for FWC and other partners in fisheries management.
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Informing invasive species management amid climate and land-use change to build social-ecological resilience
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June 2026
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Climate change is a major phenomenon altering the distribution of non-native fishes and their ecological and socioeconomic impacts. The influence of climate change on water temperature has substantial implications for non-native fish distributions because it influences individual fish survival, growth, reproduction, and dispersal as well as population and community structure. Understanding water temperature variability and the effects of climate change on aquatic thermal regimes is critical for managing non-native fishes now and in the future, especially in Florida where nearly 200 non-native fishes have been documented. Despite the prevalence of non-native fishes in Florida, water temperature dynamics are poorly understood in lotic ecosystems that are prone to non-native fish occurrence (e.g., south Florida canals, Kissimmee, Ocklawaha, and Choctawhatchee rivers). Thermal habitat research in Florida’s lotic systems has not been conducted at sufficient spatiotemporal and ontogenetic resolution to predict when and where non-native fishes are likely to occur in the context of climate change. We will address these knowledge gaps by supplementing Florida’s network of 200 water temperature loggers by deploying 75+ additional loggers in key rivers and canals that are not currently well-monitored. We will use water temperature data to model non-native fish survival, reproduction, recruitment, and dispersal under different climate change scenarios from 2022–2070. We will develop these thermal habitat suitability models into relevant products for non-native fish management, including predictive maps of species distribution and spread. Ultimately, our research will promote development of robust, spatially explicit programs for managing non-native fishes in Florida.
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Climate change is a major phenomenon altering the distribution of non-native fishes and their ecological and socioeconomic impacts. The influence of climate change on water temperature has substantial implications for non-native fish distributions because it influences individual fish survival, growth, reproduction, and dispersal as well as population and community structure. Understanding water temperature variability and the effects of climate change on aquatic thermal regimes is critical for managing non-native fishes now and in the future, especially in Florida where nearly 200 non-native fishes have been documented. Despite the prevalence of non-native fishes in Florida, water temperature dynamics are poorly understood in lotic ecosystems that are prone to non-native fish occurrence (e.g., south Florida canals, Kissimmee, Ocklawaha, and Choctawhatchee rivers). Thermal habitat research in Florida’s lotic systems has not been conducted at sufficient spatiotemporal and ontogenetic resolution to predict when and where non-native fishes are likely to occur in the context of climate change. We will address these knowledge gaps by supplementing Florida’s network of 200 water temperature loggers by deploying 75+ additional loggers in key rivers and canals that are not currently well-monitored. We will use water temperature data to model non-native fish survival, reproduction, recruitment, and dispersal under different climate change scenarios from 2022–2070. We will develop these thermal habitat suitability models into relevant products for non-native fish management, including predictive maps of species distribution and spread. Ultimately, our research will promote development of robust, spatially explicit programs for managing non-native fishes in Florida.
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Enhancing Capabilities of CPW's Statewide Aquatic Toxicology Program
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June 2023
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NA
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NA
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Movement, recruitment, and exploitation of Shoal Bass and Largemouth Bass in the Lower Flint River Basin
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June 2024
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The Flint River below Lake Blackshear supports a popular Shoal Bass fishery that is currently managed by a 305-mm minimum-length limit. Hydropeaking flows from Crisp County Dam have reduced Shoal Bass recruitment in the river downstream, prompting GADNR to initiate a stocking program in the 1970s that continues today. Geomorphology of the Flint River changes beginning in this section, characterized by limestone outcroppings, deep channel, and a hydraulic connection to the Upper Floridan aquifer resulting in large groundwater inputs. Approximately 32 km downstream of Crisp County Dam, the Flint River enters the headwaters of Lake Chehaw, created by Albany Dam. Below that dam is a 150-km reach of river that ends at the headwaters of Lake Seminole around Bainbridge, Georgia. Geomorphology of this reach of the Flint River is similar to the one above, with the addition of numerous springs that add to stream flow and provide summer thermal refugia for species such as Gulf-strain Striped Bass. In the late 1800s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers opened and maintained a 1-m low-water navigation channel from Albany, Georgia, to Bainbridge, Georgia, to facilitate steamboat and barge navigation. This was accomplished by dredging and blasting shoals, which resulted in man-made rock islands that are still extant today. The effects of these activities on the Shoal Bass population are unknown, but likely have resulted in deeper channels, swifter currents, and possibly exacerbating the impacts of hydropeaking flows. Collectively, there are a myriad of threats on Shoal Bass populations and evaluation of movement, recruitment, and exploitation will aid management decisions. At the same time, we evaluate the same parameters for Largemouth Bass as a comparison, given their much broader distribution and perceived tolerance to physicochemical changes.
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The objectives of this study are to 1) estimate exploitation of Shoal Bass in the lower Flint River, 2) evaluate the current 305-mm MLL, as well as other harvest restriction scenarios, on the population, 3) describe seasonal movement patterns and habitat use of Shoal Bass in the Flint River between Albany Dam and Lake Seminole, and 4) estimate hatch-date distribution and daily growth of age-0 Shoal Bass in the lower Flint River basin.
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Quantification of juvenile salmonid habitat quality across spatial scales on the Oregon Coast
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June 2024
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Pacific salmon and steelhead (<i>Oncorhynchus</i> spp.) are ecologically, economically, and culturally vital species, providing essential ecosystem services such as the contribution of marine-derived nutrients and a reliable food source for terrestrial wildlife. The anadromous life cycle of most Pacific salmon species—spanning freshwater, estuarine, and marine environments—exposes them to diverse environmental stressors that vary with each life stage. Understanding how juvenile salmon and steelhead interact with these environments and their specific habitat requirements is critical, especially during the sensitive rearing phase, when habitat quality is crucial for their survival and growth. This research focused on juvenile rearing habitat suitability for <i>O. mykiss</i> (steelhead) and<i> O. kisutch</i> (coho salmon) in freshwater habitats of the Oregon Coast. By analyzing more than 20 years of historical aquatic inventory data and juvenile salmonid monitoring data from Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), we identified environmental variables that define suitable habitat in terms of species occupancy and habitat preference. Additionally, the study integrated remotely sensed data to assess which habitat characteristics could be effectively monitored using GIS-based data, offering a scalable approach to habitat analysis. Our partners at ODFW are currently in the process of overhauling their habitat monitoring program. Findings from this project will directly inform methods for evaluating and monitoring juvenile salmonid rearing habitat, and will contribute to the development of an integrated population model. The model will assist ODFW and other partner agencies in predicting adult returns of Oregon Coast coho salmon and steelhead populations, ultimately supporting more targeted conservation and management efforts and harvest strategies for these critical species.
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We are using more than 20 years of salmonid monitoring data from the ODFW Aquatic Inventories project, Western Oregon Rearing Project, Salmonid Life Cycle Monitoring project, and Oregon Adult Salmonid Inventory and Sampling projects to 1) develop a population model that will assist ODFW and partner agencies in predicting adult returns of Oregon Coast coho salmon and steelhead populations, thus providing managers with improved forecasts to set fish harvest recommendations and 2) develop Oregon Coast coho and steelhead juvenile habitat models using remotely sensed and modeled covariates to describe the productivity and suitability of juvenile salmon habitat. These valuable tools will inform habitat and harvest management by allowing ODFW to anticipate adult salmon returns and to identify optimal instream habitats to which current and future management actions should be focused.
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Characterizing the fish assemblage of the Lake Powell forebay: identifying the potential for non-native fish escapement and entrainment into Glen Canyon Dam and potential for establishment in the Glen, Marble, and Grand Canyon.
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July 2024
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As lake elevation in Lake Powell (UT-AZ) continues to decline to historically low levels, near-surface waters are approaching the penstock elevation (3,470 feet above sea level) of Glen Canyon Dam. These conditions may make it easier for the non-native fish assemblage to escape through the penstocks and make it downstream of Lake Powell into Glen Canyon, Marble Canyon, and Grand Canyon. If so, these non-native fishes could threaten native fishes downstream of Glen Canyon Dam. Non-native fishes have been captured below the dam in the tailwater area and downstream to Lee’s Ferry, some (e.g., green sunfish <i>Lepomis cyanellus</i>) may be reproducing naturally in the slough below the dam but likely would have originated from Lake Powell, and other captured fishes (e.g., smallmouth bass <i>Micropterus dolomieu</i>, walleye <i>Sander vitreus</i>) also have the potential to have escaped.
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We will characterize the fish assemblage in the Glen Canyon Dam forebay using a variety of sampling methods. This data will provide managers with a relative risk of entrainment into the pen stocks of a suite of nonnative species.
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Using non-native vegetation to enhance in-stream habitat for native fishes.
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September 2023
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Habitat loss and degradation is one of the leading hypothesized mechanisms for declines in native fish occurrence and abundance in the Colorado River basin. Providing adequate habitat for all life stages of imperiled fishes is a primary management action needed in the San Juan River basin. In-stream habitat in the San Juan River has been simplified by channel narrowing and reduced channel migration due to an altered flow regime and establishment of non-native vegetation. The latter is primarily Russian olive (<i>Elaeagnus angustifolia</i>) that has armored the river banks contributing to habitat simplification to the detriment of native fishes. Low velocity habitats are hypothesized to be important to survival of ESA-listed, young-of-year Colorado Pikeminnow <i>Ptychocheilus lucius </i>and other native fishes. Juvenile Colorado Pikeminnow select for low-velocity habitats in the San Juan River, but these habitats have been reduced due to degradation of in-stream habitat. Given that Colorado Pikeminnow are experiencing continued declines across their range in the Upper Colorado River basin, there is a need to assess further management actions to improve survival and retention. We will use existing non-native woody structure to increase habitat complexity, quantify changes in habitat from the addition of woody structure, and quantify differences in macroinvertebrate densities between reaches with addition of woody structure and control reaches.
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Habitat loss and degradation is one of the leading hypothesized mechanisms for declines in native fish occurrence and abundance in the Colorado River basin. Using a field experiment, we will test the efficacy of using nonnative Russian olive branches to enhance low-velocity habitats for juvenile native fishes in the San Juan River. If successful, this technique could be a relatively cheap management action to increase habitat complexity and aid the recovery of imperiled fishes.
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Estimating ecosystem production across gradients of river alteration in the Colorado River basin; could contemporary productivity be a limiting factor for native fishes?
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March 2025
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The Colorado River Basin (CRB) is one of the most overallocated river networks in the world and is experiencing declining watershed runoff due to climate change. Most fish species native to the CRB are found nowhere else and have declined dramatically coincident with the damming and regulation of the CRB. Substantial resources are invested to recover these fish species with efforts largely focused on restoring physical conditions (i.e., habitat, flow or water temperature) and removing non-native fish species. There has been minimal focus on quantifying changes to the primary (i.e., plants) and secondary production (e.g., insects) that fuel native fish species. In the Grand Canyon segment of the CRB, flow, turbidity and depletion of phosphorous in Lake Powell have been linked to primary production and primary production has been linked to various fish species. However, these linkages have not been studied upriver of Lake Powell despite these upper segments being the focus of recovery efforts for endangered fishes. Based on research in other rivers, we expect primary and secondary production (hereafter river productivity) in the CRB is impacted by river regulation, modified hydrology, and agricultural and municipal runoff, with climate change likely to bring further modifications. If river productivity is limiting fish species, then increasing water temperatures and declining runoff associated with climate change may exacerbate this limitation. Thus, to better predict the impacts of ongoing climate change on the imperiled fish species of the CRB, it is imperative to identify current drivers of river productivity.
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The Colorado River Basin (CRB) is one of the most overallocated river networks in the world and is experiencing declining watershed runoff due to climate change. There has been minimal focus on quantifying changes to the primary (i.e., plants) and secondary production (e.g., insects) that fuel native fish species. Based on research in other rivers, we expect primary and secondary production (hereafter river productivity) in the CRB is impacted by river regulation, modified hydrology, and agricultural and municipal runoff, with climate change likely to bring further modifications. If river productivity is limiting fish species, then increasing water temperatures and declining runoff associated with climate change may exacerbate this limitation.
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Aquatic food web changes to invasive Flathead Catfish along an invasion gradient
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January 2024
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Biological invasions have the potential to significantly alter the structure and function of aquatic communities. By altering energy transfer through the food web, invasive species also have the potential to affect the accumulation of contaminants in other food fish species. This study seeks to understand the effects of an invasive catfish (the flathead catfish; <i>Pylodictis olivaris</i>) on a riverine food web and resulting changes in the trophodynamics of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS have the potential to be harmful to aquatic organisms and the accumulation of PFAS in fish species targeted by recreational anglers raises concerns for human health through consumption. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey, The Pennsylvania State University, and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). The results of this study will provide important information on the food web consequences of flathead catfish invasion and PFAS trophodynamics that will help fisheries management and risk assessments of invasive flathead catfish.
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Biological invasions have the potential to significantly alter the structure and function of aquatic communities. Invasive predatory fish species are known to restructure food webs – since predatory fishes have a dominant influence on community structure in freshwater systems. This research is focusing on understanding the food web changes to invasive Flathead Catfish <i>Pylodictis olivaris</i> along an invasion gradient in the Susquehanna River Basin, PA. This research is collaboration with state and federal partners, including the PA Fish & Boat Commission and the US Geological Survey. Information on the food web consequences of invasion can help inform formal decision-making processes, and thus this research will help reduce an important uncertainty related to the management of invasive Flathead Catfish.
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Impacts of Lake Level Elevation Decline on Tui Chub, a Critical Forage Species for Lahontan Cutthroat Trout in Pyramid Lake, Nevada, USA.
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May 2024
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The importance of tui chub as the primary food source for recovering Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (LCT) in Pyramid Lake, Nevada has been firmly established. However, there is evidence that over the longer term, Tui Chub abundance has been declining, concordant with declines in lake elevation. The mechanism(s) driving this decline remains unknown and could include changes in food availability with changes in lake biogeochemistry, spawning and recruitment failure due to lack of littoral habitat, or a community food-web change. This uncertainty must be addressed in order to ensure the continued recovery of LCT including new natural recruitment, and to assist in determining stocking levels in order to not exceed carrying capacity.<br>The project being proposed will explore the factors determining food availability for Tui Chub, changes in littoral habitat as they may affect spawning and recruitment success, and potential changes to fish community dynamics, all with consideration of the potential concordant declines in lake elevation.
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The importance of tui chub as the primary food source for recovering Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (LCT) in Pyramid Lake, Nevada has been firmly established. However, there is evidence that over the longer term, Tui Chub abundance has been declining, concordant with declines in lake elevation. The mechanism(s) driving this decline remains unknown and could include changes in food availability with changes in lake biogeochemistry, spawning and recruitment failure due to lack of littoral habitat, or a community food-web change. This uncertainty must be addressed in order to ensure the continued recovery of LCT including new natural recruitment, and to assist in determining stocking levels in order to not exceed carrying capacity. This project is a collaboration between the Utah Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Unit, Utah State University, USGS: Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Lahontan National Fish Hatchery Complex, and the Pauite Tribe, Pyramid Lake Fisheries. To better inform management of this important ecosystem and fishery, the project will explore the factors determining food availability for Tui Chub, changes in littoral habitat as they may affect spawning and recruitment success, and potential changes to fish community dynamics, all with consideration of the potential concordant declines in lake elevation.
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Comparing beaver translocations before and after passive stream restoration projects to determine the most effective strategies for beaver translocation in the Price and San Rafael Rivers, Utah (Phase II)
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May 2023
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Passive restoration of rivers and streams with beavers and beaver dam analogs (BDAs) is rapidly growing in response to demonstrated success and affordability. However, there are often mismatches in time and location between nuisance beavers trapped and sometimes euthanized versus places where relocated beavers are desired and would have a high likelihood of success in terms of assisting river restoration. Locations with the greatest likelihood of success have adequate food and dam material and avoid potential conflict with people and infrastructure. While some important information has been gained about the best practices for beaver relocation, there is still considerable uncertainty regarding timing, density, minimum number, age structure, mate selection, family structure, individual traits that predict success, and retention. Simultaneously, restoration in desert rivers offers unique challenges. Desert rivers are dynamic, transport large sediment loads, and often have degraded fish and riparian habitat due to loss of spring snow-melt floods (water over-allocation) and effects of invasive vegetation.<br> <br><b>THE SAN RAFAEL and PRICE RIVERS</b><br>The San Rafael and Price Rivers offer an ideal situation to learn about the combined practices of passive restoration using BDAs, tamarisk removal, and relocated beavers and their subsequent behavior. An adaptive, experimental, science-based restoration have been developed for these rivers and are currently in the implementation stages. The plans were developed based on graduate student research at Utah State University; information from two master’s theses on fish ecology and one on geomorphologic change were combined with detailed vegetation mapping funded by BOR, BLM, and NRCS to develop a master plan for each river. A section of the Price River is meant to serve as a demonstration area for future projects to visit. The San Rafael and Price Rivers (and similar tributaries) are occupied by all three of the imperiled Three Species (flannelmouth sucker, bluehead sucker, roundtail chub) and utilized by several of the endangered fishes of the Upper Colorado River Basin.<br> <br>Despite occurrence of native fish species, the lower San Rafael and upper Price Rivers are now characterized by long runs of extremely simplified habitat, and almost all complex habitat is gone. The SRRP is currently being implemented in an experimental fashion and includes treatments of tamarisk removal, BDA installation, gravel introduction, and also cottonwood replanting with early growth stimulation treatments. Preliminary observations indicate the BDAs are providing localized habitat complexity for fish in the form of riffles, deep pools, exposed coarse substrate, and some bank erosion and localized channel widening. In addition, when summer flows reached 3 cfs and the San Rafael River started to dry in the summer of 2016, the scour pools below BDAs offered refuge to and were used by stocked endangered fishes and the Three Species. Most recently in the spring and fall of 2021, 70 BDAs were installed along reaches of the Price River.<br> <br>BDAs are underutilized by beavers in restoration areas because beaver densities are low, likely due to historical trapping and previously unsuitable habitat. However, the potential for beaver to thrive in these two rivers is evident at a site called Cottonwood Wash in the San Rafael River, which has extremely good fish habitat and experiences considerable beaver activity. Locations of the experimental BDAs have excellent potential for change: tamarisk has been removed, cottonwoods and willows are locally abundant to provide food, and piles of removed tamarisk are available as dam-building material. There is extremely little potential for conflict between man and beaver at this remote and extreme desert location (BLM and State land).<br> <br>In 2019 and 2020, before installment of BDAs was completed, 23 resident beavers in experimental sites within the Price and San Rafael Rivers were captured, fitted with VHF and/or PIT tags, and monitored to obtain baseline information on natural beaver behavior and space use. At the same time and at the same locations, 47 beavers were translocated and fitted with the same tags, before they were released along the Price and San Rafael Rivers. Of these translocated beavers, 4 remained alive, but all had emigrated outside the study sites by the end of the two-year study. Now that BDAs have been installed, additional monitoring of resident beavers and release of translocated beavers is necessary to determine whether the BDAs are useful for improving the efficacy of using translocated beavers within a river restoration plan and the response of resident beavers to these efforts.<br> <br><b>OBJECTIVES </b><br>The proposed objective of this study is to relocate beavers to the BDA sites along the Price River, study the recolonization process, identify whether translocated beavers are more likely to survive and stay at the release site if BDAs have been installed prior to release, and determine if individual behavioral traits of beavers can inform recolonization efforts. During spring/fall of 2021 and 2022, we will continue to capture and tag resident and translocated beavers, fitting adults with a PIT-tag and VHF-tag and younger animals with only a PIT-tag. We will monitor their space use and survival by tracking their unique VHF signals and detections at PIT-tag antennas (permanent and mobile units). These data will then be compared with the same data from resident and translocated beavers that were monitored for the two years before BDAs were installed (spring/fall 2019 and 2020). We will conduct several behavioral assays for evaluating behavioral traits, including human interaction tests, reactivity/tameness tests, novel object tests, and behavior at release. During human interaction tests, each time a person interacts with a beaver, the beaver’s initial reaction will be scored using an aggressiveness index. For reactivity/tameness tests, we will record whether the beaver ate, defecated, and manipulated its environment each day. The novel object test will involve placing a new object in the quarantine kennel on the last night of quarantine and using game cameras to record latency to approach the object and latency to touch the object. We will also document behavior during release. This includes latency to emerge from the cage after the door has been opened, path to water (direct/meandering), and general behavior during release.<br> <br>A second objective of the continued research is to evaluate the quarantine procedures for reducing transmittable diseases and parasites between watersheds. Most state agencies, including Utah, have developed a protocol for translocation of beavers. In most cases, the protocol either prohibits moving beavers between watersheds or requires a quarantine period to rid the beavers of any invasive species, parasites, or diseases beavers may carry before they are placed in a new watershed. However, there is almost no scientific data to guide the specifics of the protocols for this second option. Our goal is to obtain and test water samples from beavers during quarantine to determine if there are invasive species, parasites, or diseases present and if the quarantine protocol is effective at eliminating them. The protocol in Utah requires the water be changed each day, and our tests will determine if their presence ends by the end of the quarantine period. We aim to obtain these water samples from residents within the Price and San Rafael Rivers (as controls) and translocated beavers prior to release on these rivers. We may also obtain water samples from the Beaver Center in Logan, Utah, or beaver translocations conducted by the state in the Cedar City area to ensure sufficient sample size for analyses.<br> <br>Combined, these objectives will help determine the most effective (in terms of restoration and cost) combinations of passive restoration techniques and beaver reintroduction strategies.
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Passive restoration of rivers and streams with beavers and beaver dam analogs (BDAs) is rapidly growing in response to demonstrated success and affordability. However, there are often mismatches in time and location between nuisance beavers trapped and sometimes euthanized versus places where relocated beavers are desired and would have a high likelihood of success in terms of assisting river restoration. While some important information has been gained about the best practices for beaver relocation, there is still considerable uncertainty regarding timing, density, minimum number, age structure, mate selection, family structure, individual traits that predict success, and retention. Simultaneously, restoration in desert rivers offers unique challenges. Desert rivers are dynamic, transport large sediment loads, and often have degraded fish and riparian habitat due to loss of spring snow-melt floods (water over-allocation) and effects of invasive vegetation. This project would build off of the established partnership between USU, UDWR, BOR, BLM, and others, along with the work this team has already completed within the system. Many of these entities are currently providing funding and in-kind support for the implementation and monitoring, offering a situation to capitalize on existing riverine management expertise and resources as well as an extensive knowledge base on fish, aquatic ecology, and geomorphology. This research will identify whether translocated beavers are more likely to survive and stay at the release site if BDAs (beaver dam analogues) have been installed prior to release, determine if individual behavioral traits of beavers can inform recolonization efforts, and evaluate the quarantine procedures for reducing transmittable diseases and parasites between watersheds, all to improve management practices here and elsewhere.
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RWO 102: TCU 436 Development of an Effective Survey Methodology for Detection and Monitoring of Texas Kangaroo Rats
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May 2024
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Texas kangaroo rat is believed to be declining and is a species of substantive conservation concern. To date, methods of assessing populations have been inconsistent and time intensive. However, the known reduction in the species distribution, and suspected population declines, there is an urgent need to develop a reliable, repeatable survey method based on detection probabilities. This will require innovation in approaches, but is foundational to developing a method that allows reliable estimates of population sizes and how they respond to management actions.<br> <br>Through experimentation and field test trials, we will assess novel approaches to surveying for the Texas kangaroo rat. If successful, it will result in a new approach/method that will be suitable for nocturnal application, reliable, repeatable, and based on detection probabilities so that population abundances may be estimated. Developing such a method is incredibly important for assessing population trends and effectiveness of conservation efforts.
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Through experimentation and field test trials, we will assess novel approaches to surveying for the Texas kangaroo rat, a species of substantive conservation concern. If successful, it will result in a new approach/method that will be suitable for nocturnal application, reliable, repeatable, and based on detection probabilities so that population abundances may be estimated. Developing such a method is incredibly important for assessing population trends and effectiveness of conservation efforts.
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Evaluating the relative effects of top-down and bottom-up factors on declines in Lake Sammamish kokanee salmon
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September 2024
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Historically, Lake Sammamish, Washington supported three unique runs of kokanee (<i>Oncorhynchus nerka</i>), which provided important food and recreational fishing opportunities for nearby communities. By the 1970s, losses of spawning habitat in tributaries to the lake and degraded water quality within the lake itself led to large declines in kokanee numbers, and by the mid-1980s the early run of kokanee had collapsed and all recreational fishing had been stopped. This project is a collaboration with scientists from Trout Unlimited; the City of Issaquah, Washington; King County, Washington; People for Puget Sound; Save Lake Sammamish; the Snoqualmie Tribe; the Wild Fish Conservancy; Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife; and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our goal is to assess how habitat loss, fragmentation, and modification combine with direct human influences to negatively affect the viability of kokanee populations in Lake Sammamish. We will work to understand how the predator and prey communities within the Lake Sammamish Basin interact to drive changes in population dynamics of kokanee salmon. Specifically, we will focus on the top-down roles of native and nonnative predators (e.g., cutthroat trout, small- and largemouth bass) and the bottom-up influence of zooplankton and macroinvertebrate prey. This research will directly inform recovery efforts for this species of greatest conservation need and culturally valuable resource.
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Historically, Lake Sammamish, Washington supported three unique runs of kokanee (<i>Oncorhynchus nerka</i>), which provided important food and recreational fishing opportunities for nearby communities. By the 1970s, losses of spawning habitat in tributaries to the lake and degraded water quality within the lake itself led to large declines in kokanee numbers, and by the mid-1980s the early run of kokanee had collapsed and all recreational fishing had been stopped. This project is a collaboration with scientists from Trout Unlimited; the City of Issaquah, Washington; King County, Washington; People for Puget Sound; Save Lake Sammamish; the Snoqualmie Tribe; the Wild Fish Conservancy; Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife; and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our goal is to assess how habitat loss, fragmentation, and modification combine with direct human influences to negatively affect the viability of kokanee populations in Lake Sammamish. We will work to understand how the predator and prey communities within the Lake Sammamish Basin interact to drive changes in population dynamics of kokanee salmon. Specifically, we will focus on the top-down roles of native and nonnative predators (e.g., cutthroat trout, small- and largemouth bass) and the bottom-up influence of zooplankton and macroinvertebrate prey. This research will directly inform recovery efforts for this species of greatest conservation need and culturally valuable resource.
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Five-year status review of yelloweye and bocaccio rockfish in Puget Sound
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September 2021
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The Endangered Species Act (ESA) requires periodic reviews of species that are listed as threatened or endangered to ensure that the listing is still accurate. Specifically, section 4(c)(2) of the ESA states that the Secretary shall: <i>Conduct, at least once every five years, a review of all species included in a list. Determine on the basis of such review whether any such species should be removed from such list, be changed in status from an endangered species to a threatened species or be changed in status from a threatened species to an endangered species.</i> Yelloweye rockfish (S<i>ebastes ruberrimus</i>), canary rockfish (<i>Sebastes pinniger</i>), and bocaccio (<i>Sebastes paucispinis</i>) within the Salish Sea (Puget Sound, Georgia Basin) were listed under the ESA in 2010 and the next 5 year review is scheduled to be finished in late 2021. Understanding the population status of these listed rockfish is necessary to 1) inform fisheries and habitat conservation management, 2) inform population targets identified in the Rockfish Recovery Plan (finished in 2017), and 3) potentially propose changing the listing status of these fishes under the ESA. Improving our understanding of population status will entail collating and analyzing data from a variety of data sources. This project is a collaboration with scientists from NOAA Fisheries and the Washington Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. We will conduct population assessments using contemporary and historical information for ESA-listed rockfish, which will help inform 5-year status review and assist NOAA Fisheries in its determination of the viability of these species.
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The Endangered Species Act (ESA) requires periodic reviews of species that are listed as threatened or endangered to ensure that the listing is still accurate. Specifically, section 4(c)(2) of the ESA states that the Secretary shall: <i>Conduct, at least once every five years, a review of all species included in a list. Determine on the basis of such review whether any such species should be removed from such list, be changed in status from an endangered species to a threatened species or be changed in status from a threatened species to an endangered species.</i> Yelloweye rockfish (S<i>ebastes ruberrimus</i>), canary rockfish (<i>Sebastes pinniger</i>), and bocaccio (<i>Sebastes paucispinis</i>) within the Salish Sea (Puget Sound, Georgia Basin) were listed under the ESA in 2010 and the next 5 year review is scheduled to be finished in late 2021. Understanding the population status of these listed rockfish is necessary to 1) inform fisheries and habitat conservation management, 2) inform population targets identified in the Rockfish Recovery Plan (finished in 2017), and 3) potentially propose changing the listing status of these fishes under the ESA. Improving our understanding of population status will entail collating and analyzing data from a variety of data sources. This project is a collaboration with scientists from NOAA Fisheries and the Washington Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. We will conduct population assessments using contemporary and historical information for ESA-listed rockfish, which will help inform 5-year status review and assist NOAA Fisheries in its determination of the viability of these species.
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Advancing sustainable shellfish aquaculture through machine learning and automated data collection on fish communities
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December 2023
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Washington is the nation’s leading producer of farmed clams, oysters, and mussels, contributing approximately $184 million to the State economy, supporting over 1,900 jobs, and supplying fresh shellfish to consumers around the globe. With such high cultural, economic, and ecological value, there is substantial demand for growth within the shellfish aquaculture industry. A key impediment to the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture is understanding the ecological implications of converting nearshore habitat to shellfish production. Understanding how shellfish aquaculture functions as nearshore habitat, relative to uncultivated areas, will help resource managers overcome this barrier and assess potential tradeoffs when planning the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture. In collaboration with researchers from NOAA Fisheries and shellfish growers in Puget Sound, we have used underwater cameras to document nearshore fish (including outmigrating salmonids) and crabs in both shellfish aquaculture and uncultivated nearshore habitats. Subsets of these video data were processed manually to address questions of aquaculture habitat use. Optimization of video processing will enable use of this technology to answer key questions about how fish are utilizing these nearshore habitats. We anticipate that the optimization of video processing will permit us to expand this collaborative, industry-supported data stream to improve our understanding of the ecological function of shellfish aquaculture, as well as inform public perception on the marine ecology surrounding these farms.
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Washington is the nation’s leading producer of farmed clams, oysters, and mussels, contributing approximately $184 million to the State economy, supporting over 1,900 jobs, and supplying fresh shellfish to consumers around the globe. With such high cultural, economic, and ecological value, there is substantial demand for growth within the shellfish aquaculture industry. A key impediment to the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture is understanding the ecological implications of converting nearshore habitat to shellfish production. Understanding how shellfish aquaculture functions as nearshore habitat, relative to uncultivated areas, will help resource managers overcome this barrier and assess potential tradeoffs when planning the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture. In collaboration with researchers from NOAA Fisheries and shellfish growers in Puget Sound, we have used underwater cameras to document nearshore fish (including outmigrating salmonids) and crabs in both shellfish aquaculture and uncultivated nearshore habitats. Subsets of these video data were processed manually to address questions of aquaculture habitat use. Optimization of video processing will enable use of this technology to answer key questions about how fish are utilizing these nearshore habitats. We anticipate that the optimization of video processing will permit us to expand this collaborative, industry-supported data stream to improve our understanding of the ecological function of shellfish aquaculture, as well as inform public perception on the marine ecology surrounding these farms.
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Landscape Transcriptomics as a new tool for natural and agricultural resource management
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August 2023
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The implications of climate change for Earth’s biota and agricultural systems remains uncertain. We will address this uncertainty by characterizing connections between an organism’s genotype, phenotype, and environmentally determined fitness in the context of a changing climate. Specifically, this approach connects landscape-level variables to gene expression patterns (transcriptomes). Working with state fisheries agencies, the US Geological Survey, and the US Fish & Wildlife Service, we will use a combination of landscape transcriptomics and experimental manipulations to identify markers of stress reactivity and resilience to warming streams, a key risk to brook trout <i>Salvelinus fontinalis</i> population persistence. This information will help guide the conservation and management of this iconic species.
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The implications of climate change for Earth’s biota and agricultural systems remains uncertain. We will address this uncertainty by characterizing connections between an organism’s genotype, phenotype, and environmentally determined fitness in the context of a changing climate. Specifically, this approach connects landscape-level variables to gene expression patterns (transcriptomes). Working with state fisheries agencies, the US Geological Survey, and the US Fish & Wildlife Service, we will use a combination of landscape transcriptomics and experimental manipulations to identify markers of stress reactivity and resilience to warming streams, a key risk to brook trout <i>Salvelinus fontinalis</i> population persistence. This information will help guide the conservation and management of this iconic species.
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Using environmental DNA to monitor abundances of juvenile Central Valley Chinook salmon
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December 2023
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The Sacramento River is unique in that it supports four different ecotypes of Chinook salmon, <i>Oncorhynchus tshawytscha</i>, including spring, fall, late fall, and winter runs. Unfortunately, due to a combination of anthropogenic actions the spring and winter runs are listed as threatened and endangered, respectively. Monitoring for juveniles in these imperiled populations on the Sacramento River uses a network of monitoring sites with varying reliability. In the upper river, a rotary screw trap located at the Red Bluff Diversion Dam can produce population-level abundance estimates for juvenile Chinook salmon. However, in the lower river monitoring sites are unable to produce population-level abundances due to the unreliability of run identification, low juvenile catch rates, and the inability to estimate gear efficiencies. Environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques could be used to more effectively sample in the lower river, where salmon densities are lower. This data would ultimately facilitate a better understanding of the timing, survival, abundance, and movement of juvenile Chinook Salmon throughout the river. <br><br>This research will focus on utilizing eDNA to develop a quantitative method for estimating juvenile Chinook salmon abundance in the Sacramento River. We will be looking at the correlation between eDNA concentrations and juvenile out-migrating trap abundances at the Red Bluff Diversion Dam site. Ideally, out of the four run types of Chinook salmon in the Sacramento River the focus will be on the spring and winter run types. In addition to the correlation between eDNA concentrations and abundance, we will examine if these eDNA abundances estimates are a function of environmental covariates (i.e. temperature, flow, turbidity, etc).<br>
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The Sacramento River is unique in that it manages four different ecotypes of Chinook salmon (i.e., spring run, fall run, late-fall run, and winter run) each exhibiting varying life history traits consisting of the timing of adult immigration, spawning, juvenile rearing, and smolt outmigration. Over the past century, multiple anthropogenic stressor have contributed to the decline of these populations, resulting in two ecotypes being ESA listed. We will develop a system specific environmental DNA calibration curve for threatened and endangered salmon in California's Central Valley that will be a cost-effective technique to modernize sampling methods and provide water managers with valuable information necessary to prevent excess mortality of these fish. This project is a collaboration between Humboldt State University, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
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Pallid Sturgeon biology in the Platte River and its tributaries
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December 2026
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The Pallid Sturgeon is a U.S. Threatened species that primarily inhabits the Missouri River and lower Mississippi rivers. Ongoing work in the mainstems of large rivers has provided much critical information regarding the biology and ecology of the species. However, substantial knowledge gaps exist regarding the species use and dependence on tributaries of the mainstem Missouri and lower Mississippi rivers. This project is intended to assess habitat use and availability for Pallid Sturgeon in the Platte River, Nebraska. Additionally, this project will assess the occurrence of spawning behavior potential spawning success within the Platte River, Nebraska.
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The Pallid Sturgeon is a U.S. threatened species that primarily inhabits the Missouri and lower Mississippi rivers. Extensive habitat alteration with large mainstem rivers has greatly reduced reproduction and recruitment of Pallid Sturgeon. Tributaries may play a role in fulfilling life stage needs of Pallid Sturgeon and may be particularly important for spawning and recruitment of young. However, limited information exists regarding the use and propensity of reproduction within tributary systems. The project is a collaboration among multiple private and government agencies including the Headwaters Corporation and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Reducing the information gaps regarding reproduction, recruitment, and habitat use in tributary systems by Pallid Sturgeon will directly influence decisions regarding monitoring efforts and habitat protections.
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Stream-fish population and community characteristics within Nebraska, USA
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August 2022
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The objectives of this study are 1) to collect and summarize fish-sample data from across stream systems within Nebraska, USA, 2) to identify information gaps regarding spatial and temporal scope of different stream-fish sampling protocols among stream systems in Nebraska, USA, and 3) to assess functional trait diversity in stream-fish communities among ecoregions within Nebraska, USA.
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Collecting ecological data at broad spatial and temporal scales can be limited due to cost and time constraints. Combining data from multiple sources across spatial scales and through time is often necessary to ask questions regarding drivers of population distributions. A comprehensive database of occurrences of stream fishes and landscape variables may provide insight into drivers of population distributions and community characteristics needed to inform conservation status. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is a partner on this project. The development of habitat and species distribution models from existing datasets may reduce the knowledge gap regarding fish-habitat relations of stream fishes and direct future conservation efforts.
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Linking stream fish thermal ecology and adaptive capacity to inform watershed-based management and Species Status Assessments
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December 2023
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The response of many aquatic organisms to altered water temperatures is unknown, complicating efforts to manage their populations. Managers may benefit from better estimates of thermal metrics such as species-specific temperature tolerances and optima by applying that knowledge in conservation planning frameworks. We will estimate several temperature metrics for two species of fish (Ozark Shiner and Blacknose Shiner) and work with state and federal agency managers from Missouri, Iowa, and Arkansas, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and The Nature Conservancy to prioritize stream reaches for conservation. This project will directly inform the Ozark Shiner USFWS Species Status Assessment (SSA). Products will include data on the thermal tolerance and adaptive capacity of Ozark and Blacknose Shiner, coupled with priority ranking of Missouri stream segments (and other states, if data are available).
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The response of many aquatic organisms to altered water temperatures is unknown, complicating efforts to manage their populations. Managers may benefit from better estimates of thermal metrics such as species-specific temperature tolerances and optima by applying that knowledge in conservation planning frameworks. We will estimate several temperature metrics for two species of fish (Ozark Shiner and Blacknose Shiner) and work with state and federal agency managers from Missouri, Iowa, and Arkansas, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and The Nature Conservancy to prioritize stream reaches for conservation. This project will directly inform the Ozark Shiner USFWS Species Status Assessment (SSA). Products will include data on the thermal tolerance and adaptive capacity of Ozark and Blacknose Shiner, coupled with priority ranking of Missouri stream segments (and other states, if data are available).
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Moose Population Expansion in Togiak NWR
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December 2022
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Moose populations in portions of Togiak National Wildlife Refuge have been expanding in recent years, potentially following the expansion of shrub habitat. This expansion in shrub habitat is likely driven by changing climatic conditions, meaning that future climate change could result in further expansion of shrub habitat and, potentially, moose populations. Understanding the driving factors behind moose population dynamics on the refuge is critical, however most resources must be allocated to baseline population monitoring. We are using existing monitoring data to build an Integrated Population Model for moose on Togiak NWR as both a monitoring tool and to explore demographic changes in the population. Ultimately, we hope to be able to identify the demographic patterns behind this population expansion while also improving monitoring programs and their utility.
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Moose populations in portions of Togiak National Wildlife Refuge have been expanding in recent years, potentially following the expansion of shrub habitat. This expansion in shrub habitat is likely driven by changing climatic conditions, meaning that future climate change could result in further expansion of shrub habitat and, potentially, moose populations. Understanding the driving factors behind moose population dynamics on the refuge is critical, however most resources must be allocated to baseline population monitoring. We are using existing monitoring data to build an Integrated Population Model for moose on Togiak NWR as both a monitoring tool and to explore demographic changes in the population. Ultimately, we hope to be able to identify the demographic patterns behind this population expansion while also improving monitoring programs and their utility.
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Habitat function of shellfish aquaculture ecosystems: developing new technology to understand species use of nearshore habitats
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June 2023
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Washington is the nation’s leading producer of farmed clams, oysters, and mussels, contributing approximately $184 million to the State economy, supporting over 1,900 jobs, and supplying fresh shellfish to consumers around the globe. With such high cultural, economic, and ecological value, there is substantial demand for growth within the shellfish aquaculture industry. A key impediment to the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture is understanding the ecological implications of converting nearshore habitat to shellfish production. Understanding how shellfish aquaculture functions as nearshore habitat, relative to uncultivated areas, will help resource managers overcome this barrier and assess potential tradeoffs when planning the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture. To better understand the ecological functions of these habitats, we need to examine not only which species are present, but how those species use each habitat. The goal of this study is to quantify the impacts (positive, negative, neutral) of shellfish aquaculture on foraging experiences of fish and crabs. We will collaborate with the National Marine Fisheries Service to examine (1) feeding behavior of these organisms using an extensive dataset of underwater video and (2) their trophic ecology (diets, isotopes) by sampling sites within the Salish Sea. Results from this work will inform decisions about the introduction of aquaculture in a system comprised of a diversity of seascapes and where considerable management attention is invested in conserving species that rely on nearshore waters and their essential habitats.
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Washington is the nation’s leading producer of farmed clams, oysters, and mussels, contributing approximately $184 million to the State economy, supporting over 1,900 jobs, and supplying fresh shellfish to consumers around the globe. With such high cultural, economic, and ecological value, there is substantial demand for growth within the shellfish aquaculture industry. A key impediment to the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture is understanding the ecological implications of converting nearshore habitat to shellfish production. Understanding how shellfish aquaculture functions as nearshore habitat, relative to uncultivated areas, will help resource managers overcome this barrier and assess potential tradeoffs when planning the sustainable expansion of shellfish aquaculture. To better understand the ecological functions of these habitats, we need to examine not only which species are present, but how those species use each habitat. The goal of this study is to quantify the impacts (positive, negative, neutral) of shellfish aquaculture on foraging experiences of fish and crabs. We will collaborate with the National Marine Fisheries Service to examine (1) feeding behavior of these organisms using an extensive dataset of underwater video and (2) their trophic ecology (diets, isotopes) by sampling sites within the Salish Sea. Results from this work will inform decisions about the introduction of aquaculture in a system comprised of a diversity of seascapes and where considerable management attention is invested in conserving species that rely on nearshore waters and their essential habitats.
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A simulation and case-study comparison of existing and spatio-temporal methods to apportion coastwide catch limits for subregional management
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September 2022
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The North Pacific Fisheries Management Council (NPFMC) sets Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for all stocks and complexes listed in several Fisheries Management Plans. Currently, harvest regulations occurring for strata within each stock are informed by applying a smoother of available (and often highly uncertain) area-specific survey indices. However, this approach can result in large interannual variability in strata-specific harvest regulations, especially for stocks that are more challenging to survey or surveyed less frequently. In this project, we will investigate multiple alternative approaches to determine apportionment of subregional groundfish harvest in the Gulf of Alaska.
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The North Pacific Fisheries Management Council (NPFMC) sets Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for all stocks and complexes listed in several Fisheries Management Plans. Currently, harvest regulations occurring for strata within each stock are informed by applying a smoother of available (and often highly uncertain) area-specific survey indices. However, this approach can result in large interannual variability in strata-specific harvest regulations, especially for stocks that are more challenging to survey or surveyed less frequently. The project is a collaboration with researchers from NOAA Fisheries. We will develop an alternative statistical model for allocating catch quotas for three commercially valuable groundfish species in the Gulf of Alaska.
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Tennessee-Cumberland rivers invasive carps data management application
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September 2023
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Our goal is to develop web or desktop applications to analyze, summarize, and distribute data collected by Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers (TNCR) collaborators through standardized procedures. We also expect to provide a platform for storing and sharing non-standard data relevant to TNCR collaborators but contributed by external agencies
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Our goal is to develop web or desktop applications to analyze, summarize, and distribute data collected by Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers (TNCR) collaborators through standardized procedures. We also expect to provide a platform for storing and sharing non-standard data relevant to TNCR collaborators but contributed by external agencies
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Connectivity in oxbow lakes
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December 2023
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We intend to construct a typology of connectivity modes suitable for classifying the hundreds of floodplain lakes in the Lower Mississippi River Alluvial Valley into connectivity types. The types can provide a framework for developing broad-scale strategy to adaptively manage bigheaded carps access to floodplain lakes.
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We intend to construct a typology of connectivity modes suitable for classifying the hundreds of floodplain lakes in the Lower Mississippi River Alluvial Valley into connectivity types. The types can provide a framework for developing broad-scale strategy to adaptively manage bigheaded carps access to floodplain lakes.
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Spatial and temporal distribution of silver carp in the Eagle Lake system
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September 2023
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We are monitoring movement of silver carp in and out of Eagle Lake. We will use results to develop strategy for managing a water control structure in a way that will prevent carp entrance to the lake.
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We are monitoring movement of silver carp in and out of Eagle Lake. We will use results to develop strategy for managing a water control structure in a way that will prevent carp entrance to the lake.
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Aquatic Species Restoration and Research at the Eastern Aquatic Conservation Facility at Yates Mill
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January 2023
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The goal of this project is to develop a propagation and research facility to guide and conduct restoration of aquatic mussel species. This will require physical design and construction of the facility, propagating imperiled species, research to guide their restoration, and conservation toward restoration.
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The goal of this project is to develop a propagation and research facility to guide and conduct restoration of aquatic mussel species. This will require physical design and construction of the facility, propagating imperiled species, research to guide their restoration, and conservation toward restoration.
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Evaluating the benefits of practices implemented under the Working Lands for Wildlife Program (WLFW) targeting northern bobwhites
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September 2025
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The USDA Working Lands for Wildlife program seeks to improve habitat on working farms and ranches for northern bobwhites and a range of other wildlife species that benefit from early successional ecosystems. This project will investigate the degree to which bobwhite presence is an indicator of the presence of other priority bird species and the benefits of WLFW practices to nongame birds.
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In a state dominated by agriculture and private land, programs like USDA Working Lands for Wildlife seek to incentivize private landowners to conduct habitat restoration and management on their properties. Species such as the northern bobwhite are often used as umbrella species, with the expectation that if bobwhite are present at a site other grassland-dependent and early successional species will be as well. With this project we aim to evaluate the veracity of this assumption by estimating co-occurrence of bobwhite and species of greatest conservation need at WLFW sites in southern Iowa. We are working closely with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the USDA NRCS, and partners in Quail Forever/Pheasants Forever to conduct this work. The results will help managers understand the broader implications of WLFW practices to breeding birds, as well as the landscape factors that mediate the benefits of habitat restoration and management at a given site.
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Wetland Reserve Program Properties: Importance for Iowa Breeding Birds in the Prairie Pothole Landform
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December 2024
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The Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) is one of the most significant habitat restoration programs in Iowa and has added more acres of wetland habitat than any other program since 1993. With this project, we aim to describe the use of WRP sites in the Prairie Pothole Region in Iowa by nongame breeding birds, including species of conservation concern, and evaluate the site characteristics that are associated with the diversity and abundance of birds. Results will inform best practices for prioritizing sites for future WRP engagement as well as management of existing sites to support breeding wetland-dependent birds.
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The Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) is one of the most significant habitat restoration efforts in Iowa. These restored wetlands are thought to provide critical breeding habitat to bird wetland species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) throughout the area, but this has not been evaluated. Additionally, local managers lack clear guidance on best practices for habitat management at these sites. The purpose of this project is to survey WRP sites throughout the Prairie Pothole Landform in Iowa for breeding birds and evaluate the site characteristics that are associated with the greatest diversity and abundance of birds. This project is conducted in close collaboration with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Diversity Program and funded via a USFWS State Wildlife Grant. Results will inform best practices for prioritizing sites for future WRP engagement as well as management of existing sites to support breeding birds of conservation concern.
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Implementation of National Biogeographic Data and Analyses Toward a National Assessment.
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September 2025
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The USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (NCCFWRU) has an ongoing partnership with the federal government on developing, analyzing and implementing Gap Analysis datasets starting with the NC-GAP Project in 1996 up through to the first completed data set for the contiguous United States in 2016. The focus of the next phase of effort will be in three areas: development of analyses to better understand the state of national biodiversity of aquatic and terrestrial communities, refinement of our data infrastructure to allow seamless updates of data products, and continued development of outreach tools to better facilitate the implementation of our data in conservation assessments. Additional research efforts will incorporate species occurrence data to assess and inform predicted distributions, assess the impact of dam removal on fish communities, incorporate Forest Inventory and Analysis plot data in the refinement of habitat availability, map patterns of species’ turnover and identify common drivers of habitat quality across terrestrial and aquatic vertebrate species.
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The USGS North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (NCCFWRU) has an ongoing partnership with the federal government on developing, analyzing and implementing Gap Analysis datasets starting with the NC-GAP Project in 1996 up through to the first completed data set for the contiguous United States in 2016. The focus of the next phase of effort will be in three areas: development of analyses to better understand the state of national biodiversity of aquatic and terrestrial communities, refinement of our data infrastructure to allow seamless updates of data products, and continued development of outreach tools to better facilitate the implementation of our data in conservation assessments. Additional research efforts will incorporate species occurrence data to assess and inform predicted distributions, assess the impact of dam removal on fish communities, incorporate Forest Inventory and Analysis plot data in the refinement of habitat availability, map patterns of species’ turnover and identify common drivers of habitat quality across terrestrial and aquatic vertebrate species.
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Determining Henslow's Sparrow (Centronyx henslowii) population redundancy in North Carolina.
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December 2024
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Henslow’s Sparrow (HESP) is a grassland specialist, migratory songbird with a rapidly declining habitat range due to habitat loss and climate change. The species is a conservation priority for the State and US Fish and Wildlife Service due to its limited presence in North Carolina and declining populations across the United States. In North Carolina, the species’ stronghold is at the Voice of America Game Lands (VOAGL). Ongoing efforts are designed to estimate its population size and assess its response to fire management (resiliency), and determine its genetic distinctiveness (representativeness) from other populations. However, little is known about the sparrow’s presence and abundance in North Carolina outside of the VOAGL. The work proposed herein is designed to: 1) identify the presence or absence of Henslow’s Sparrows at sites with suitable habitat parameters, but where their presence or status is unknown; and 2) develop an accurate habitat range model for Henslow’s Sparrows in the state of North Carolina. This work is important because the existence of other populations would spread the risk of local extinction, and strengthen the bases for strategic habitat conservation plans to protect or co-managed occupied habitat.
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Henslow’s Sparrow (HESP) is a grassland specialist, migratory songbird with a rapidly declining habitat range due to habitat loss and climate change. The species is a conservation priority for the State and US Fish and Wildlife Service due to its limited presence in North Carolina and declining populations across the United States. In North Carolina, the species’ stronghold is at the Voice of America Game Lands (VOAGL). Ongoing efforts are designed to estimate its population size and assess its response to fire management (resiliency), and determine its genetic distinctiveness (representativeness) from other populations. However, little is known about the sparrow’s presence and abundance in North Carolina outside of the VOAGL. The work proposed herein is designed to: 1) identify the presence or absence of Henslow’s Sparrows at sites with suitable habitat parameters, but where their presence or status is unknown; and 2) develop an accurate habitat range model for Henslow’s Sparrows in the state of North Carolina. This work is important because the existence of other populations would spread the risk of local extinction, and strengthen the bases for strategic habitat conservation plans to protect or co-managed occupied habitat.
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Resolving Taxonomic Uncertainty in Caribbean Skink Species
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December 2023
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In 2014, the USFWS was petitioned to evaluate nine species of Caribbean skinks (<i>Spondylurus </i>spp.) for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Information on Caribbean skink distribution and ecology is extremely limited, and there remains the possibility that some species may already be extinct. Additionally, taxonomic uncertainty exists across <i>Spondylurus </i>spp., as the genus was reclassified and split into multiple species in 2012 based on analyses of museum specimens. Research to support a Species Status Assessment is therefore needed to (i) resolve taxonomic uncertainty in this species complex and (ii) document skink presence, characterize morphology, and document the distribution of age-classes at island-level scales. This information is critical to evaluating the listing status of these species and future efforts investigating population viability and extinction risk.
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In 2014, the USFWS was petitioned to evaluate nine species of Caribbean skinks (<i>Spondylurus </i>spp.) for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Information on Caribbean skink distribution and ecology is extremely limited, and there remains the possibility that some species may already be extinct. Additionally, taxonomic uncertainty exists across <i>Spondylurus </i>spp., as the genus was reclassified and split into multiple species in 2012 based on analyses of museum specimens. Research to support a Species Status Assessment is therefore needed to (i) resolve taxonomic uncertainty in this species complex and (ii) document skink presence, characterize morphology, and document the distribution of age-classes at island-level scales. This information is critical to evaluating the listing status of these species and future efforts investigating population viability and extinction risk.
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Conservation status and management of Henslow's sparrows at the VOA Game Land and eastern North Carolina.
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June 2023
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We propose four research objectives to deliver a status assessment and gather foundational dataat multiple scales to enable the NCWRC to enhance the persistence of the sparrow at theVOAGL and the State. At the local level, we propose to estimate the sparrow’s capacity tosustain themselves, and quantify the sparrow’s response to habitat management at the Voice ofAmerica Game Land site. The latter is particularly important to lay a foundation for an adaptivemanagement framework to guide habitat management. At the landscape level, we propose towork closely with the North Carolina Bird Atlas project personnel to survey habitats outside theVoice of America Game Land, and lastly, determine the genetic distinctiveness of the NorthCarolina population not addressed by Ibargüen (2004). Off-site surveys are justified tostrengthen the bases for strategic habitat conservation plans to reduce risks of extinction.Likewise, understanding the evolutionary history and genetic connectivity of the North Carolinapopulation of C. henslowii is essential to assess their persistence potential by establishing if theNorth Carolina population is effectively isolated, or subject to “rescue effects” by a broader poolof post-wintering birds from other parts of the species range.
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We propose four research objectives to deliver a status assessment and gather foundational dataat multiple scales to enable the NCWRC to enhance the persistence of the sparrow at theVOAGL and the State. At the local level, we propose to estimate the sparrow’s capacity tosustain themselves, and quantify the sparrow’s response to habitat management at the Voice ofAmerica Game Land site. The latter is particularly important to lay a foundation for an adaptivemanagement framework to guide habitat management. At the landscape level, we propose towork closely with the North Carolina Bird Atlas project personnel to survey habitats outside theVoice of America Game Land, and lastly, determine the genetic distinctiveness of the NorthCarolina population not addressed by Ibargüen (2004). Off-site surveys are justified tostrengthen the bases for strategic habitat conservation plans to reduce risks of extinction.Likewise, understanding the evolutionary history and genetic connectivity of the North Carolinapopulation of C. henslowii is essential to assess their persistence potential by establishing if theNorth Carolina population is effectively isolated, or subject to “rescue effects” by a broader poolof post-wintering birds from other parts of the species range.
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Development of an early warning system to identify changing prescribed burn opportunities across southeast US fire-adapted habitats.
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May 2025
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The project summary should provide a synopsis of the overall proposal. Key sections from the full proposal that <i>must </i>be summarized are: (1) Objectives/Justification, (2) Background, (3) Procedures/Methods, (4) Expected Products and Information/Technology Transfer, and (5) Personnel/Cooperators/Partners. The project summary should be included in the proposal PDF and should also be submitted separately in RFPManager. <i>NOTE: this summary does not replace the required “plain language public summary”.</i>
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The project summary should provide a synopsis of the overall proposal. Key sections from the full proposal that <i>must </i>be summarized are: (1) Objectives/Justification, (2) Background, (3) Procedures/Methods, (4) Expected Products and Information/Technology Transfer, and (5) Personnel/Cooperators/Partners. The project summary should be included in the proposal PDF and should also be submitted separately in RFPManager. <i>NOTE: this summary does not replace the required “plain language public summary”.</i>
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Strategic habitat conservation and adaptive strategies for recovery and pre-listing conservation of Eleutherodactylus (coqui) amphibians in Puerto Rico.
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September 2022
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources want to develop a plan of actions to help the recovery of two endangered species in the genus <i>Eleutherodactylus</i> (commonly known as “coqui”), while also reducing the risk that 14 other coqui species are added to the Endangered Species list. Our multi-disciplinary research team responded by developing foundational environmental and ecological knowledge required to build a robust strategy. To date, we have identified factors influencing where species occur, their abundance, and key drivers of reproduction<sup> </sup>influenced by two major sources of environmental change—climate and land use change—for three representative species (<i>E. wightmanae, E. britonni, </i>and<i> E. antillensis</i>). For this next research stage we propose to: 1) characterize the ability of the three representative species plus the endangered <i>E. juanriveroi,</i> to cope with environmental stresses (i.e. their <i>adaptive capacity</i>) using a combination of laboratory and field experiments, 2) map the genetic structure of these species to learn about connections between different populations and identify centers of genetic diversity, and 3) assist agencies in the development of conservation strategies centered on two potential adaptation actions: species relocations to new habitats (i.e. translocations) and making connections to climate-resilient habitats. By investigating the most effective ways to carry out translocations, we will help decision makers answer WHEN it is best to begin consideration of translocations versus continuing to manage at existing locations. And by investigating which habitats have the potential to be resilient in a changing climate, we will help decision makers answer WHERE the best ‘areas of conservation interest’ would be for translocated individuals. Ultimately, our methods will be applicable to other environmental change settings in the context of developing recovery plans and for helping to prevent the listing of species.
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources want to develop a portfolio of actions to enhance the status of 2 endangered species and prevent the listing of 14 species in the genus <i>Eleutherodactylus</i>, commonly known as “coqui.” To respond to this need, we developed a multi-disciplinary project aimed at gaining foundational knowledge to build a robust, well-informed adaptive conservation strategy. To date, we have identified factors influencing where species occur, their abundance, and what influences their reproduction<sup> </sup>in the context of two major sources of environmental change—climate (altitudinal gradient) and predominant land uses—for three representative species (<i>E. wightmanae, E. britonni, </i>and<i> E. cochranae</i>). Finally, as a precursor and illustration of the endpoint of the project, we constructed a decision framework for the conservation of <i>E. juanriveroi</i>, one of the two endangered species. Herein we propose to: 1) elucidate the adaptive capacity of the representative species, including <i>E. juanriveroi,</i> to cope with environmental stresses using laboratory (<i>terraria</i>) experiments and develop translocation protocols, 2) ascertain the genetic structure of the aforementioned species to gain insights about connectivity and identify centers of genetic diversity, and 3) frame a conservation strategy centered on two classes of adaptation actions: translocations/introductions and climate refuges. The strategy will enable decision makers to address the temporal and spatial components of recovery and pre-listing efforts. By incorporating translocations/introductions, decision makers address the question of WHEN to invest in <i>in-situ</i> management as opposed to translocations/introductions. The second component help guide decision makers to determine WHERE to translocate/introduce individuals, effectively informing decisions about strategic habitat conservation by creating scenario maps, a list of candidate “areas of conservation interest” that could serve as introduction sites and climatic <i>refugia</i> to enhance recovery/delisting of endangered species or prevent listing of at-risk species.
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Visualizing Obstacles in Big Game Migration Corridors
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June 2022
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Research shows that elk encounter many obstacles during their migrations. Barriers like fences and roads can be deadly for elk, and also threaten their access to habitat, potentially leading to decreased herd health and population abundance. However, migrating elk face these obstacles mostly out of public view, because their corridors are in-between the hunting areas and winter range where the general public are most likely to spot them. Trail cameras and migration maps can effectively communicate to the public the challenges elk face in crossing highways, subdivisions, and other barriers. This web-based film project will show elk facing barriers, and how people in different parts of the state are using or could use migration data to address them. We will focus on groups that are using migration data to retrofit fences to make them more wildlife friendly, perhaps in places like Jackson Hole, the Green River Basin, or Park County. The film will also attempt to show how elk navigate road crossings identified for the Priority Opportunity List of the Wyoming Wildlife Roadways Initiative. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Muley Fanatic Foundation.
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Research shows that elk encounter many obstacles during their migrations. Barriers like fences and roads can be deadly for elk, and also threaten their access to habitat, potentially leading to decreased herd health and population abundance. However, migrating elk face these obstacles mostly out of public view, because their corridors are in-between the hunting areas and winter range where the general public are most likely to spot them. Trail cameras and migration maps can effectively communicate to the public the challenges elk face in crossing highways, subdivisions, and other barriers. This web-based film project will show elk facing barriers, and how people in different parts of the state are using or could use migration data to address them. We will focus on groups that are using migration data to retrofit fences to make them more wildlife friendly, perhaps in places like Jackson Hole, the Green River Basin, or Park County. The film will also attempt to show how elk navigate road crossings identified for the Priority Opportunity List of the Wyoming Wildlife Roadways Initiative. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Muley Fanatic Foundation.
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How do ungulates learn to migrate? A century-long case study with Yellowstone bison
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May 2025
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The story of how bison re-discovered their lost migrations over a 100-year period is one of the few examples worldwide of ungulates learning to migrate. This recovery has much to teach us about managing modern migrations, but the bison migration story has never been consolidated in one place. Although numerous studies have evaluated where bison move to their summer and winter ranges, a comprehensive picture of the history of their migration recovery has yet to be created. The proposed project will aim to reconstruct how generations of Yellowstone bison established the migration routes they now use to travel seasonally in and out of the park. The question of how ungulates learn to migrate is important for modern conservation, and this study will deepen our understanding of what is possible for animals recolonizing a landscape. This project is done in collaboration with researchers from Yellowstone National Park and the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Wyoming. We will analyze the impact that certain active management techniques, such as hazing, had on bison movement at different times in their history. Other anecdotes from more recent bison experts, such as Rick Wallen and collaborator Chris Geremia, will also be documented and assessed as they pertain to bison migration. Building a timeline of these events, we will search for which techniques had lasting effects on bison movements, and which did not. In addition to historical research, we will review modern GPS collar data and contemporary movements to understand what ranges and movements were possible for bison in the past.
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The story of how bison re-discovered their lost migrations over a 100-year period is one of the few examples worldwide of ungulates learning to migrate. This recovery has much to teach us about managing modern migrations, but the bison migration story has never been consolidated in one place. Although numerous studies have evaluated where bison move to their summer and winter ranges, a comprehensive picture of the history of their migration recovery has yet to be created. The proposed project will aim to reconstruct how generations of Yellowstone bison established the migration routes they now use to travel seasonally in and out of the park. The question of how ungulates learn to migrate is important for modern conservation, and this study will deepen our understanding of what is possible for animals recolonizing a landscape. This project is done in collaboration with researchers from Yellowstone National Park and the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Wyoming. We will analyze the impact that certain active management techniques, such as hazing, had on bison movement at different times in their history. Other anecdotes from more recent bison experts, such as Rick Wallen and collaborator Chris Geremia, will also be documented and assessed as they pertain to bison migration. Building a timeline of these events, we will search for which techniques had lasting effects on bison movements, and which did not. In addition to historical research, we will review modern GPS collar data and contemporary movements to understand what ranges and movements were possible for bison in the past.
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Identifying Structure of the Yellowstone Bison Population
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December 2022
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The Yellowstone bison population is thought to exist in at least two separate breeding herds that use northern and central areas of Yellowstone National Park. Recent and dramatic increases in bison using northern areas and decreases in bison using central areas has raised concern that management removals have targeted the central breeding herd. Bison are managed under an Interagency Management Plan that limits population abundance and distribution. Under this plan, limited numbers of bison are allowed to migrate out of the park during winter with the remainder lethally removed when migrating beyond park boundaries. Based on counts during 2017, numbers of bison using central areas of the park may no longer be sufficient for long-term genetic conservation. However, there is some indication that the historic herd structure has broken down over time. If this is the case, with bison conforming to a single, intermixing population, then the current bison population is likely sufficiently large for long-term genetic conservation – although there are substantially fewer bison observed in central areas of the park. GPS data collected by the NPS from adult female bison during 2003-2018 will be organized and shared with the recipient. Using these data, the recipient will complete a network analysis identifying nodes representing breeding areas and winter areas and edges representing connections among breeding and wintering areas between seasons and years. The NPS will also organize and share genetic information from a subset of the individuals used in the network analysis. The recipient will assimilate the genetic information with the network analysis to describe the genetic characterization of each node. The recipient will use findings from the network and genetic analyses to analyze the susceptibility of bison based on breeding area membership and genetic composition to out-of-park management removals. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the University of Wyoming.
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The Yellowstone bison population is thought to exist in at least two separate breeding herds that use northern and central areas of Yellowstone National Park. Recent and dramatic increases in bison using northern areas and decreases in bison using central areas has raised concern that management removals have targeted the central breeding herd. Bison are managed under an Interagency Management Plan that limits population abundance and distribution. Under this plan, limited numbers of bison are allowed to migrate out of the park during winter with the remainder lethally removed when migrating beyond park boundaries. Based on counts during 2017, numbers of bison using central areas of the park may no longer be sufficient for long-term genetic conservation. However, there is some indication that the historic herd structure has broken down over time. If this is the case, with bison conforming to a single, intermixing population, then the current bison population is likely sufficiently large for long-term genetic conservation – although there are substantially fewer bison observed in central areas of the park. GPS data collected by the NPS from adult female bison during 2003-2018 will be organized and shared with the recipient. Using these data, the recipient will complete a network analysis identifying nodes representing breeding areas and winter areas and edges representing connections among breeding and wintering areas between seasons and years. The NPS will also organize and share genetic information from a subset of the individuals used in the network analysis. The recipient will assimilate the genetic information with the network analysis to describe the genetic characterization of each node. The recipient will use findings from the network and genetic analyses to analyze the susceptibility of bison based on breeding area membership and genetic composition to out-of-park management removals. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the University of Wyoming.
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Investigating hybridization between the declining Gray-headed Chickadee and a recent colonizer, the Boreal Chickadee
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September 2024
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Gray-headed chickadees were historically common in Alaska and northwestern Canada and in recent years populations have been extirpated (or are in decline) and replaced with boreal chickadees. There is insufficient information to identify threats to Gray-headed Chickadees in North America with confidence. Two mechanisms are thought to be playing a role in the decline of gray headed chickadees – interspecific competition and genetic swamping. This project is a collaboration across multiple agencies including Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, National Park Service, and Canadian Wildlife Service. Understanding what role, if any, hybridization has on the decline of the Gray-headed Chickadee is an important step in defining and prioritizing appropriate and effective conservation recovery actions.
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Gray-headed chickadees were historically common in Alaska and northwestern Canada and in recent years populations have been extirpated (or are in decline) and replaced with boreal chickadees. There is insufficient information to identify threats to Gray-headed Chickadees in North America with confidence. Two mechanisms are thought to be playing a role in the decline of gray headed chickadees – interspecific competition and genetic swamping. This project is a collaboration across multiple agencies including Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, National Park Service, and Canadian Wildlife Service. Understanding what role, if any, hybridization has on the decline of the Gray-headed Chickadee is an important step in defining and prioritizing appropriate and effective conservation recovery actions.
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Walleye and Yellow Perch in Northern Wisconsin Lakes: Recruitment Trends and Importance of Perch as Prey for Larval and Post-Larval Walleye
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June 2023
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Some lakes in northern Wisconsin that previously sustained natural Walleye recruitment have exhibited declines in recruitment over the past two decades. Recent data have suggested that Yellow Perch and Walleye recruitment are affected by similar environmental factors, but declining trends in Yellow Perch recruitment success may have gone undetected due to lack of targeted sampling. Additionally, a lower abundance of juvenile Yellow Perch could be related to Walleye recruitment success. The objectives of this study are to determine if the following differ between lakes with different Walleye recruitment histories (sustained vs. declined): 1) density and spatial distribution of zooplankton prey; 2) relative importance of larval Yellow Perch and zooplankton to larval and post-larval Walleye diets; and 3) trends in age-0 Yellow Perch abundance. Sampling occurred in 2021 and will continue in 2022 using several different gears to target Walleye and Yellow Perch in their first few months of life.
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Some lakes in northern Wisconsin that previously sustained natural Walleye recruitment have exhibited declines in recruitment over the past two decades. Recent data have suggested that Yellow Perch and Walleye recruitment are affected by similar environmental factors, but declining trends in Yellow Perch recruitment success may have gone undetected due to lack of targeted sampling. This research is in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This study will provide valuable insight on potential factors affecting the status of Walleye and Yellow Perch populations in northern Wisconsin lakes. Specifically, my results could help WDNR fishery managers better understand factors that may be limiting Walleye recruitment in D-NR lakes, which could help refine management strategies (e.g., stocking, changes in harvest regulations) that might be employed to improve the resiliency of these Walleye populations.
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Managing bluegill fisheries as a social-ecological system under a changing climate
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August 2025
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Recreational fisheries management must balance the influences of ecological factors (e.g., environmental variation), social factors (e.g., angler behavior), and their interactions (e.g., angler responses to natural variation in fish populations) when developing strategies to produce and maintain resilient and productive fisheries. Climate change further challenges this paradigm by rearranging the mosaic of fishing opportunities on the landscape with unpredictable implications for anglers and fish populations. Considering these complex dynamics as a paired social-ecological system (SES) can help predict fisheries responses to ecosystem change and develop management strategies to meet stakeholder objectives. Bluegill are one of the most important species in North America in terms of providing accessible, harvest-oriented recreational fisheries. Significant knowledge gaps exist in our understanding of ecological drivers of bluegill population dynamics, how bluegill fisheries may respond to climate change, and how anglers will respond to changes in bluegill populations and their management. Filling these gaps will promote the development of management strategies to prevent problems like stunting (i.e., high abundances of small fish) or growth overfishing. <i>We propose to develop an SES model to inform the management of bluegill (</i>Lepomis macrochirus<i>) across the Midwest US in the face of climate change.</i> We will leverage extensive datasets on bluegill growth across the Midwest to develop statistical and process-based models to determine important factors structuring bluegill populations and predict their responses to climate change impacts. Angler behavior will be quantified using creel survey data and in-person and email discrete choice experiments to evaluate angler heterogeneity in responses to changes in bluegill fisheries and local fishing opportunities. Finally, an SES model will be developed and parameterized for Midwest bluegill fisheries using information on bluegill population dynamics and angler behavior acquired during the first two stages of this project. The SES model will be used to predict the effects of climate change on bluegill fishery outcomes and identify management strategies that best provide robust bluegill populations, satisfied anglers, and diverse angling opportunities. These results will elucidate currently unknown dynamics in bluegill fisheries and allow managers to develop best management practices for bluegill fisheries facing the uncertain impacts of climate change.
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Recreational fisheries management must balance the influences of ecological factors (e.g., environmental variation), social factors (e.g., angler behavior), and their interactions (e.g., angler responses to natural variation in fish populations) when developing strategies to produce and maintain resilient and productive fisheries. Considering these complex dynamics as a paired social-ecological system (SES) can help predict fisheries responses to ecosystem change and develop management strategies to meet stakeholder objectives. This project is a collaboration with the Center for Limnology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Bluegill are one of the most important species in North America in terms of providing accessible, harvest-oriented recreational fisheries. Significant knowledge gaps exist in our understanding of ecological drivers of bluegill population dynamics, how bluegill fisheries may respond to climate change, and how anglers will respond to changes in bluegill populations and their management. Filling these gaps will promote the development of management strategies to prevent problems like stunting (i.e., high abundances of small fish) or growth overfishing.
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Adaptive Management with AMMonitor
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August 2026
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Adaptive management (AM) is a cyclical process that improves natural resource management and generates knowledge that can inform future decisions. Autonomous monitoring units (AMUs) such as camera traps or recording devices provide opportunities to collect large volumes of species’ occurrence data over long periods of time with relatively low cost. However, the data management requirements of an AMU-based monitoring effort can be immense: processing audio/image data to generate detections can be complicated, and integrating streams of AMU data into species’ distribution models or other analyses may appear unattainable.<br><br>To operationalize AM, the USGS Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit created the open-source R package <i>AMMonitor</i>, which simplifies the process of moving from remotely collected data to species’ status, trend analysis, and reports.<br><br>The objectives of this project are to 1) Strengthen and expand the AMMonitor community, and 2) Develop the photographic monitoring capacity of AMMonitor. The Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is working with USGS ScienceBase to facilitate and document monitoring files as a permanent data repository. Further, we are working with USGS Cloud Hosting to develop CNN models to identify species within monitoring files (images, audio) in an automated fashion using machine learning algorithms. The results of this work should streamline data analysis and ultimately permit adaptive management of natural resources in an expedient manner.
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Problem statement:Automated monitoring of wildlife with remote camera and recording devices is a cost-effective way to monitor species across vast spaces and time. However, the data management requirements of an AMU-based monitoring effort can be immense: processing audio/image data to generate detections can be complicated, and integrating streams of AMU data into species’ distribution models or other analyses may appear unattainable.Why this research matters:Land use change and climate change are dual forces that are shifting the distribution patterns of many wildlife species. Natural resource managers tasked with maintaining viable wildlife populations require in-time data to understand changes in species distribution, and tools that enable them to actCollaboration/Partners (1 sentence):The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies, including USGS ScienceBase, USGS Cloud Computing, and the National Park Service's Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division.Research That Informs Decisions:AMMonitor is an R package/tool that allows agencies that monitor wildlife remotely to easily manage, archive, and analyze data for their own purposes.
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Scales and drivers of variability in dissolved organic carbon across diverse urban watersheds
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April 2024
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A critical gap for ecosystems science is that human activities alter the spatial and temporal scales of existing ecological processes and introduce novel sources of ecological variability. Most ecosystems worldwide are impacted by human activities; yet the effects of human activities across scales are not adequately represented by existing ecosystem models. This is especially true for models of aquatic carbon (C) cycling and fluxes. Only recently has the magnitude of fluvial C fluxes been recognized within the global carbon cycle; yet these estimates explicitly ignore the influence of human activities, such as urbanization. We propose to assess urbanization effects on dissolved organic carbon (DOC)—the largest flux of carbon in streams—focusing on how urbanization affects ecosystems in regionally-specific ways. <u>We hypothesize that human activities introduce novel sources of ecological variability and affect the spatial and temporal scales of ecological processes differently in different geographies and urban contexts</u>. We will test this hypothesis using a comparative approach to understand urban effects on DOC. We will collect data on DOC quality and dynamics at 600 sites across five urban study areas to develop a multi-scale understanding of the quantity and quality of DOC in urban systems. We will use spatial statistics and time-series analyses to identify key spatio-temporal characteristics of human development (e.g., wastewater infrastructure, housing density) and biophysical factors (e.g., discharge, precipitation, canopy cover) that control the concentration, characteristics, and bioavailability of DOC. Our research takes a <i><u>novel approach</u></i> to jointly consider how the human and ecological dimensions of ecosystem ecology interact to control the quality, quantity, and timing of DOC entering watersheds across the continent.
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Rivers and the landscapes through which they flow vary widely in both human factors (e.g., wastewater infrastructure, housing density, impervious surfaces) and biophysical factors (e.g., discharge, precipitation, temperature, canopy cover). Over a 12-month period, 100 sites in the Charles, Mystic, and Neponset Rivers in the Boston urban area will be sampled to determine how human and biophysical factors and their interactions influence dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and stream function. Sampling locations in tributaries and rivers are being selected to reflect gradients in factors such as canopy cover, housing density, environmental justice communities, age of development, impervious land cover, and wastewater infrastructure. This project is a collaboration between USGS and University scientists, along with local partners. Together with samples collected in four other urban areas (Atlanta, GA; Miami, FL; Salt Lake City, UT; Portland, OR), these data will lead to better understanding of human and biophysical controls on DOC across urban rivers and provide important information for carbon budgets and river management.
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Landscape drivers of freshwater mussel assemblages and imperiled species status: implications for optimal allocation of conservation effort within the Delaware River Basin
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May 2023
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The Delaware River provides an ideal case study for developing a basin-wide conservation strategy for imperiled freshwater mussels in the North Atlantic-Appalachian Region. The watershed contains 12 species of Atlantic slope mussels (Blakeslee<i> et al.</i> 2018), including the federally endangered Dwarf Wedgemussel and the at-risk Brook Floater. Nearly 15 million people depend on its water supply, and propagation of freshwater mussels is actively being pursued by conservation groups to aid water quality improvements in the estuary. The variation in dominant stressors throughout the basin, from environmental flow issues in the upper basin to water quality issues and saltwater intrusion in the lower basin, coincide with documented shifts in mussel community composition (Blakeslee<i> et al.</i> 2018). These complexities require a deliberative and transparent process to identify robust and collaborative conservation strategies. Our research activities will help foster a basin-wide perspective on mussel conservation and identify collaborative strategies for implementation by federal, state, and non-governmental groups working in the Delaware. The approach to assessing threats and prioritizing actions will be transferable to other watersheds with similar mussel assemblages. <br><br>The overarching goal of this project is to develop a framework to inform decisions on the allocation of conservation effort across potential actions and watersheds to advance freshwater mussel conservation in the Delaware River Basin. This will be achieved through a structured decision-making process to identify robust conservation strategies, combined with predictive modeling of existing data to understand the local and landscape stressors affecting mussel community resilience throughout the basin. Specifically, this project seeks to:<br>1. Identify portfolios of freshwater mussel conservation actions based on national recommendations, locally identified objectives, and feasibility<br>2. Develop predictive models of the stressors and conservation efforts affecting freshwater mussel resilience and community structure<br>3. Integrate multi-attribute tradeoff analysis with empirical models to inform spatial application of freshwater mussel conservation actions
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The overarching goal of this project is to develop a framework to inform decisions on the allocation of conservation effort across potential actions and watersheds to advance freshwater mussel conservation in the Delaware River Basin. This will be achieved through a structured decision-making process to identify robust conservation strategies, combined with predictive modeling of existing data to understand the local and landscape stressors affecting mussel community resilience throughout the basin. This information is needed to inform conservation and restoration decisions in the Delaware River Basin, and the approach will be transferable to other watersheds to advance freshwater mussel conservation more broadly. This research will be a collaboration among the USGS Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the USGS Leetown Science Center, and the University of Massachusetts, and includes partners from the US Fish & Wildlife Service, state agencies, and non-profit organizations within the Delaware River basin. Our research activities will help foster a basin-wide perspective on mussel conservation and identify collaborative strategies for implementation by federal, state, and non-governmental groups working in the Delaware.
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Implementation of the bog turtle conservation plan for the northern population
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June 2023
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The Northern Population of Bog Turtle (<i>Glyptemys muhlenbergii</i>) was federally listed in 1997 due primarily to habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation (USFWS 2001). Bog Turtle populations are still vulnerable to decline and further imperilment. Further, the Bog Turtle is listed as “Endangered” under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) and its implementing regulations. The Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) of the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) has partnered with six other state wildlife agencies (Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut) on a Competitive State Wildlife Grant (CSWG) to implement a regional Conservation Plan (Erb 2019) that was also developed with CSWG funds. At present, there are only two known occupied Bog Turtle sites in Massachusetts (Sites A and B). At least two additional sites are believed to be historic localities for Bog Turtles in Massachusetts. Incidental observations, available habitat, and regional patterns in adjacent New York and Connecticut indicate that there are likely areas of Bog Turtle occurrence in Massachusetts that are not currently known. This project is intended to support regional conservation planning efforts in coordination with adjacent and northeastern states, to document the spatial ecology of known populations, and to more fully document the distribution of the species in Massachusetts.<br><br>Our primary objective as a seven-state collaborative funded through CSWG is to protect and maintain the Northern Population of Bog Turtle and its habitat through implementation of high priority conservation actions identified in a 2001 recovery plan, the individual state Wildlife Action Plans, and a recently developed (funded via a prior Competitive State Wildlife Grant #F16AP00001) Bog Turtle Conservation Plan for the Northern Population (Erb 2001). Specifically in Massachusetts, our primary objectives are to document the distributional extent of the species in the Commonwealth, identify areas of potential habitat for restoration and/or surveys, to conduct habitat management, and to monitor the effects of habitat management while contributing data and information to the USFWS, the regional conservation planning effort, and the state’s endangered species program.
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The Northern population of Bog turtle has been federally listed as a threatened species since 1997 and is listed as “Endangered” under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act. There are two known sites currently occupied by Bog turtles within the state, with two additional sites believed to have been historically occupied. As the species continues to face threats of habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation the populations of the two known sites have been studied on a 10-year rotation since the early 2000’s with supporting research being conducted since the 1980’s. The overall goals of this project are to examine the current population status within the known sites, habitat available at each site, extent of habitat used, and search for other potentially occupied sites. This project is a collaboration with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy. As one of the longest-running studies on the species, these data will contribute to a regional database to help inform priority habitat management projects for the Bog turtle.
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Rethinking lake management for invasive plants under future climate: Sensitivity of lake ecosystems to winter water level drawdowns
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December 2024
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Small lakes are important to local economies as sources of water supply and places of recreation. Commonly, lakes are considered more desirable for recreation if they are free of the thick weedy vegetation, often comprised of invasive species, that grows around the lake edge; this vegetation makes it difficult to launch boats and swim. In order to reduce this vegetation, a common technique in the US northeast and midwest is a ‘winter drawdown’ (WD). In a WD, the lake level is artificially lowered (via controls in a dam) during the winter to expose shoreline vegetation to freezing conditions, thereby killing them and preserving recreational value of the lake. However, this practice can impact water quality (including prevalence of harmful algal blooms) and native aquatic plants and animals in lakes. Moreover, studies show that WDs are not always effective at killing nuisance and invasive plants. Almost no research has been done to study how WDs interact with climate; wet years, droughts, and heavy snow winters will all have different effects on the effectiveness of the WD at killing vegetation and the impacts on lake ecosystems. This research will specifically investigate WD standard practices and understand how, when, and why WDs can be better managed in differing climates. Further, we will map WD lakes across the entire northeast and midwest regions for the first time, providing policy makers with a first-ever estimate of the total number of WD lakes, the total amount of water released by these lakes (via new hydrology models we will build), and the prevalence of harmful algal blooms. This research will give state and local governments and lake managers a much-needed scientific basis for managing lakes, to ideally to optimize water quality and macrophytes for both human use and ecosystem integrity under future climates.
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Human acceleration of eutrophication through continued watershed and lakeshore development, combined with changes in temperature and climate, increasingly challenges managers to meet human needs while protecting aquatic resources. While annual winter water level drawdowns (WDs) are commonly used to reduce nuisance macrophyte biomass, the future utility and impacts to ecosystems under climate change remains uncertain. Moreover, the timing and magnitude of drawdowns, which are influenced by climate, affect the negative impacts of drawdowns on lake ecosystems and water quality, including harmful algal blooms. Using remote sensing data, validated with on-the-ground water level and cyanobacteria data, <i>we will characterize water level fluctuations and cyanobacteria blooms in WD lakes coupled to novel hydrologic models that assess sensitivity of WDs and vulnerability of cyanobacteria blooms to future climate and precipitation. </i>The results from this research, which will be shared in scientific publications and online data repositories, will help evaluate WDs as a macrophyte management tool under future climate change and weigh any remaining benefits with the ecological and socioeconomic costs of performing WDs. This research is a collaboration between the USGS, UMass Amherst, USEPA, and seven state agencies, who will provide in-kind support for compilation and collection of field data and translate results into guidance for lake managers.
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Quantifying the effect of resource partitioning by stocked salmonids on feeding dynamics of walleye in the Upper North Platte Reservoirs
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December 2024
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In several recent years, Wyoming Game and Fish Department spring gillnet surveys in Pathfinder Reservoir suggest near 100% mortality of salmonids stocked the previous fall. Similar surveys in Alcova Reservoir suggest reliable and stable recruitment of stocked salmonids following their first winter, although it varies by species. Wyoming Game and Fish Department biologists suspect Walleye predation on newly-stocked salmonids is the primary driver of stocking failures; however, verifying this hypothesis and quantifying the seasonal magnitude of Walleye consumption of newly-stocked salmonids is required to develop and evaluate alternative management actions. This research is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Casper Regional Fisheries Management Crew, Aquatic Assessment Crew, and the University of Wyoming. Results from this project will provide the Wyoming Game and Fish Department with an improved understanding of the timing and magnitude of Walleye consumption of newly-stocked salmonids in the Upper North Platte Reservoirs. This information will inform harvest regulations for Walleye, newly-stocked salmonids, and other fish species, and could guide development of a future salmonid stocking evaluation to identify best practices to maximize survival post-stocking (e.g., composition, fish size, density, location, and timing).
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In several recent years, Wyoming Game and Fish Department spring gillnet surveys in Pathfinder Reservoir suggest near 100% mortality of salmonids stocked the previous fall. Similar surveys in Alcova Reservoir suggest reliable and stable recruitment of stocked salmonids following their first winter, although it varies by species. Wyoming Game and Fish Department biologists suspect Walleye predation on newly-stocked salmonids is the primary driver of stocking failures; however, verifying this hypothesis and quantifying the seasonal magnitude of Walleye consumption of newly-stocked salmonids is required to develop and evaluate alternative management actions. This research is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Casper Regional Fisheries Management Crew, Aquatic Assessment Crew, and the University of Wyoming. Results from this project will provide the Wyoming Game and Fish Department with an improved understanding of the timing and magnitude of Walleye consumption of newly-stocked salmonids in the Upper North Platte Reservoirs. This information will inform harvest regulations for Walleye, newly-stocked salmonids, and other fish species, and could guide development of a future salmonid stocking evaluation to identify best practices to maximize survival post-stocking (e.g., composition, fish size, density, location, and timing).
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Yellow Lampmussel Habitat Assessment in the Connecticut River
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April 2025
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The Yellow Lampmussel (YLM), <i>Lampsilis cariosa</i>, is a freshwater mussel that has been declining throughout its range and is considered endangered in many states, including Massachusetts and Connecticut. Informal comparisons across boundaries have revealed that YLM populations occur in a variety of habitats throughout its range. However, little is known about the microhabitats that exist within the Connecticut River or their association with YLM. Mapping these fine-scale habitat features using side-scan sonar could illuminate this relationship. A goal of this project is to associate habitat characteristics within the Connecticut River and YLM presence/absence. A highly-accurate, fine-scale habitat assessment using side-scan sonar could be invaluable for land managers within the Connecticut River watershed and beyond.<br>An understanding of host fish for YLM is also essential for understanding the species’ historic and current distribution and developing conservation plans. Striped Bass (<i>Morone saxatilis</i>) is a piscivorous fish that may be a suitable host for YLM; it is closely related to a confirmed host fish species. Observations of YLM glochidial infestation in wild populations of Striped Bass with a large sample size, combined with successful encystment and metamorphosis in laboratory conditions, would confirm this species as a viable host fish. This would have important implications for the conservation of YLM, with Striped Bass serving as a critical source of long-distance dispersal across drainages.
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Yellow Lampmussel (<i>Lampsilis cariosa) </i>is a priority at-risk freshwater mussel species for the USFWS and has been designated as endangered or another special status in many states, including MA and CT. Yellow Lampmussel populations occur in a variety of habitats throughout its range; the species inhabits a variety of substrates and flow conditions, suggesting impacts by different stressors. This project aims to assess potential locations for Yellow Lampmussel conservation action within the Connecticut River watershed based on mussel densities, host fish densities, and mussel habitat requirements. This project is a collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Results from this project may be useful for identifying target areas for novel surveys or candidate areas for release of propagated or relocated Yellow Lampmussel.
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Quantifying age and growth dynamics of key sport fishes in Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Buffalo Bill Reservoir
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June 2024
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Age and growth data provide fundamental indicators of the environmental and physiological conditions fish experience and are critical to informing fisheries management decisions. Through analyses of age and growth data, biologists can gain valuable insights into key fish population demographics, including age structure, growth rates, and recruitment dynamics. Much of WGFD current sampling efforts and annual to semi-annual surveys focus on collecting population estimates, CPUE of key species, and individual fish length and weight. While this can provide an indication of the status and trends of fish populations and communities within a waterbody, it provides limited information on the mechanisms driving observed trends and the most appropriate management actions to achieve desired outcomes. This project is a collaboration between the UWYO Fetzer Lab and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Otoliths provided by Wyoming Game and Fish Department staff will be mounted in an epoxy resin, sectioned using a low-speed, precision saw, and imaged using a dissection microscope equipped with a high-resolution camera. On each image, annuli will be identified, counted, and measured using ImageJ software and the statistical package RFishBC in R will be used to quantify back-calculated length-at-age.
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Age and growth data provide fundamental indicators of the environmental and physiological conditions fish experience and are critical to informing fisheries management decisions. Through analyses of age and growth data, biologists can gain valuable insights into key fish population demographics, including age structure, growth rates, and recruitment dynamics. Much of WGFD current sampling efforts and annual to semi-annual surveys focus on collecting population estimates, CPUE of key species, and individual fish length and weight. While this can provide an indication of the status and trends of fish populations and communities within a waterbody, it provides limited information on the mechanisms driving observed trends and the most appropriate management actions to achieve desired outcomes. This project is a collaboration between the UWYO Fetzer Lab and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Otoliths provided by Wyoming Game and Fish Department staff will be mounted in an epoxy resin, sectioned using a low-speed, precision saw, and imaged using a dissection microscope equipped with a high-resolution camera. On each image, annuli will be identified, counted, and measured using ImageJ software and the statistical package RFishBC in R will be used to quantify back-calculated length-at-age.
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Evaluation of factors impacting Kokanee Salmon in New Forks Lakes
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December 2023
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New Fork Lakes maintain an important recreational fishery for Kokanee Salmon (KOE), Lake Trout (LAT) and other salmonids, and is the primary broodstock for early-run KOE in Wyoming. In recent years, achieving management targets designed to meet KOE propagation needs has proved challenging as several metrics indicate declines in the KOE population. The two primary mechanisms theorized by WGFD are: 1) LAT predation on newly-stocked KOE, and 2) angler harvest of KOE prior to spawning. This project is in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The goal of this proposed work is to quantify the extent and timing of different sources of mortality (e.g.,<i> </i>predation, harvest) on KOE populations in New Fork Lakes. KOE, LAT, and other fish species will be sampled during the open water period using experimental gill nets, midwater curtain gill nets, and hydroacoustics to quantify population demographics (relative abundance, age/size structure), foraging dynamics (stomach content and stable isotope analyses), and indices of condition. These data will be integrated with temperature data and estimates of population size into a bioenergetics model to quantify consumption of stocked KOE by LAT.
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New Fork Lakes maintain an important recreational fishery for Kokanee Salmon (KOE), Lake Trout (LAT) and other salmonids, and is the primary broodstock for early-run KOE in Wyoming. In recent years, achieving management targets designed to meet KOE propagation needs has proved challenging as several metrics indicate declines in the KOE population. The two primary mechanisms theorized by WGFD are: 1) LAT predation on newly-stocked KOE, and 2) angler harvest of KOE prior to spawning. This project is in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The goal of this proposed work is to quantify the extent and timing of different sources of mortality (e.g.,<i> </i>predation, harvest) on KOE populations in New Fork Lakes. KOE, LAT, and other fish species will be sampled during the open water period using experimental gill nets, midwater curtain gill nets, and hydroacoustics to quantify population demographics (relative abundance, age/size structure), foraging dynamics (stomach content and stable isotope analyses), and indices of condition. These data will be integrated with temperature data and estimates of population size into a bioenergetics model to quantify consumption of stocked KOE by LAT.
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Genetic assessment of Yellowstone cutthroat trout across the Bighorn GMU
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April 2026
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The Yellowstone cutthroat trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> (YSC) is a species of greatest conservation need in Wyoming and is threatened by hybridization with non-native rainbow trout, <i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i> (RBT). In addition to hybridization, there is a long history of movement of YSC populations through stocking programs and it remains unclear whether current YSC populations are endemic or descendants of broodstock. Although some broad-scale geographic work on the genetics of Yellowstone cutthroat trout populations has been done in the western portion of the subspecies’ range, no genetic work has focused on genetic assessment of YSC structure across the eastern portion of its range (including the Bighorn-Wind GMU). This project is in collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our goal is to genetically characterize YSC populations in the Bighorn-Wind GMUs to assess genetic diversity and determine levels of inter and intraspecific hybridization of populations. We will obtain genetic data from previously collected YSC tissue samples using genotyping-by-sequencing methods (GBS) which will allow us to discern fine-scale spatial population structure and distinguish hybrid individuals.
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The Yellowstone cutthroat trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> (YSC) is a species of greatest conservation need in Wyoming and is threatened by hybridization with non-native rainbow trout, <i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i> (RBT). In addition to hybridization, there is a long history of movement of YSC populations through stocking programs and it remains unclear whether current YSC populations are endemic or descendants of broodstock. Although some broad-scale geographic work on the genetics of Yellowstone cutthroat trout populations has been done in the western portion of the subspecies’ range, no genetic work has focused on genetic assessment of YSC structure across the eastern portion of its range (including the Bighorn-Wind GMU). This project is in collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our goal is to genetically characterize YSC populations in the Bighorn-Wind GMUs to assess genetic diversity and determine levels of inter and intraspecific hybridization of populations. We will obtain genetic data from previously collected YSC tissue samples using genotyping-by-sequencing methods (GBS) which will allow us to discern fine-scale spatial population structure and distinguish hybrid individuals.
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Evaluating the role of spring-fed streams to Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
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June 2024
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Yellowstone cutthroat trout (Oncorhychus clarkii bouvieri; YSC) populations have been extirpated or are in decline throughout most of their range due to habitat degradation, hybridization with non-native species, and climate change. How stream habitat diversity, specifically, the availability of stable spring-fed streams, underlies the integrity of YSC in the Snake River watershed is not well appreciated. By developing a more complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying YSC success in the upper Snake River watershed, we can both direct local habitat management efforts and inform best approaches to population recovery in areas where YSC are in decline. The project is a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, including the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. This research will provide the necessary understanding of the role of groundwater to maintaining suitable stream temperatures despite climatic warming.
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Yellowstone cutthroat trout (Oncorhychus clarkii bouvieri; YSC) populations have been extirpated or are in decline throughout most of their range due to habitat degradation, hybridization with non-native species, and climate change. How stream habitat diversity, specifically, the availability of stable spring-fed streams, underlies the integrity of YSC in the Snake River watershed is not well appreciated. By developing a more complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying YSC success in the upper Snake River watershed, we can both direct local habitat management efforts and inform best approaches to population recovery in areas where YSC are in decline. The project is a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, including the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. These efforts aim to develop an online tool that can be used by fisheries managers to evaluate status of trout populations in specific watersheds based on current and projected water temperature, streamflow, and habitat conditions. This research will provide the necessary understanding of the role of groundwater to maintaining suitable stream temperatures despite climatic warming.
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Estimation of US Atlantic Red Snapper Abundance
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August 2023
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Previously collected trap and video data, along with ROV survey data, will be used to estimate red snapper abundance within an integrated population modeling framework. Population models require spatial replication over the study area of interest and temporal replicates that are independent but close enough in time to ensure population closure. The proposed study would use trap and video count data to estimate detection probability and abundance of red snapper with an integrated populaiton model fitted in a Bayesian framework. Covariates that influence red snapper detection probability and abundance will be used to predict abundance (with associated uncertainty) at habitats that are similar to SEFIS sampling sites but not sampled. We will conduct workshops with reef fishery stakeholders to assist with identification of non-sampled hard bottom habitats. Based on past work, covariates important to red snapper abundance are likely to include bottom temperature, depth, latitude, and substrate type. A key question with this work is the spatial area that an individual SEFIS trap and video station effectively samples. Recently, project collaborators measured the response of red snapper around baited traps using fine spatial scale telemetry data, and response distance information will be used to estimate the sampled area at trap stations. Red snapper densities derived from ROV surveys will also be estimated at habitat types generally not sampled by SEFIS. Spatial maps of important covariates and habitat type will be used to generate abundance by area across the study region. These individual abundance values would be summed to estimate abundance of red snapper (with associated uncertainty) in the US Atlantic.
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Previously collected trap and video data, along with ROV survey data, will be used to estimate red snapper abundance within an integrated population modeling framework. Population models require spatial replication over the study area of interest and temporal replicates that are independent but close enough in time to ensure population closure. The proposed study would use trap and video count data to estimate detection probability and abundance of red snapper with an integrated populaiton model fitted in a Bayesian framework. Covariates that influence red snapper detection probability and abundance will be used to predict abundance (with associated uncertainty) at habitats that are similar to SEFIS sampling sites but not sampled. We will conduct workshops with reef fishery stakeholders to assist with identification of non-sampled hard bottom habitats. Based on past work, covariates important to red snapper abundance are likely to include bottom temperature, depth, latitude, and substrate type. A key question with this work is the spatial area that an individual SEFIS trap and video station effectively samples. Recently, project collaborators measured the response of red snapper around baited traps using fine spatial scale telemetry data, and response distance information will be used to estimate the sampled area at trap stations. Red snapper densities derived from ROV surveys will also be estimated at habitat types generally not sampled by SEFIS. Spatial maps of important covariates and habitat type will be used to generate abundance by area across the study region. These individual abundance values would be summed to estimate abundance of red snapper (with associated uncertainty) in the US Atlantic.
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Deer Ecology Across an Urban-Rural Continuum
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December 2025
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Urban/suburban areas continue to spread into rural areas, increasing the need to understand deer ecology and assess the cultural impacts of deer and deer hunting across the urban-rural continuum. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is faced with an increased number of interactions between humans and deer in areas of high human and/or deer density, and these interactions often have negative outcomes (e.g., vehicle collisions). There is limited understanding across this continuum of public perceptions and desires of deer and deer hunting, along with little data on deer movements, density, recruitment, survival, and causes of mortality, or how hunting (the primary herd management tool) affects deer populations. Additionally, harvest and survey trends used to monitor herds across county or management zones are confounded by unknown hunter effort and success in these expanding urban/suburban areas. This project aims to increase understanding of spatial and temporal variation in white-tailed deer ecology across an urban-rural continuum in North Carolina and how harvest regulations affect white-tailed deer herds across these landscapes. Results will be available to help evaluate current NCWRC programs (Urban Archery Season, Community DMAP, depredation permits) and adjust or create new programs. Information can also be used to provide technical guidance to municipalities, landowners, and hunters. Results will be applicable to areas across the state and will have implications for other urban-rural areas across the state and country.
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Urban/suburban areas continue to spread into rural areas, increasing the need to understand deer ecology and assess the cultural impacts of deer and deer hunting across the urban-rural continuum. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is faced with an increased number of interactions between humans and deer in areas of high human and/or deer density, and these interactions often have negative outcomes (e.g., vehicle collisions). There is limited understanding across this continuum of public perceptions and desires of deer and deer hunting, along with little data on deer movements, density, recruitment, survival, and causes of mortality, or how hunting (the primary herd management tool) affects deer populations. Additionally, harvest and survey trends used to monitor herds across county or management zones are confounded by unknown hunter effort and success in these expanding urban/suburban areas. This project aims to increase understanding of spatial and temporal variation in white-tailed deer ecology across an urban-rural continuum in North Carolina and how harvest regulations affect white-tailed deer herds across these landscapes. Results will be available to help evaluate current NCWRC programs (Urban Archery Season, Community DMAP, depredation permits) and adjust or create new programs. Information can also be used to provide technical guidance to municipalities, landowners, and hunters. Results will be applicable to areas across the state and will have implications for other urban-rural areas across the state and country.
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Habitat Characteristics of Bear-Vehicle Collision Kill Sites, Bear Family Group Dynamics and Source-Sink Dynamics for Black Bears in Urban Environments and the Implications for Regional Black Bear Population
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December 2022
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Cities now constitute one of the most rapidly growing ecosystems in the world, and with the global spotlight on increasing urbanization and development, the focus on wildlife in ‘natural’ systems is sharing importance with a focus on wildlife in urban systems, providing unique research opportunities in ecology and conservation. Currently, greater than 10% of the earth’s land surface is categorized as ‘urban cover’ and that area is continually growing. By 2050, 70% of the human population is expected to live in cities, which now constitute one of the ‘newest and fastest growing’ ecosystems in the world. In North Carolina, black bear populations occupy nearly two-thirds of the state and their range continues to expand, including into areas with high densities of people and road networks. Humans and black bears are now living in greater proximity to each other, resulting in increased human-bear interactions and some areas of the state may have reached or exceeded the social carrying capacity. Continued investigations into the fine–scale spatial and behavioral ecology of black bears in urban environments is warranted. For example, the identification of characteristics associated with bear-vehicle mortality along major interstates will help identify habitat characteristics associated with collision, and thus may aid in reducing collisions with vehicles. Additionally, in source-sink dynamics, wildlife populations that have access to high quality habitat typically have birth rates that are greater than death rates and surplus individuals disperse from the population as emigrants. In contrast, sink populations have low habitat quality, or suitability, and thus experience death rates that exceed birth rates and the population could decline towards extinction (i.e., a sink), unless ‘rescued’ by immigration from surrounding source populations. We will evaluate family group dynamics and estimate population growth rates and population dynamics. Clearly, these objectives have direct and indirect consequences for humans and bears in our rapidly changing urban environments.
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Cities now constitute one of the most rapidly growing ecosystems in the world, and with the global spotlight on increasing urbanization and development, the focus on wildlife in ‘natural’ systems is sharing importance with a focus on wildlife in urban systems, providing unique research opportunities in ecology and conservation. Currently, greater than 10% of the earth’s land surface is categorized as ‘urban cover’ and that area is continually growing. By 2050, 70% of the human population is expected to live in cities, which now constitute one of the ‘newest and fastest growing’ ecosystems in the world. In North Carolina, black bear populations occupy nearly two-thirds of the state and their range continues to expand, including into areas with high densities of people and road networks. Humans and black bears are now living in greater proximity to each other, resulting in increased human-bear interactions and some areas of the state may have reached or exceeded the social carrying capacity. Continued investigations into the fine–scale spatial and behavioral ecology of black bears in urban environments is warranted. For example, the identification of characteristics associated with bear-vehicle mortality along major interstates will help identify habitat characteristics associated with collision, and thus may aid in reducing collisions with vehicles. Additionally, in source-sink dynamics, wildlife populations that have access to high quality habitat typically have birth rates that are greater than death rates and surplus individuals disperse from the population as emigrants. In contrast, sink populations have low habitat quality, or suitability, and thus experience death rates that exceed birth rates and the population could decline towards extinction (i.e., a sink), unless ‘rescued’ by immigration from surrounding source populations. We will evaluate family group dynamics and estimate population growth rates and population dynamics. Clearly, these objectives have direct and indirect consequences for humans and bears in our rapidly changing urban environments.
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Spawning Movement Behaviors and Run Size of Nanticoke River Atlantic Sturgeon.
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April 2022
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Recovery planning for Atlantic Sturgeon requires abundance estimates for distinct population segments against which to evaluate take, protection of critical habitats, and develop feasible restoration targets. Recently developed analytical approaches integrating side-scan sonar and acoustic telemetry data provide new opportunities to estimate abundance for sturgeon populations. To address these topics, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science in collaboration with Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife are conducting an on-going field study collecting side-scan sonar, ARIS (Adaptive Resolution Imaging Sonar), and acoustic telemetry data in the Marshyhope Creek (Nanticoke River). Here, we will estimate spawning run size for the Marshyhope Creek (Nanticoke River) sturgeon population using an integrated modelling approaches that incorporates side-scan sonar and acoustic telemetry data.
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Recovery planning for Atlantic Sturgeon requires abundance estimates for distinct population segments against which to evaluate take, protection of critical habitats, and develop feasible restoration targets. Recently developed analytical approaches integrating side-scan sonar and acoustic telemetry data provide new opportunities to estimate abundance for sturgeon populations. To address these topics, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science in collaboration with Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife are conducting an on-going field study collecting side-scan sonar, ARIS (Adaptive Resolution Imaging Sonar), and acoustic telemetry data in the Marshyhope Creek (Nanticoke River). Here, we will estimate spawning run size for the Marshyhope Creek (Nanticoke River) sturgeon population using an integrated modelling approaches that incorporates side-scan sonar and acoustic telemetry data.
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Rio Chama aquatic insect monitoring
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September 2021
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The goal of this project is to use aquatic insects as bioindicators of environmental health downstream of El Vado Dam on the Rio Chama in northern New Mexico. Working collaboratively with an NGO, New Mexico Wild, and a team of citizen science river runners, we deployed light traps for three summers to collect adult aquatic insects as they emerged from the river. We will use these data to explore how planned dam maintenance by the Bureau of Reclamation on El Vado Dam in 2021 affects the ecological community downstream.
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The goal of this project is to use aquatic insects as bioindicators of environmental health downstream of El Vado Dam on the Rio Chama in northern New Mexico. Working collaboratively with an NGO, New Mexico Wild, and a team of citizen science river runners, we deployed light traps for three summers to collect adult aquatic insects as they emerged from the river. We will use these data to explore how planned dam maintenance by the Bureau of Reclamation on El Vado Dam in 2021 affects the ecological community downstream.
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Mule deer space use of UT Watershed Restoration Initiative treatment lands
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June 2024
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The UT Watershed Restoration Initiative (WRI) aims to improve habitat across UT by funding active restoration projects. Much of these restoration activities are expected to benefit mule deer populations which are limited by winter foraging opportunities, for example. However, the impacts of WRI treatments on mule deer haven't yet been systematically investigated. Understanding use of WRI treatment lands can help the WRI and the UT Division of Wildlife Resources to strategically site treatment projects for maximal benefit, and optimize the use of resources for specific gains. This project is a collaboration between UT Division of Natural Resources, UT Division of Wildlife Resources, and the UT CRU. Resulting models of space use will help to inform strategic siting decisions for potential treatments, and will provide information on portfolios of treatments across landscapes that most benefit deer populations.
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The UT Watershed Restoration Initiative (WRI) aims to improve habitat across UT by funding active restoration projects. Much of these restoration activities are expected to benefit mule deer populations which are limited by winter foraging opportunities, for example. However, the impacts of WRI treatments on mule deer haven't yet been systematically investigated. Understanding use of WRI treatment lands can help the WRI and the UT Division of Wildlife Resources to strategically site treatment projects for maximal benefit, and optimize the use of resources for specific gains. This project is a collaboration between UT Division of Natural Resources, UT Division of Wildlife Resources, and the UT CRU. Resulting models of space use will help to inform strategic siting decisions for potential treatments, and will provide information on portfolios of treatments across landscapes that most benefit deer populations.
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Tracking bats and coronaviruses through NABat: Human dimensions of viral transfer
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December 2025
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<b>Background and Rationale</b><br>U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) Fort Collins Science Center (FORT) aims to initiate a new Research Work Order with the Minnesota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (MN Unit). The MN Unit will support a national-scale effort to track bats and coronaviruses through the North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat). The NABat program was established in 2015 to provide reliable information on where North American bats occur and how their populations respond to current and future threats. Now in 2021, the NABat human infrastructure has grown to include a network of more than 160 partnering organizations including Federal, State, Tribal, and non-governmental organizations, community scientists and private industry collecting and submitting data across 49 US States and 8 Canadian provinces. NABat Monitoring Hubs help coordinate regional data collection efforts, provide technical assistance, and actionable science to local partners.<br><br>This work will provide an intense wildlife coronavirus surveillance effort conducted in partnership with Federal, State, Tribal, and non-governmental organization partners. Data obtained from coronavirus surveillance in bats and the environment will be used to model SARS-CoV-2 occurrence patterns and understand the role of wildlife and the environment in human COVID-19 infection dynamics. Data will also be collected on the human dimensions of the issue and how human perception and behavior influences risk. This will inform risk assessments on viral transfer between human and wildlife populations and would inform actions to help prevent or minimize recurrence of outbreaks in the future.<br><br>Bats are the evolutionary reservoir of diverse beta and alpha coronaviruses, including SARS-like coronaviruses. Betacoronaviruses closely related to SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 have been isolated in Rhinolophid bats in China, but relatively little is known about the diversity of coronaviruses in North American bat species. The scientific consensus remains that bats are the most likely reservoir host of SARS-Cov-2 and that human and bat contact is the most likely scenario for a spillover event that led to the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding viral diversity, including and especially coronaviruses, in bats has profound implications for ensuring wildlife and human health and preparing for future zoonotic disease spilllover events. Furthermore, bats are known reservoirs of rabies virus and globally are known to be the reservoir hosts of other viruses that are highly pathogenic in humans, including Nipah virus and Hendra virus. Collection of guano from winter and summer colonies and swabbing of live bats would allow assessing viral diversity and loads, furthering our understanding of coronavirus and other potentially pathogenic viruses in North American bats. To compliment these data,<br><br>To date, empirical evidence is lacking on the prevalence of coronaviruses in naturally occurring populations of North American bats. This work will leverage and bolster the existing NABat collaborative monitoring network so that we can better track and predict occurrence of coronaviruses in North American bats. This information will help us to distinguish between perceived versus actual risk of viral transfer between human populations and wildlife. This work will also identify human behaviors that increase risk and interventions that may mitigate risk.<br><b> </b><br><b>Objectives:</b><br>The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Center for Disease Control (CDC), and State wildlife and public health officials are concerned that there may be transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from infected humans to native US wildlife populations, which could then serve as reservoirs to infect other wildlife and to reinfect humans in the future. This study will help CDC, FWS, and other agencies understand the risks of transmission between humans and bats, and to enhance wildlife management strategies that protect humans and wildlife from any risks that are found.<br><br>Actionable information will be provided from an intense wildlife coronavirus surveillance effort conducted with Federal, State, Tribal, and non-governmental organization partners. Data obtained from coronavirus surveillance in wildlife and the environment will be used to model SARS-CoV-2 spread and understand the role of wildlife and the environment in human COVID-19 infection dynamics. This will inform risk assessments on viral transfer between to human and wildlife populations and would inform actions to help prevent or minimize recurrence of outbreaks in the future.<br><br>The social science research proposed at the Minnesota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (MN Coop Unit) for this RWO will complement the coronavirus surveillance and modeling efforts described above. Human risks perceptions and behaviors will be documented that help to clarify relationships between human choices and behaviors that influence the potential spillover transmission of coronavirus.<br><br><b>Social Science Tasks and Associated Methodologies:</b><br>To support the above objectives the MN Coop Unit will collect and analyze data on human perception and behavior relevant to the issue. Specific tasks include:<br><br>The MN Coop Unit will participate in regular coordination calls and written communications with other project partners to optimize the overall study design for this cross-disciplinary research and support timely delivery of results.<br><br>The MN Coop Unit will design and execute current best practices survey methods to help answer the following questions:<br><br>1) How do human perceptions of bats influence how they interact with bats?<br>2) How do human risk perceptions of disease influence how they interact with bats?<br>3) Where is there real versus perceived risk?<br>4) How are human behaviors informed by perceptions of bats?<br>5) What human behaviors increase risk?<br>6) What populations are most at risk as a result of risky behaviors?7) What interventions can mitigate risk/risky behavior?<br><br>The MN Coop Unit will analyze results and draft a summary report, and peer-reviewed manuscript on the findings.
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This work will leverage and bolster the existing North American Bat collaborative monitoring network so that we can better track and predict occurrence of coronaviruses in North American bats. This information will help us to distinguish between perceived versus actual risk of viral transfer between human populations and wildlife. This work will also identify human behaviors that increase risk and interventions that may mitigate risk.<b> </b><b>Objectives:</b>The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Center for Disease Control (CDC), and State wildlife and public health officials are concerned that there may be transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from infected humans to native US wildlife populations, which could then serve as reservoirs to infect other wildlife and to reinfect humans in the future. This study will help CDC, FWS, and other agencies understand the risks of transmission between humans and bats, and to enhance wildlife management strategies that protect humans and wildlife from any risks that are found.The social science research proposed at the Minnesota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (MN Coop Unit) for this RWO will complement the coronavirus surveillance and modeling efforts described above. Human risks perceptions and behaviors will be documented that help to clarify relationships between human choices and behaviors that influence the potential spillover transmission of coronavirus.
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Public acceptance and preferences for climate change adaptation in the Mid-West.
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July 2025
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The objectives of this study are to: 1) to understand public acceptance of climate change consequences and public preferences for climate change adaptation strategies and the stability of those preferences; 2) identify the key antecedents and consequences of stability of these preferences for climate change adaptation management strategies; 3) develop recommendations for engaging the public and stakeholders in developing climate change adaptation management strategies. Very limited knowledge exists about key public stakeholders’ (e.g., hunters, anglers, birdwatchers) perception of the conditions resulting from climate change to fish and wildlife resources or their preference for adaptation strategies to these changes. This limited understanding of public preferences has also impeded early, intensive interventions by resource managers to improve conservation outcomes. Recent research suggests that presentation of the uncertainty of consequences as well as information about the potential benefits of strategies can affect the trust the public has in information as well as preference for adaptation strategies and the malleability of those preference. We will use social psychological experiments embedded in online social surveys to clarify relationships among uncertainty, trust, preference, and key characteristics of respondents. Project reports, information workshops, and presentations will be provided and stored digitally on a project website for peer scientists at universities as well as fish and wildlife managers at state and federal agencies, tribes, and non-governmental organizations. In addition, 3 peer-reviewed journal articles will be developed for publication in respected journals. Key personnel include: 1) Dr. David C. Fulton (Principal Investigator), U.S. Geological Survey, Assistant Unit Leader, Minnesota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and Adjunct Professor, University of Minnesota; 2) Dr. Olivia LeDee (Cooperating Investigator), U.S. Geological Survey, Midwest/Midcontinent Climate Adaptation Science Center, Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Minnesota; 3) Post doc Research Fellow to be identified.
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The objectives of this study are to: 1) to understand public acceptance of climate change consequences and public preferences for climate change adaptation strategies and the stability of those preferences; 2) identify the key antecedents and consequences of stability of these preferences for climate change adaptation management strategies; 3) develop recommendations for engaging the public and stakeholders in developing climate change adaptation management strategies. Very limited knowledge exists about key public stakeholders’ (e.g., hunters, anglers, birdwatchers) perception of the conditions resulting from climate change to fish and wildlife resources or their preference for adaptation strategies to these changes. This limited understanding of public preferences has also impeded early, intensive interventions by resource managers to improve conservation outcomes. Recent research suggests that presentation of the uncertainty of consequences as well as information about the potential benefits of strategies can affect the trust the public has in information as well as preference for adaptation strategies and the malleability of those preference. We will use social psychological experiments embedded in online social surveys to clarify relationships among uncertainty, trust, preference, and key characteristics of respondents.
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Population Dynamics of Introduced Lake Sturgeon in the Coosa River Basin, Georgia
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June 2024
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This study aims to fill critical knowledge gaps for Lake Sturgeon population demographics and dynamics in the Coosa River, Georgia. Our approach will provide estimates of the total population size, annual survival rates, information on population dynamics, habitat use, and movement. This information will be important for increased effectiveness of management activities for this species in the Coosa River system and throughout the Southeastern United States where Lake Sturgeon reintroduction efforts have occurred.
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This study aims to fill critical knowledge gaps for Lake Sturgeon population demographics and dynamics in the Coosa River, Georgia. Our approach will provide estimates of the total population size, annual survival rates, information on population dynamics, habitat use, and movement. This information will be important for increased effectiveness of management activities for this species in the Coosa River system and throughout the Southeastern United States where Lake Sturgeon reintroduction efforts have occurred.
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Genetic biocontrol of invasive species: understanding attitudes and risk perceptions.
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December 2023
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A web-based survey will evaluate Minnesotans’ attitudes and risk perceptions related to the use of genetic modification techniques for the control of invasive species. Very little is known about public attitudes or risk perceptions concerning the use of genetic modifications for aquatic invasive species control. The purpose of this proposed project is to better describe public understanding and attitudes towards the use of advance genetic modification techniques as control tools for invasive species. To thoroughly address the purpose, this research must investigate attitudes towards these techniques within the context of specifically understanding attitudes toward the invasive species and their impacts. Recent research on the human and social dimensions of invasive species provides guidance for the design of the proposed research. Although a robust literature concerning the human and social dimensions of invasive species management and governance has developed, there is limited research specific to the use of genetic techniques to control invasive species. The study proposed here addresses that gap in research. This study represents a crucial upstream evaluation of public attitudes and perceptions that will enable subsequent engagement to develop governance in the use of genetic technology for these purposes in Minnesota. This project will provide baseline information about Minnesota residents’ attitudes and risk perceptions toward genetic modification techniques as an approach for managing aquatic invasive species. The outcomes of this study include improving knowledge of the preferences and risk perceptions of using these techniques among the general population of Minnesota, tribal communities, and specific stakeholder and user groups such as anglers and boaters in the state. The focus will be on attitudes and risk perceptions toward using genetic modification to help control invasive species in general as well as two specific, widespread invasive species: common carp and zebra mussels. In addition, the project will help clarify the social psychological antecedents and consequences of these attitudes and risk perceptions. Focus groups and interviews will be used to assist survey design, and we will use mixed-modal surveys with web-based data collection. We will also implement a discrete choice experiment within the survey to better understand the attributes driving choices concerning the use of genetic technology. A total of 3,200 surveys are targeted for completion from the Minnesota general public, lakeshore homeowners, anglers, and boaters. The objectives of this study are: 1) to understand the attitudes, risk perceptions, and level of support for using genetic techniques in controlling two invasive aquatic species in Minnesota (e.g., common carp and zebra mussel); 2) to understand the antecedents/consequences to attitudes, risk perceptions, and level of support for using genetic techniques in these two specific cases; 3) to understand the general preferences for using genetic techniques in the management of invasive species in Minnesota, the antecedents/consequences of these preferences, and the population heterogeneity related to these preferences; 4) to explore and gain an initial understanding of potential concerns of tribal communities in Minnesota with using genetic techniques for invasive species control.
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The objectives of this study are: 1) to understand the attitudes, risk perceptions, and level of support for using genetic techniques in controlling two invasive aquatic species in Minnesota (e.g., common carp and zebra mussel); 2) to understand the antecedents/consequences to attitudes, risk perceptions, and level of support for using genetic techniques in these two specific cases; 3) to understand the general preferences for using genetic techniques in the management of invasive species in Minnesota, the antecedents/consequences of these preferences, and the population heterogeneity related to these preferences; 4) to explore and gain an initial understanding of potential concerns of tribal communities in Minnesota with using genetic techniques for invasive species control.
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Assessing the motivations and constraints of lapsed small game hunters
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June 2022
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Rates of hunting participation are declining across the United States (U.S. Department of Interior, 2016). This decline has implications for the long-term financial health of state wildlife agencies that principally rely on hunting license revenues to support both game and non-game management activities. Consequently, understanding the factors that shape citizens’ patterns of participation in hunting, preferences and interest in hunting, and constraints to long-term engagement is critical for ensuring the current funding model employed by the agencies, fostering citizens’ connection to outdoor heritage, and wildlife conservation moreover. Growing emphasis has been placed on activities to recruit, retain, and re-engage hunters and anglers. However, limited scientific scrutiny has been directed toward these activities. Hunter recruitment and retention activities are enhanced with and understanding of the needs, preferences and differences of a diverse target population. For instance, constraints to participation in outdoor recreation have been shown to vary as a function of a variety of lifecourse attributes and socio-demographics including having children, household income, health, age, access to transport and social supports. Understanding the role of these factors, and others, in shaping citizens’ patterns of participation in hunting is critical for effective program design and outreach. Lapsed hunters, defined as individuals that have hunted in the past but have since ceased participation, are a demographic of particular interest for outreach efforts given their apparent existing interest in hunting generally. Enticing these individuals to return to hunting by facilitating the needed social, institutional and economic supports could be an effective strategy for bolstering participation. However, limited scientifically valid knowledge exists regarding the factors that cause hunters to otherwise cease participation, or strategies for alleviating these causes. The objective of this project is to conduct a survey to assess the factors that cause hunters to cease participation in small game hunting including social, economic and institutional constraints, and their likelihood to return to hunting.
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Lapsed hunters, defined as individuals that have hunted in the past but have since ceased participation, are a demographic of particular interest for outreach efforts given their apparent existing interest in hunting generally. Enticing these individuals to return to hunting by facilitating the needed social, institutional and economic supports could be an effective strategy for bolstering participation. However, limited scientifically valid knowledge exists regarding the factors that cause hunters to otherwise cease participation, or strategies for alleviating these causes. <b>Objectives</b> <b><i>Lapsed small game hunter survey.</i></b> To conduct a survey to assess the factors that cause hunters to cease participation in small game hunting including social, economic and institutional constraints, and their likelihood to return to hunting.
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Assessing deer hunter satisfaction and attitudes toward deer management, and Minnesotans’ values, beliefs, and attitudes toward moose and moose management
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June 2023
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This project will support two related studies on deer and moose management. Deer hunter attitudes and satisfaction survey–The Minnesota Deer Management Plan makes provisions for periodic assessment of hunters’ satisfaction with aspects of their deer hunting experience, and their trust in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources deer management. Periodic measurement of these variables equips the agency with knowledge about constituents’ experience with deer hunting, and enhances their ability to make deer management decisions that improve constituents’ experience, while meeting deer management goals. Importantly, assessing deer hunters’ satisfaction, and making decisions based in part on that knowledge, helps build trust, which is identified as a goal in the plan. This study supports the goals articulated in the plan. The objective of the study is to conduct a survey of Minnesota deer hunters to understand the factors that affect their satisfaction with deer hunting, and their attitudes toward deer management. Survey of moose stakeholder--Minnesotans value moose (Alces alces) for a variety of reasons, and understanding those values is an important part of the DNR’s articulated vision for moose management. The Minnesota Moose Management Plan (Moose Management Plan, 2011) establishes an objective of integrating social science into moose management decisions. One strategy identified under this objective is to undertake an assessment of Minnesota moose stakeholders’ values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors related to moose, moose management, and moose harvest. In this study, we will conduct a survey of Minnesotans’ to support implementation of the 2011 Moose Management Plan, and generate data to inform an update to this plan slated to begin in FY22. Specific topics for assessment will emerge from deliberation with DNR staff and external partners during survey design. Potential topics for assessment include, Minnesotans’ willingness to pay for moose viewing opportunities, perceptions of moose hunting and moose harvest, tradeoffs in moose, wolf, and deer management in moose range, and preferences for the DNRs approach to moose management among others. The objective of this study is to conduct a survey of Minnesotans’ to understand their values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors about moose and moose management.
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This project will support two related studies on deer and moose management. Deer hunter attitudes and satisfaction survey–The Minnesota Deer Management Plan makes provisions for periodic assessment of hunters’ satisfaction with aspects of their deer hunting experience, and their trust in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources deer management. Periodic measurement of these variables equips the agency with knowledge about constituents’ experience with deer hunting, and enhances their ability to make deer management decisions that improve constituents’ experience, while meeting deer management goals. Importantly, assessing deer hunters’ satisfaction, and making decisions based in part on that knowledge, helps build trust, which is identified as a goal in the plan. This study supports the goals articulated in the plan. The objective of the study is to conduct a survey of Minnesota deer hunters to understand the factors that affect their satisfaction with deer hunting, and their attitudes toward deer management. Survey of moose stakeholder--Minnesotans value moose (Alces alces) for a variety of reasons, and understanding those values is an important part of the DNR’s articulated vision for moose management. The Minnesota Moose Management Plan (Moose Management Plan, 2011) establishes an objective of integrating social science into moose management decisions.
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Evaluate and refine benchmarks for Yellowstone cutthroat trout populations in Yellowstone Lake
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December 2025
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Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone cutthroat trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> and restore natural ecological function since invasive lake trout <i>Salvelinus namaycush</i> were first discovered there in 1994 [1]. Gillnetting was implemented in 1995 to suppress the lake trout population, but despite annual increases in gillnetting effort, the population expanded throughout Yellowstone Lake and increased in abundance until 2012, when the effort became large enough to curtail population growth [2]. The lake trout population of Yellowstone Lake is highly resilient to gillnetting, probably because of high early life history survival. Interstitial embryo predators, which are a common source of embryo mortality in the native range of lake trout, do not inhabit Yellowstone Lake.
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<b>Background</b> Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone cutthroat trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> and restore natural ecological function since invasive lake trout <i>Salvelinus namaycush</i> were first discovered there in 1994 [1]. Gillnetting was implemented in 1995 to suppress the lake trout population, but despite annual increases in gillnetting effort, the population expanded throughout Yellowstone Lake and increased in abundance until 2012, when the effort became large enough to curtail population growth [2]. The lake trout population of Yellowstone Lake is highly resilient to gillnetting, probably because of high early life history survival. Interstitial embryo predators, which are a common source of embryo mortality in the native range of lake trout, do not inhabit Yellowstone Lake. <i>Lake Trout Benchmark</i>Although the suppression program has reduced adult (age 6+) lake trout by >80% since 2012, recruitment of young (age-2) lake trout has remained extremely high, suggesting a compensatory response [3]. Because of this, the age-2 lake trout have remained the most abundant age class and have consistently dominated the annual catches by the suppression program. For example, in 2020 a total of 326,000 lake trout were killed by gillnetting, of which 215,000 (66%) were age-2 fish. Although these pulses of young fish are removed from the population before reaching maturity, they represent a large portion of the population remaining annually within the lake [3]. At the end of the 2020 netting season, the total estimated lake trout abundance was 382,500, of which 302,500 were age-2 fish. Only 80,000 (21%) were fish older than age-2. The current lake trout population benchmark described in the 2010 conservation plan is 100,000 fish of all ages that are vulnerable to the gillnets (age-2 and older) [4]. Because the lake trout population will likely continue to be dominated by young fish, which generally do not prey upon cutthroat trout [5], it is possible the 2010 conservation plan benchmark could be revised to minimize the effect of the age-2 lake trout on perceived success (e.g., 100,000 lake trout age-3 and older; or consideration of biomass as a potential benchmark). <i>Cutthroat Trout Benchmark</i>Cutthroat trout abundance in Yellowstone Lake declined precipitously until suppression efforts reached sufficient levels to reduce lake trout abundances in 2012 [6]. The number of cutthroat trout caught during annual long-term gillnetting assessments varied subsequently, with mean catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) varying from a low of 12.5 per 100-m net night in 2011 to highs of 27.3 and 26.4 in 2014 and 2018, respectively. Lake trout predation was associated with a long-term shift in cutthroat trout lengths from dominance by small (100–280 mm) and midsized (290–390 mm) individuals to dominance by large individuals (400+ mm) in annual gillnetting assessments. The mean CPUE of small and midsized cutthroat trout declined from 18.6 per 100-m net night and 15.1, respectively, in the 1980s to just 6.9 and 3.9, respectively in the 2010s [3]. Concurrently, the mean CPUE of large cutthroat trout nearly doubled, from 7.5 in the 1980s to 14.6 in the 2010s. Lake trout also caused increases in individual weights and condition of cutthroat trout. The average weight of midsized and large cutthroat trout increased from 408.0 g and 682.8 g, respectively, in the 1980s to 463.4 g and 1418.6 g, respectively, in the 2010s. Cutthroat trout abundance of all sizes remains below recovery benchmarks, but large individuals (> 400 mm) have become more abundant and individual weights have doubled, probably because of reduced density. A large (400+ mm) cutthroat trout in 2020 weighs twice what it did in 1980, prior to the lake trout invasion. Currently, the benchmarks for cutthroat trout recovery described in the 2010 conservation plan are all based upon abundance, and include gillnet CPUE, angler catch per hour, and spawner counts in streams [4]. There is a need to refine cutthroat trout recovery benchmarks to account for shifts to greater individual weights and population biomass.
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Wildlife Resource Management on BLM Lands in Alaska
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September 2024
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The Wildlife Program of the Bureau of Land Management is responsible for wildlife and habitat maintenance, conservation, and restoration throughout much of Alaska. This work is often conducted in cooperation with federal and state partners. Much of the work that BLM has conducted in recent years in interior Alaska has focused on habitat management and wildlife monitoring with a focus on a variety of wildlife species ranging from ungulates to raptors. This work has led to a variety of existing and current data streams that contain valuable information for management planning. In collaboration with BLM wildlife biologists are providing technical assistance for federal land management and research by developing a suite of geospatial coverages, queryable databases, analyses, and technical reports based on existing BLM inventory and monitoring programs to aid in the identification of trends in habitat conditions and wildlife populations. Specific products include 1) a spatially referenced database for long-term raptor monitoring in the Steese National Conservation Area, 2) a predictive model of caribou behavior based on activity patterns collected from satellite collars in the Fortymile caribou herd, 3) maps of seasonal movements and calving areas for moose in the White Mountains and Steese National Conservation Area, and 4) animations of caribou movements in relation to road access.
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The Wildlife Program of the Bureau of Land Management is responsible for wildlife and habitat maintenance, conservation, and restoration throughout much of Alaska. This work is often conducted in cooperation with federal and state partners. Much of the work that BLM has conducted in recent years in interior Alaska has focused on habitat management and wildlife monitoring with a focus on a variety of wildlife species ranging from ungulates to raptors. This work has led to a variety of existing and current data streams that contain valuable information for management planning. In collaboration with BLM wildlife biologists are providing technical assistance for federal land management and research by developing a suite of geospatial coverages, queryable databases, analyses, and technical reports based on existing BLM inventory and monitoring programs to aid in the identification of trends in habitat conditions and wildlife populations. Specific products include 1) a spatially referenced database for long-term raptor monitoring in the Steese National Conservation Area, 2) a predictive model of caribou behavior based on activity patterns collected from satellite collars in the Fortymile caribou herd, 3) maps of seasonal movements and calving areas for moose in the White Mountains and Steese National Conservation Area, and 4) animations of caribou movements in relation to road access.
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Moose Population Dynamics on the Seward Peninsula
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December 2024
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Moose populations in portions of the Seward Peninsula have declined substantially since the early 2000's. The mechanism for this decline is unknown, as 6-month old moose in this region are among the heaviest (and presumably least nutritionally stressed) in the state of Alaska, yet lose the highest proportion of body weight over-winter compared to other moose populations. In collaboration with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, we will be using a combination of radio-telemetry, demographic surveys, and both in-situ and remote-sensing derived metrics of forage to better understand the causal mechanism behind these declines in moose abundance. Our ultimate objective is to identify management actions that could ultimately reverse these declines and improve moose harvest opportunities in the region.
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Moose populations in portions of the Seward Peninsula have declined substantially since the early 2000's. The mechanism for this decline is unknown, as 6-month old moose in this region are among the heaviest (and presumably least nutritionally stressed) in the state of Alaska, yet lose the highest proportion of body weight over-winter compared to other moose populations. In collaboration with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, we will be using a combination of radio-telemetry, demographic surveys, and both in-situ and remote-sensing derived metrics of forage to better understand the causal mechanism behind these declines in moose abundance. Our ultimate objective is to identify management actions that could ultimately reverse these declines and improve moose harvest opportunities in the region.
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Development and application of a multiscale model of habitat suitability for Candy Darter
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August 2023
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<b>PROJECT DESCRIPTION: </b>This project will develop a range-wide quantitative model (ie, species distribution model) to estimate suitability of stream segments and watersheds (12-digit USGS hydrologic units) for the endangered Candy Darter (CD), which is a habitat specialist occurring in fast-flowing, cool-water streams with little siltation. CD’s range in Virginia is now limited to four widely separated streams. Comprehensive assessments of which landscape features (eg, watershed size, land use, channel gradient, network position, connectivity) predict CD occurrence have not been performed, thereby precluding development of range-wide maps of habitat suitability. The proposed species distribution model will assist managers (eg, VDWR, USFWS) in identifying streams and watersheds that are most likely to a) support undiscovered populations, b) be suitable reintroduction sites, and c) provide refugia from invasion by Variegate Darter.<br><b>OBJECTIVES: </b><br>1) Synthesize all existing geo-referenced presence/absence data on CD range-wide;<br>2) Use publicly available GIS data to relate CD occurrence (presence and absence) to a suite of instream, near-stream, and upland watershed features via statistical models;<br>3) Conduct field surveys to test model predictions and facilitate model refinement.
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<b>PROJECT DESCRIPTION: </b>This project will develop a range-wide quantitative model (ie, species distribution model) to estimate suitability of stream segments and watersheds (12-digit USGS hydrologic units) for the endangered Candy Darter (CD), which is a habitat specialist occurring in fast-flowing, cool-water streams with little siltation. CD’s range in Virginia is now limited to four widely separated streams. Comprehensive assessments of which landscape features (eg, watershed size, land use, channel gradient, network position, connectivity) predict CD occurrence have not been performed, thereby precluding development of range-wide maps of habitat suitability. The proposed species distribution model will assist managers (eg, VDWR, USFWS) in identifying streams and watersheds that are most likely to a) support undiscovered populations, b) be suitable reintroduction sites, and c) provide refugia from invasion by Variegate Darter. <b>OBJECTIVES: </b>1) Synthesize all existing geo-referenced presence/absence data on CD range-wide;2) Use publicly available GIS data to relate CD occurrence (presence and absence) to a suite of instream, near-stream, and upland watershed features via statistical models;3) Conduct field surveys to test model predictions and facilitate model refinement.
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Effects of BMPs and land use on stream macroinvertebrates and fishes in the Chesapeake basin
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September 2025
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<b>PROJECT DESCRIPTION: </b>A key scientific gap in stream restoration is understanding and predicting how effects of management efforts propagate through watersheds, then influence the in-stream habitat conditions that determine macroinvertebrate and fish responses. This mechanistic view is required to provide USGS partners with the information they need to revise management strategies. The goal of this project is to provide an integrated and detailed understanding of how stream ecosystems respond to management efforts. It is part of larger study funded by USGS’s Priority Ecosystems Science program to inform adaptive management of the Chesapeake Bay basin. The larger study is being conducted by a large multidisciplinary team (“Stream Team”) of USGS and academic scientists.<br>This project focuses on collecting and analyzing the biological data that feed into the larger synthesis by the Stream Team regarding BMP efficacy. The Stream Team will collect a standardized suite of stream ecosystem data to link BMPs and land-use change in small watersheds to responses of individual reaches and the biota living there. By sampling across broad gradients of BMP implementation and land use – and across distinct geographic settings – we will model effects of collective management actions on stream habitats, macroinvertebrates, and fishes in the Chesapeake basin. We will measure organismal responses at multiple organizational levels, including whole macroinvertebrate and fish communities, selected multi-species functional groups, selected fish populations, and individuals of selected fish species.<br><b>OBJECTIVES: </b><br>1. Quantify responses of macroinvertebrate and fish communities along gradients of land use and BMP implementation in selected geographic settings;<br>2. Identify biotic attributes at community and population levels of organization that seem especially useful in assessing BMP efficacy;<br>3. Disentangle effects of land use, BMPs, and selected physicochemical factors (e.g., physical habitat, water quality) on macroinvertebrate and fish communities; and<br>4. Compare the relative importance of these effects among selected geographic settings.
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<b>PROJECT DESCRIPTION: </b>A key scientific gap in stream restoration is understanding and predicting how effects of management efforts propagate through watersheds, then influence the in-stream habitat conditions that determine macroinvertebrate and fish responses. This mechanistic view is required to provide USGS partners with the information they need to revise management strategies. The goal of this project is to provide an integrated and detailed understanding of how stream ecosystems respond to management efforts. It is part of larger study funded by USGS’s Priority Ecosystems Science program to inform adaptive management of the Chesapeake Bay basin. The larger study is being conducted by a large multidisciplinary team (“Stream Team”) of USGS and academic scientists.This project focuses on collecting and analyzing the biological data that feed into the larger synthesis by the Stream Team regarding BMP efficacy. The Stream Team will collect a standardized suite of stream ecosystem data to link BMPs and land-use change in small watersheds to responses of individual reaches and the biota living there. By sampling across broad gradients of BMP implementation and land use – and across distinct geographic settings – we will model effects of collective management actions on stream habitats, macroinvertebrates, and fishes in the Chesapeake basin. We will measure organismal responses at multiple organizational levels, including whole macroinvertebrate and fish communities, selected multi-species functional groups, selected fish populations, and individuals of selected fish species.<b>OBJECTIVES: </b>1. Quantify responses of macroinvertebrate and fish communities along gradients of land use and BMP implementation in selected geographic settings;2. Identify biotic attributes at community and population levels of organization that seem especially useful in assessing BMP efficacy;3. Disentangle effects of land use, BMPs, and selected physicochemical factors (e.g., physical habitat, water quality) on macroinvertebrate and fish communities; and4. Compare the relative importance of these effects among selected geographic settings.
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Coupling social science and watershed modeling to improve ecological health of streams in agricultural landscapes
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August 2022
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interdisciplinary approach to assessing efficacy of agricultural BMPs
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interdisciplinary approach to assessing efficacy of agricultural BMPs
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Evaluating Sources of Bias in Caribou Population Surveys
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December 2022
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Understanding how to efficiently monitor wildlife is critical for proper harvest and habitat management. Monitoring of caribou herds in Alaska is almost exclusively accomplished through aerial surveys conducted during the pre-calving season. These surveys rely on locating radio-marked animals in order to find large aggregations of caribou across the landscape and using photo-census techniques to estimate group size. These data are then used in a specific mark-recapture framework, known as a Rivest model, to generate estimates of unseen caribou and, thus, total herd size. However, this approach is likely sensitive to grouping behavior (i.e. the distribution of group sizes among the entire herd) and both the total number and distribution of radio collared animals throughout the herd. The degree to which these factors influence the precision and accuracy of caribou abundance estimates is unknown and could have substantial impacts on our understanding and resulting management of caribou herds. <br>We will use empirical data on observed group sizes and collar distribution from 11 aerial surveys of the Western Arctic Herd and 12 aerial surveys from the Teshekpuk herd conducted between 1984 and 2019 to parameterize a series of simulations to evaluate accuracy and precision of Rivest estimates. We will use a parametric bootstrapping approach to simulate 10,000 realizations of true population size, group size distribution, and collar distribution from which we will use empirical estimates of detection probabilities to randomly detect both marked (with collars) and unmarked (without collars) groups. We will then use these simulated surveys results in a Rivest framework to generate estimates of abundance that we will compare to true (simulated) abundance for bias and confidence interval coverage. <br>By identifying the effects of grouping behavior and sample size on the reliability of Rivest estimates we hope to improve survey approaches and resulting inferences. Understanding situations in which Rivest estimates may be unreliable could 1) reduce surveys efforts by eliminating potential surveys conducted under non-ideal circumstances, and 2) lead to improved sampling protocols by identifying optimal sampling situations. Because caribou populations are known to exhibit substantial fluctuations, it is critical that inferences regarding population dynamics be derived from reliable estimates of abundance through time.
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Understanding how to efficiently monitor wildlife is critical for proper harvest and habitat management. Monitoring of caribou herds in Alaska is almost exclusively accomplished through aerial surveys conducted during the pre-calving season. These surveys rely on locating radio-marked animals in order to find large aggregations of caribou across the landscape and using photo-census techniques to estimate group size. These data are then used in a specific mark-recapture framework, known as a Rivest model, to generate estimates of unseen caribou and, thus, total herd size. However, this approach is likely sensitive to grouping behavior (i.e. the distribution of group sizes among the entire herd) and both the total number and distribution of radio collared animals throughout the herd. The degree to which these factors influence the precision and accuracy of caribou abundance estimates is unknown and could have substantial impacts on our understanding and resulting management of caribou herds. We will use empirical data on observed group sizes and collar distribution from 11 aerial surveys of the Western Arctic Herd and 12 aerial surveys from the Teshekpuk herd conducted between 1984 and 2019 to parameterize a series of simulations to evaluate accuracy and precision of Rivest estimates. We will use a parametric bootstrapping approach to simulate 10,000 realizations of true population size, group size distribution, and collar distribution from which we will use empirical estimates of detection probabilities to randomly detect both marked (with collars) and unmarked (without collars) groups. We will then use these simulated surveys results in a Rivest framework to generate estimates of abundance that we will compare to true (simulated) abundance for bias and confidence interval coverage. By identifying the effects of grouping behavior and sample size on the reliability of Rivest estimates we hope to improve survey approaches and resulting inferences. Understanding situations in which Rivest estimates may be unreliable could 1) reduce surveys efforts by eliminating potential surveys conducted under non-ideal circumstances, and 2) lead to improved sampling protocols by identifying optimal sampling situations. Because caribou populations are known to exhibit substantial fluctuations, it is critical that inferences regarding population dynamics be derived from reliable estimates of abundance through time.
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Wolf Abundance Estimation in Southeast Alaska
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December 2027
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Wolves (Canis lupus ligoni) are a widespread carnivore in the temperate rain forests of southeastern Alaska. The areas in which wolves occur are characterized by rugged topography, closed canopy forests, and vast roadless areas. These factors make wolves exceptionally challenging to monitor. As an apex predator and a harvested species, wolves are among the most important species in the region in terms of management, yet the difficulties associated with monitoring wolves can hinder management actions. In this project we will be deploying an array of remote cameras throughout Prince of Wales Island to estimate wolf, black bear (Ursus americanus), and Sitka deer (Odocoileus hemionus sitkensis) densities using a combination of time-to-event and space-to-event modeling. This project will provide a framework for efficient and effective monitoring of these species throughout southeastern Alaska.
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In southeastern Alaska wolves are an ecologically important species and are considered a game species, meaning that they are harvested. In this landscape, wolves are very challenging to monitor. This project is a collaboration among researchers at the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Oklahoma State University, and the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. using remote cameras, we will develop a robust monitoring framework for wolves, their competitors, and their prey, that can be readily implemented throughout southeastern Alaska.
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Downscaling recent and future freshwater processes across two large sub-Arctic watersheds: Assessing effects on freshwater habitat potential and productivity
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May 2026
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Linking climate change effects to animals with complex life histories is especially challenging because it requires downscaling climatic data to spatial and temporal scales that match the experience of different life stages. Pacific Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) utilize freshwater and marine ecosystems, populations in Alaska are undergoing some of the fastest rates of climate change, and many have suffered large declines in abundance. Multidecadal declines in western Alaska Chinook and chum salmon populations have had profound effects on Alaska Native communities that rely on salmon for cultural well-being and food security. The freshwater habitats that support salmon spawning and rearing across these vast and remote landscapes have minimal monitoring data and methods that utilize climate data to estimate habitat conditions are urgently needed to understand drivers of the declines and expected future dynamics. This project is a collaboration between researchers at multiple universities and agencies including the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the U.S. Geological Survey (Nevada Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center, Alaska Science Center), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and state and federal fisheries managers on the Yukon River. For this project, we will provide guidance on suitable river models and gridded climate datasets to estimate ecologically relevant conditions that affect Yukon and Kuskokwim Chinook salmon. The best performing river model and gridded climate data will inform a stream temperature model of historical and future scenarios for the Yukon and Kuskokwim basins that will be used to understand changes in salmon thermal habitat suitability. The future stream temperatures will be used in a life cycle model for Yukon chum and Chinook salmon to explore the impacts of extreme events (e.g., fall flooding, warm water temperatures) on survival between life stages and population abundances, which will help managers adapt their decision making to incorporate expected extreme conditions that will become more common in the future.
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Forthcoming
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Beaver and wildfire interactions in interior Alaska boreal watersheds
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December 2023
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Wildfires are increasing in frequency, size, and severity across the boreal region of North America with significant effects on stream habitats for fish and wildlife communities. North American Beavers (<i>Castor canadensis</i>) are affected by and affect wildfires and are known to alter stream dynamics which impact organisms in and around those streams. Due to this, beavers could potentially act as a mechanism to magnify or reduce the effects of wildfires on aquatic systems with implications for ecological resilience and vulnerability in light of escalating wildfire regimes. Further, Alaska’s boreal region has diverse fisheries which are culturally and economically important and depend on the availability and suitability of freshwater habitats. Since freshwater habitat characteristics are driven by wildfire disturbance and beaver activities, understanding beaver/fire interactions is an important step to promote long-term sustainability of boreal fisheries. We are collaborating with the University of Alaska Fairbanks, USGS, U.S. Department of Defense, and the Alaska Fire Science Consortium to investigate this topic. The aim of our project is to develop models that include, 1) a spatially explicit model of beaver dam abundance and extent related to wildfire history, and 2) a habitat suitability model for Arctic Grayling (<i>Thymallus arcticus</i>); results will be used to estimate impacts of physical habitat changes on boreal fish species. Although model output can be used as stand-alone products for fire/fish/wildlife management decisions, our results will also be integrated into broader modeling efforts to assess the vulnerability of boreal ecosystems to changing climate and wildfire regimes.
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Wildfires are increasing in frequency, size, and severity across the boreal region of North America with significant effects on stream habitats for fish and wildlife communities. North American Beavers (<i>Castor canadensis</i>) are affected by and affect wildfires and are known to alter stream dynamics which impact organisms in and around those streams. Due to this, beavers could potentially act as a mechanism to magnify or reduce the effects of wildfires on aquatic systems with implications for ecological resilience and vulnerability in light of escalating wildfire regimes. Further, Alaska’s boreal region has diverse fisheries which are culturally and economically important and depend on the availability and suitability of freshwater habitats. Since freshwater habitat characteristics are driven by wildfire disturbance and beaver activities, understanding beaver/fire interactions is an important step to promote long-term sustainability of boreal fisheries. We are collaborating with the University of Alaska Fairbanks, USGS, U.S. Department of Defense, and the Alaska Fire Science Consortium to investigate this topic. The aim of our project is to develop models that include, 1) a spatially explicit model of beaver dam abundance and extent related to wildfire history, and 2) a habitat suitability model for Arctic Grayling (<i>Thymallus arcticus</i>); results will be used to estimate impacts of physical habitat changes on boreal fish species. Although model output can be used as stand-alone products for fire/fish/wildlife management decisions, our results will also be integrated into broader modeling efforts to assess the vulnerability of boreal ecosystems to changing climate and wildfire regimes.
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The influence of abiotic and biotic factors on patterns of consumption across a range of consumer body sizes
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September 2022
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A fundamental goal of ecology is determining the role of consumers in ecosystems, and identifying drivers of consumer resource use is a crucial component of achieving this goal. Both inter- and intraspecific variation in body size are known to drive aspects of consumer resource use, and understanding patterns of resource use with increasing body size is important for understanding macroecological patterns of ecosystem structure. In addition to body size, patterns of consumption may be influenced by environmental heterogeneity. Abiotic factors may influence resource use directly through their effects on metabolism, performance, and visibility, or indirectly through their influence on prey availability, predator density, and prey refugia. Streams are an ideal system to test the effects of environmental heterogeneity on consumer resource use because abiotic and biotic characteristics vary along longitudinal gradients (the river continuum) and streams host diverse consumer communities that feed on a wide variety of resources. We compared the diet variability of Green Sunfish (<i>Lepomis cyanellus</i>) across a gradient of body sizes and stream sizes. This research contributes a first step in developing a unified perspective of foraging patterns by combining prevailing theories in foraging ecology and incorporating the influence of abiotic and biotic factors.
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Fish predators of many sizes have been introduced across a wide range of freshwater habitats. While body size is a known driver of patterns of consumption, how body size interacts with environmental gradients to drive variation in prey consumption is unknown. This research will investigate patterns of prey variability in Green Sunfish across a gradient of stream sizes to contribute to our understanding of the role of predators in stream systems. This project provides an opportunity for both undergraduate research and for a graduate student to mentor an undergraduate and the opportunity for these student to interact with collaborators at another academic institution.
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Abundance and habitat use of suburban black bears in Massachusetts
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June 2023
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Black bear populations in Massachusetts are growing and bears are expanding into suburban areas and interacting with humans. Managing this population and preventing human-bear conflicts requires information about how bears select key habitat components and identify areas of potential conflict. Our project will use a combination of GPS and radio telemetry data collected for 15 years to examine these habitat relationships using resource selection functions.
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Black bear populations in Massachusetts are growing and bears are expanding into suburban areas and interacting with humans. This continued range expansion increases the likelihood that bears will interact with humans. Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is interested in understanding bear abundance and how bears use resources in these suburban environments, in order to understand factors most likely to lead to human bear conflict.
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Using Aerial surveys to estimate trends in brown bear population dynamics at Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska
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August 2025
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Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska hosts one of the world’s largest protected populations of brown bears (<i>Ursus arctos</i>), their habitat, and critical food sources. To monitor this population Katmai collected counts of bears as they fed at salmon streams for decades. Using these stream counts to make inference about the status and trend of bear population or make effective management decisions is complicated by a host of challenges associated with index count data. We will improve inference from these legacy data by using replicate surveys to estimate detection probability. We will then use the legacy stream counts to examine bear population dynamics by combining them with other data in an integrated population modeling approach.
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Current brown bear monitoring at Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska uses index counts of bears feeding at salmon streams. Using these data to support management decisions presents a number of challenges: 1) counts are biased low because they do not account for imperfect detection; 2) the representativeness of the bears using salmon streams is unknown. We will overcome these challenges using replicate surveys and an integrated population modeling framework. This project is supported by staff and internal funding at NPS and the Katmai Conservancy. The results will be used to support park management manage visitor access and prevent bear-human interactions.
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Effects of habitat, density, and climate on moose and winter tick ecology in the northeast US
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February 2025
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Moose (<i>Alces alces</i>) populations in the northeastern US have declined by over 50% in the past 15 years. Winter tick (<i>Dermacentor albipictus</i>) infestations are a major driver of moose population trends, negatively affecting both survival and reproduction. We will partner with cooperators in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to measure winter tick and moose distribution and abundance on a large camera trapping array. We will use our data to evaluate moose-tick dynamics across the full distribution of moose in New England. In doing so we can examine the relative importance of climate, habitat, and moose density in driving damaging epizootic conditions.
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Moose (<i>Alces alces</i>) populations in the northeastern US have declined by over 50% in the past 15 years. Winter tick (<i>Dermacentor albipictus</i>) infestations are a major driver of moose population trends, negatively affecting both survival and reproduction. We measure winter tick and moose abundance on a large camera array to examine the relative importance of climate, habitat, and moose density in driving damaging epizootic conditions. This regional effort has the full support of partner agencies, who will assist in the collection of data (Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, New Hampshire Fish and Game, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, State College of New York, White Mountain National Forest, and Green Mountain National Forest). Our work will improve the monitoring efforts and provide excellent monitoring data to support management decisions at the regional scale.
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Supply-and-Demand Dynamics Associated with Using Stocking to Maintain Walleye Fisheries in the Face of Climate Change
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October 2023
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Stocking is routinely used to supplement or maintain fisheries when natural recruitment is low or nonexistent. Demand for stocking cool and coldwater fish species that support important fisheries will likely increase as a result of climate change, but fish available for stocking are a limited resource. Consequently, climate change is likely to affect the supply-and-demand tradeoffs associated with stocking fish in the future, where demand for fish is likely to exceed supply. We will examine these tradeoffs using walleye, which represent an ideal species for this assessment because they are a native coolwater species supporting economically- and socially-important fisheries across North America, stocking is already used to support or maintain many walleye fisheries, and walleye populations have already declined due to climate change, resulting in increased demand for stocked fish. Resource agencies routinely evaluate walleye stocking success and we will compile information from these evaluations to determine what factors are associated with stocking success. These factors are likely to include the size and number of walleye that are stocked, lake characteristics such as surface area and productivity, availability of both walleye prey and predators, length of growing season, and winter severity. Once these factors have been identified, we can forecast what stocking success might be for individual lakes in the future, given that climate change is likely to affect many factors that regulate stocking success. These projections will allow fishery biologists to compare the number of walleye needed to provide walleye fisheries in the face of climate change (i.e., demand) against the number of walleye that might be available for stocking (i.e., supply). Our work will allow agencies to adapt stocking strategies to ensure that walleye fishing opportunities remain available and to ensure that agency resources are expended in a manner that is biologically relevant yet cost effective.
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Stocking is routinely used to supplement or maintain fisheries when natural recruitment is low or nonexistent. Demand for stocking cool and coldwater fish species that support important fisheries will likely increase as a result of climate change, but fish available for stocking are a limited resource.Consequently, climate change is likely to affect the supply-and-demand tradeoffs associated with stocking fish in the future, where demand for fish is likely to exceed supply. We will examine these tradeoffs using walleye, which represent an ideal species for this assessment because they are a native coolwater species supporting economically- and socially-important fisheries across North America, stocking is already used to support or maintain many walleye fisheries, and walleye populations have already declined due to climate change, resulting in increased demand for stocked fish.The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the US Geological Survey, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Minnesota, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and numerous Natural Resource agencies from the Midwest.Projections will allow fishery biologists to compare the number of walleye needed to provide walleye fisheries in the face of climate change (i.e., demand) against the number of walleye that might be available for stocking (i.e., supply). Our work will allow agencies to adapt stocking strategies to ensure that walleye fishing opportunities remain available and to ensure that agency resources are expended in a manner that is biologically relevant yet cost effective.
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Snapshot USA
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December 2023
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With the accelerating pace of global change, it is imperative that we obtain rapid inventories of the status and distribution of wildlife for ecological inferences and conservation planning. In 2019, a network of scientists launched Snapshot USA, a collaborative survey of terrestrial wildlife using cameras across the United States. Surveys in 2019 collected data at 1,509 camera sites within 110 camera arrays covering 12 different ecoregions across all 50 states In 2019, surveys were conducted over a 14-week period in the fall. This effort resulted in 166,036 detections of 83 species of mammals and 17 species of birds. Images were processed through the Smithsonian’s eMammal data repository and included an expert review to ensure taxonomic accuracy. All survey data were made available in a recent data publication (Cove et al. 2021; Ecology). This project is a continuation and expansion of initial Snapshot USA, and creates a new camera array in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma). Data collected will be archived at the Smithsonian and made available for local and macroecological research including the examination of community assembly, effects of environmental and anthropogenic landscape variables, effects of fragmentation and extinction debt dynamics, as well as species-specific population dynamics and conservation action plans.
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With the accelerating pace of global change, it is imperative that we obtain rapid inventories of the status and distribution of wildlife for ecological inferences and conservation planning. In 2019, a network of scientists launched Snapshot USA, a collaborative survey of terrestrial wildlife using cameras across the United States. Surveys in 2019 collected data at 1,509 camera sites within 110 camera arrays covering 12 different ecoregions across all 50 states In 2019, surveys were conducted over a 14-week period in the fall. This effort resulted in 166,036 detections of 83 species of mammals and 17 species of birds. Images were processed through the Smithsonian’s eMammal data repository and included an expert review to ensure taxonomic accuracy. All survey data were made available in a recent data publication (Cove et al. 2021; Ecology). This project is a continuation and expansion of initial Snapshot USA, and creates a new camera array in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma). Data collected will be archived at the Smithsonian and made available for local and macroecological research including the examination of community assembly, effects of environmental and anthropogenic landscape variables, effects of fragmentation and extinction debt dynamics, as well as species-specific population dynamics and conservation action plans.
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Compilation and analysis of wildlife data to inform natural resource management
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September 2022
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Lands owned by the Department of Defense (DoD) support the greatest densities of species of conservation concern (i.e., endangered, threatened or otherwise at-risk) of any Federal land agency. Under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act and Sikes Act, the DoD is challenged to protect and provide for the conservation of these species while simultaneously adhering to the military mission. To accomplish this goal, DoD installations develop Integrated Natural Resource Management Plans (INRMPs) to guide management. INRMPs are developed in concert with the state, federal, and non-governmental partners and are revised on a 5-year interval to ensure installations continue to serve the military mission on a sustained basis that supports natural resource stewardship. Empirically-defensible data and transparent analyses of natural resource data are required to inform INRMP development and revision. This project has already completed objectives related to (1) evaluating space use of subadult golden eagle, (2) assessing methods for improving efficiency and reliability of noninvasive genetic sampling, and (3) comparing monitoring methods for kit foxes. In the current phase, this project aims to evaluate the utility and reliability of machine learning for rapid processing and analysis of camera-based data, to quantify the influence of machine-learning errors on parameter estimates, and to assess alternative methods of data handling and analyses that can minimize bias in results. The results of this study have and will inform wildlife monitoring on military installations.
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Lands owned by the Department of Defense (DoD) support the greatest densities of species of conservation concern (i.e., endangered, threatened or otherwise at-risk) of any Federal land agency. Under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act and Sikes Act, the DoD is challenged to protect and provide for the conservation of these species while simultaneously adhering to the military mission. To accomplish this goal, DoD installations develop Integrated Natural Resource Management Plans (INRMPs) to guide management. INRMPs are developed in concert with the state, federal, and non-governmental partners and are revised on a 5-year interval to ensure installations continue to serve the military mission on a sustained basis that supports natural resource stewardship. Empirically-defensible data and transparent analyses of natural resource data are required to inform INRMP development and revision. This project has already completed objectives related to (1) evaluating space use of subadult golden eagle, (2) assessing methods for improving efficiency and reliability of noninvasive genetic sampling, and (3) comparing monitoring methods for kit foxes. In the current phase, this project aims to evaluate the utility and reliability of machine learning for rapid processing and analysis of camera-based data, to quantify the influence of machine-learning errors on parameter estimates, and to assess alternative methods of data handling and analyses that can minimize bias in results. The results of this study have and will inform wildlife monitoring on military installations.
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Developing close-kin mark-recapture methods to monitor Michigan black bear populations
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September 2023
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Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and other state management agencies currently uses statistical catch-at-age analysis (SCAA) to monitor trends in bear populations and impacts of harvest. However, SCAA is highly sensitive to initial values of abundance and requires periodic independent estimates of abundance using mark-recapture (MR) to calibrate SCAA model estimates. The marking technique previously implemented (tetracycline) is no longer available to resource managers and alternative methods of MR (e.g., barbed wire corrals with individual identification from hair using DNA, or physical capture and release) requires extensive sampling and field effort, demanding additional financial and logistical resources. Thus, there is a need to develop novel methods to estimate trends in black bear abundance and impacts of harvest without requiring additional independent field sampling. Close-kin mark-recapture (CKMR) extends the concept of recapture probability of a marked individual to the probability of capturing a closely related individual. The primary objective of this project is to develop CKMR models specific to black bear populations in Michigan, assess sensitivity and accuracy, and make recommendations on most effective approach. The results of this project will be used by the Michigan DNR and other state agencies to refine and improve harvest-based monitoring of black bears.
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Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and other state management agencies currently uses statistical catch-at-age analysis (SCAA) to monitor trends in bear populations and impacts of harvest. However, SCAA is highly sensitive to initial values of abundance and requires periodic independent estimates of abundance using mark-recapture (MR) to calibrate SCAA model estimates. The marking technique previously implemented (tetracycline) is no longer available to resource managers and alternative methods of MR (e.g., barbed wire corrals with individual identification from hair using DNA, or physical capture and release) requires extensive sampling and field effort, demanding additional financial and logistical resources. Thus, there is a need to develop novel methods to estimate trends in black bear abundance and impacts of harvest without requiring additional independent field sampling. Close-kin mark-recapture (CKMR) extends the concept of recapture probability of a marked individual to the probability of capturing a closely related individual. The primary objective of this project is to develop CKMR models specific to black bear populations in Michigan, assess sensitivity and accuracy, and make recommendations on most effective approach. The results of this project will be used by the Michigan DNR and other state agencies to refine and improve harvest-based monitoring of black bears.
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Assessment of co-occurrence modeling when closure is not met
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June 2022
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Species interactions and patterns of co-occurrence are commonly assessed with two-species occupancy models. Occupancy models assume that the occupancy state is closed to changes within a sampling season. When evaluating multiple species simultaneously to assess patterns of co-occurrence, the assumption of closure is likely violated due to variation in life history characteristics (e.g., movement capacity, home range size, social behaviors). This study is employing a simulation-based approach to evaluate the influence of violating the closure assumption on inferences from two-species occupancy models. The results of this study will help improve our understanding of occupancy modeling methods and provide insights on how best to interpret two-species occupancy modeling results when one or both species violate the closure assumption.
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Species interactions and patterns of co-occurrence are commonly assessed with two-species occupancy models. Occupancy models assume that the occupancy state is closed to changes within a sampling season. When evaluating multiple species simultaneously to assess patterns of co-occurrence, the assumption of closure is likely violated due to variation in life history characteristics (e.g., movement capacity, home range size, social behaviors). This study is employing a simulation-based approach to evaluate the influence of violating the closure assumption on inferences from two-species occupancy models. The results of this study will help improve our understanding of occupancy modeling methods and provide insights on how best to interpret two-species occupancy modeling results when one or both species violate the closure assumption.
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Population estimate, exploitation, mortality, movement, and habitat use of Lake Sharpe Walleye as inferred from mark-recapture and acoustic-telemetry tracking
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June 2026
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The Lake Sharpe Walleye population provides the third largest fishery resource to South Dakota anglers and routinely contributes between $3.3 to $8.5 million in direct economic input annually. Because of the high recreational and economic importance to the state, the Lake Sharpe Walleye population is being evaluated to determine best management procedures (BMPs). A crucial step in determining the BMPs is understanding population dynamics that biologists can use to model the effects of various management regulations on the population. A wealth of information has been gained by the current tagging study on Lake Oahe and information gained from this study has laid a foundation for future regulation modeling and management of this lake. This study will provide additional information regarding differential exploitation, spatially and temporally varying movement patterns and habitat use, all of which are essential for regulation modeling of the Walleye fishery in Lake Sharpe.
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The Lake Sharpe Walleye population provides the third largest fishery resource to South Dakota anglers and routinely contributes between $3.3 to $8.5 million in direct economic input annually. Because of the high recreational and economic importance to the state, the Lake Sharpe Walleye population is being evaluated to determine best management procedures (BMPs). A crucial step in determining the BMPs is understanding population dynamics that biologists can use to model the effects of various management regulations on the population. A wealth of information has been gained by the current tagging study on Lake Oahe and information gained from this study has laid a foundation for future regulation modeling and management of this lake. This study will provide additional information regarding differential exploitation, spatially and temporally varying movement patterns and habitat use, all of which are essential for regulation modeling of the Walleye fishery in Lake Sharpe.
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Walleye dynamics in western South Dakota irrigation reservoirs
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June 2023
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Anglers in western South Dakota typically spend over 200,000 angler hours fishing between Angostura, Belle Fourche and Shadehill in a given year, highlighting their importance to regional recreation and generation of economic benefit to the region. Understanding Walleye population dynamics in these reservoirs in critical to the evaluation of current regulations and modeling the impacts of potential regulation changes. This study will provide data on Walleye growth, recruitment and mortality rates, and provide additional needed information about Walleye anglers and levels of Walleye exploitation in these reservoirs which will be used to model the impacts of different regulations on these important fisheries. Collection and analysis of the data will allow for informed decisions regarding the future status of Walleye regulations in western South Dakota.
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Anglers in western South Dakota typically spend over 200,000 angler hours fishing between Angostura, Belle Fourche and Shadehill in a given year, highlighting their importance to regional recreation and generation of economic benefit to the region. Understanding Walleye population dynamics in these reservoirs in critical to the evaluation of current regulations and modeling the impacts of potential regulation changes. This study will provide data on Walleye growth, recruitment and mortality rates, and provide additional needed information about Walleye anglers and levels of Walleye exploitation in these reservoirs which will be used to model the impacts of different regulations on these important fisheries. Collection and analysis of the data will allow for informed decisions regarding the future status of Walleye regulations in western South Dakota.
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Determining natal origins and movement patterns of Silver Carp in eastern South Dakota tributaries
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June 2025
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Silver Carp (<i>Hypophthalmichthys molitrix</i>) recruitment in eastern South Dakota tributaries is not well understood. Age-0 Silver Carp have only been collected on one occasion in the James River during a year of flooding and juvenile invasive carp are typically not observed in these tributaries. In 2019, major flooding occurred on the three eastern SD tributaries and may have contributed recruitment of invasive carps. Anecdotal observations of high numbers of small Silver Carp have been made in 2020 and 2021, but the natal origin of these fish remains uncertain. Developing an understanding of the recruitment sources of invasive carp in the eastern South Dakota tributaries is necessary for understanding the potential impact of management actions on these populations.
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Silver Carp (<i>Hypophthalmichthys molitrix</i>) recruitment in eastern South Dakota tributaries is not well understood. Age-0 Silver Carp have only been collected on one occasion in the James River during a year of flooding and juvenile invasive carp are typically not observed in these tributaries. In 2019, major flooding occurred on the three eastern SD tributaries and may have contributed recruitment of invasive carps. Anecdotal observations of high numbers of small Silver Carp have been made in 2020 and 2021, but the natal origin of these fish remains uncertain. Developing an understanding of the recruitment sources of invasive carp in the eastern South Dakota tributaries is necessary for understanding the potential impact of management actions on these populations. <i></i>
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Influence of flooding on Blue Suckers in eastern South Dakota Rivers
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June 2024
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The Blue Sucker <i>Cycleptus elongatus </i>is a benthivorous catostomid species that occurs in large river systems of the central United States, including the Missouri River basin. Concerns have been expressed about the long-term sustainability of Blue Sucker populations as a result of anthropogenic disturbances in many river systems, specifically habitat fragmentation via dam construction and altered flow regimes. As a result, the species is being considered vulnerable throughout its range. However, existing data suggest that the lower, unchannelized section of the Missouri River along the border of South Dakota and Nebraska is one area where the population appears to be stable. To better understand the current status of Blue Suckers in the lower unchannelized Missouri River and its tributaries, information on the movement of juveniles, sources and timing of recruitment, resource use, and impact of flooding is needed. Improving our understanding of one of the few stable populations may provide information useful in the implementation of management practices in other areas where Blue Sucker populations are in decline.
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The Blue Sucker <i>Cycleptus elongatus </i>is a benthivorous catostomid species that occurs in large river systems of the central United States, including the Missouri River basin. Concerns have been expressed about the long-term sustainability of Blue Sucker populations as a result of anthropogenic disturbances in many river systems, specifically habitat fragmentation via dam construction and altered flow regimes. As a result, the species is being considered vulnerable throughout its range. However, existing data suggest that the lower, unchannelized section of the Missouri River along the border of South Dakota and Nebraska is one area where the population appears to be stable. To better understand the current status of Blue Suckers in the lower unchannelized Missouri River and its tributaries, information on the movement of juveniles, sources and timing of recruitment, resource use, and impact of flooding is needed. Improving our understanding of one of the few stable populations may provide information useful in the implementation of management practices in other areas where Blue Sucker populations are in decline.
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Balancing environmental and nutritional tradeoffs of expanding Amazonian aquaculture
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December 2023
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In this project we combine artificial intelligence and life cycle assessments to assess the growing aquaculture seafood sector in the Amazon basin, the world's most biodiverse river ecosystem.
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In this project we combine artificial intelligence and life cycle assessments to assess the growing aquaculture seafood sector in the Amazon basin, the world's most biodiverse river ecosystem.
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Improving the accuracy of USGS’s acoustic fish abundance estimates using high endurance autonomous vehicles
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August 2025
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In this project we investigate the utility of sail drones for active acoustic fisheries assessments.
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In this project we investigate the utility of sail drones for active acoustic fisheries assessments.
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Field examination of thermal pollution on stream temperature and reproductive development of Johnny Darter, Etheostoma nigrum (Percidae)
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April 2022
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<b><u>Project Description</u></b><b>: </b><br><b> </b><br><u>Objective 1. Characterizing Wastewater Effluent Water Temperatures</u><br><u> </u><br><i>Goal:</i> To characterize WWTP effluent and its effect on stream thermal characteristics. <br> <br><i>Background:</i> Wastewater effluents (WWE) will have varying influences on stream temperature depending on the temperature of the effluent and the discharge and temperature of the receiving stream. The effects of WWE will also vary seasonally based on water temperature and discharge. We propose to monitor temperature from sites that characterize various effluent scenarios as a baseline for interpreting biological data (See Objective 2 below). These data will also serve as a temperature baseline for future monitoring and management of eastern Colorado transitional and warm water streams. <br> <br> <i>Approach:</i> <br> <br><b><i><u>Task 1</u></i></b>. We propose to meet with managers and scientists from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, other interested agencies, and WWTPs to determine appropriate field sites for monitoring temperature. Once sites are identified, we will deploy temperature-monitoring equipment. We will also and monitor stream discharge and basic water quality seasonally at the same sites. Stream discharge will be measured using standard USGS methods. Basic water quality data will include specific conductance, pH, water temperature, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen. We also propose to gather, collate, and summarize existing historical records for temperature from WWTP’s and other groups that monitor temperature on eastern Colorado transitional and warm water streams. <br> <br><b><i><u>Task2.</u></i></b> To understand the influence of WWTP effluent on stream temperature it is important to consider the longitudinal aspects of water temperature (Figure 1). VerHoef and Peterson’s (2010) spatial statistical network models are a well-recognized tool for analyzing stream attributes like temperature. The GIS tools and R script for implementing these models are available and have been used extensively in temperature modeling (Issak et al. 2014 and http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/boise/AWAE/projects/SpatialStreamNetworks.shtml). We propose to analyze data collected in Task 1 using these models. <br> <br>Figure 1. Conceptual model of stream temperature measurement and modeling. The x-axis represents distance to and from a WWTP. The hashes on the x-axis represent locations of temperature monitors. The dashed line represents a temperature threshold and this could represent an important temperature for any biological activity (i.e. reproduction). The WWTP effluent raises the base stream temperature. In this example, the temperature decreases exponentially back to the base stream temperature. However, the relationship of stream temperature to distance downstream could be any function. In this example, the stream temperature returns to the threshold between two temperature monitors. If the function is known, then the spatial location of the event can be identified, as well as the uncertainty of that location. The same modeling can be done with other events, such as return to base temperature. Covariates that effect the shape of the function can also be included (i.e. air temperature, discharge, land cover). <br> <br> <br><u>Objective 2. Evaluating Johnny Darter reproduction in the field</u><br><u> </u><br><i>Goal: </i>To evaluate reproductive condition of Johnny Darter in the wild.<br><i> </i><br><i>Background: </i>Gonad weight changes seasonally and can indicate reproductive status in fishes. However, inferences that are more detailed can be made using histology and histology is an effective tool to study the reproductive cycle in fishes (Blazer 2002). It is routinely used for sex verification and assessing reproductive development (Blazer 2002). It can also be used to document abnormalities, such as intersex, and diseases, such as tumors and parasites (Blazer 2002). Gonadal histology can provide insights into reproductive timing as well as the effects of various environmental stressors on reproductive health (Blazer 2002). <br><i> </i><br><i>Approach:</i> We will evaluate reproductive condition using gonad weights and histology. The general strategy will be to collect Johnny Darter seasonally from above and below WWTP’s at the sites identified in Goal 1-Task 1. We will compare fish reproductive status among sites and correlate those observations with water temperature.
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Wastewater effluents (WWE) influence stream temperature and may have effects on the timing and magnitude of fish reproduction. Understanding the effects of WWE on fish reproduction is critical to developing stream temperature standards. This project is a collaboration of USGS, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, and several municipalities and Waste Water Treatment Plants. The data will be used to evaluate the current warm-water stream temperature standard.
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Evaluation of Cripple Creek (mule deer herd D16) and Wet Mountain (mule deer D34) Demographics (Auction and Raffle funded M.S. project)
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June 2022
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Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) initiated a research project in 2017 to examine predator-prey dynamics between cougars and mule deer in the Upper Arkansas drainage within the South East region of Colorado. This is a 9 year study that is generating a tremendous amount of data on both deer and cougars. These data include GPS location data for deer (does and fawns) across all years of the study. While these data are important to the original study objectives it will not be used to its fullest potential, including a thorough examination of habitat use and movement patterns of mule deer in this area. While such research has been conducted on the western slope of Colorado, where mule deer are largely migratory, very little research has been conducted on the eastern slope. Therefore, there is a great opportunity to leverage these data to learn more about mule deer in this area and on a predominantly non-migratory population.
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Very little is known about non-migratory mule deer populations and how they utilize these landscapes. While these populations are not migratory, they are still moving across the landscape in response to many factors.Understanding seasonal movements of non-migratory mule deer with various landscape and climate factors will provide useful information to wildlife managers as this is not well understood.
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Informing policy response to declining water supply in the Colorado River basin: linking water supply management with outcomes for fish communities
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May 2022
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The goal of this project is to predict responses of Colorado River fish populations to different approaches to water-supply and river management that might be considered to confront the challenge of declining watershed runoff. We are synthesizing literature and using roundtable discussions and expert elicitation to inform fish population models for several native and non-native fish species. These population models incorporate known or hypothesized relationships between fish populations and two environmental factors that are sensitive to changes in water-supply management -- river temperature and flow regime – whose attributes are being predicted as part of the Future of the Colorado River Project. This recently completed project predicted future flow regimes and river temperatures released from reservoirs that would result from different management approaches to the water-supply crisis in the west. This work will inform basin wide decision making regarding ecosystem outcomes of water management in the Colorado River basin.
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The goal of this project is to predict responses of Colorado River fish populations to different approaches to water-supply and river management that might be considered to confront the challenge of declining watershed runoff. We are synthesizing literature and using roundtable discussions and expert elicitation to inform fish population models for several native and non-native fish species. These population models incorporate known or hypothesized relationships between fish populations and two environmental factors that are sensitive to changes in water-supply management -- river temperature and flow regime – whose attributes are being predicted as part of the Future of the Colorado River Project at Utah State University. This recently completed project predicted future flow regimes and river temperatures released from reservoirs that would result from different management approaches to the water-supply crisis in the west. This project is a collaborative effort between multiple universities and federal agencies. This work will inform basin wide decision making regarding ecosystem outcomes of water management in the Colorado River basin.
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Barrier prioritization to enhance habitat for Topeka shiner in Flint Hills Streams, Kansas
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September 2022
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Poorly constructed or eroded road crossings can prevent movement of organisms through stream networks. One species of particular concern in the Flint Hills of Kansas is the federally endangered Topeka shiner (<i>Notropis topeka</i>), which has experienced drastic reductions in their natural distribution. Habitat alteration and fragmentation due to road crossings and other structures are predicted to have contributed to their decline. We compiled existing data on the distribution of Topeka shiners and collected field data on the distribution and types of culverts within the historic range of Topeka shiners. We then developed a prioritization scheme for barrier removal based on observed and modeled data. Restoration projects that connect suitable habitat for Topeka shiners should help improve population resilience by allowing them to escape harsh conditions and find favorable habitats.
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Poorly constructed or eroded road crossings can prevent movement of organisms through stream networks. One species of particular concern in the Flint Hills of Kansas is the federally endangered Topeka shiner (<i>Notropis topeka</i>), which has experienced drastic reductions in their natural distribution. Habitat alteration and fragmentation due to road crossings and other structures are predicted to have contributed to their decline. We compiled existing data on the distribution of Topeka shiners and collected field data on the distribution and types of culverts within the historic range of Topeka shiners. We then developed a prioritization scheme for barrier removal based on observed and modeled data. Restoration projects that connect suitable habitat for Topeka shiners should help improve population resilience by allowing them to escape harsh conditions and find favorable habitats.
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Eastern Spotted Skunk Surveys
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December 2023
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Populations of the Eastern Spotted Skunk have declined dramatically over the last 50 years. The species is currently petitioned for federal protection under the endangered species act. Information about the species' distribution and population status is needed to inform the listing decision and to help state level managers protect the species. This project is using game cameras to survey for Eastern Spotted Skunks in the prairies and grasslands of SW Arkansas.
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Populations of the Eastern Spotted Skunk have declined dramatically over the last 50 years. The species is currently petitioned for federal protection under the endangered species act. Information about the species' distribution and population status is needed to inform the listing decision and to help state level managers protect the species. This project is using game cameras to survey for Eastern Spotted Skunks in the prairies and grasslands of SW Arkansas.
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Use of machine learning to quantify habitat for the Oktibbeha Rivulet Crayfish: College of Forest Resources
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August 2022
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Mississippi supports a complex of rivulet crayfishes (Hobbseus spp.) that specialize on ephemeral headwaters and ditches. Ditch habitats are rarely georeferenced in existing stream network geospatial datasets, meaning it is difficult to quantify available habitat for rivulet crayfishes. This is an undergraduate-led research project that will determine whether video and machine-learning algorithms can be used to rapidly quantify wetted ditch habitat for rivulet crayfishes. The College of Forest Resources at Mississippi State University funded this research through a competitive award for qualified undergraduate students. This research could inform management by helping managers quantify available habitat rapidly for rivulet crayfishes.
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Mississippi supports a complex of rivulet crayfishes (Hobbseus spp.) that specialize on ephemeral headwaters and ditches. Ditch habitats are rarely georeferenced in existing stream network geospatial datasets, meaning it is difficult to quantify available habitat for rivulet crayfishes. This is an undergraduate-led research project that will determine whether video and machine-learning algorithms can be used to rapidly quantify wetted ditch habitat for rivulet crayfishes. The College of Forest Resources at Mississippi State University funded this research through a competitive award for qualified undergraduate students. This research could inform management by helping managers quantify available habitat rapidly for rivulet crayfishes.
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Methods to monitor American Eel distribution and status
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August 2021
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There is an emerging fishery for American Eels, but there are minimal baseline data on eel populations in Gulf of Mexico terminal rivers. Moreover, the status of America Eel within the Tombigbee River drainage is unknown following completion of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, which potential blocks eel migration routes. This is an undergraduate-led research project to investigate whether American Eel persists in the Noxubee River drainage (MS, AL). This research is funded by the College of Forest Resources through a competitive award for qualified undergraduate students. By determining whether American Eels persist in the Tombigbee River system, this research will help inform management by providing baseline distributional data on American Eels.
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<sub>There is an emerging fishery for American Eels, but there are minimal baseline data on eel populations in Gulf of Mexico terminal rivers. Moreover, the status of America Eel within the Tombigbee River drainage is unknown following completion of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, which potential blocks eel migration routes. This is an undergraduate-led research project to investigate whether American Eel persists in the Noxubee River drainage (MS, AL). This research is funded by the College of Forest Resources through a competitive award for qualified undergraduate students. By determining whether American Eels persist in the Tombigbee River system, this research will help inform management by providing baseline distributional data on American Eels.</sub>
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Developing a cooperative post stocking conservation framework to evaluate stocking effectiveness and inform restoration efforts
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September 2023
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Conservation aquaculture is increasingly used in recovery planning to propagate donor populations sustainably for imperiled species' reintroductions. Frecklebelly Madtom is an imperiled species with highly fragmented populations throughout the Mobile River system. We are assisting with an experimental reintroduction effort and subsequent monitoring of Frecklebelly Madtom in a tributary of the Tombigbee River. This research is a collaboration among the Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, USFWS Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery, USFWS Ecological Services in Mississippi, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and Mississippi State University. We are helping the USFWS with their reintroduction by incorporating detection probability when estimating survival of reintroduced individuals, which will help the USFWS adapt their reintroduction procedures.
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Conservation aquaculture is increasingly used in recovery planning to propagate donor populations sustainably for imperiled species' reintroductions. Frecklebelly Madtom is an imperiled species with highly fragmented populations throughout the Mobile River system. We are assisting with an experimental reintroduction effort and subsequent monitoring of Frecklebelly Madtom in a tributary of the Tombigbee River. This research is a collaboration among the Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, USFWS Private John Allen National Fish Hatchery, USFWS Ecological Services in Mississippi, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and Mississippi State University. We are helping the USFWS with their reintroduction by incorporating detection probability when estimating survival of reintroduced individuals, which will help the USFWS adapt their reintroduction procedures.
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Intermittent Stream Fish Community Dynamics in the Ouachita Highlands
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December 2023
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Stream ecosystems are one of the most imperiled systems due to the impacts of many stressors including dewatering, land conversion, channelization, fragmentation, introduction of non-native species, and impoundment. The impact of multiple stressors are not well characterized in intermittent streams due to the lack of broad scale data (such as hydrologic or temperature data). Diverse assemblages of fish occupy intermittent streams and are threatened by the multiple stressors. We characterized the hydrologic and temperature regimes of intermittent streams across a gradient of land-use to assess the role of multiple stressors in driving stream fish community structure in the Ouachita highlands. This region is home to many endemic species and species of conservation concern. This research will inform decisions about management of species of conservation concern by determining how multiple stressors driving the distribution of species in this region.
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Stream ecosystems are one of the most imperiled systems due to the impacts of many stressors including dewatering, land conversion, channelization, fragmentation, introduction of non-native species, and impoundment. The impact of multiple stressors are not well characterized in intermittent streams due to the lack of broad scale data (such as hydrologic or temperature data). Diverse assemblages of fish occupy intermittent streams and are threatened by the multiple stressors. We characterized the hydrologic and temperature regimes of intermittent streams across a gradient of land-use to assess the role of multiple stressors in driving stream fish community structure in the Ouachita highlands. This region is home to many endemic species and species of conservation concern. This research will inform decisions about management of species of conservation concern by determining how multiple stressors driving the distribution of species in this region.
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Desert carnivore response to conglomerated solar energy development and adaptive solar facility design in the Mojave Desert
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September 2026
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<b>Terrestrial solar facility design and management for conservation outcomes: </b>In partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, we are addressing the landscape ecology of big solar in deserts by studying desert carnivore site use, intraguild interactions, and diet in response to solar energy development, including raised fencing and avoidance of desert washes, in Riverside East Development Focus Area (a conglomeration of industrial-scale solar facilities in the Sonoran Desert). Our results will inform desert kit fox conservation and management in light of increased solar energy development on BLM lands.
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Forthcoming
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Informing environmental management of desert solar facilities for geo- and biodiversity
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September 2026
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<b>Terrestrial solar facility design and management for conservation outcomes</b>: The Desert Southwest of the United States provides a globally premier case study of interactions between desert ecosystems and utility-scale solar facilities, and a proving ground for natural resource management in concert with energy development on federal land. Applied research that elucidates how solar energy development practices, including siting, site preparation, operations and maintenance, and eventually decommissioning, affect desert ecosystems can influence on the ground conservation and management of geodiversity and biodiversity and help shape conservation-enabling solar facility design. In partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, we are determining interactions among a large-scale, photovoltaic solar facility (Yellow Pine; 500 MW) and geodiversity, plants, and pollinators in the northern Mojave Desert, Nevada, USA. Our research will inform solar energy development decisions that reduce negative impacts of solar energy development on desert ecosystems and that promote ecosystem services from deserts.
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Solar energy development is required to generate electricity from renewables and thereby mitigate climate change, yet our understanding of its interactions with ecosystems is lacking. Limited empirically backed insights into sustainable solar energy production can lead to biodiversity loss and diminishing ecosystem services. The Desert Southwest of the United States provides a globally premier case study of interactions between desert ecosystems and large solar facilities, and a proving ground for natural resource management in concert with energy development on federal land. Applied research that elucidates how solar energy development practices, including siting, site preparation, operations and maintenance, and eventually decommissioning, affect desert ecosystems can influence on the ground conservation and management of biodiversity and conservation-enabling solar facility designs. In partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, my research team is determining interactions among a large-scale, photovoltaic solar facility (Yellow Pine; 500 MW) and geodiversity, plants, and pollinators in the northern Mojave Desert, Nevada, USA. Our research will inform solar energy development decisions that reduce negative impacts of solar energy development on desert ecosystems and that promote ecosystem services. Our findings will be seamlessly integrated into realtime management made by the Bureau of Land Management regarding solar development on federal lands.
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A risk assessment of chronic wasting disease in Massachusetts and the proactive development of a communication strategy for MassWildlife and wild cervid stakeholders in Massachusetts
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September 2025
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Emerging infectious diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), force decision-makers to make decisions in the face of large uncertainty and risk. Under these pressing circumstances, two important tactics and tools for decision-makers are: (1) obtaining buy-in from stakeholders and (2) formal risk assessments, which predict the potential distribution of a novel pathogen in new habitats. In an effort to prevent CWD from spreading into Massachusetts (MA), the MA state wildlife agency, The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), is implementing several proactive management strategies (e.g., regulations to restrict whole carcass importation of deer, improving and focusing on standards for cervid farming); however, it is unclear whether there is stakeholder buy-in or how effective this management is. Therefore, to address these barriers, we propose:<br>(1) To assess existing wild cervid stakeholder perceptions, behaviors, and misconceptions using a survey. We will develop and disseminate a survey that reaches 9,500 wild cervid stakeholders in MA.<br>(2) To examine patterns and trends related to wild cervid stakeholder perceptions, behaviors, and misconceptions, we will analyze the data obtained from the wild cervid stakeholder survey (obj. 1). This will enable us to extract patterns and trends.<br>(3) To identify areas of high risk for CWD introduction, establishment, and spread in MA, we will conduct a risk assessment based on host and prion ecology.<br>(4) To obtain wild cervid stakeholder buy-in and trust, we will:<br>- update the MA CWD response plan with the results of the wild cervid stakeholder survey (obj. 1 & 2) and the risk assessment (obj. 3),<br>- develop a communication strategy that will be used to help MassWildlife engage more regularly with wild cervid stakeholders, and<br>- disseminate the results of the wild cervid stakeholder survey (obj. 1 & 2) and the risk assessment (obj. 3) to wild cervid stakeholders as applicable.<br>Collectively, our objectives aim to promote transparency and open the lines of communication between the state of MA and wild cervid stakeholders. More specifically, this proposal aims to engage wild cervid stakeholders prior to CWD invasion, generate a communication strategy based on what wild cervid stakeholders are seeking (and using the modalities of communication they prefer; learned from the survey), and obtain stakeholder buy-in for proactive and reactive CWD management.
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Emerging infectious diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), force decision-makers to make decisions in the face of large uncertainty and risk. Under these pressing circumstances, two important tactics and tools for decision-makers are: (1) obtaining buy-in from stakeholders and (2) formal risk assessments, which predict the potential distribution of a novel pathogen in new habitats. In an effort to prevent CWD from spreading into Massachusetts (MA), the MA state wildlife agency, The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), is implementing several proactive management strategies (e.g., regulations to restrict whole carcass importation of deer, improving and focusing on standards for cervid farming); however, it is unclear whether there is stakeholder buy-in or how effective this management is. Therefore, to address these barriers, we propose:(1) To assess existing wild cervid stakeholder perceptions, behaviors, and misconceptions using a survey. We will develop and disseminate a survey that reaches 9,500 wild cervid stakeholders in MA.(2) To examine patterns and trends related to wild cervid stakeholder perceptions, behaviors, and misconceptions, we will analyze the data obtained from the wild cervid stakeholder survey (obj. 1). This will enable us to extract patterns and trends.(3) To identify areas of high risk for CWD introduction, establishment, and spread in MA, we will conduct a risk assessment based on host and prion ecology.(4) To obtain wild cervid stakeholder buy-in and trust, we will:- update the MA CWD response plan with the results of the wild cervid stakeholder survey (obj. 1 & 2) and the risk assessment (obj. 3),- develop a communication strategy that will be used to help MassWildlife engage more regularly with wild cervid stakeholders, and- disseminate the results of the wild cervid stakeholder survey (obj. 1 & 2) and the risk assessment (obj. 3) to wild cervid stakeholders as applicable.Collectively, our objectives aim to promote transparency and open the lines of communication between the state of MA and wild cervid stakeholders. More specifically, this proposal aims to engage wild cervid stakeholders prior to CWD invasion, generate a communication strategy based on what wild cervid stakeholders are seeking (and using the modalities of communication they prefer; learned from the survey), and obtain stakeholder buy-in for proactive and reactive CWD management.
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FRAMEWORK FOR PROTECTING AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY IN THE NORTHEAST UNDER CHANGING CLIMATES
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December 2024
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Our objective is to incorporate existing climate change research into a framework that evaluates the conservation of aquatic biodiversity under a suite of land protection and restoration scenarios. We will translate existing Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NECASC) products into formats that can be concurrently analyzed and incorporated into novel methods for biodiversity protection in the Northeast. The goal of this work is to identify land protection and restoration actions that optimize aquatic biodiversity protection into the future. We will evaluate potential changes to biotic assemblages with changing climates and identify management actions most likely to mitigate impacts from climate change. Importantly, the tool developed will be scale-able, allowing managers at small scales (e.g., towns) to prioritize climate adaptations within their jurisdiction. The project will be completed in two phases over the course of two years. In Phase I, objectives are to 1) gather and translate all NECASC research applicable to aquatic ecosystems and 2) define standardized aquatic biodiversity metrics (e.g., species richness, community evenness) for the states of New Hampshire (NH), Vermont (VT), Massachusetts (MA), and Connecticut (CT). In Phase II, we will evaluate the amount of biodiversity protected by alternate scenarios of land protection and habitat restoration in the face of climate change.
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Our objective is to incorporate existing climate change research into a framework that evaluates the conservation of aquatic biodiversity under a suite of land protection and restoration scenarios. We will translate existing Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NECASC) products into formats that can be concurrently analyzed and incorporated into novel methods for biodiversity protection in the Northeast. The goal of this work is to identify land protection and restoration actions that optimize aquatic biodiversity protection into the future. We will evaluate potential changes to biotic assemblages with changing climates and identify management actions most likely to mitigate impacts from climate change. Importantly, the tool developed will be scale-able, allowing managers at small scales (e.g., towns) to prioritize climate adaptations within their jurisdiction. The project will be completed in two phases over the course of two years. In Phase I, objectives are to 1) gather and translate all NECASC research applicable to aquatic ecosystems and 2) define standardized aquatic biodiversity metrics (e.g., species richness, community evenness) for the states of New Hampshire (NH), Vermont (VT), Massachusetts (MA), and Connecticut (CT). In Phase II, we will evaluate the amount of biodiversity protected by alternate scenarios of land protection and habitat restoration in the face of climate change.
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Improving management and surveillance decisions related to white nose syndrome by accounting for imperfect detection and misclassification error
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May 2025
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Management decisions for emerging infectious diseases, endangered species, and invasive species depend on the true state of the system and must be made quickly to maximize opportunities for mitigation. However, molecular detection methods, like any diagnostic test used in the detection of pathogens, may occasionally yield false negatives (i.e., when a sample appears negative but is truly positive) as well as ‘ambiguous,’ ‘uncertain,’ or ‘equivocal’ results (i.e., an inability to confidently classify a sample as negative or positive). Here, we will construct a hierarchical Bayesian model to account for imperfect pathogen detection and ambiguity in the white nose syndrome (WNS) system; our model will use surveillance data to improve forecasts of the invasion front, improve state-dependent decision making, and improve our ability to identify high priority areas for WNS surveillance. We foresee our model also improving the management and decision-making process of other pressing issues which benefit from early detection but are challenged by imperfect and ambiguous detections, including those related to invasive species, endangered species, and pathogen surveillance.
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Management decisions for emerging infectious diseases, endangered species, and invasive species depend on the true state of the system and must be made quickly to maximize opportunities for mitigation. However, molecular detection methods, like any diagnostic test used in the detection of pathogens, may occasionally yield false negatives (i.e., when a sample appears negative but is truly positive) as well as ‘ambiguous,’ ‘uncertain,’ or ‘equivocal’ results (i.e., an inability to confidently classify a sample as negative or positive). Here, we will construct a hierarchical Bayesian model to account for imperfect pathogen detection and ambiguity in the white nose syndrome (WNS) system; our model will use surveillance data to improve forecasts of the invasion front, improve state-dependent decision making, and improve our ability to identify high priority areas for WNS surveillance. We foresee our model also improving the management and decision-making process of other pressing issues which benefit from early detection but are challenged by imperfect and ambiguous detections, including those related to invasive species, endangered species, and pathogen surveillance.
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Difficult disease decisions: how to reduce risk when dealing with multiple competing objectives and opposing risk tolerances
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May 2026
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Ecosystem resource management becomes complicated quickly when managers have multiple objectives and different risk tolerances to a given management action. For example, when faced with the potential threat of disease emergence, resource managers must balance: (a) the risk of a disease outbreak if delaying management, which may result in animal mass mortality at some unspecified point in time, and (b) the risk of implementing unnecessary management if no disease outbreak occurs, which may require tradeoffs in the near-term (e.g., preemptive culling reduces the immediate population size). Using the high-profile emerging pathogen of amphibians, <i>Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans </i>(Bsal), that threatens invasion into North America, we will identify approaches to improve decision-making in the face of multiple objectives and opposing risk tolerances. This work builds on ongoing work; we have already framed the decision related to a possible <i>Bsal</i> invasion with three National Wildlife Refuge managers in the northeastern United States (a hotspot for <i>Bsal</i> risk). We will use simulations, modeling, and optimization techniques to identify optimal actions when there are multiple objectives and opposing risks. We will generate user-friendly visualization tools intended to support risk reduction. We anticipate that our approach and framework can be modified and used for future decisions on human well-being and society related to emerging infectious diseases (and other hazards). Therefore, we foresee that our approach and framework will help better understand, predict, and communicate the tradeoffs decision-makers are forced to make in the face of uncertainty.
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Ecosystem resource management becomes complicated quickly when managers have multiple objectives and different risk tolerances to a given management action. For example, when faced with the potential threat of disease emergence, resource managers must balance: (a) the risk of a disease outbreak if delaying management, which may result in animal mass mortality at some unspecified point in time, and (b) the risk of implementing unnecessary management if no disease outbreak occurs, which may require tradeoffs in the near-term (e.g., preemptive culling reduces the immediate population size). Using the high-profile emerging pathogen of amphibians, <i>Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans </i>(Bsal), that threatens invasion into North America, we will identify approaches to improve decision-making in the face of multiple objectives and opposing risk tolerances. This work builds on ongoing work; we have already framed the decision related to a possible <i>Bsal</i> invasion with three National Wildlife Refuge managers in the northeastern United States (a hotspot for <i>Bsal</i> risk). We will use simulations, modeling, and optimization techniques to identify optimal actions when there are multiple objectives and opposing risks. We will generate user-friendly visualization tools intended to support risk reduction. We anticipate that our approach and framework can be modified and used for future decisions on human well-being and society related to emerging infectious diseases (and other hazards). Therefore, we foresee that our approach and framework will help better understand, predict, and communicate the tradeoffs decision-makers are forced to make in the face of uncertainty.
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Evaluating the impact of management and stressors on at-risk species in Pine Barrens
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September 2025
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Mandated by the Sikes Act of 1960, natural resource managers work to manage the habitats and wildlife that are found on military installations in the United States and Territories. At Camp Edwards Military Training Reservation (hereby abbreviated to Camp Edwards), Bourne, MA, such wildlife includes the state-protected eastern box turtle (<i>Terrapene carolina carolina</i>) and the declining prairie warbler (<i>Setophaga discolor</i>), which both occupy pine barrens. Therefore, we conducted a two-part project related to both of the preceding species listed.<br><br>In 2020, natural resource managers at Camp Edwards noticed that eastern box turtles were being infected by myiasis, where parasitic flesh flies larviposit into the living tissue of a host. The hypothesized parasite was <i>Dexosarcophaga cistudinis </i>(Aldrich); but its impacts on the host’s body condition, movement, and habitat use are unknown. Therefore, our objectives were to genetically identify the parasite at Camp Edwards, and to compare the body condition, movement, and habitat characteristics of myiasis infected and noninfected eastern box turtles. We radio-tracked 48 turtles weekly from May to August 2022 at Camp Edwards. Upon capture, we recorded turtle infection status, mass, carapace length, shell surface temperature, GPS location, and capture location habitat characteristics. We identified <i>D. cistudinis</i> as the parasite, but we did not find an effect of myiasis on body condition, habitat use, or average daily distance moved. However, myiasis infected turtles had a significantly higher shell temperature (27.92 ± 5.28 °C) than noninfected turtles (26.77 ± 5.64 °C). Collectively, our results suggest that infected turtles may exhibit behavioral fever in response to myiasis, but there was no observed change in body condition or habitat use during a single field season.<br><br>Next, we investigate prairie warblers, and although prairie warblers are declining throughout their range, prairie warbler abundance has increased at Camp Edwards from 2013 – 2022, where point count estimates show a positive trend. During this same time period, there was increased forest thinning and prescribed fire activities at Camp Edwards. Therefore, to investigate habitat management effects on prairie warbler populations, we used a long-term monitoring dataset from 2013-2022. Using a dynamic occupancy model, we estimated colonization, extinction, and detection probabilities. Colonization probability significantly decreased for 25 years since disturbance (YSD). Latitude and longitude significantly affected colonization probability because of where management projects are concentrated. Extinction probability significantly decreased as YSD increased, presumably because fewer occupied sites in older forests could ‘become extinct.’ Observation year significantly affected detection probability. Our results inform how prairie warblers respond to long-term management. Continued habitat management could improve colonization rates and sustain prairie warbler populations.
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Eastern box turtles (<i>Terrapene carolina carolina</i>) are listed under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act as a species of special concern. This species occurs in Pine Barren habitats, where many other species are listed as species of special concern at the state and federal levels. We are currently developing a research study to assess the population dynamics of the eastern box turtle at Joint Base Cape Cod. We aim to explore the effects of a parasitic fly larva on box turtle home range, survival, dispersal, and habitat selection. We will collect radio telemetry data during the summer of 2022, and we will monitor their behavior and/or distribution in comparison to records kept prior to prescribed fire implementation and parasitic larval infestation. The results of this study will be used to inform the upcoming federal listing decisions of species that inhabit Pine barrens habitats by the USFWS.We also aim to evaluate the effect of management action on Prairie Warbler occupancy across Camp Edwards.
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Using parentage analysis to investigate the spawning and recruitment dynamics of walleye in Northern Wisconsin
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June 2022
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Walleye have undergone substantial recruitment declines in the upper Midwest, but finding casual mechanisms for these declines has remained illusive. We will use genetic techniques to reconstruct pedigrees for walleye in an attempt to investigate walleye spawning biology and recruitment. This project is a collaboration between USGS and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The results will be used to guide future fishing regulations and to develop conservation plans that protect important habitat features.
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Walleye have undergone substantial recruitment declines in the upper Midwest, but finding casual mechanisms for these declines has remained illusive. We will use genetic techniques to reconstruct pedigrees for walleye in an attempt to investigate walleye spawning biology and recruitment. This project is a collaboration between USGS and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The results will be used to guide future fishing regulations and to develop conservation plans that protect important habitat features.
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Development, validation, and implementation of a survey protocol to evaluate distributions and habitat associations of whip-poor-will and other Oklahoma nightjars
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June 2025
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Birds that are aerial insectivores, including nightjars (family Caprimulgidae), are experiencing steep population declines across North America. The Whip-poor-will, which has declined by 69% since 1970, is an Oklahoma Species of Greatest Conservation Need that occurs in several Very High and High Priority Conservation Landscapes in the Ozarks and Ouachita Mountains Regions. Yet, the Whip-poor-will’s population status and habitat associations are unknown in Oklahoma, largely due to the challenge of monitoring this and other nocturnal nightjar species. This project will increase information about Whip-poor-will and other Oklahoma nightjars through the development, validation, and implementation of a survey protocol that can be used in the future by ODWC to evaluate nightjar distributions and trends. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. This project will substantially increase knowledge about Whip-poor-will and other nightjars in Oklahoma, providing a baseline for monitoring future changes in population status, and benefiting rangewide conservation efforts to recover the Whip-poor-will’s North American population.
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Birds that are aerial insectivores, including nightjars (family Caprimulgidae), are experiencing steep population declines across North America. The Whip-poor-will, which has declined by 69% since 1970, is an Oklahoma Species of Greatest Conservation Need that occurs in several Very High and High Priority Conservation Landscapes in the Ozarks and Ouachita Mountains Regions. Yet, the Whip-poor-will’s population status and habitat associations are unknown in Oklahoma, largely due to the challenge of monitoring this and other nocturnal nightjar species. This project will increase information about Whip-poor-will and other Oklahoma nightjars through the development, validation, and implementation of a survey protocol that can be used in the future by ODWC to evaluate nightjar distributions and trends. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. This project will substantially increase knowledge about Whip-poor-will and other nightjars in Oklahoma, providing a baseline for monitoring future changes in population status, and benefiting rangewide conservation efforts to recover the Whip-poor-will’s North American population.
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Bird conservation prioritization in the SE US
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June 2022
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We are working with the USFWS to develop a prioritization paradigm for for allocating time and money to bird conservation efforts in the South Eastern US.
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We are working with the USFWS to develop a prioritization paradigm for for allocating time and money to bird conservation efforts in the South Eastern US.
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Movements and population demography of pronghorn in western Oklahoma
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June 2026
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The pronghorn (<i>Antilocapra americana</i>) is a popular big game species in Oklahoma and a conservation success story across the American West. However, pronghorn populations in Oklahoma are currently restricted to the panhandle region, which is typically characterized by extreme weather events, high variability in resource availability, and an increasing influence of anthropogenic activities associated with agricultural operations and energy infrastructure. Recent apparent population declines and suspected low recruitment have prompted questions regarding causes of decline. This research will estimate pronghorn survival and cause-specific mortality, fecundity and recruitment rates, and movement patterns. This project also leverages historical survey data collected by ODWC to evaluate population trends and growth rate. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, East Central University, Texas A&M Kingsville, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The combined information from this research will assist ODWC in managing pronghorn by providing specific recommendations related to monitoring, harvest, and habitat management.
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The pronghorn (<i>Antilocapra americana</i>) is a popular big game species in Oklahoma and a conservation success story across the American West. However, pronghorn populations in Oklahoma are currently restricted to the panhandle region, which is typically characterized by extreme weather events, high variability in resource availability, and an increasing influence of anthropogenic activities associated with agricultural operations and energy infrastructure. Recent apparent population declines and suspected low recruitment have prompted questions regarding causes of decline. This research will estimate pronghorn survival and cause-specific mortality, fecundity and recruitment rates, and movement patterns. This project also leverages historical survey data collected by ODWC to evaluate population trends and growth rate. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, East Central University, Texas A&M Kingsville, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The combined information from this research will assist ODWC in managing pronghorn by providing specific recommendations related to monitoring, harvest, and habitat management.
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Evaluating the population status of black bears in the Oklahoma Panhandle
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June 2024
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The American black bear (<i>Ursus americanus</i>) is an economically and ecologically important game species of management interest across its distribution. Western Oklahoma has seen an increase in black bear observations and bear-human conflict reports. It is unclear if bears occurring in the Oklahoma panhandle constitute a resident population or transient individuals dispersing from neighboring states. To effectively manage bears in western Oklahoma and minimize or mitigate bear-human conflicts, managers require reliable information on the distribution, abundance, and origin of bears in the region. The objectives of this study are to (1) identify factors influencing black bear detection, evaluate black bear space use, and identify factors associated with black bear occurrence, (2) estimate the number and sex ratio of black bears, and (3) assess connectivity of black bears in the Oklahoma panhandle with populations in New Mexico and Colorado. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
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The American black bear (<i>Ursus americanus</i>) is an economically and ecologically important game species of management interest across its distribution. Western Oklahoma has seen an increase in black bear observations and bear-human conflict reports. It is unclear if bears occurring in the Oklahoma panhandle constitute a resident population or transient individuals dispersing from neighboring states. To effectively manage bears in western Oklahoma and minimize or mitigate bear-human conflicts, managers require reliable information on the distribution, abundance, and origin of bears in the region. The objectives of this study are to (1) identify factors influencing black bear detection, evaluate black bear space use, and identify factors associated with black bear occurrence, (2) estimate the number and sex ratio of black bears, and (3) assess connectivity of black bears in the Oklahoma panhandle with populations in New Mexico and Colorado. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
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Evaluating patterns of occurrence for native and nonnative mammals
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May 2024
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The spatial distribution of species is of primary interest to ecologists and resource managers. Patterns of species occurrence are influenced by combinations of bottom-up, top-down, and parallel (e.g., competition) processes, but the relative importance of these processes may be influenced by trophic level, landscapes of fear, and habitat degradation or disturbance. Thus, effective management and conservation of wildlife populations requires information on processes driving patterns of co-occurrence among species. In the southern United States, invasive feral swine (<i>Sus scofa</i>; hereafter, wild pigs) have had significant impacts on natural resource management. Wild pigs alter vegetation, water quality, and soil characteristics through rooting behaviors and, consequently, have been referred to as ecosystem engineers that may influence habitat quality for native wildlife. Studies evaluating the direct and indirect impacts of wild pigs have focused largely on their influence on vegetation, ground nesting birds, and island endemics. Pervasive disturbance by wild pigs may influence native mammal diversity and patterns of occurrence. Our project objectives are to evaluate patterns of wild pig space use and factors influencing use and investigate the influence of wild pig space use on native mammal communities. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The results of this study will be used to inform natural resource management within the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge.
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The spatial distribution of species is of primary interest to ecologists and resource managers. Patterns of species occurrence are influenced by combinations of bottom-up, top-down, and parallel (e.g., competition) processes, but the relative importance of these processes may be influenced by trophic level, landscapes of fear, and habitat degradation or disturbance. Thus, effective management and conservation of wildlife populations requires information on processes driving patterns of co-occurrence among species. In the southern United States, invasive feral swine (<i>Sus scofa</i>; hereafter, wild pigs) have had significant impacts on natural resource management. Wild pigs alter vegetation, water quality, and soil characteristics through rooting behaviors and, consequently, have been referred to as ecosystem engineers that may influence habitat quality for native wildlife. Studies evaluating the direct and indirect impacts of wild pigs have focused largely on their influence on vegetation, ground nesting birds, and island endemics. Pervasive disturbance by wild pigs may influence native mammal diversity and patterns of occurrence. Our project objectives are to evaluate patterns of wild pig space use and factors influencing use and investigate the influence of wild pig space use on native mammal communities. This research is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma State University, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The results of this study will be used to inform natural resource management within the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge.
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Assessment of factors affecting female black bear harvest rates in northcentral Pennsylvania
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May 2023
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In the 1970s, Pennsylvania’s black bear population contained approximately 3,500 bears and was restricted to the northern regions of the state. From 1980–2000, bear numbers increased to an estimated 15,000 bears distributed over more than half of the state. Human-bear conflicts increased as bears became more abundant and expanded their range. Since 2002, harvest management of bears had aimed to stabilize bear population growth. However, harvest has not achieved desired goals. As a results, additional seasons and extended season lengths were implemented in 2019. Our objectives are to understand how changes to the bear harvest seasons impact female bear space use, survival, and harvest risk. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The results will be used to inform harvest management to ensure sustainable harvest and healthy bear populations.
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In the 1970s, Pennsylvania’s black bear population contained approximately 3,500 bears and was restricted to the northern regions of the state. From 1980–2000, bear numbers increased to an estimated 15,000 bears distributed over more than half of the state. Human-bear conflicts increased as bears became more abundant and expanded their range. Since 2002, harvest management of bears had aimed to stabilize bear population growth. However, harvest has not achieved desired goals. As a results, additional seasons and extended season lengths were implemented in 2019. Our objectives are to understand how changes to the bear harvest seasons impact female bear space use, survival, and harvest risk. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The results will be used to inform harvest management to ensure sustainable harvest and healthy bear populations.
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Distribution, habitat selection, and survival of plains spotted skunks in South Dakota
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June 2024
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The plains spotted skunk (<i>Spilogale interrupta</i>), is a recently recognized species and has been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Long-term harvest trends, and anecdotal evidence, suggest widespread population declines of spotted skunks across their range with notable declines in the Great Plains region Although a mechanistic driver of these declines has not been identified, current hypotheses attribute habitat loss (via agricultural production), intraguild competition, and disease as major factors. Key gaps in in knowledge for plains spotted skunks highlight the critical need for research into their population demographics. Our project objectives are to delineate the distribution of plains spotted skunks in South Dakota, quantify ecological and biological correlates with habitat selection by plains spotted skunks, and estimate survival rates of plains spotted skunks in South Dakota. Our study is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units, South Dakota State University, and the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks.
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The plains spotted skunk (<i>Spilogale interrupta</i>), is a recently recognized species and has been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Long-term harvest trends, and anecdotal evidence, suggest widespread population declines of spotted skunks across their range with notable declines in the Great Plains region Although a mechanistic driver of these declines has not been identified, current hypotheses attribute habitat loss (via agricultural production), intraguild competition, and disease as major factors. Key gaps in in knowledge for plains spotted skunks highlight the critical need for research into their population demographics. Our project objectives are to delineate the distribution of plains spotted skunks in South Dakota, quantify ecological and biological correlates with habitat selection by plains spotted skunks, and estimate survival rates of plains spotted skunks in South Dakota. Our study is a collaboration between the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units, South Dakota State University, and the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks.
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Developing modeling tools and frameworks for oyster management and restoration
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January 2026
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Management and restoration of economically and ecologically important oyster resources across the Gulf of Mexico requires integration of water quality, oyster physiology and performance data. This project works with state and federal management agencies to analyze existing data and project outcomes, and to integrate current understanding of oyster performance in order to development geospatial management tools to inform management.
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<b>Management and restoration of economically and ecologically important oyster resources across the Gulf of Mexico requires integration of water quality, oyster physiology and performance data. This project works with state and federal management agencies to analyze existing data and project outcomes, and to integrate current understanding of oyster performance in order to development geospatial management tools to inform management. </b>
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Bioacoustics for broad-scale species monitoring and conservation
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December 2024
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It is difficult to monitor many wildlife species over broad geographic areas, and such monitoring efforts are generally labor intensive and expensive. However, at regional and larger scales, information on species of conservation concern is necessary to make informed management decisions. With funding from the Minnesota Environmental Trust Fund, we are evaluating the usefulness of passive bioacoustic monitoring to assess distribution and abundance of red-headed woodpeckers, and other bird species of conservation concern, to inform conservation by providing an efficient means of monitoring across a broad geographic region.
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It is difficult to monitor many wildlife species over broad geographic areas, and such monitoring efforts are generally labor intensive and expensive. However, at regional and larger scales, information on species of conservation concern is necessary to make informed management decisions. With funding from the Minnesota Environmental Trust Fund, we are evaluating the usefulness of passive bioacoustic monitoring to assess distribution and abundance of red-headed woodpeckers, and other bird species of conservation concern, to inform conservation by providing an efficient means of monitoring across a broad geographic region.
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Using conservation genomics, morphometrics, and occupancy modeling to support Species Status Assessments of rivulet crayfishes (Hobbseus spp.)
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September 2025
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Mississippi supports one of the highest concentrations of crayfish biodiversity on Earth (65 species native to MS). Four of these species have been petitioned for review under the Endangered Species Act, but these species’ taxonomy is unresolved, and there is limited information on their distributions and abundance. We will conduct a range-wide survey of these crayfishes throughout eastern Mississippi while collecting genetic and morphological data to help resolve species distributions and taxonomy. This research is highly collaborative and involves the USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State University, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, and University of Mississippi. By clarifying the species’ taxonomy and distributions, this project will help the USFWS determine the condition of these crayfish species before their official review in 2024.
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Mississippi supports one of the highest concentrations of crayfish biodiversity on Earth (65 species native to MS). Four of these species have been petitioned for review under the Endangered Species Act, but these species’ taxonomy is unresolved, and there is limited information on their distributions and abundance. We will conduct a range-wide survey of these crayfishes throughout eastern Mississippi while collecting genetic and morphological data to help resolve species distributions and taxonomy. This research is highly collaborative and involves the USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State University, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, and University of Mississippi. By clarifying the species’ taxonomy and distributions, this project will help the USFWS determine the condition of these crayfish species before their official review in 2024.
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Development of quantitative tools to support Species Status Assessments of freshwater mussels
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September 2024
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Over 70% of US freshwater mussels are potentially imperiled, with many of those being in the Southeastern US. Dozens of these species have been petitioned for review under the Endangered Species Act, but there currently is not a consistent approach for calculating species condition for data-deficient species, including many freshwater mussels. Therefore, we are developing a quantitative approach for calculating species condition that will be generalizable to multiple freshwater mussel species. This research is a collaboration among Mississippi State University, USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and biologists with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The end product is a management-support tool that will help USFWS more rapidly and consistently evaluate resiliency, redundancy, and representation of freshwater mussels in the Southeastern US.
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Over 70% of US freshwater mussels are potentially imperiled, with many of those being in the Southeastern US. Dozens of these species have been petitioned for review under the Endangered Species Act, but there currently is not a consistent approach for calculating species condition for data-deficient species, including many freshwater mussels. Therefore, we are developing a quantitative approach for calculating species condition that will be generalizable to multiple freshwater mussel species. This research is a collaboration among Mississippi State University, USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and biologists with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The end product is a management-support tool that will help USFWS more rapidly and consistently evaluate resiliency, redundancy, and representation of freshwater mussels in the Southeastern US.
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Vulnerability of reservoirs to climate change
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July 2025
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The goal of this project is to develop an index that can provide managers answers to questions such as what types of reservoirs are most likely to be affected by climate change. The index can reveal which reservoirs may be at risk of habitat decline, which are high priorities for management to sustain desired fish assemblages, and which may serve as climate change refugia. Understanding what in-lake or off-lake habitat traits make certain reservoirs more vulnerable than others provides a basis for developing appropriate adaptation measures for specific reservoirs and regions.
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Integrating Conservation Planning Tools to Develop a Transparent Conservation Blueprint for Southeastern Aquatic Species
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August 2022
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Dozens of freshwater fishes will undergo formal Species Status Assessments under the Endangered Species Act over the next decade. However, most freshwater fishes are data-deficient, which creates uncertainty when evaluating species’ status. Therefore, we are developing an analytical framework and easy-to-use tools that integrate available data on species’ life history, distributions, and population trends for petitioned species. This work is a collaboration among Mississippi State University, USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and biologists with the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This decision-support tool will help the USFWS structure available information on petitioned fishes, thereby leading to more transparent, quantitative, and reproducible status assessments.
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Dozens of freshwater fishes will undergo formal Species Status Assessments under the Endangered Species Act over the next decade. However, most freshwater fishes are data-deficient, which creates uncertainty when evaluating species’ status. Therefore, we are developing an analytical framework and easy-to-use tools that integrate available data on species’ life history, distributions, and population trends for petitioned species. This work is a collaboration among Mississippi State University, USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and biologists with the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This decision-support tool will help the USFWS structure available information on petitioned fishes, thereby leading to more transparent, quantitative, and reproducible status assessments.
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Wild Turkey Harvest Management Decision Making
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June 2026
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Fall and spring turkey hunting is popular in Pennsylvania, but the fall harvest is dominated by females and poults, which may reduce reproductive output of the population the following spring. Therefore, maximizing fall hunting opportunity has the potential to negatively affect spring harvests. Turkey research on the effect of fall hunting seasons, along with population modeling, has suggested that careful regulation of fall hunting seasons is necessary to ensure sufficient reproductive output the following spring and prevent the fall harvest from negatively affecting spring harvest via reduced turkey abundance.<br>Identifying an optimal fall harvest strategy, however, has been difficult because turkey population dynamics are highly variable because of the effect of spring weather conditions on reproduction and mast abundance on fall harvest rates. Identifying an optimal fall harvest strategy requires estimates of fall population size with measures of uncertainty, because the harvest strategy depends on the size of the population and how certain we are that the estimate is a good representation of the population.<br>An integrated population model (IPM) has been developed to estimate turkey population size by WMU, which requires band-recovery data of males, spring and fall harvest estimates by sex-age class (Game Take Survey and report cards), and reproductive rates (summer sighting survey). The IPM has been demonstrated to provide population estimates as well as derive important parameters that aren’t monitored with data (e.g., fall harvest rates of females and poults). However, the IPM has only been implemented in a spreadsheet to show proof of concept. Developing the IPM in a Bayesian framework using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods provides multiple advantages: 1) the IPM will provide measures of precision of estimated population parameters, 2) the model can be directly integrated with databases managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC), and 3) the model can evaluate the effects of different levels of sampling effort (e.g., how increasing the number of turkeys leg banded affects precision of population estimates).
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Fall and spring turkey hunting is popular in Pennsylvania, but the fall harvest is dominated by females and poults, which may reduce reproductive output of the population the following spring. Therefore, maximizing fall hunting opportunity has the potential to negatively affect spring harvests. Turkey research on the effect of fall hunting seasons, along with population modeling, has suggested that careful regulation of fall hunting seasons is necessary to ensure sufficient reproductive output the following spring and prevent the fall harvest from negatively affecting spring harvest via reduced turkey abundance.Identifying an optimal fall harvest strategy, however, has been difficult because turkey population dynamics are highly variable because of the effect of spring weather conditions on reproduction and mast abundance on fall harvest rates. Identifying an optimal fall harvest strategy requires estimates of fall population size with measures of uncertainty, because the harvest strategy depends on the size of the population and how certain we are that the estimate is a good representation of the population.An integrated population model (IPM) has been developed to estimate turkey population size by WMU, which requires band-recovery data of males, spring and fall harvest estimates by sex-age class (Game Take Survey and report cards), and reproductive rates (summer sighting survey). The IPM has been demonstrated to provide population estimates as well as derive important parameters that aren’t monitored with data (e.g., fall harvest rates of females and poults). However, the IPM has only been implemented in a spreadsheet to show proof of concept. Developing the IPM in a Bayesian framework using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods provides multiple advantages: 1) the IPM will provide measures of precision of estimated population parameters, 2) the model can be directly integrated with databases managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC), and 3) the model can evaluate the effects of different levels of sampling effort (e.g., how increasing the number of turkeys leg banded affects precision of population estimates).
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Assessment of angler satisfaction in the mainstem Missouri River, Nebraska
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December 2023
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Satisfaction, an attitude-like judgment of an event based on pre-event expectations, of recreational participants is important to natural resource managers. A growing concern throughout freshwater ecosystems in North America is the negative effects of aquatic invasive species on water-based recreational activities. However, positive effects of aquatic invasive species to on water-based recreational activities are possible.<br><br>The American paddlefish is a popular target among fishers on the Missouri River, which has thriving populations of bighead carp and silver carp (collectively referred to as “bigheaded carp”). Bigheaded carp, native to Asia, are invasive species in North America. It is likely that multiple ecological and sociological factors contribute to satisfaction of fishers targeting American paddlefish in the Missouri River.<br><br>To understand the influence of bigheaded carp on paddlefish-fishers’ satisfactions, we are quantifying fishers’ expectations and outcomes during archery and snagging seasons on two temporal scales—day and season. Our <i>a priori </i>prediction was that the presence of bigheaded carp would positively influence satisfactions of fishers during archery season (by providing additional opportunities to shoot fish) and negatively influence satisfactions of fishers during snagging season (by increasing work, via bycatch of bigheaded carp, required to harvest an American paddlefish). Preliminary results are somewhat consistent with our prediction. The presence of bigheaded carp did enhance satisfactions of fishers during archer season, but did not diminish satisfactions of fishers during snagging season.
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Abundances of invasive carps (Bighead Carp, Silver Carp) have steadily increased during the past several decades in a reach of the Missouri River below Gavins Point Dam, anecdotally negatively affecting anglers’ satisfaction. As important sources of revenue, anglers’ opinions and satisfactions matter to natural resources agencies. A multipronged approach ((in-person creel surveys, mail surveys) to quantify anglers’ expectations as a basis for understanding stated satisfactions. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. Data and information will be gather that will aid in management and future regulations of paddlefish in this reach of the Missouri River.
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Monitoring Tufted Puffins in the United States
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December 2023
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The Tufted Puffin – a seabird of the North Pacific Rim – has evinced steep declines off the west coast of the continental United States in recent years, but it is less clear that the species is declining in the northern portion of its range. Therefore, while the species’ range appears to be contracting, the overall trends in abundance are less clear. Lack of a coordinated monitoring plan across the range reduces the ability to make robust inference about trends and to investigate dynamics that may be driving changes in abundance and distribution. We are partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the University of Puget Sound to develop a monitoring program for the Tufted Puffin in five large marine ecosystems (LME; California Current, Gulf of Alaska, Aleutian Islands, East Bering Sea, North Bering - Chukchi Seas) that considers local sampling situations, and is designed to identify monitoring methods that will allow for robust inference across and within these five LMEs. The project output will be a detailed monitoring strategy for Tufted Puffin that can be implemented by partners across the range in California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and Alaska.
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The Tufted Puffin – a seabird of the North Pacific Rim – has evinced steep declines off the west coast of the continental United States in recent years, but it is less clear that the species is declining in the northern portion of its range. Therefore, while the species’ range appears to be contracting, the overall trends in abundance are less clear. Lack of a coordinated monitoring plan across the range reduces the ability to make robust inference about trends and to investigate dynamics that may be driving changes in abundance and distribution. We are partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the University of Puget Sound to develop a monitoring program for the Tufted Puffin in five large marine ecosystems (LME; California Current, Gulf of Alaska, Aleutian Islands, East Bering Sea, North Bering - Chukchi Seas) that considers local sampling situations, and is designed to identify monitoring methods that will allow for robust inference across and within these five LMEs. The project output will be a detailed monitoring strategy for Tufted Puffin that can be implemented by partners across the range in California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and Alaska.
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Improving our tools for combating invasive species
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September 2024
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Freshwater ecosystems provide a range of important values in the Pacific Northwest, and invasive species represent key threats to those values. Management of invasive species requires managers to effectively allocate limited resources to suppression or eradication, requiring robust information about invasive population structure, distribution, and rate of spread, as well as the efficacy of control actions. Data integration is a powerful statistical approach that is rapidly developing in both theory and application, wherein multiple data streams are brought together through a shared data likelihood. There is a critical need for data integration methods designed to make the best use of available, but often highly variable, data on invasive species for use in effective management models. We are partnering with the USFWS Columbia Pacific Northwest and Pacific Islands Regions, and the University of Washington, to develop broadly applicable data integration and modeling approaches for invasive species, with a focus on two high priority species in the Pacific Northwest: flowering rush (<i>Butomus umbellatus</i>) and rusty crayfish (<i>Faxonius rusticus</i>). This project will inform joint monitoring and management programs for these species, and similar invasive species, in the Pacific Northwest, nationally, and beyond.
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Freshwater ecosystems provide a range of important values in the Pacific Northwest, and invasive species represent key threats to those values. Management of invasive species requires managers to effectively allocate limited resources to suppression or eradication, requiring robust information about invasive population structure, distribution, and rate of spread, as well as the efficacy of control actions. Data integration is a powerful statistical approach that is rapidly developing in both theory and application, wherein multiple data streams are brought together through a shared data likelihood. There is a critical need for data integration methods designed to make the best use of available, but often highly variable, data on invasive species for use in effective management models. We are partnering with the USFWS Columbia Pacific Northwest and Pacific Islands Regions, and the University of Washington, to develop broadly applicable data integration and modeling approaches for invasive species, with a focus on two high priority species in the Pacific Northwest: flowering rush (<i>Butomus umbellatus</i>) and rusty crayfish (<i>Faxonius rusticus</i>). This project will inform joint monitoring and management programs for these species, and similar invasive species, in the Pacific Northwest, nationally, and beyond.
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Landscape Genetics of white-tailed deer in Minnesota
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September 2022
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Minnesota’s CWD infection appears to be in a relatively early stage of development. This provides hope that an effective control strategy might protect the state’s white-tailed deer resource. This project will leverage existing MNDNR plans and infrastructure to control occurrence and distribution of CWD in Minnesota utilizing targeted removal of deer groups at locations where CWD positive deer have been found. The intent of the proposed work is to use agency culling as a fine-scale management tool to increase the likelihood of removing additional CWD positive animals from the affected landscape, reduce deer density around locations of CWD positive animals, and use genetic information from sampled deer to better understand social network structure of deer most likely exposed to CWD. Understanding familial relationship of culled deer will assist in understanding if related individual deer are being remove at designated removal sites.
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<b>Problem Statement:</b> Social structure and the interactions among groups of conspecific individuals are important when considering the dynamics of disease transmission and potential means of disease management. White-tailed deer are known to associate in relatively stable matrilineal or dominant-female groups and female white-tailed deer generally associate more closely with relatives than with nonrelatives.<b>Why it matters: </b>We can bring this collective genetic information together by determining both haplotypes and pairwise relatedness in order to quantify social group membership at a fine spatial scale. More specifically we can quantify the numbers of close relatives of CWD positive deer removed from culling efforts and haplotype diversity among known CWD-infected deer.<b>Partners:</b>Dr. Christopher Jennelle, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Forest Lake, MN 55025<b>How it will be used:</b> These statistics can be used as a baseline for creating an index of the ability of agency culling efforts to remove high-risk social groups in a given spatial location. Another potential management application is to track this type of information for all deer harvested in close spatial proximity to CWD-positive detections to quantify the degree to which CWD exposed matrilines (a broader-scale proxy for infected social groups) are being removed from fine spatial scale locations.
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Climate change impacts to gopher tortoise demography
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July 2023
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Conserving threatened and endangered species (TES) on Department of Defense (DoD) installations, without sacrificing vital military objectives, is necessarily a complex balancing act. A changing climate only intensifies these challenges, as habitat protection and restoration initiatives must rigorously account for new risks and uncertainties. Reliance on standard habitat models for performing climate vulnerability assessments may overestimate the risk from climate change because most TES assessments place more focus on the nature and magnitude of exposure to change than species’ adaptive capacity to change. To overcome these shortfalls, this project advances the concept of critical habitat breadth as the foundation for a new generation of rigorous TES conservation planning and vulnerability assessment tools. This concept, defined as the full range of environmental conditions capable of harboring viable populations, represents a novel operationalization of the niche concept in ecology. <i>Gopherus</i> tortoises provide an excellent model system for developing and applying the concept of critical habitat breadth because their populations have been extensively studied, many occupied habitats exhibit steep environmental gradients, and many prior translocations have been conducted (“common garden” experiments which enable investigation into the inherent ability of individuals to acclimate to novel environments). This project hypothesizes that <i>Gopherus</i> tortoise populations (<i>G. agassizii</i> and <i>G. polyphemus</i>) are resilient to a wider range of environmental changes than previous research suggests. The research objectives are to (1) understand the complex pathways through which environmental conditions influence population vital rates for two <i>Gopherus </i>species, (2) use this information to derive population growth rates, assess viability, and quantify critical habitat breadth for these species, and (3) develop a conservation planning tool that applies the critical habitat breadth concept to aid DoD installation managers in protecting <i>Gopherus</i> metapopulations and planning for an uncertain future.
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Conserving threatened and endangered species (TES) on Department of Defense (DoD) installations, without sacrificing vital military objectives, is necessarily a complex balancing act. A changing climate only intensifies these challenges, as habitat protection and restoration initiatives must rigorously account for new risks and uncertainties. Reliance on standard habitat models for performing climate vulnerability assessments may overestimate the risk from climate change because most TES assessments place more focus on the nature and magnitude of exposure to change than species’ adaptive capacity to change. To overcome these shortfalls, this project advances the concept of critical habitat breadth as the foundation for a new generation of rigorous TES conservation planning and vulnerability assessment tools. This concept, defined as the full range of environmental conditions capable of harboring viable populations, represents a novel operationalization of the niche concept in ecology. <i>Gopherus</i> tortoises provide an excellent model system for developing and applying the concept of critical habitat breadth because their populations have been extensively studied, many occupied habitats exhibit steep environmental gradients, and many prior translocations have been conducted (“common garden” experiments which enable investigation into the inherent ability of individuals to acclimate to novel environments). This project hypothesizes that <i>Gopherus</i> tortoise populations (<i>G. agassizii</i> and <i>G. polyphemus</i>) are resilient to a wider range of environmental changes than previous research suggests. The research objectives are to (1) understand the complex pathways through which environmental conditions influence population vital rates for two <i>Gopherus </i>species, (2) use this information to derive population growth rates, assess viability, and quantify critical habitat breadth for these species, and (3) develop a conservation planning tool that applies the critical habitat breadth concept to aid DoD installation managers in protecting <i>Gopherus</i> metapopulations and planning for an uncertain future.
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Marsh bird conservation on the Atlantic Shore in the face of sea level rise
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June 2026
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Sea level rise will impact marsh birds' habitats through loss and degradation, as well as having direct impacts on population dynamics through impacts to nesting. Conserving species in the face of these threats requires ecological understanding of the impacts as well as multi-disciplinary collaboration to come up with solutions. We are studying species such as Saltmarsh Sparrows, Seaside Sparrows, and Clapper Rails, as well as using remote sensing technology and social science to understand the threats to species' habitats and potential management actions.
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Sea level rise will impact marsh birds' habitats through loss and degradation, as well as having direct impacts on population dynamics through impacts to nesting. Conserving species in the face of these threats requires ecological understanding of the impacts as well as multi-disciplinary collaboration to come up with solutions. We are studying species such as Saltmarsh Sparrows, Seaside Sparrows, and Clapper Rails, as well as using remote sensing technology and social science to understand the threats to species' habitats and potential management actions.
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Distribution, habitat affiliation, and abundance of the Ringed Salamander in Oklahoma
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July 2023
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The fall-breeding Ringed Salamander (<i>Ambystoma annulatum</i>) is found in limited distribution in Oklahoma, but little is known about its full geographic distribution, abundance, and natural history. Working collaboratively with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, this project is using past museum records and documented observations to sample for Ringed Salamanders in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Results to date have far-exceeded expectations by capturing more than 1,000 individuals and the discovery of nearly 20 newly documented breeding ponds. Mark-recapture techniques are being used to quantify movements, site fidelity, and population size and the utility of environmental DNA (eDNA) is being examined as a new sampling tool. Results from this study will further conservation of these unique amphibians in the state.
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The fall-breeding Ringed Salamander (<i>Ambystoma annulatum</i>) is found in limited distribution in Oklahoma, but little is known about its full geographic distribution, abundance, and natural history. Working collaboratively with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, this project is using past museum records and documented observations to sample for Ringed Salamanders in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Results to date have far-exceeded expectations by capturing more than 1,000 individuals and the discovery of nearly 20 newly documented breeding ponds. Mark-recapture techniques are being used to quantify movements, site fidelity, and population size and the utility of environmental DNA (eDNA) is being examined as a new sampling tool. Results from this study will further conservation of these unique amphibians in the state.
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Quail ecology and management II
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June 2022
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Northern Bobwhite (<i>Colinus virginianus</i>) populations have declines considerably throughout most of their distribution over the last 40-50 years. In Oklahoma, bobwhite are economically important game birds that contributes to local economies. Multiple factors have been implicated in bobwhite declines and this project is working with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation biologists to assess the role that harvest, abundance, shrub cover, and long-distance movement may play in regulating bobwhite populations. Results from this study will assist ODWC develop an effective and impactful conservation plan throughout the state.
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Northern Bobwhite (<i>Colinus virginianus</i>) populations have declines considerably throughout most of their distribution over the last 40-50 years. In Oklahoma, bobwhite are economically important game birds that contributes to local economies. Multiple factors have been implicated in bobwhite declines and this project is working with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation biologists to assess the role that harvest, abundance, shrub cover, and long-distance movement may play in regulating bobwhite populations. Results from this study will assist ODWC develop an effective and impactful conservation plan throughout the state.
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Visitor's characteristics and economic attributes of WMAs in Oklahoma
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June 2022
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Provision of public recreation lands such as Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) involves economic costs in terms of acquisition, protection, and maintenance. While these costs are readily quantifiable, public benefits provided by WMAs are difficult to monetize. Working with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, this project is estimating the economic impacts and economic value of WMAs. Quantification of these values will allow for comparison to the types of competing uses of public lands.
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Provision of public recreation lands such as Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) involves economic costs in terms of acquisition, protection, and maintenance. While these costs are readily quantifiable, public benefits provided by WMAs are difficult to monetize. Working with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, this project is estimating the economic impacts and economic value of WMAs. Quantification of these values will allow for comparison to the types of competing uses of public lands.
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Status and trends in bobcat populations
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June 2022
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Bobcat (<i>Lynx rufus</i>) are one of the most harvested furbearers in Oklahoma and can represent a significant source of additional income for trappers. Despite this, their secretive nature and their widespread distribution inhibits monitoring. This project is in collaboration with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma, and student chapters of The Wildlife Society to assess trends and estimate abundance of bobcats in several areas of interest. This project will provide valuable data on bobcats and their prey that will help further their conservation in the state.
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Bobcat (<i>Lynx rufus</i>) are one of the most harvested furbearers in Oklahoma and can represent a significant source of additional income for trappers. Despite this, their secretive nature and their widespread distribution inhibits monitoring. This project is in collaboration with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma, and student chapters of The Wildlife Society to assess trends and estimate abundance of bobcats in several areas of interest. This project will provide valuable data on bobcats and their prey that will help further their conservation in the state.
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Spatial ecology and expansion of recolonizing black bear populations in eastern Oklahoma
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December 2023
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Black bears (<i>Ursus americanus</i>) are recolonizing Oklahoma along the Ouachita Mountains in the southeastern part of the state and in the Ozark Plateau in the east-central part of the state. Moreover, bears are expanding from these recolonized core areas into other parts of the state. Working alongside biologists with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, this project is monitoring factors associated with black bear expansion into a more human-dominated landscape. Results from this research will aid management decisions especially as they relate to the potential for human-wildlife interactions.
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Black bears (<i>Ursus americanus</i>) are recolonizing Oklahoma along the Ouachita Mountains in the southeastern part of the state and in the Ozark Plateau in the east-central part of the state. Moreover, bears are expanding from these recolonized core areas into other parts of the state. Working alongside biologists with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, this project is monitoring factors associated with black bear expansion into a more human-dominated landscape. Results from this research will aid management decisions especially as they relate to the potential for human-wildlife interactions.
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Support of ODWC Fisheries Analysis Application
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June 2026
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Standardized data collection and maintenance is important for long-term management of fisheries populations. Dr. Dan Shoup and former graduate student Dray Carl worked with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation to develop a new database to support the collection, maintenance, and analysis of fisheries monitoring data within the R platform. This project supports Dr. Shoup's involvement with maintenance of the database along with creation of new functions. This database will be the standard for the state agency to further conservation of aquatic natural resources.
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Standardized data collection and maintenance is important for long-term management of fisheries populations. Dr. Dan Shoup and former graduate student Dray Carl worked with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation to develop a new database to support the collection, maintenance, and analysis of fisheries monitoring data within the R platform. This project supports Dr. Shoup's involvement with maintenance of the database along with creation of new functions. This database will be the standard for the state agency to further conservation of aquatic natural resources.
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Developing of a hydroacoustic protocol for sampling shad in Arkansas resevoirs
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March 2024
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Shad (<i>Dorosoma </i>spp). are the predominant forage support sportfish populations in southern reservoirs. This project is collaborating with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and using hydroacoustic sampling to determine best sampling approaches (transect design, hydroacoustic settings) for precisely estimating shad abundance. Results will be used to develop a sampling protocol and analysis tools, including R code and Echoview template files, to automate portions of the analysis.
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Shad (<i>Dorosoma </i>spp). are the predominant forage support sportfish populations in southern reservoirs. This project is collaborating with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and using hydroacoustic sampling to determine best sampling approaches (transect design, hydroacoustic settings) for precisely estimating shad abundance. Results will be used to develop a sampling protocol and analysis tools, including R code and Echoview template files, to automate portions of the analysis.
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Migration patterns and harvest rates of Striped Bass in the Arkansas River
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June 2022
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Striped Bass is an important game fish species in Oklahoma, especially in the Arkansas River system. This project will aid a larger effort in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation to assess migration patterns and harvest rates. These assessments will allow for better management of this species in this system.
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Striped Bass is an important game fish species in Oklahoma, especially in the Arkansas River system. This project will aid a larger effort in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation to assess migration patterns and harvest rates. These assessments will allow for better management of this species in this system.
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Native fish species distribution and population status in Goose Lake Basin, Oregon
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December 2026
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The Goose Lake Basin is a unique, endorheic desert valley straddling the Oregon-California border. The Basin drains into Goose Lake—a slightly alkaline body of water that goes completely dry during periods of severe drought (such as in 2015) and spills into the Pit River during rare high-flow events. This basin is home to several endemic fish species, including the Goose Lake redband trout, Goose Lake lamprey, Goose Lake tui chub, and Goose Lake sucker. These species, which inhabit the lake and surrounding rivers, marshes, and riparian zones, coexist with both native and non-native fish populations. Increased drought frequency and other climate-mediated stressors pose a serious threat for these species, potentially reducing habitat availability and quality for native species and placing further pressure on these vulnerable populations. The goal of this project is to support agency partners (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Lake County Umbrella Watershed Council) in conducting a comprehensive population assessment of at-risk native species within Oregon’s closed lakes basin ecosystems. By identifying the systems most at risk of population decline due to drought and other disturbances, such as invasive species, this research aims to provide critical insights into species vulnerability. This study is timely. Surveys of high desert basins in Oregon have been inconsistent for over a decade, leaving gaps in our understanding of population trends and ecosystem health. The updated abundance and distribution estimates will enable state and federal managers to make informed decisions regarding the status and management needs of these at-risk species. Additionally, population risk assessment will serve as a foundation for targeted management actions to help protect and sustain Oregon’s native desert fish species amidst mounting environmental challenges.
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The Goose Lake Basin is an endorheic desert valley that runs north-to-south on the border of Oregon and California. The Basin’s watersheds drain into Goose Lake—a slightly alkaline system that has historically dried up during severe drought years (e.g., 2015), and drains into the Pit River to the south during very high-flow years. There are several endemic fish species that occupy Goose Lake and its adjacent rivers, marshes, and riparian areas: the Goose Lake redband trout, Goose Lake lamprey, Goose Lake tui chub, and Goose Lake sucker. These endemic species coexist with a variety of native and non-native species. Because Goose Lake and its surrounding watershed are highly sensitive to drought conditions, an increased frequency of drought events in the region may limit the accessibility, quantity, and quality of available habitat for native fishes, thereby putting undue stress on vulnerable species. The goal of this project is to aid agency partners in conducting a population assessment for at-risk native species in Oregon’s closed lakes basin ecosystem and to determine which systems are most at risk of declining populations due to disturbances such as drought and invasive species. This research is timely because consistent surveys have not been conducted in many of Oregon’s high desert basins for more than a decade. Updated abundance and distribution estimates will inform state and federal managers as to the population status of at-risk native species, while the population risk assessment will support actionable management outcomes.
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TCU 441: Species distribution modeling and Native Fish Conservation Area prioritization to guide landscape level conservation (RWO 104)
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February 2025
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Freshwater fish species are highly imperiled organisms due to widespread alterations of freshwater habitats and flow regimes. Of 191 native freshwater fish in Texas, 48% are considered species of greatest conservation need (SGCN). Thus, integrated watershed scale conservation and management plans are needed to implement effective river conservation for multiple species simultaneously. The objectives of this project are to maximize conservation benefits using updated data and methods to: 1) Develop models to predict current species distributions and diversity, especially for SGCN, 2) Refine hierarchical spatial prioritization of Native Fish Conservation Areas by identifying areas of greatest conservation value with a focus on multi-species representation, and 3) Coordinate the use of supporting datasets and research products with conservation stakeholders. The project is a collaboration of agencies and scientists that includes Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the University of Texas, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Geological Survey Texas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Distribution models and spatial prioritization will be used to support and guide statewide conservation objectives and project planning within the Texas river conservation network.
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Freshwater fish species are highly imperiled organisms due to widespread alterations of freshwater habitats and flow regimes. Of 191 native freshwater fish in Texas, 48% are considered species of greatest conservation need (SGCN). Thus, integrated watershed scale conservation and management plans are needed to implement effective river conservation for multiple species simultaneously. The objectives of this project are to maximize conservation benefits using updated data and methods to: 1) Develop models to predict current species distributions and diversity, especially for SGCN, 2) Refine hierarchical spatial prioritization of Native Fish Conservation Areas by identifying areas of greatest conservation value with a focus on multi-species representation, and 3) Coordinate the use of supporting datasets and research products with conservation stakeholders. The project is a collaboration of agencies and scientists that includes Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the University of Texas, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Geological Survey Texas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Distribution models and spatial prioritization will be used to support and guide statewide conservation objectives and project planning within the Texas river conservation network.
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Sustainable Rivers Program: Updating flow ecology assumptions
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December 2025
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This project supports recent and ongoing efforts of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in evaluation of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) effort known as the Sustainable Rivers Program (SRP) with a focus on performing the science and monitoring needed to quantify ecosystem responses to effects of USACE reservoir operations. Through this work statement and other activities, SRP seeks to cultivate scientific understanding of connections between reservoir operations and ecosystem responses for select rivers in unique ecoregions around the United States. Development of scientific knowledge is leveraged through implementation of environmental flow prescriptions at reservoirs, which alters land-water interactions thereby stimulating ecosystem responses that can be studied and quantified using field monitoring protocols and analysis. If operational changes are studied, resulting knowledge can be used to improve prescriptions and perpetuate a culture of adaptive management. Monitoring does not need to be exhaustive to be effective and requires constructive, informative, and timely guidance from scientists in the field to dam operators.
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This Research Work Order supports the data compilation to inform field science needs related to environmental flows and includes the necessary first step towards developing clear, updated, scientifically defensible conceptual frameworks and diagrams that can be shared with stakeholders and used to inform future scientific efforts, supporting the efforts of the Oregon Water Science Center. Specifically, general models of flow ecology relationships will be linked and existing information describing physical and biological conditions in the Willamette River and how these conditions are influenced by streamflow will be compiled and summarized in order to parameterize and test model performance.
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Developing an Avian-based Biological Condition Gradient (BCG) Model for the Upper Tana Watershed, Kenya
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May 2025
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The Biological Condition Gradient model (BCG) has been used as a simple standardized categorical assessment tool to guide protection and restoration decisions in aquatic and marine ecosystems. The approach identifies ecological attributes of a focal ecosystem type and evaluates how the attributes change along a tiered gradient of biological condition. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has proposed adapting the BCG assessment method to bird communities in the Upper Tana watershed, Kenya, to illustrate the ecological and biodiversity value of the land management and restoration activities in riparian and upland habitats of the TNC-Nairobi Water Fund. The project includes 1) developing a conceptual BCG framework applicable to riparian and upland habitats with Condition Tiers along a stress axis, 2) development of Condition Attributes relevant to expected bird community response, building on previous work in the Upper Tana, 3) identifying methods for field sampling bird presence and abundance, and habitat condition variables along the Condition gradient, 4) incorporating spatial land use into the analysis, 5) evaluating sensitivity and replicability of each Attribute, and 6) developing a decision model to inform conservation planning for avian species in the area affected by the Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund project. The project will be conducted by a Kenyan student enrolled at the University of Maine and working in coordination with researchers at the National Museums of Kenya and with cooperation from The Nature Conservancy in Nairobi.
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The Biological Condition Gradient model (BCG) has been used as a simple standardized categorical assessment tool to guide protection and restoration decisions in aquatic and marine ecosystems. The approach identifies ecological attributes of a focal ecosystem type and evaluates how the attributes change along a tiered gradient of biological condition. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has proposed adapting the BCG assessment method to bird communities in the Upper Tana watershed, Kenya, to illustrate the ecological and biodiversity value of the land management and restoration activities in riparian and upland habitats of the TNC-Nairobi Water Fund. The project includes 1) developing a conceptual BCG framework applicable to riparian and upland habitats with Condition Tiers along a stress axis, 2) development of Condition Attributes relevant to expected bird community response, building on previous work in the Upper Tana, 3) identifying methods for field sampling bird presence and abundance, and habitat condition variables along the Condition gradient, 4) incorporating spatial land use into the analysis, 5) evaluating sensitivity and replicability of each Attribute, and 6) developing a decision model to inform conservation planning for avian species in the area affected by the Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund project. The project will be conducted by a Kenyan student enrolled at the University of Maine and working in coordination with researchers at the National Museums of Kenya and with cooperation from The Nature Conservancy in Nairobi.
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Investigating Grass Carp movement, emigration, habitat use, and natural mortality after stocking at Lake Apopka
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December 2024
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Managing invasive plants such as hydrilla is a pressing issue for fisheries and aquatic resource managers in Florida. While herbicide treatment is a common approach for controlling hydrilla, it is often controversial. Human dimensions research indicates stakeholder support for alternative control techniques (e.g., Grass Carp stocking) to reduce the number of chemical treatments necessary to control hydrilla in certain areas of Florida. We will use radio telemetry to assess stocking mortality, natural mortality, movement, emigration, and habitat use of Grass Carp in Lake Apopka. We will use this information to develop a Grass Carp population model and identify strategies for balancing biological and chemical approaches for hydrilla control. This project will be a cooperative endeavor among FWC Freshwater Fisheries Research, FWC Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management, FWC Invasive Plant Management, and the Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Florida.
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Managing invasive plants such as hydrilla is a pressing issue for fisheries and aquatic resource managers in Florida. While herbicide treatment is a common approach for controlling hydrilla, it is often controversial. Human dimensions research indicates stakeholder support for alternative control techniques (e.g., Grass Carp stocking) to reduce the number of chemical treatments necessary to control hydrilla in certain areas of Florida. We will use radio telemetry to assess stocking mortality, natural mortality, movement, emigration, and habitat use of Grass Carp in Lake Apopka. We will use this information to develop a Grass Carp population model and identify strategies for balancing biological and chemical approaches for hydrilla control. This project will be a cooperative endeavor among FWC Freshwater Fisheries Research, FWC Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management, FWC Invasive Plant Management, and the Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Florida.
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Lake food webs in Acadia National Park
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May 2024
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Introduced fishes can re-structure foodwebs, altering the flow of energy to other species and altering the subsidies that link aquatic systems to neighboring terrestrial habitats. These patterns are not always predictable, because they are the result of interactions with the other species present. The ponds within Acadia National Park have varied fish communities based on local conditions, stocking history, and fishing pressures. The resultant unique compositions, including native and introduced fishes, allows for the opportunity to examine both whether we observe consistent foodweb impacts for commonly invasive fishes and how those impacts are translating to effects on emergent aquatic insects available as subsidies to terrestrial fauna.
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Ponds within Acadia National Park present a unique opportunity to leverage existing datasets while also aiding in their interpretation as they have been previously sampled in studies of mercury, as well as having repeated assessments of fish community composition. Lake conditions have also been studied for relationships with amphibian mortality. However, freshwater foodweb information, and the potential impacts of the suite of invasive fishes in the park, have yet to be studied in detail. By using CN stable isotopes we can trace both source and trophic level to reconstruct foodwebs for each pond that can be used to better understand the impacts of invasive fishes, establish baseline data for future research, and inform future fish management. For the proposed examination of freshwater foodwebs, in addition to outlining the existing foodweb structure, we will examine how impacts of invasive fishes may reach into neighboring terrestrial habitats, potentially impacting charismatic and conservation focused taxa such as birds.
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Impacts of Egyptian Goose and other invasive aquatic avifauna
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August 2023
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Globally, invasive species are one of the biggest drivers of biodiversity and agricultural losses. Motivating and implementing invasive species management before they become overwhelming problems is the most cost effective way to manage invasive species. In Arkansas and many other Southeastern states, Egyptian Geese (<i>Alopochen aegyptiaca</i>), a known pest and invader in Europe, are increasing in abundance and distribution. Here, we seek to 1) synthesize existing scientific literature on the impacts of Egyptian Geese and other invasive aquatic avifauna on native ecosystems and agroecosystems and 2) determine current distribution of Egyptian Goose in Arkansas via field surveys. This project is a collaboration between the Arkansas Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. Results from this project will arm cooperators with the state of knowledge on impacts of invasive aquatic birds on native species and ecosystems. It will also provide Arkansas Game & Fish Commission with information to develop management policies for Egyptian Geese.
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Globally, invasive species are one of the biggest drivers of biodiversity and agricultural losses. Motivating and implementing invasive species management before they become overwhelming problems is the most cost effective way to manage invasive species. In Arkansas and many other Southeastern states, Egyptian Geese (<i>Alopochen aegyptiaca</i>), a known pest and invader in Europe, are increasing in abundance and distribution. Here, we seek to 1) synthesize existing scientific literature on the impacts of Egyptian Geese and other invasive aquatic avifauna on native ecosystems and agroecosystems and 2) determine current distribution of Egyptian Goose in Arkansas via field surveys. This project is a collaboration between the Arkansas Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. Results from this project will arm cooperators with the state of knowledge on impacts of invasive aquatic birds on native species and ecosystems. It will also provide Arkansas Game & Fish Commission with information to develop management policies for Egyptian Geese.
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Breeding and Migration Ecology and Distribution and Abundance of Arkansas King Rails
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December 2024
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The King Rail (<i>Rallus elegans</i>) is an emergent wetland species of high conservation concern in Arkansas and across North America due to significant population declines over the past several decades. The cause of that decline is not well understood but is thought to be caused in part by the loss of large contiguous emergent wetland habitat they rely on for breeding. In Arkansas, King Rail abundance and distribution are unknown, and the one site on public land in the Arkansas Delta that hosts multiple pairs, the Freddie Black Choctaw West WMA (hereafter Choctaw West WMA), also represents a dramatic wetland restoration success that is critical to learn from. Here, we propose to use the Choctaw West WMA as a focal site to 1) evaluate King Rail breeding site fidelity, 2) evaluate King Rail breeding locations, and 3) compare King Rail habitat and abundance to other sites across the Arkansas Delta. We will capture and mark with transmitters spring migrating and breeding King Rails at Choctaw West WMA to evaluate the habitat use of individual birds at Choctaw West WMA as well as the connectivity of the site with the rest of the annual cycle (farther north breeding areas, and southern wintering areas). We will also conduct marsh bird surveys within the Choctaw West WMA and across the Arkansas Delta to quantify King Rail distribution and abundance and compare regional habitat and landscape attributes to Choctaw West WMA attributes. This work will provide AGFC with critical knowledge of King Rail population dynamics, how Choctaw West WMA may function as a source for other sites, breeding habitat needs at local, landscape, and regional scales, and wetland restoration outcomes.
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The King Rail (<i>Rallus elegans</i>) is an emergent wetland species of high conservation concern in Arkansas and across North America due to significant population declines over the past several decades. The cause of that decline is not well understood but is thought to be caused in part by the loss of large contiguous emergent wetland habitat they rely on for breeding. In Arkansas, King Rail abundance and distribution are unknown, and the one site on public land in the Arkansas Delta that hosts multiple pairs, the Freddie Black Choctaw West WMA (hereafter Choctaw West WMA), also represents a dramatic wetland restoration success that is critical to learn from. This project is a collaboration between researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, the Arkansas Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, and Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. This work will provide AGFC with critical knowledge of King Rail population dynamics, how Choctaw West WMA may function as a source for other sites, breeding habitat needs at local, landscape, and regional scales, and wetland restoration outcomes.
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Leveraging habitat suitability modeling to inform management of nonnative fishes in a changing climate
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December 2024
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Florida has more than 200 nonnative fishes that cause major ecological and societal consequences. In this project, we will predict survival, reproduction, recruitment, and dispersal of priority nonnative fishes in Florida over the next 50 years to develop science-driven approaches for managing these species. We will generate predictive distribution maps, decision support tools, and stakeholder engagement activities to help manage nonnative fishes and inform the public about fisheries conservation. This project will involve close collaboration with fisheries managers to ensure that research products are useful for preventing the introduction, slowing the spread, eradicating, and controlling nonnative fishes.
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Florida has more than 200 nonnative fishes that cause major ecological and societal consequences. In this project, we will predict survival, reproduction, recruitment, and dispersal of priority nonnative fishes in Florida over the next 50 years to develop science-driven approaches for managing these species. We will generate predictive distribution maps, decision support tools, and stakeholder engagement activities to help manage nonnative fishes and inform the public about fisheries conservation. This project will involve close collaboration with fisheries managers to ensure that research products are useful for preventing the introduction, slowing the spread, eradicating, and controlling nonnative fishes.
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Informing Gulf Sturgeon population status and trends as a baseline to measure PDARP actions to promote species recovery
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August 2023
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This project encompasses a variety of activities related to Gulf Sturgeon (<i>Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi</i>) conservation and is supported with funds from NOAA and USFWS. Ongoing research focuses on estimating abundance and survival of juvenile Gulf Sturgeon in the Choctawhatchee River, assessing population status and trends using long-term monitoring data, and developing an electronic logbook program and Gulf Sturgeon Database to facilitate regular updates of species status. In addition, a new subproject will focus on assessing landscape-level threats to Gulf Sturgeon populations (e.g., changing climate, precipitation patterns, land use) and developing common metrics for monitoring Gulf Sturgeon populations across multiple river systems throughout the northern Gulf of Mexico.
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This project encompasses a variety of activities related to Gulf Sturgeon (<i>Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi</i>) conservation and is supported with funds from NOAA and USFWS. Ongoing research focuses on estimating abundance and survival of juvenile Gulf Sturgeon in the Choctawhatchee River, assessing population status and trends using long-term monitoring data, and developing an electronic logbook program and Gulf Sturgeon Database to facilitate regular updates of species status. In addition, a new subproject will focus on assessing landscape-level threats to Gulf Sturgeon populations (e.g., changing climate, precipitation patterns, land use) and developing common metrics for monitoring Gulf Sturgeon populations across multiple river systems throughout the northern Gulf of Mexico.
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Lessons from a long-term fisheries monitoring program: The Florida experience
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June 2026
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Fisheries managers need consistent, reliable information on fish populations across space and time to make informed management decisions. However, developing and sustaining long-term monitoring programs is inherently challenging for fisheries management agencies amid limitations in time, money, and personnel. This dichotomy—the value of fisheries monitoring on the one hand, the difficulty of monitoring on the other—makes it critical for fisheries agencies to formally evaluate their monitoring programs to maximize data reliability and program efficiency. In 2006, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) implemented a long-term monitoring (LTM) program to track trends in freshwater fish population distribution and community structure in numerous water bodies throughout Florida. Although the LTM program is designed to document changes in fish communities and thereby inform fisheries management amid anthropogenic stressors (e.g., land-use change, non-native species), the LTM program has yet to be comprehensively evaluated. The purpose of this project is to thoroughly evaluate the LTM program—including ecological insights, sampling design and statistical rigor, fisheries management implications, and program delivery—in collaboration with the FWC.
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Fisheries managers need consistent, reliable information on fish populations across space and time to make informed management decisions. However, developing and sustaining long-term monitoring programs is inherently challenging for fisheries management agencies amid limitations in time, money, and personnel. This dichotomy—the value of fisheries monitoring on the one hand, the difficulty of monitoring on the other—makes it critical for fisheries agencies to formally evaluate their monitoring programs to maximize data reliability and program efficiency. In 2006, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) implemented a long-term monitoring (LTM) program to track trends in freshwater fish population distribution and community structure in numerous water bodies throughout Florida. Although the LTM program is designed to document changes in fish communities and thereby inform fisheries management amid anthropogenic stressors (e.g., land-use change, non-native species), the LTM program has yet to be comprehensively evaluated. The purpose of this project is to thoroughly evaluate the LTM program—including ecological insights, sampling design and statistical rigor, fisheries management implications, and program delivery—in collaboration with the FWC.
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Occupancy Modeling of Northern Bobwhite in Arkansas
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June 2023
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The Northern Bobwhite is an ecologically, economically, and culturally important bird associated with early-successional habitat. The species is declining across much of their geographic range and numerous state, federal, and NGO agencies are working towards recovering this species. Recovery will be informed by identifying focal areas for management and understanding the distribution of birds across large geographic areas. We are working with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to use their survey data to create occupancy maps for the species across the entirety of the state to better understand their distribution and habitat associations and to inform priority management areas.
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The Northern Bobwhite is an ecologically, economically, and culturally important bird associated with early-successional habitat. The species is declining across much of their geographic range and numerous state, federal, and NGO agencies are working towards recovering this species. Recovery will be informed by identifying focal areas for management and understanding the distribution of birds across large geographic areas. We are working with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to use their survey data to create occupancy maps for the species across the entirety of the state to better understand their distribution and habitat associations and to inform priority management areas.
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Establishing a national tissue and reagents repository for chronic wasting disease
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September 2023
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Management of chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been limited because the infectious proteins, called prions, responsible for CWD in wild cervids in 26 US states, are difficult to study. Tracking CWD as it progressed across the US since it’s discovery in the early 1980s has been hampered because studies of distinct strains of CWD has been lacking. Identification of distinct prion strains can inform management by targeting areas known to harbor CWD, thus prioritizing management of cervid populations with prion strains that have greater infection potential and those that are able to infect new species. Although the biology of prions has been well studied (they are responsible for mad cow disease), prion researchers have been unable to study prion strains throughout the US because samples have not been available for study. Therefore, a virtual repository to link CWD tissue sample locations would provide this important resource to researchers to aid management agencies in the US.
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<b>Problem Statement:</b> The overall goal of this program is to establish a national CWD tissue and reagents repository.<b>Why it matters: </b>The significance of this program is multifold. First, a repository of CWD field isolates from a wide-ranging geographic location in North America will allow, for the first time, the means to begin to assess the distribution and frequency of CWD strains in North America. Since prion strains can differ in pathogenicity and host range, this is essential data for the determination for risk of interspecies prion transmission to humans and to domestic livestock and wildlife. Second, this repository can provide uniform standardized CWD-infected and uninfected sources of tissue for diagnostic development, mitigation testing and for basic research purposes. Finally, the implementation of the repository will facilitate cooperation between the various state agencies that could lead to new collaborative efforts.<b>Partners:</b>Jason Bartz<i>, </i>Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178<b>How it will be used: </b>This virtual repository will be accessible by researchers throughout the world to request samples to achieve study objectives involving prion strain type and prion protein genotypes. Important metadata will be linked to each tissue type that would include: coordinates for collection location, species, sex, age, tissue type (e.g. retropharyngeal lymph node, obex), prion protein genotype, physical location of stored sample, and contact information of organization housing the sample. All of this metadata for each tissue sample will be housed in a single virtual repository accessible to researchers throughout the world.
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Linking Genetics to Movements of White-tailed deer to Assist Surveillance for CWD Epidemiology
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August 2024
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Surveillance for chronic wasting disease (CWD) in deer is often in response to finding a new disease foci with direction of surveillance controlled by some arbitrary distanced buffer around a diseased animal. Understanding large-scale gene flow across a region can identify the most likely transmission path of CWD because gene flow identifies historic ancestry of deer across a landscape. Combining landscape genetics with CWD surveillance would provide natural resource agencies a more structured approach to surveillance by providing disease units more reflective of the underlying subpopulation structure of deer in a region.
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<b>Problem Statement:</b> The purpose of the proposed research is to identify the frequency and distribution of prion gene variants within white-tailed deer populations across multiple regions with varying histories of CWD infection. In addition, use of microsatellite genotypes collected from free-ranging white-tailed deer can provide details on the landscape genetics of white-tailed deer across multiple areas with differing CWD exposure histories.<b>Why it matters: </b>Assess and compare PRNP genotypes of individuals in samples from areas experiencing various times since establishment of CWD in white-tailed deer populations:CWD apparently established within the past decade (Maryland/Pennsylvania/Virginia; n = 100 samples collected 2014–2018)CWD not present (New York; n = 133 samples collected 2010–2016).Assess broad- and fine-scale landscape genetics using microsatellite markers/mitochondrial DNA within core areas to identify likely pathways of CWD transmission.<b>Partners:</b>Krysten L. Schuler,Wildlife Disease Ecologist - Cornell Wildlife Health Lab, 240 Farrier Road, Ithaca, NY 14853; ks833@cornell.edu; 607-253-3629Chris Rosenberry, Bureau of Wildlife Management, Pennsylvania Game Commission, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; chrosenber@pa.gov, 717-433-4062<b>How it will be used:</b> This project will increase understanding of the potential genetic basis of disease risk and potential disease transmission pathways at the landscape level for several areas of known or anticipated CWD occurrence.
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A genetic assessment of cutthroat trout movement across the Continental Divide
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December 2021
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TBA pending
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TBA pending
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Remote sensing of habitat for at-risk disturbance-dependent bird species
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December 2026
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Bird species that use early successional habitat (grasslands, shrublands, young forests) are declining. This project aims to determine whether the fine scale habitat features favored by disturbance-dependent bird species in the southeastern coastal plain are detectable with remotely sensed data. In addition, monitoring with acoustic recording units can improve detection and population estimation. Outputs will include species distribution maps, monitoring recommendations, and multi-species management strategies.
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Bird species that use early successional habitat (grasslands, shrublands, young forests) are declining. This project aims to determine whether the fine scale habitat features favored by early successional bird species in the southeastern coastal plain are detectable with remotely sensed data. In addition, monitoring with acoustic recording units can improve detection and population estimation. Outputs will include species distribution maps, monitoring recommendations, and multi-species management strategies.
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Population ecology of narrow-headed gartersnakes
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May 2025
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The narrow-headed gartersnake (<i>Thamnophis rufipunctatus</i>, hereafter THRU) is a federally threatened species endemic to the Mogollon Rim of central Arizona and western New Mexico. This species has undergone marked declines throughout its range due to multiple threats, including the loss or degradation of riparian and within-stream habitat and direct and indirect effects of nonnative aquatic species. However, there is relatively little empirical data available on the movement ecology and population dynamics of THRU. Empirical demographic parameter estimates (e.g., survival) are also important for evaluating site-specific population status and are the building blocks for running population viability analyses. This information allows managers to identify at-risk populations and direct site-specific management actions, thereby aiding in species recovery. This project is supported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with additional support and collaboration from Arizona Game and Fish Department, U.S. Forest Service, Phoenix Zoo, and University of Arizona. We are studying the ecology THRU along Canyon Creek in central Arizona using mark-recapture surveys and passive PIT tag arrays. The Phoenix Zoo is releasing captive-born THRU at Canyon Creek and our surveys allow us to document post-release survival, growth, and movement which will help inform and guide future captive-breeding and release efforts to aid THRU species recovery.
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The narrow-headed gartersnake (<i>Thamnophis rufipunctatus</i>, hereafter THRU) is a federally threatened species endemic to the Mogollon Rim of central Arizona and western New Mexico. This species has undergone marked declines throughout its range due primarily to introduced fish and crayfish and loss or degradation of riparian and within-stream habitat. There is currently no THRU species recovery plan and in 2020 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service formally began the most recent Species Status Assessment (SSA) for THRU, which is anticipated to form the basis for the species recovery plan. However, there is relatively little empirical data available on the movement ecology and population dynamics of THRU, which span multiple seasons. This lack of critical information on how snakes seasonally shift activity and habitat use is currently an impediment to conservation managers to more accurately assessing range-wide and site-specific population risk and implement management actions. Additionally, a lack of empirical demographic parameter estimates (e.g., survival) inhibits efforts to conduct population viability analyses. This information would allow managers to identify at-risk populations and direct site-specific management actions, thereby aiding in species recovery.This proposed study will address ecological and geographic gaps in the knowledge of THRU by studying the spatial, habitat, and population ecology of THRU along Canyon Creek in central Arizona. The results of this proposed study, when combined with previous studies on THRU, will help us better understand the geographic variation in THRU ecology and increase confidence in management recommendations and status assessments.The goals of this study are to: (1) conduct three summers of mark-recapture sampling to estimate survival and abundance; and (2) develop and test implantation and field tracking protocols using harmonic transponder tags using a closely related species, the western terrestrial gartersnake, and, conditional upon success of these efforts, implant harmonic transponder tags into juvenile and adult THRU at Canyon Creek to monitor space use and habitat selection.
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White-tailed Ptarmigan Reintroduction Ecology
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June 2024
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The white-tailed ptarmigan is the smallest grouse species in North America and is endemic to alpine habitat. Despite reintroduction efforts in the 1980s, ptarmigan are now functionally extirpated from the southernmost portion of their historic range, located in northern New Mexico. Due to a lack of monitoring, the causes of extirpation remain unclear, and could be attributed to climate change, geographic isolation, or other unknown causes. This study will evaluate the demographic outcomes of a newly-reintroduced ptarmigan population from Colorado. The study will also compare habitat selection patterns as well as chick diet composition and growth rates with ptarmigan populations in Colorado. The information collected in this study will be central to informing future reintroduction efforts in both New Mexico and other portions of the species range where they are now extirpated (e.g. ,Wyoming), and guide management and conservation efforts of New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife in future species status assessments.
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Climate change is predicted to contract the distribution of alpine species that are limited in their ability to disperse to suitable habitats. The white-tailed ptarmigan is an alpine-obligate species that is currently extirpated from portions of its historic range, including its southern periphery in northern New Mexico. Comparative ecological studies among core and periphery ptarmigan populations can identify habitat and foraging requirements. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, USFWS Science Applications, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and USGS Fort Collins Science Center. Demographic parameters from newly-reintroduced ptarmigan in New Mexico (periphery) as well as comparative behavioral data from the reintroduced population and Colorado (core) will be used to evaluate long-term population viability and inform other potential reintroduction efforts throughout the ptarmigan’s range.
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Factors influencing Bull Trout populations across multiple spatial scales in Idaho
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September 2025
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This project aims to understand biotic and abiotic factors influencing the status and management of Bull Trout across Idaho.
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This project aims to understand biotic and abiotic factors influencing the status and management of Bull Trout across Idaho.
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Moss Tissue Concentrations
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July 2021
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Pndg
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Pndg
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Brook Trout Population
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June 2024
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Pndg
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Pndg
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Modeling the Effect of White-nose Syndrome Mitigation Decisions on Cave Hibernating Myotis Species
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September 2022
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Pndg
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Pndg
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TCU 433: Assessing risk for westward expansion of zebra mussels to guide EDRR strategies (RWO 103)
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August 2025
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Zebra mussels are representative of nonindigenous aquatic species (NAS) with devastating economic, recreational, and environmental impacts that are already under watch as a problematic species across the U.S. and in Texas. Targeting dispersal pathways is likely the most efficient means of controlling their spread further west. Thus, there is a need for risk assessment to guide monitoring efforts to detect and report new sightings of zebra mussels and other NAS. Such tools meet the annual guidance and mission of the ANS Task Force and the National Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) framework within DOI. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies including USGS Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, USGS Western Fisheries Research Center, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Providing data and decision support tools on invasion risk facilitates early detection and mitigation strategies that may ultimately lower the cost associated with zebra mussel impacts.
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Zebra mussels are representative of nonindigenous aquatic species (NAS) with devastating economic, recreational, and environmental impacts that are already under watch as a problematic species across the U.S. and in Texas. Targeting dispersal pathways is likely the most efficient means of controlling their spread further west. Thus, there is a need for risk assessment to guide monitoring efforts to detect and report new sightings of zebra mussels and other NAS. Such tools meet the annual guidance and mission of the ANS Task Force and the National Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) framework within DOI. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies including USGS Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, USGS Western Fisheries Research Center, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Providing data and decision support tools on invasion risk facilitates early detection and mitigation strategies that may ultimately lower the cost associated with zebra mussel impacts.
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An assessment of post-restoration trajectories of geomorphological and vegetative change in the Nisqually River Delta, Washington
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June 2023
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The Nisqually River Delta serves as essential feeding and rearing habitat for diverse fish and wildlife species. Between 1996 and 2009, the Nisqually Indian Tribe and the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge restored over 365 hectares of estuarine habitat to tidal influence, with the goal of supporting juvenile Chinook salmon and other estuary-dependent species. Restoration monitoring from 2009 to 2015 showed significant improvements in habitat connectivity between the Nisqually River mainstem and the restored estuary, particularly at mid-to-high tide. However, the restoration’s most recent areas (2009), located in lower-elevation and more subsided regions, have shown slow vegetation colonization and growth, raising concerns about long-term habitat viability in these zones. In light of the decadal anniversary of the 2009 restoration, the Tribe, Refuge, and USGS collaborated to gather new data, including LIDAR imagery (2020), aerial photography (2019), Surface Elevation Table (SET) readings (2019, 2021), and vegetation surveys (2019, 2021). These data supplemented earlier monitoring efforts and enabled a comprehensive evaluation of the restoration’s impact over time. We integrated habitat connectivity metrics, spatial data on sediment deposition and erosion, and vegetation growth patterns to gauge progress, identifying both achievements and ongoing challenges in habitat establishment. This study has provided critical insights that will directly inform future management strategies aimed at sustaining and enhancing habitats for sensitive fish and wildlife species, as well as supporting the long-term resilience of restored estuarine systems. Through this collaborative effort, we are building a robust foundation for data-driven habitat management that benefits the species dependent on the Delta’s unique and dynamic ecosystem.
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The Nisqually River Delta provides important feeding and rearing habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife. Between 1996 and 2009, the Nisqually Tribe and Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge collaborated to restore over 365 ha of estuarine habitat to tidal influence in the Delta for the benefit of juvenile Chinook salmon and other estuary-dependent species. Pre- and post-restoration monitoring datasets have highlighted clear increases in connectivity between the Nisqually River mainstem and the restored estuary, especially at mid-to-high tide; however, low-elevation areas in the most recent (2009) and most subsided restoration area have experienced relatively slow vegetation colonization and growth. In light of the decadal anniversary of the 2009 restoration, the Tribe, the Refuge, and USGS have collaborated to collect new data, including LIDAR imagery (2020), aerial photography (2019), SET (Surface Elevation Table) readings (2019, 2021), and vegetation surveys (2019, 2021) to supplement 2009-2015 monitoring datasets. These new data will facilitate a full evaluation of restoration progress using metrics of habitat connectivity, spatial analyses of sediment deposition and erosion, and vegetation colonization and growth. Results will inform future habitat management decisions to preserve and enhance habitat for sensitive fish and wildlife species.
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Improving management strategies linked to certification of sustainable forest practices for priority songbirds in West Virginia
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June 2023
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Many eastern deciduous forest songbirds continue to experience significant population declines, which are often linked to breeding habitat requirements. Managing breeding habitat for some declining focal species in the eastern deciduous forest will entail managing for canopy heterogeneity and variable forest age classes through canopy disturbance, which are critical factors for optimizing bird species biodiversity. The prevalence of mature forests has remained stable to increasing in recent decades, but young forest conditions are lacking. In the Appalachian region, active forest management on private lands (both institutional and family-owned), in addition to public lands, are instrumental for either reversing declines or ensuring population persistence for many forest songbirds.
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Many eastern deciduous forest songbirds continue to experience significant population declines, which are often linked to breeding habitat requirements. Managing breeding habitat for some declining focal species in the eastern deciduous forest will entail managing for canopy heterogeneity and variable forest age classes through canopy disturbance, which are critical factors for optimizing bird species biodiversity. The prevalence of mature forests has remained stable to increasing in recent decades, but young forest conditions are lacking. In the Appalachian region, active forest management on private lands (both institutional and family-owned), in addition to public lands, are instrumental for either reversing declines or ensuring population persistence for many forest songbirds.
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Southwestern and northwestern pond turtle viability analysis to support a species status assessment
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July 2023
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Species status assessments (SSA) are the new framework that the US Fish and Wildlife Service uses to compile, organize, conduct scientific analyses to support species conservation decisions under the ESA. SSAs entail three primary components, an ecological needs description, a current status assessment, and a future status prediction. The ecological needs and current-status assessment often entail reviewing existing literature and some analysis of existing, available data, whereas the future status requires some form of a predictive model. For some species, population projections could be as simple as categorical condition tables, while more complicated models such as stochastic demographic matrix models could be used to simulate alternative future environmental conditions under multiple scenarios.<br><br>Western pond turtles were recently split into two species the southwestern pond turtle and the northwestern pond turtles. Both species have exhibited substantial population declines and range contractions in recent decades. The causes of the declines are varied but include habitat loss, the introduction of exotic plant and wildlife species, and disease. The USFWS was petitioned to list the species, and the Service needs to complete an SSA, including a future status assessment to address the petition and make a classification determination. Western pond turtles, especially the southwestern species, have been the subject of substantial monitoring and research effort in recent years, and substantial datasets might be available to the USFWS to build predictive models for the SSA. By estimating trends in recent decades or demographic rates from these available data and associating these parameters with environmental covariates, we propose establishing a defendable framework for predicting future status.<br><br>Our work will endeavor to support SSA development, focusing on predicting future status (i.e., future redundancy and resiliency). The specific methods for accomplishing this goal will depend on the types of data available to the SSA core team; however, in general, we envision a two-step process. First, we will work with the FWS and species experts to elicit conceptual models of the species population and ecological dynamics, and second, we will use the results of those elicitations to design projection models for the two species and implement scenarios. This approach largely follows our work with SSA core teams on various species, including Eastern Black Rail, Alligator Snapping Turtle, and Sonora Desert Tortoise. We will work with the SSA core team to design scenarios to simulate varied possible future conditions allowing us to incorporate uncertainty in future system states along with uncertainty and variation in population dynamics.<br><br>Our project objectives will focus on:<br>Develop a predictive population model for each species of pond turtle to assess the future status of the species with respect to resiliency and redundancy; incorporate multiple scenarios into the simulation model to assess the probable effects of continuing threats and emerging threats (e.g., climate change, etc.) on future status.
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Species status assessments (SSA) are the new framework that the US Fish and Wildlife Service uses to compile, organize, conduct scientific analyses to support species conservation decisions under the ESA. SSAs entail three primary components, an ecological needs description, a current status assessment, and a future status prediction. The ecological needs and current-status assessment often entail reviewing existing literature and some analysis of existing, available data, whereas the future status requires some form of a predictive model. For some species, population projections could be as simple as categorical condition tables, while more complicated models such as stochastic demographic matrix models could be used to simulate alternative future environmental conditions under multiple scenarios.Western pond turtles were recently split into two species the southwestern pond turtle and the northwestern pond turtles. Both species have exhibited substantial population declines and range contractions in recent decades. The causes of the declines are varied but include habitat loss, the introduction of exotic plant and wildlife species, and disease. The USFWS was petitioned to list the species, and the Service needs to complete an SSA, including a future status assessment to address the petition and make a classification determination. Western pond turtles, especially the southwestern species, have been the subject of substantial monitoring and research effort in recent years, and substantial datasets might be available to the USFWS to build predictive models for the SSA. By estimating trends in recent decades or demographic rates from these available data and associating these parameters with environmental covariates, we propose establishing a defendable framework for predicting future status.Our work will endeavor to support SSA development, focusing on predicting future status (i.e., future redundancy and resiliency). The specific methods for accomplishing this goal will depend on the types of data available to the SSA core team; however, in general, we envision a two-step process. First, we will work with the FWS and species experts to elicit conceptual models of the species population and ecological dynamics, and second, we will use the results of those elicitations to design projection models for the two species and implement scenarios. This approach largely follows our work with SSA core teams on various species, including Eastern Black Rail, Alligator Snapping Turtle, and Sonora Desert Tortoise. We will work with the SSA core team to design scenarios to simulate varied possible future conditions allowing us to incorporate uncertainty in future system states along with uncertainty and variation in population dynamics.Our project objectives will focus on:Develop a predictive population model for each species of pond turtle to assess the future status of the species with respect to resiliency and redundancy; incorporate multiple scenarios into the simulation model to assess the probable effects of continuing threats and emerging threats (e.g., climate change, etc.) on future status.
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Modeling Tools for Species Status Assessments
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August 2021
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Decision Analysis for Species Status Assessment Science Needs Prioritization
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July 2023
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Transmission and evolution of a persistent pathogen: anthrax infection dynamics comparing two natural systems
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September 2024
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Anthrax is a globally distributed disease of wildlife, livestock, and humans. Successful prediction of and response to outbreaks of anthrax is limited by a lack of understanding of the geographic differences in the ecology of the pathogen as well as the pattern of disease outbreaks. This project will investigate the roles of host, pathogen, and environment to understand how the pathogen - host interaction evolves and contributes to the differences in anthrax occurrence between two study areas. The two areas, both in southern Africa, have very different anthrax outbreak dynamics, which are representative of variation in anthrax systems world-wide. In Etosha National Park, Namibia, there are smaller outbreaks, affecting grazing zebra, annually in wet seasons. In contrast, in Kruger National Park, South Africa, larger outbreaks affecting browsing kudu occur in dry seasons on roughly a decadal scale. The project builds on detailed records of population dynamics in each park as well as archived pathogen samples and will involve new data collection and analyses and mathematical modeling to understand these different dynamics. Education, training, and scientific and public outreach are essential components of this research. Postdoctoral researchers and undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds will be trained in field, laboratory, and quantitative techniques emphasizing cutting-edge genomics, and statistical and dynamic modeling approaches.
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Anthrax is a globally distributed disease of wildlife, livestock, and humans caused by the bacterium, <i>Bacillus anthracis</i>. Successful prediction of and response to outbreaks of anthrax is limited by a lack of understanding of the geographic differences in the ecology of the pathogen as well as the pattern of disease outbreaks. This project will investigate the roles of host, pathogen, and environment to understand how the pathogen - host interaction evolves and contributes to the differences in anthrax occurrence between two national parks in southern Africa. The project is a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the University of Maine, the University of Pretoria, the University of Namibia, South African National Parks, and the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. Researchers will build landscape-level models of epidemiology and population dynamics incorporating host movement, transmission routes, pathogen virulence, and host resistance across ecosystems. In a broader sense, this research will facilitate the development of predictive tools to better manage public health and related policies for complex, multi-host zoonotic diseases such as anthrax.
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Deer movement and chronic wasting disease spread in southwest Wisconsin
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June 2024
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Management of chronic wasting disease (CWD) is one of the most significant challenges facing many wildlife agencies in North America. This project investigates how landscape heterogeneity, seasonality, and white-tailed deer movement behavior affect CWD spread. The project will investigate the impact of CWD infection on deer movement behavior, and the reverse, the impact of deer movement behaviors and contacts on CWD spread. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. By documenting the times and places where deer are most likely to congregate and the biotic and abiotic factors that alter movement patterns and contact rates, this research will help predict CWD dynamics that may inform management activities. Understanding why CWD spreads more quickly in some areas than others is critical to forecasting CWD distribution and targeting management actions to slow transmission.
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Management of chronic wasting disease (CWD) is one of the most significant challenges facing many wildlife agencies in North America. This project investigates how landscape heterogeneity, seasonality, and white-tailed deer movement behavior affect CWD spread. The project will investigate the impact of CWD infection on deer movement behavior, and the reverse, the impact of deer movement behaviors and contacts on CWD spread. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. By documenting the times and places where deer are most likely to congregate and the biotic and abiotic factors that alter movement patterns and contact rates, this research will help predict CWD dynamics that may inform management activities. Understanding why CWD spreads more quickly in some areas than others is critical to forecasting CWD distribution and targeting management actions to slow transmission.
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Wolf-Caribou Interactions in the Fortymile Caribou Herd
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April 2024
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We are evaluating the interactions of wolves and migratory caribou in the Fortymile herd. Using detailed information from GPS collared wolves and caribou, we are evaluating the relative influence of habitat conditions on seasonal movements and predator-prey dynamics. Additionally, we are evaluating the extent to which caribou movements affect wolf distribution on the landscape during aerial surveys in order to assess the potential for bias in population estimates.
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We are evaluating the interactions of wolves and migratory caribou in the Fortymile herd. Using detailed information from GPS collared wolves and caribou, we are evaluating the relative influence of habitat conditions on seasonal movements and predator-prey dynamics. Additionally, we are evaluating the extent to which caribou movements affect wolf distribution on the landscape during aerial surveys in order to assess the potential for bias in population estimates.
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Evaluating the spatial and temporal distribution and ecology of Bighead and Silver Carp and native fishes of the lower Red River basin
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September 2023
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This project will devote substantial effort to understanding the spatial and temporal distribution of Bighead Carp and Silver Carp in the Red River basin.
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Both the Bighead Carp (<i>Hypophthalmichthys nobilis</i>) and Silver Carp (<i>H. molitrix</i>) were introduced to the United States in the 1970s. Since that time, the two species have become prolific invaders. In the Red River Basin, Bighead Carp have been captured periodically, often as part of other sampling efforts targeting other species. However, there has never been extensive sampling efforts that covered much of the Red River basin and specifically targeted Bighead and/or Silver carps. We partnered with the Texas Parks and Wildlife, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, and Arkansas Game and Fish to develop management actions applicable to this basin that will help minimize spread of these invasive species. This project will devote substantial effort to understanding the spatial and temporal distribution of carp in the Red River basin and assess native fish assemblages that might be affected by their presence. This basic biological information serves as a foundation for developing programs for removal if deemed problematic.
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Environmental correlates of fibropapilloma in green turtles.
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December 2025
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Fibropapilloma is a debilitating disease of green turtles that gives rise to tumor-like growths that can inhibit the animal's basic visual, foraging, and locomotor functions. It has been linked to the presence of a herpesvirus, however the expression of tumors appears to be dependent on a variety of co-factors. Increasing populations of green turtles in southeast US waters gives cause for concern, as some of these co-factors appear to be correlated with anthropogenic disturbances.
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Fibropapilloma is a debilitating disease of green turtles that gives rise to tumor-like growths that can inhibit the animal's basic visual, foraging, and locomotor functions. Increasing populations of green turtles in southeast US waters gives cause for concern, as some of the causative agents and co-factors appear to be correlated with anthropogenic disturbances.
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Spatial variation in lake whitefish recruitment in Lake Michigan: the potential roles of zooplankton prey and the relative fitness of age-0 fish
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December 2022
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Lake whitefish support the most economically-important commercial fishery in the Great Lakes and they also support important tribal and recreational fisheries in many areas throughout the basin. In Lake Michigan, many lake whitefish stocks have experienced declines in recruitment. However, at the same time, lake whitefish in some areas of the lake have shown signs of increasing recruitment and expansion. Contrasting trends in recruitment complicate fisheries management and understanding the factors regulating spatial variation in recruitment is critical to implementing appropriate management actions that ensure the sustainability of all stocks. Our project will address whether spatial variation in lake whitefish recruitment may be related to spatial variation in productivity, the availability of zooplankton prey, and the relative fitness of age-0 lake whitefish. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies involved with lake whitefish management in Lake Michigan and includes representatives of the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Our research will directly address research priorities outlined in Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources fishery and wildlife management plans. Our findings will help fishery managers and researchers identify factors contributing to spatial variation in lake whitefish recruitment in Lake Michigan and determine if adjustments to harvest regulations are needed (including spatial reallocation of harvest quotas), design spatially explicit monitoring protocols for lower trophic levels, and better manage expectations of policy makers and stakeholders.
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Lake whitefish support the most economically-important commercial fishery in the Great Lakes and they also support important tribal and recreational fisheries in many areas throughout the basin. In Lake Michigan, many lake whitefish stocks have experienced declines in recruitment. However, at the same time, lake whitefish in some areas of the lake have shown signs of increasing recruitment and expansion. Contrasting trends in recruitment complicate fisheries management and understanding the factors regulating spatial variation in recruitment is critical to implementing appropriate management actions that ensure the sustainability of all stocks. Our project will address whether spatial variation in lake whitefish recruitment may be related to spatial variation in productivity, the availability of zooplankton prey, and the relative fitness of age-0 lake whitefish. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies involved with lake whitefish management in Lake Michigan and includes representatives of the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Our research will directly address research priorities outlined in Wisconsin and Michigan Departments of Natural Resources fishery and wildlife management plans. Our findings will help fishery managers and researchers identify factors contributing to spatial variation in lake whitefish recruitment in Lake Michigan and determine if adjustments to harvest regulations are needed (including spatial reallocation of harvest quotas), design spatially explicit monitoring protocols for lower trophic levels, and better manage expectations of policy makers and stakeholders.
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Conservation Outcomes in Great Plains Rangelands
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January 2023
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For the past several decades, scientific research has quantified catastrophic outcomes to rangeland resources due to woody plant encroachment, including collapses in livestock production potential and rancher profitability, increasing risks of wildfire danger and water security, displacement of wildlife habitat, and losses to important social and community programs (e.g., revenue generated for public school education). However, scientific documentation of positive conservation management and strategy outcomes is limited. This leads to slower widespread adoption of 'winning' strategies. In this project, we leverage major advancements in monitoring technology (e.g., the Rangeland Analysis Platform) alongside various wildlife datasets to provide more rapid outcomes-generation for partners across the Great Plains. Quantifying spatially-explicit changes in rangeland productivity, cover, and state transitions is central to this approach and have served to better understand complex responses of more specialized outcomes-based assessments. This project is a collaboration between the Arkansas Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, University of Montana, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). Primary project deliverables are (1) a synthesis of existing NRCS technical guidance related to juniper encroachment in the Great Plains, (2) documentation improved management of productivity, cover, state transitions, and grassland wildlife diversity and abundance in the Great Plains. Timely documentation the benefits of new conservation practices will equip agencies and private lands managers to tackle the woody encroachment problem in the Great Plains.
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For the past several decades, scientific research has quantified catastrophic outcomes to rangeland resources due to woody plant encroachment, including collapses in livestock production potential and rancher profitability, increasing risks of wildfire danger and water security, displacement of wildlife habitat, and losses to important social and community programs (e.g., revenue generated for public school education). However, scientific documentation of positive conservation management and strategy outcomes is limited. This leads to slower widespread adoption of 'winning' strategies. In this project, we leverage major advancements in monitoring technology (e.g., the Rangeland Analysis Platform) alongside various wildlife datasets to provide more rapid outcomes-generation for partners across the Great Plains. Quantifying spatially-explicit changes in rangeland productivity, cover, and state transitions is central to this approach and have served to better understand complex responses of more specialized outcomes-based assessments. This project is a collaboration between the Arkansas Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, University of Montana, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). NRCS state conservationists across a 4-state region of the Great Plains (Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota) agreed to cooperatively ramp-up conservation efforts, develop more effective strategies, and reduce the risks posed by woody plant encroachment, particularly Eastern redcedar, to rangeland outcomes. Primary project deliverables are (1) a synthesis of existing NRCS technical guidance related to juniper encroachment in the Great Plains, (2) documentation improved management of productivity, cover, state transitions, and grassland wildlife diversity and abundance in the Great Plains. Timely documentation the benefits of new conservation practices will equip agencies and private lands managers to tackle the woody encroachment problem in the Great Plains.
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Landscape transcriptomics as a new tool for natural resources management
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December 2021
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How does habitat connectivity and composition affect genetic diversity and adaptive potential? Landscape genetics combines population genetic (using DNA sequence variation) and landscape ecology analyses to address this question. However, a DNA sequence only approach ignores the differences in relative expression of genes that also differ between populations, and importantly, covaries with variables such as stress or other physiological responses. These snapshots of gene expression patterns ("transcriptomes") add key information about an organism's condition. We believe it is time for a new field of "landscape transcriptomics". Landscape transcriptomics could address similar questions as landscape genetics, but also tackle issues such as how landscape features affect stress and health of populations. This project will develop this field with a focus on applications to fisheries conservation and management, response of organisms to rapidly changing environments, and response of bee populations to nutritional resources, parasites, and pesticides.
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Species genetic diversity, persistence, and adaptive potential are all affected by the degree of connectivity between habitat patches and the characteristics of those patches, whether it be water temperature for fish or flower species diversity for bees. To better inform management and conservation efforts and provide insights about adaptation potential, it is important to know not only how populations differ from one another across the landscape, but also how populations differ in their response to dynamic environmental conditions. Examining a snapshot of the whole genome gene expression (a transcriptome) is one way to accomplish this need. However, currently there is not a formal field in ecology that explicitly explores the benefits, limits, and quantitative challenges associated with this approach at landscape scales. This project will develop this new subdiscipline of ecology, which we refer to as landscape transcriptomics. This research will be performed with partners from Penn State University, USGS, and other academic institutions.
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Effects of recreational disturbance on desert bighorn sheep in western Colorado
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June 2025
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Responses by large herbivores to human disturbance can result in a change in their habitat use, movements, and increased vigilance and decreased foraging time. Increased movements and reduced foraging time result in higher energetic costs and lower energetic gains, potentially decreasing fitness. The goal of this project is to determine potential impacts of increasing recreational activities on desert bighorn sheep in the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area, Colorado and develop management recommendations as appropriate to mitigate negative effects of recreation on desert bighorn sheep herds. Partners on this project include Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Bureau of Land Management, Wild Sheep Foundation, Desert Bighorn Council, and Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society. Data analysis on behavioral responses and changes in habitat selection associated with recreational activities will allow CPW and BLM to develop management plans to mitigate negative effects of recreation on desert bighorn sheep herds.
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Responses by large herbivores to human disturbance can result in a change in their habitat use, movements, and increased vigilance and decreased foraging time. Increased movements and reduced foraging time result in higher energetic costs and lower energetic gains, potentially decreasing fitness. The goal of this project is to determine potential impacts of increasing recreational activities on desert bighorn sheep in the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area, Colorado and develop management recommendations as appropriate to mitigate negative effects of recreation on desert bighorn sheep herds. Project objectives:1) Estimate seasonal home range size, daily displacement distance and total daily movement rates in relation to human disturbance.2) Determine activity budgets and foraging efficiency for bighorn sheep exposed to varying levels of disturbance due to human recreation.3) Estimate seasonal levels of stress hormones in subherds subjected to varying levels of human disturbance.4) Determine the effects of human disturbance on resource selection and space use of desert bighorn.5) Estimate pregnancy rates, apparent lamb survival, and adult female survival in subherds exposed to varying levels of human disturbance.
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Population Dynamics of Burrowing Owls on Kirtland Air Force Base
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September 2021
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Burrowing Owls (<i>Athene cunicularia</i>) were once a common breeder in grasslands and deserts throughout the western U.S. and Canada. Burrowing Owl populations have declined, and the species has been extirpated from areas on the western, northern, and eastern periphery of their breeding range. Burrowing Owls are now federally endangered in Canada, and are listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a Species of National Conservation Concern in the U.S. Burrowing Owls are also listed as endangered in Minnesota and Iowa, and are being considered or have been petitioned for state listing in California and Washington. Populations have declined in other states including Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. Hence, Burrowing Owls are listed as a high priority species in state Partners-in-Flight conservation plans and as a high responsibility species in the New Mexico Partners-in-Flight plan.<br>Burrowing owls occupy areas dominated by grassland, shrub-steppe, desert, and agricultural production. As one of the largest land managers in the interior western United States, the Department of Defense (DoD) bears management responsibility for a substantial proportion of remaining Burrowing Owl populations and their habitat. Furthermore, wildlife populations on DoD installations are facing increasing pressures because lands adjacent to many DoD installations have accelerating land use change (e.g., urbanization). The DoD Partners in Flight (PIF) program seeks to ensure the ongoing success of the military mission by maintaining the biotic integrity and sustainability of DoD testing and training lands through land stewardship, population monitoring, research, communication, education, and cooperation with other agencies and stake-holders.<br>The DoD PIF have identified the Burrowing Owl as a mission sensitive priority species (DoD Natural Resource Program 2014). Improved monitoring, research, and pro-active management of Burrowing Owls on DoD lands is vital to supporting the military mission. These actions will help identify the management role of DoD for conserving Burrowing Owls nesting in the region, potentially help prevent further listing efforts, and provide information on risk and frequency of bird strike hazards. As a declining species on Kirtland AFB, examining the local status, distribution, abundance, breeding behavior, and foraging habits of Burrowing Owls will facilitate successful mitigation and relocation efforts that may be needed to balance natural resource management with military readiness.
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Burrowing Owls (<i>Athene cunicularia</i>) were once a common breeder in grasslands and deserts throughout the western U.S. and Canada. Burrowing Owl populations have declined, and the species has been extirpated from areas on the western, northern, and eastern periphery of their breeding range. Burrowing Owls are now federally endangered in Canada, and are listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a Species of National Conservation Concern in the U.S. Burrowing Owls are also listed as endangered in Minnesota and Iowa, and are being considered or have been petitioned for state listing in California and Washington. Populations have declined in other states including Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. Hence, Burrowing Owls are listed as a high priority species in state Partners-in-Flight conservation plans and as a high responsibility species in the New Mexico Partners-in-Flight plan.Burrowing owls occupy areas dominated by grassland, shrub-steppe, desert, and agricultural production. As one of the largest land managers in the interior western United States, the Department of Defense (DoD) bears management responsibility for a substantial proportion of remaining Burrowing Owl populations and their habitat. Furthermore, wildlife populations on DoD installations are facing increasing pressures because lands adjacent to many DoD installations have accelerating land use change (e.g., urbanization). The DoD Partners in Flight (PIF) program seeks to ensure the ongoing success of the military mission by maintaining the biotic integrity and sustainability of DoD testing and training lands through land stewardship, population monitoring, research, communication, education, and cooperation with other agencies and stake-holders.The DoD PIF have identified the Burrowing Owl as a mission sensitive priority species (DoD Natural Resource Program 2014). Improved monitoring, research, and pro-active management of Burrowing Owls on DoD lands is vital to supporting the military mission. These actions will help identify the management role of DoD for conserving Burrowing Owls nesting in the region, potentially help prevent further listing efforts, and provide information on risk and frequency of bird strike hazards. As a declining species on Kirtland AFB, examining the local status, distribution, abundance, breeding behavior, and foraging habits of Burrowing Owls will facilitate successful mitigation and relocation efforts that may be needed to balance natural resource management with military readiness.
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Selenium Risk to Yuma Ridgway’s Rails at the Salton Sea
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May 2025
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The federally endangered Yuma Ridgway’s rail (<i>Rallus obsoletus yumanensis</i>) inhabits emergent marshes throughout the Lower Colorado River Basin and around the Salton Sea in California. Emergent marshes around the Salton Sea support one of the largest remaining populations of Yuma Ridgway’s rails in the U.S. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2010, Eddleman and Conway 2018). Much of the rail habitat at the Salton Sea is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (at Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge) and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (at Wister Wildlife Management Area). Recently, unmanaged marshes have appeared at agricultural drainage outlets around the Salton Sea and are becoming more common as sea levels recede (Barnum et al. 2017). Marsh bird survey results suggest Yuma Ridgway’s rails are moving away from managed wetlands into the new unmanaged marshes around agricultural drainages (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, unpublished data). These new unmanaged marshes receive agricultural drainage water with varying concentrations of selenium, whereas managed marshes receive Colorado River water with relatively low concentrations of selenium. Selenium affects reproductive success (e.g., embryo development) of birds at elevated concentrations. Crucially, selenium concentrations exceed EPA water quality standards in agricultural drains feeding unmanaged marshes inhabited by Yuma Ridgway’s rails (Saiki et al. 2012). As such, rails within the unmanaged marshes may be at risk from elevated selenium concentrations and these unmanaged marshes may create an ecological trap for the rails. Alternatively, they may be helpful additions to rail habitat to support recovery of the bird. Managers and policy-makers need to know whether these new unmanaged marshes are benefiting or hindering recovery of the species.<br>We are monitoring rail demographics, selenium burdens in breeding rails, and selenium concentrations in rail prey items within managed and unmanaged marshes around the Salton Sea. Our research will help evaluate the habitat suitability of unmanaged marshes for Yuma Ridgway’s rails and assess the risk selenium concentrations in these unmanaged marshes may pose to Yuma Ridgway’s rails. Such information will help guide conservation efforts both locally (e.g., can managers safely use no-cost drain water to create marshes for Yuma Ridgway’s rails?) and throughout the entire range of this federally endangered rail.
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The federally endangered Yuma Ridgway’s rail (<i>Rallus obsoletus yumanensis</i>) inhabits emergent marshes throughout the Lower Colorado River Basin and around the Salton Sea in California. Emergent marshes around the Salton Sea support one of the largest remaining populations of Yuma Ridgway’s rails in the U.S. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2010, Eddleman and Conway 2018). Much of the rail habitat at the Salton Sea is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (at Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge) and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (at Wister Wildlife Management Area). Recently, unmanaged marshes have appeared at agricultural drainage outlets around the Salton Sea and are becoming more common as sea levels recede (Barnum et al. 2017). Marsh bird survey results suggest Yuma Ridgway’s rails are moving away from managed wetlands into the new unmanaged marshes around agricultural drainages (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, unpublished data). These new unmanaged marshes receive agricultural drainage water with varying concentrations of selenium, whereas managed marshes receive Colorado River water with relatively low concentrations of selenium. Selenium affects reproductive success (e.g., embryo development) of birds at elevated concentrations. Crucially, selenium concentrations exceed EPA water quality standards in agricultural drains feeding unmanaged marshes inhabited by Yuma Ridgway’s rails (Saiki et al. 2012). As such, rails within the unmanaged marshes may be at risk from elevated selenium concentrations and these unmanaged marshes may create an ecological trap for the rails. Alternatively, they may be helpful additions to rail habitat to support recovery of the bird. Managers and policy-makers need to know whether these new unmanaged marshes are benefiting or hindering recovery of the species.We are monitoring rail demographics, selenium burdens in breeding rails, and selenium concentrations in rail prey items within managed and unmanaged marshes around the Salton Sea. Our research will help evaluate the habitat suitability of unmanaged marshes for Yuma Ridgway’s rails and assess the risk selenium concentrations in these unmanaged marshes may pose to Yuma Ridgway’s rails. Such information will help guide conservation efforts both locally (e.g., can managers safely use no-cost drain water to create marshes for Yuma Ridgway’s rails?) and throughout the entire range of this federally endangered rail.
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Movement Ecology and Survival of Light-footed Ridgway's Rail
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December 2024
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Light-footed Ridgway’s Rails (<i>Rallus obsoletus levipes</i>) are rare and are restricted to a small geographic range that spans the U.S.-Mexico border. They persist in a landscape with high density of humans, growing human populations, and increased habitat fragmentation and degradation. Despite their rarity, very little is known about their abundance, distribution, seasonal movements, and connectivity among occupied marshes. Better knowledge of these characteristics is critical to effective population recovery and management. USFWS and CDFW biologists are interested to obtaining: 1) a more rigorous and more replicable estimate of range-wide abundance, 2) a more rigorous estimate of population trend, 3) a range-wide approach for estimating probability of occupancy for all marshes, and 4) estimates of the frequency of movement within and among marshes, for wild and captive-reared birds. The recovery priorities in the LFRR Recovery Plan addressed by this proposal include: Examine rail population dynamics, Assess rail habitat requirements, Analyze rail habitat utilization patterns, and Determine numbers, distribution, population trends on annual basis in the U.S., all of which have a #1 priority ranking.<br><br>The goals of this project are to improve our knowledge of the distribution, abundance and movements of this endangered bird, to develop and disseminate standardized population monitoring methods for the species, and to assess the effectiveness of current recovery actions. Documenting where LFRR are present, how many are present, and how individuals move among the fragmented marsh habitats they occupy is critical to effective management of the species. These data are specifically mentioned as priority needs in the recovery plan for the LFRR.<br><br>Objectives:<br><i>Design and implement a statistically rigorous monitoring protocol via standardized call-broadcast surveys within marshes throughout the bird’s U.S. range. </i><br><br><i>Assess the effectiveness of current recovery actions by attaching solar-powered satellite GPS transmitters to wild-caught and captive-bred rails so that we can compare home range size, seasonal movements, habitat associations, connectivity among populations, dispersal, and survival. </i>
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Light-footed Ridgway’s Rails (<i>Rallus obsoletus levipes</i>) are rare and are restricted to a small geographic range that spans the U.S.-Mexico border. They persist in a landscape with high density of humans, growing human populations, and increased habitat fragmentation and degradation. Despite their rarity, very little is known about their abundance, distribution, seasonal movements, and connectivity among occupied marshes. Better knowledge of these characteristics is critical to effective population recovery and management. USFWS and CDFW biologists are interested to obtaining: 1) a more rigorous and more replicable estimate of range-wide abundance, 2) a more rigorous estimate of population trend, 3) a range-wide approach for estimating probability of occupancy for all marshes, and 4) estimates of the frequency of movement within and among marshes, for wild and captive-reared birds. The recovery priorities in the LFRR Recovery Plan addressed by this proposal include: Examine rail population dynamics, Assess rail habitat requirements, Analyze rail habitat utilization patterns, and Determine numbers, distribution, population trends on annual basis in the U.S., all of which have a #1 priority ranking.The goals of this project are to improve our knowledge of the distribution, abundance and movements of this endangered bird, to develop and disseminate standardized population monitoring methods for the species, and to assess the effectiveness of current recovery actions. Documenting where LFRR are present, how many are present, and how individuals move among the fragmented marsh habitats they occupy is critical to effective management of the species. These data are specifically mentioned as priority needs in the recovery plan for the LFRR.Objectives:<i>Design and implement a statistically rigorous monitoring protocol via standardized call-broadcast surveys within marshes throughout the bird’s U.S. range. </i><i>Assess the effectiveness of current recovery actions by attaching solar-powered satellite GPS transmitters to wild-caught and captive-bred rails so that we can compare home range size, seasonal movements, habitat associations, connectivity among populations, dispersal, and survival. </i>
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Population Dynamics of Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse in Idaho
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April 2021
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Abundance of Columbian sharp-tailed grouse has declined and state agencies must set annual harvest regulations that ensure that harvest is sustainable without adversely affecting the bird’s persistence. Currently monitoring efforts to estimate annual abundance are based on lek counts, but their reliability is unknown. We will use lek count data, harvest and hunter effort data, and age ratio data (from harvest) to estimate abundance of sharp-tailed grouse in Idaho. Will use multiple counts per year at leks to estimate and incorporate detection error (i.e., prob of grouse being detected given present) into models. We will conduct analyses of spatial-temporal patterns in maximum lek counts based on a generalized mixed model analysis to describe spatial-temporal patterns in lek counts. We will also conduct analyses of spatial-temporal patterns in raw lek counts (survey level data) to build generalized mixed models to describe spatial-temporal changes in relative abundance, and factors related to relative abundance, while incorporating survey-level detection covariates directly into analyses. We will also conduct analyses of spatial-temporal patterns of lek occupancy; build hierarchical occupancy models to provide a more thorough understanding of the spatial distribution of lekking sharp-tailed grouse in southern Idaho, how lek occupancy has changed over time (i.e., range contraction-expansion), and possibly identify factors that influence lek occupancy.
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Abundance of Columbian sharp-tailed grouse has declined and state agencies must set annual harvest regulations that ensure that harvest is sustainable without adversely affecting the bird’s persistence. Currently monitoring efforts to estimate annual abundance are based on lek counts, but their reliability is unknown. We will use lek count data, harvest and hunter effort data, and age ratio data (from harvest) to estimate abundance of sharp-tailed grouse in Idaho. Will use multiple counts per year at leks to estimate and incorporate detection error (i.e., prob of grouse being detected given present) into models. We will conduct analyses of spatial-temporal patterns in maximum lek counts based on a generalized mixed model analysis to describe spatial-temporal patterns in lek counts. We will also conduct analyses of spatial-temporal patterns in raw lek counts (survey level data) to build generalized mixed models to describe spatial-temporal changes in relative abundance, and factors related to relative abundance, while incorporating survey-level detection covariates directly into analyses. We will also conduct analyses of spatial-temporal patterns of lek occupancy; build hierarchical occupancy models to provide a more thorough understanding of the spatial distribution of lekking sharp-tailed grouse in southern Idaho, how lek occupancy has changed over time (i.e., range contraction-expansion), and possibly identify factors that influence lek occupancy.
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Emerging viral diseases in at-risk populations of felids and ungulates
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February 2027
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To integrate population genomics, macrobiomics, diet-"ome", and viromics to better assess pathogens that might pose threats to at-risk wildlife populations, and use landscape genomics to identify to what degree population connectivity factors versus environmental factors, and even wildlife urban interface contribute. Populations of pumas, jaguars, and ocelots, in the Sonoran Desert are experiencing higher stress due to drought which may lead to decline, and the status of bobcats<i> </i>in the Southwest is unknown. Sonoran pronghorn are endangered and also experiencing drought. Also Florida panthers are experiencing an unknown neurological disease and we are including samples of these affected individuals
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To integrate the cutting-edge techniques of population genomics and viromics to better assess viruses that might pose threats to at-risk wildlife populations, and use landscape genomics to identify to what degree population connectivity factors in versus environmental factors. Sonoran felids and ungulates may be threatened by the emergence of new viruses associated with climate change and habitat encroachment. Populations of pumas (<i>Puma concolor</i>), jaguars (<i>Panthera onca</i>), and ocelots (<i>Leopardus pardalis</i>), in the Sonoran Desert are experiencing higher stress due to drought which may lead to decline, and the status of bobcats (<i>Lynx rufus</i>)<i> </i>in the Southwest is unknown. Sonoran pronghorn (<i>Antilocapra americana sonoriensis</i>), jaguars, and ocelots are endangered and are therefore likely to be at increased risk of susceptibility to emerging diseases due to decreased genetic variation. Additionally, individuals from the endangered and recovering Florida panther population have recently been observed to be affected by a neurologic disorder of unknown cause. The objectives of this study are to integrate population connectivity and virome composition for the Florida panther and five Sonoran species: puma, bobcat, ocelot, jaguar, and pronghorn. Population structure and connectivity, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium departures, and inbreeding will be determined through RADSeq, and viromes will be characterized using a metagenomic approach. Additionally, novel viruses and viruses most likely to pose threats to population viability from disease outbreaks will be identified. Paired samples (scat with buccal swabs or muscle tissue) will be used to assess the reliability of using scat samples to identify host-specific viruses. Preliminary viromic analyses of puma and bobcat scats from Mexico suggest the presence of a novel feline circovirus in these populations. These findings may inform management decisions to supplement populations by translocation and take preventative measures, such as vaccine administration.
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Using RAD-seq Genomic Methods to Estimate Social Structure and Reproductive Success of a Puma Population and Implications on Affects of Sport-Hunting
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December 2020
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Use RAD-seq data to describe relatedness, paternity, and reproductive success of adults in the Uncompahgre Plateau puma population, with and without hunting, and infer any effects of sport-hunting on relatedness, reproductive success and behavior.
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Examine substructure and connectivity of pumas on the Uncompahgre Plateau of Colorado; describe relatedness, paternity, and reproductive success of adults in the population. We will examine different genomic signals of a puma population that was not hunted, then subsequently hunted, to reveal if hunting may change the relatedness, social structure, and reproductive success of individuals in the population in a manner thatmay signal potential changes in fitness and phenotypic traits. This could inform managers and stakeholders about potential outcomes of current management models, and if necessary provide alternate management models to modify management for pumas to lessen the fitness impact fromhunting. We are still gathering the RAD-seq data.
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Kinship for Harris Hawks in Baja California Sur
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June 2020
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Use microsatellite markers to assess genetic diversity and kinship at nest sites in agricultural areas in Baja California where the habitat has become fragmented. We will estimate if barriers to gene flow are present in this agricultural landscape. Additionally, look for paternal relationships.
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Use microsatellite markers to assess genetic diversity of samples from nest sites in agricultural areas in Baja California where the habitat has become fragmented. Analyze the data among nesting areas to determine the amount of connectivity across broad agricultural areas for this raptor specices in the southern Baja California. We will estimate the level of inbreeding for each fragmented area, estimate levels of subdivision among populations, and infer if barriers to gene flow are present in this agricultural landscape. Additionally, examine kinship at each nest to look for paternal relationships. In this collaborative effort the PhD student, Gregorio at University of La Paz, will do a paid internship at the UA in the Culver Conservation Genetics Laboratory in the Fall of 2018 and early Spring 2019, to learn the techniques needed to perform the analyses, then continue the analyses in La Paz,BC with assistance from the Culver Lab.
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Conservation Genomics of Flat-tailed horned lizards in Arizona
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September 2021
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Characterize the extent of genetic variation and and behavioral characteristics for Arizona population(s) of <i>Phrynosoma mcallii. </i>The study site on Barry M Goldwater Army Range will look at connectivity and dispersal across roads used for military activities, and paternity analyses employing RAD-seq genome data methods, with development of Genomic SNP markers,
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Characterize the extent of genetic variation and uniqueness within and among the Arizona population(s) of <i>Phrynosoma mcallii</i>, and among the Arizona population(s) represent a unique gene pool isolated from those of California and Mexico. The study site on Barry M Goldwater Army Range will look at connectivity across roads used for military activities, and will employ RAD-seq genome data methods, with development of Genomic SNP markers, for the flat-tailed horned lizard. This study will provided a dataset to resolve finer scale population differentiation than was previously performed using mitochondrial DNA, and microsatellites, and thus is characterizing the potential genetic uniqueness of different populations, also resolve behavioral characteristics like dispersal distances, paternity and family group structure. Results of this study will be used in future wildlife management and conservation decisions. Additional sampling of lizards is already being conducted to add more information to the International boundary connectivity question as this species occurs on both sides of the US- Mexico border. We are currently completing final analyses following a break in the projectdue to covid-19. Further analyses will elucidate the population boundaries.
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Causes of Differential Migration in Birds
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December 2024
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For centuries, the spectacle of animal migration has fascinated the scientific community. Understanding why migration occurs is of central importance to the evolution of migratory behavior, and the mechanisms governing migratory decisions continues to be an active area of research. One widespread and well-studied migration pattern that has produced insights into why birds migrate is differential migration. Differential migration can be broadly defined as intraspecific variation in migratory behavior, and research has often focused on age, sex, or population-specific variation in migration timing, speed, or distance, choice of wintering area, or whether to migrate or not (i.e., partial migration; reviewed in Cristol et al. 1999, Chapman et al. 2011). While differential migration is widespread and well-studied, the underlying causes of this phenomena remain difficult to elucidate.<br><br>Research attempting to understand the underlying causes of differential migration have primarily focused on three mechanistic hypotheses. First, the arrival time hypothesis posits that intrasexual competition for access to breeding territories results in differential migration whereby the sex establishing and maintaining the breeding territory arrives to the breeding range earlier because it migrated a shorter distance or did not migrate at all (Ketterson & Nolan 1976, Myers 1981). Second, the body size hypothesis posits that larger individuals can better survive harsh winter conditions that are closer to, or on, the breeding grounds (Mayr 1963, Ketterson & Nolan 1976). Third, the social dominance hypothesis posits that intraspecific competition for limited winter resources results in subordinate individuals migrating farther because dominant individuals restrict their access to resources (Ketterson & Nolan 1976, Gauthreaux 1978).<br><br>Despite extensive research attempting to distinguish among these hypotheses (reviewed in Cristol et al. 1999, Chapman et al. 2011), the mechanisms underlying differential migration are still equivocal. Two primary factors are responsible for this ambiguity: 1) the three traditional hypotheses often make overlapping predictions, and 2) relatively few studies explicitly test competing hypotheses, or the mechanisms underlying them, using the hypothetico-deductive approach (but see Boyle 2008, Lundblad & Conway 2020). For example, the body size, social dominance, and arrival time hypotheses all predict that the larger, more dominant, and territory establishing sex, respectively, migrate shorter distances. For some species however, these predictions often correspond to the same age and sex class (usually adult males).<br><br>The objectives of this project are to test hypotheses to explain variation in migration distance among individual, remotely-tracked Rough-legged Hawks (<i>Buteo lagopus</i>). This hypothesis and prediction framework will also be broadened and used in a differential migration review and comparative analysis.
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The underlying causes of differential migration are not known and remain a topic of debate. Research attempting to understand the underlying causes of differential migration have primarily focused on three mechanistic hypotheses: the arrival time hypothesis, the body size hypothesis, and the social dominance hypothesis. Despite extensive research attempting to distinguish among these hypotheses, the mechanisms underlying differential migration are still equivocal. We are testing these 3 hypotheses plus 3 less-common hypotheses to explain variation in migration distance among individual Rough-legged Hawks (<i>Buteo lagopus</i>). We are partnering with biologists from agencies and universities throughout North America to deploy satellite transmitters and document migration of rough-legged hawks throughout their annual migratory cycle on the North American continent. The results will help managers and scientists better understand the effects of climate change on bird migration and document important migratory flyways throughout North America.
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Endangered Yellowcheek Darter (Etheostoma moorei) movement and refuge use
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May 2024
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Yellowcheek Darter (<i>Etheostoma moorei</i>) is a fish endemic to the Little Red River watershed in Arkansas (Fig. 1). As a result of threats, geographic isolation and declining abundance, the species was listed as endangered in 2011. Populations have declined, in part, due to intense seasonal stream drying and inundation of lower stream reaches (Fig. 1). It is hypothesized that in headwater streams where periodic drying is common, habitat selection influences Yellowcheek Darter distribution and abundance. Seasonal drought is typical in this region, and as drying occurs, individuals must move from riffles into neighboring pools, move into the hyporheic zone, migrate large distances to a persistent riffle, or perish. It is well-established that other darter species take refuge in pools during riffle drying. However, Yellowcheek Darter has only been collected in riffles, and hence has been identified as an obligate riffle-dweller. We seek to determine the patterns of Yellowcheek Darter refuge selection and how this may effect bioenergetics and population dynamics. Additionally, we propose to examine effects of current and future climate on Yellowcheek Darter population dynamics. This information will help conserve this endangered species. Our approach could also be readily transferable to other aquatic species in the Southeast Region and nationally.
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Yellowcheek Darter (<i>Etheostoma moorei</i>) is a fish endemic to the Little Red River watershed in Arkansas (Fig. 1). As a result of threats, geographic isolation and declining abundance, the species was listed as endangered in 2011. Populations have declined, in part, due to intense seasonal stream drying and inundation of lower stream reaches (Fig. 1). It is hypothesized that in headwater streams where periodic drying is common, habitat selection influences Yellowcheek Darter distribution and abundance. Seasonal drought is typical in this region, and as drying occurs, individuals must move from riffles into neighboring pools, move into the hyporheic zone, migrate large distances to a persistent riffle, or perish. It is well-established that other darter species take refuge in pools during riffle drying. However, Yellowcheek Darter has only been collected in riffles, and hence has been identified as an obligate riffle-dweller. We seek to determine the patterns of Yellowcheek Darter refuge selection and how this may effect bioenergetics and population dynamics. Additionally, we propose to examine effects of current and future climate on Yellowcheek Darter population dynamics. This information will help conserve this endangered species. Our approach could also be readily transferable to other aquatic species in the Southeast Region and nationally.
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Reconstruction of landscape composition and vegetation characteristics in the Sand Sagebrush Prairie Ecoregion
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August 2023
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Historically, the Sand Sagebrush Prairie Ecoregion supported the greatest density of lesser prairie-chickens. Currently, the species is nearly extirpated from the ecoregion. Potential reasons for the rapid population decline include changes in land cover, vegetation composition, and vegetation structure. We will use historical vegetation data to detail potential changes in habitat quality, which may explain the population decline.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Historically, the Sand Sagebrush Prairie Ecoregion supported the greatest density of lesser prairie-chickens. Currently, the species is nearly extirpated from the ecoregion. Potential reasons for the rapid population decline include changes in land cover, vegetation composition, and vegetation structure. <b>Why this research matters:</b>Lesser prairie-chickens depend on quality habitat to persist. Quality habitat is primarily specific vegetation structure followed by vegetation composition. Conservation planning requires information on the current vegetation composition and structure relative to historical conditions.<b>Collaboration/Partners:</b>U.S. Geological Survey, Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Cooperative Research Unit, Kansas State University<b>Research That Informs Decisions:</b>Understanding how the landscape has changed in the Sand Sagebrush Prairie Ecoregion is critical for management of lesser prairie-chickens. Many management practices can be designed to create a specific composition and structure of vegetation.
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Multi-scale response of lesser prairie-chickens to future changes in land use and land cover
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December 2022
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Future changes in landscapes due to land use practices and climate change will greatly affect persistence of lesser prairie-chicken populations. We are combining multiple data sets from across the lesser prairie-chicken range to assess future conditions for populations among ecoregions.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Lesser prairie-chickens are declining across their range. Changes in land use and land cover are occurring across the species range. Predicting responses to future changes and associated climate change will inform ongoing conservation efforts.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Lesser prairie-chickens require large landscapes to persist. Large data sets assembled during the past decade will allow for analyses to predict future responses to changes in land cover and land uses, in particular in anticipation of climate changes.<b>Collaboration/Partners:</b>U.S. Geological Survey, Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas State University.<b>Research That Informs Decisions:</b>Predictions allowing for persistence of lesser prairie-chickens in light of future changes in land cover, land use, and climate change will inform conservation planning and management strategies.
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Enhancing the Conservation Potential of the Wood Turtle
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December 2023
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Wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) are considered a species of conservation need across their range. This study will quantify and compare wood turtle abundances, adult survival rates, and movement patterns across a forest fragmentation gradient in the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) in northwestern Pennsylvania. Additionally, natural resource agencies have a need for spatially explicit predictions of Wood Turtle occurrence probability to assist in planning for species monitoring efforts, habitat restorations, and permitting. This project will create a species distribution model (SDM) to predict wood turtle occurrence for Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania. The goal of this research is to benefit wildlife managers who aim to promote robust wood turtle populations through active habitat management, inform species regulations and guidelines, and assist the USFWS with their federal listing decision.
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Wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) are considered a species of conservation need across their range. This study will quantify and compare wood turtle abundances, adult survival rates, and movement patterns across a forest fragmentation gradient in the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) in northwestern Pennsylvania. Additionally, natural resource agencies have a need for spatially explicit predictions of Wood Turtle occurrence probability to assist in planning for species monitoring efforts, habitat restorations, and permitting. This project will create a species distribution model (SDM) to predict wood turtle occurrence for Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania. The goal of this research is to benefit wildlife managers who aim to promote robust wood turtle populations through active habitat management, inform species regulations and guidelines, and assist the USFWS with their federal listing decision.
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Does a copper-nitrate synergy drive algal blooms and toxicity in Sierra Nevada Lakes?
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July 2024
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Using a recently developed, web-based, mapping tool, collaborators at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI) and the University of California, Davis Agricultural GIS Laboratory calculated predicted pesticide deposition, moving from agricultural lands in California’s Central Valley into California national parks (Meyer and DeMars, 2018; UC-Davis 2019).<br> <br>From this analysis, the mapping tool identified copper-based pesticides among the top three high-impact pollutants that are likely to enter SEKI’s oligotrophic mountain lakes by atmospheric deposition (Fig. 1). In addition to copper, agricultural activities are likely the main source of volatized nitrogen in the atmosphere over SEKI (Fig. 1) (Almaraz et al., 2018). Derived from fertilizers and manure, the atmospheric nitrogen drives algal blooms in SEKI’s lakes (Barron and Nydick 2018), and contributes significantly to smog (Almaraz et al., 2018), despite the park being designated a “Class I” area, intended by the Clean Air Act to receive the highest level of air quality protection.
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<b>Sequoia and Kings Canyon (SEKI) National Park has an immediate management need to verify predictions of copper deposition to SEKI lakes, determine if copper and nitrogen synergize to drive algal blooms in the lakes, and establish if copper is bioaccumulating in the food web and impacting fish and amphibian health.</b>
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Assessing habitat suitability and the spatial design of recovery options for southern mountain caribou in western North America.
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September 2025
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Southern mountain caribou have declined precipitously in western North America in recent decades and both the US and Canadian government s are working collaboratively on recovery efforts for this species. We do not have a solid understanding about the needs, availability, and spatial distribution of high quality habitat for caribou. This project is a collaboration between USGS, USFWS, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and Canadian and First Nations governments. We will assess habitat suitability across space and time and project habitat suitability as a function of future human land use patterns in western N. Am. The resulting models can be used to guide the spatial design of recovery options and guide southern mountain caribou conservation in western North America.
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Southern mountain caribou have declined precipitously in western North America in recent decades and both the US and Canadian government s are working collaboratively on recovery efforts for this species. We do not have a solid understanding about the needs, availability, and spatial distribution of high quality habitat for caribou. This project is a collaboration between USGS, USFWS, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and Canadian and First Nations governments. We will assess habitat suitability across space and time and project habitat suitability as a function of future human land use patterns in western N. Am. The resulting models can be used to guide the spatial design of recovery options and guide southern mountain caribou conservation in western North America.
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Advancing the knowledge of freshwater mussel conservation: examining the role of manganese on recent mussel die-offs and enigmatic declines
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May 2023
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The Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States contain the greatest biodiversity of native freshwater mussels in the world, but they are highly imperiled due to habitat alteration and destruction, pollution and poor water quality, and the introduction of aquatic invasive species. Over recent decades, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and state fish and wildlife management agency biologists have responded to an increased frequency of mussel die-offs, enigmatic declines, and problems with decreased mussel growth and survival, but a definiticve cause has yet to be identified. However, a recent, but unexplained relation has been identified between manganese (Mn) concentrations and several of these mussel decline and die-off events. Therefore, we propose to examine the toxicity of Mn to mussels in controlled laboratory tests with captively propagated larval and juvenile mussels and with adult mussels collected from low Mn-containing streams. We will then compare these findings to mussels and Mn concentrations in water and sediment from streams where die-offs and declines have occurred. This high impact project focuses on native freshwater mussel conservation priorities of the Southeast region and potentially nation-wide. The project has direct links to the strategic science needs of the natural and cultural resource managers in the region and beyond, because it addresses specific priorities outlined in the State Wildlife Action Plans for the conservation of native freshwater mussels in the States of North Carolina and Virginia and federal at-risk molluscan species in Region 4 and Region 5 of the USFWS and others across the country. In addition, this project will have direct relevance and benefit to other federal resource management and research agencies, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, who utilize the mussel toxicity data in water quality criterion development. The completion of these research objectives will provide natural resource managers and other decision makers with real-world exposure and survival scenarios and would directly impact the recovery plan for the endangered Appalachian Elktoe mussel by informing the potential causal mechanisms for its die-off and decline in the Little Tennessee River of North Carolina. The persistence of all freshwater mussels will be addressed in the scope of the project.
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The Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States contain the greatest biodiversity of native freshwater mussels in the world, but they are highly imperiled due to habitat alteration and destruction, pollution and poor water quality, and the introduction of aquatic invasive species. Over recent decades, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and state fish and wildlife management agency biologists have responded to an increased frequency of mussel die-offs, enigmatic declines, and problems with decreased mussel growth and survival, but a definiticve cause has yet to be identified. However, a recent, but unexplained relation has been identified between manganese (Mn) concentrations and several of these mussel decline and die-off events. Therefore, we propose to examine the toxicity of Mn to mussels in controlled laboratory tests with captively propagated larval and juvenile mussels and with adult mussels collected from low Mn-containing streams. We will then compare these findings to mussels and Mn concentrations in water and sediment from streams where die-offs and declines have occurred. This high impact project focuses on native freshwater mussel conservation priorities of the Southeast region and potentially nation-wide. The project has direct links to the strategic science needs of the natural and cultural resource managers in the region and beyond, because it addresses specific priorities outlined in the State Wildlife Action Plans for the conservation of native freshwater mussels in the States of North Carolina and Virginia and federal at-risk molluscan species in Region 4 and Region 5 of the USFWS and others across the country. In addition, this project will have direct relevance and benefit to other federal resource management and research agencies, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, who utilize the mussel toxicity data in water quality criterion development. The completion of these research objectives will provide natural resource managers and other decision makers with real-world exposure and survival scenarios and would directly impact the recovery plan for the endangered Appalachian Elktoe mussel by informing the potential causal mechanisms for its die-off and decline in the Little Tennessee River of North Carolina. The persistence of all freshwater mussels will be addressed in the scope of the project.
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Impacts of sea level rise and associated salinity changes on at-risk native freshwater mussels and their habitats in Atlantic coastal rivers
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December 2022
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The Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States contain the greatest biodiversity of native freshwater mussels in the world, but they are highly imperiled due to habitat alteration and destruction, pollution and poor water quality, and the introduction of aquatic invasive species. Now they are at even greater risk from the stresses associated with climate change induced sea level rise and its associated changes in salinity, temperature, and stream flow. In this project, a unique opportunity exists to investigate the potential adaptation and vulnerability of a native freshwater mussel, the Tidewater Mucket, in these coastal river systems and offer solutions for its conservation. We have recently discovered a population of these mussels in a reservoir along the North Carolina-Virginia border that have been isolated from their native riverine habitat and associated natural fluctuations in salinity for over 50 years. These mussels have apparently adapted to the relatively high temperatures, low flow, and low salinity of a reservoir environment, whereas their native counterpart populations of Tidewater Mucket in the downstream portions of coastal rivers that have adapted to withstand small but periodic exposures to salinity and altered flows are declining. Our federal and state natural resource management partners, policy makers, and other stakeholders would like to know how these native coastal plain mussel populations will respond to larger and longer durations of salinity incursions like those predicted with sea level rise. In this study, we will use mussels from both the reservoir and riverine populations to understand their vulnerability to salinity by conducting sensitivity tests under controlled laboratory conditions, determine the potential effects of natural riverine salinity gradients by conducting a transplant experiment, and develop risk-based visualization maps of mussel salinity tolerances in existing occupied habitats incorporating predictions in sea level rise and projected salinity ranges. The outcomes of this research will provide actionable management and conservation information for maintaining these highly imperiled, but valuable molluscan resources.
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The freshwater aquatic organisms that inhabit rivers, especially those that reside in coastal drainages live in constrained corridors. Thus, populations can only move and adapt to changing environmental conditions in a longitudinal manner (upstream to downstream or downstream to upstream). Many of these organisms have evolved and adapted to live in preferred habitats and water quality conditions within these streams, and relatively rapid human-induced changes pose a unique challenge for their continued survival and persistence. This is especially true for our native freshwater mussels belonging to the family Unionidae, which are already among the most imperiled groups of fauna on the planet. One such factor associated with changing environmental conditions in a climate-influenced scenario that may adversely impact freshwater mussels inhabiting coastal rivers is sea level rise and accompanying changes in the salinity regime. For example, a recent published study has shown that 42% of coastal North Carolina could be inundated with 100 cm of sea level rise and that evaluating this risk is essential for understanding adaptation potential and decision making. Therefore, the overall aim of this project is to investigate the adaptation and vulnerability potential of a native freshwater mussel living in coastal riverine drainages to climate-induced, sea level rise, specifically fluctuating salinity, temperature, and flow regimes. The specific objectives of our study are to: (1) assess the vulnerability of the Tidewater Mucket (<i>Leptodea ochracea</i>), an imperiled freshwater mussel species that resides in lower Atlantic Slope coastal drainages to salinity by conducting standard sensitivity tests with early life stages (e.g., larvae, juveniles) of the mussel under controlled laboratory conditions; (2) determine the potential effects of natural riverine salinity gradients on adult mussels by conducting a reciprocal transplant experiment with salinity adapted and non-salinity adapted mussels; and (3) develop a risk-based scenario of mussel salinity tolerances in existing occupied habitats incorporating predictions in sea level rise and projected salinity ranges. This project directly addresses Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center and partner agency priority topics and is a collaborative effort among North Carolina State University, the U.S. Geological Survey’s North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Raleigh North Carolina Field Office, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, and the University of Georgia. The peer-reviewed publications, relevant infographics for web sites, and visualization maps of the overlap of sea level rise and mussel salinity sensitivity that will comprise our primary products and deliverables will illustrate the areas of rivers where mussels may be lost or conserved due to climate-induced salinity changes and will provide federal and state natural resource managers, policy makers, and future researchers with actionable management and conservation information and potential options for maintaining this highly imperiled, but valuable molluscan resource in the face of predicted climate-induced sea level rise and salinity fluctuations.
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Patterns of greenness (NDVI) in the Southern Great Plains and their influence on reproduction of a declining prairie grouse.
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August 2022
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We are evaluating the utility of NDVI and phenology-based metrics in estimating lesser prairie-chicken reproductive habitat quality remotely over broad spatial scales.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Temporal patterns in greenness values that describe site-specific plant phenology could also be useful for evaluating habitat quality in grasslands. Several grassland bird species, including lesser prairie-chickens, need both residual grassland cover and disturbed areas to successfully reproduce. Combining phenology-based metrics with field-collected data could be extremely useful for identifying high quality reproductive habitat and monitoring habitat using strategic habitat conservation in the future.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Lesser prairie-chickens are declining primarily due to a loss of habitat quality. Associated with climate change, habitat quality will determine the capacity of lesser prairie-chickens to persist. Vegetation greenness has been a strong predictor of habitat availability for several species of wildlife and may be a particularly useful tool in grasslands. Ecological disturbances in grasslands have been associated with temporal variation in greenness.<b>Collaboration/Partners: </b>U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas State University<b>Research That Informs Decisions:</b>We are evaluating the utility of NDVI and other phenology-based metrics in estimating lesser prairie-chicken reproductive habitat quality remotely over broad spatial scales. These results will allow managers to assess habitat quality over broad landscapes as well as monitor effects of climate change on available habitat.
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Lesser Prairie-Chicken
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September 2022
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Pndg
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Using genomics to elucidate local adaptation among isolated populations of the endangered tidewater goby
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December 2022
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This study will conduct genome scans of tidewater goby (<i>Eucyclogobius newberryi</i>) from across the geographic range of the species to determine if there is evidence of local adaptation. Local adaptation is defined as when populations of a species have evolved higher fitness in a local environment than other members of the same species. Using the first ever de novo genome assembly that we will develop for tidewater goby, we will compare tidewater goby samples from the extremes of geographic range (3 populations from northern and southern California, respectively) for evidence of local adaptation. For this project, we will partner with researchers at Humboldt State University and the University of California Los Angeles. Determining if tidewater goby exhibit local adaptation is important for conservation and management because this information is needed to determine if isolated tidewater goby populations warrant recognition as conservation units. Also, this information is needed to inform reintroduction or augmentation programs and assess the extent that tidewater goby populations will be able to respond to climate change.
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This study will conduct genome scans of tidewater goby (<i>Eucyclogobius newberryi</i>) from across the geographic range of the species to determine if there is evidence of local adaptation. Local adaptation is defined as when populations of a species have evolved higher fitness in a local environment than other members of the same species. Using the first ever de novo genome assembly that we will develop for tidewater goby, we will compare tidewater goby samples from the extremes of geographic range (3 populations from northern and southern California, respectively) for evidence of local adaptation. For this project, we will partner with researchers at Humboldt State University and the University of California Los Angeles. Determining if tidewater goby exhibit local adaptation is important for conservation and management because this information is needed to determine if isolated tidewater goby populations warrant recognition as conservation units. Also, this information is needed to inform reintroduction or augmentation programs and assess the extent that tidewater goby populations will be able to respond to climate change.
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Development of environmental DNA assays for Central Valley Chinook salmon ecotypes
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December 2020
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The objective of this project is to develop a CRISPR assay to differentiate between the four Central Valley Chinook (CVC) salmon ecotypes using environmental DNA methods. Two of the four CVC salmon ecotypes (winter, spring, fall, and late-fall) are listed on the Endangered Species Act as either threatened or endangered, and this project will make use of an existing DNA alignment of whole genome sequence data from 128 Chinook salmon representative of all four Chinook salmon run-time ecotypes. It is hoped that by screening such a large extent of genomic variation we will be able to identify a sequence region suitable for development of an eDNA assay that is specific for the endangered winter-run Chinook salmon. By using CRISPR technology, instead of quantitative PCR (qPCR), we have the potential advantage of differentiating between closely related species due to the three levels of sequence complementarity required. To achieve this goal, we will partner with researchers at NOAA and Humboldt State University. This study will develop a method to quickly and efficiently identify winter-run rearing habitats, and when they outmigrate from the Sacramento River, which will greatly improve the ability of managers to conserve this species.
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The objective of this project is to develop a CRISPR assay to differentiate between the four Central Valley Chinook (CVC) salmon ecotypes using environmental DNA methods. Two of the four CVC salmon ecotypes (winter, spring, fall, and late-fall) are listed on the Endangered Species Act as either threatened or endangered, and this project will make use of an existing DNA alignment of whole genome sequence data from 128 Chinook salmon representative of all four Chinook salmon run-time ecotypes. It is hoped that by screening such a large extent of genomic variation we will be able to identify a sequence region suitable for development of an eDNA assay that is specific for the endangered winter-run Chinook salmon. By using CRISPR technology, instead of quantitative PCR (qPCR), we have the potential advantage of differentiating between closely related species due to the three levels of sequence complementarity required. To achieve this goal, we will partner with researchers at NOAA and Humboldt State University. This study will develop a method to quickly and efficiently identify winter-run rearing habitats, and when they outmigrate from the Sacramento River, which will greatly improve the ability of managers to conserve this species.
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Integration of molecular methods into predator diet analysis to advance understanding of juvenile Chinook salmon predation mortality in the Delta
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December 2022
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The objective of this project is to measure the detectability half-life of juvenile Chinook Salmon DNA within the digestive tract of two common predators in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and use this information to compare consumption estimates based on visual and molecular analyses from field collected stomachs. High mortality rates of juvenile Chinook in the Sacramento – San Joaquin Delta have been considered a result of non-native species predation on migrating smolts. Although this is the most common hypothesis, it has been difficult to test because predator stomach contents quickly becomes unidentifiable. In contrast, molecular analyses of gut content can identify species and estimate number of individuals in a mixture for a longer duration. For this project, we have partnered with researchers at the University of California Davis, USGS, and NOAA. The results from this project will provide information necessary to assist managers in understanding the impact of predation on salmon populations in the Delta. This is extremely valuable, since it has been difficult to quantify the effect of these predators on the population level.
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The objective of this project is to measure the detectability half-life of juvenile Chinook Salmon DNA within the digestive tract of two common predators in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and use this information to compare consumption estimates based on visual and molecular analyses from field collected stomachs. High mortality rates of juvenile Chinook in the Sacramento – San Joaquin Delta have been considered a result of non-native species predation on migrating smolts. Although this is the most common hypothesis, it has been difficult to test because predator stomach contents quickly becomes unidentifiable. In contrast, molecular analyses of gut content can identify species and estimate number of individuals in a mixture for a longer duration. For this project, we have partnered with researchers at the University of California Davis, USGS, and NOAA. The results from this project will provide information necessary to assist managers in understanding the impact of predation on salmon populations in the Delta. This is extremely valuable, since it has been difficult to quantify the effect of these predators on the population level.
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Standardizing Environmental DNA methodologies for Coho Salmon
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December 2023
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This research is designed to provide guidance for the application of environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches for monitoring the presence, distribution, and abundance of Coho Salmon. While eDNA has the potential to revolutionize our ability to detect fish and to conduct monitoring in larger areas with higher efficiency and lower cost, it is not generally applied in standardized survey protocols developed by federal and state regulatory agencies. The initial steps involve conducting a series of laboratory and field experiments to study the ecological dynamics of eDNA, such as production, decay, and transit rates. Using the information from these initial experiments, a predictive statistical model will be developed and applied for estimating local- and broad-scale species distribution and abundance in river networks using eDNA. We are partnering with the California Department of Transportation and Humboldt State University for this project. Federal and state resource management and conservation groups will benefit from the development of eDNA approaches that allow efficient and high accuracy predictions of species geographic distribution at local- and broader scales that are not achievable using currently applied field approaches. Development of eDNA distribution and monitoring methodologies will enable efficient, no-take approaches to establish environmental baseline conditions at culvert and bridge project sites, evaluate mitigation for project impacts, and demonstrate the efficacy of mitigation projects in aquatic habitats and at fish passage remediation project locations.
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This research is designed to provide guidance for the application of environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches for monitoring the presence, distribution, and abundance of Coho Salmon. While eDNA has the potential to revolutionize our ability to detect fish and to conduct monitoring in larger areas with higher efficiency and lower cost, it is not generally applied in standardized survey protocols developed by federal and state regulatory agencies. The initial steps involve conducting a series of laboratory and field experiments to study the ecological dynamics of eDNA, such as production, decay, and transit rates. Using the information from these initial experiments, a predictive statistical model will be developed and applied for estimating local- and broad-scale species distribution and abundance in river networks using eDNA. We are partnering with the California Department of Transportation and Humboldt State University for this project. Federal and state resource management and conservation groups will benefit from the development of eDNA approaches that allow efficient and high accuracy predictions of species geographic distribution at local- and broader scales that are not achievable using currently applied field approaches. Development of eDNA distribution and monitoring methodologies will enable efficient, no-take approaches to establish environmental baseline conditions at culvert and bridge project sites, evaluate mitigation for project impacts, and demonstrate the efficacy of mitigation projects in aquatic habitats and at fish passage remediation project locations.
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Development of Environmentally Friendly Methods to Control Harmful Algal Blooms
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August 2021
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Golden alga (<i>Prymnesium parvum</i>) is a euryhaline haptophyte that produces compounds highly toxic to fishes and other gill-breathing aquatic organisms. In the USA, harmful blooms of golden alga were first reported in 1985 in the Pecos River and they have now spread through most of Texas and the sunbelt states. The ecological impacts of toxic blooms have been severe; unfortunately, effective field control methods are presently unavailable. The goal of this research is to develop effective and environmentally friendly methods to control harmful blooms of golden alga.<br><br>Giant reed (<i>Arundo donax</i>) is a harmful invasive plant in the USA. A previous study showed that extracts from giant reed and two of its known constituents, gramine and skatole, inhibit growth of golden alga and suggested this plant is a potential source of natural products for controlling blooms. Extract are relatively difficult to prepare, however, and may not be a viable option for field application. Also, the two allelochemicals previously tested were less potent than extracts thus indicating the existence of additional, more potent allelochemicals. The objectives of this research are to determine if giant reed chips or their aqueous leachate can effectively inhibit golden alga growth and to screen other known giant reed constituents for their growth effects.<br> <br>Preliminary observations showed vigorous bacterial growth in cultures of golden alga in the presence of giant reed. This finding suggests the presence of algicidal bacteria in the cultures. Therefore, another objective of this study is to determine the growth effects of bacterial strains isolated from the cultures and their mechanisms. This information may inform the development of probiotic treatments to prevent or control harmful booms.
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Golden alga (<i>Prymnesium parvum</i>) is a euryhaline haptophyte that produces compounds highly toxic to fishes and other gill-breathing aquatic organisms. In the USA, harmful blooms of golden alga were first reported in 1985 in the Pecos River and they have now spread through most of Texas and the sunbelt states. The ecological impacts of toxic blooms have been severe; unfortunately, effective field control methods are presently unavailable. The goal of this research is to develop effective and environmentally friendly methods to control harmful blooms of golden alga.Giant reed (<i>Arundo donax</i>) is a harmful invasive plant in the USA. A previous study showed that extracts from giant reed and two of its known constituents, gramine and skatole, inhibit growth of golden alga and suggested this plant is a potential source of natural products for controlling blooms. Extract are relatively difficult to prepare, however, and may not be a viable option for field application. Also, the two allelochemicals previously tested were less potent than extracts thus indicating the existence of additional, more potent allelochemicals. The objectives of this research are to determine if giant reed chips or their aqueous leachate can effectively inhibit golden alga growth and to screen other known giant reed constituents for their growth effects.Preliminary observations showed vigorous bacterial growth in cultures of golden alga in the presence of giant reed. This finding suggests the presence of algicidal bacteria in the cultures. Therefore, another objective of this study is to determine the growth effects of bacterial strains isolated from the cultures and their mechanisms. This information may inform the development of probiotic treatments to prevent or control harmful booms.
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An automated analytical system to synthesize environmental data from long-term remote sensors for use in animal migration ecology
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December 2023
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The seasonality of Earth results in a tapestry of resource waves across space and time. Most notable are the waves of snowmelt and plant green-up moving altitudinally and latitudinally in temperate ecosystems each spring. Migratory animals capitalize on resource waves by fine-tuning their movements with the ebb and flow of resources. With increasing variation in weather and temperature patterns, the consistency of phenological events, and hence resource waves, will inevitably change in complex ways.<br>This project is a collaborative effort between researchers at the University of Wyoming, the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, NASA, and the U.S. Geological Survey. This project will develop an automated analytical system that utilizes high-end computing to calculate derived metrics of environmental predictability – such as timing of green-up, brown-down, snow melt, winter severity, etc. – from relatively long-term remote sensors and algorithms (e.g., MODIS, SNODAS, PRISM), which will provide researchers, wildlife managers, and land managers access to derived metrics of environmental phenology and variability based on decades of earth surface monitoring.
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The seasonality of Earth results in a tapestry of resource waves across space and time. Most notable are the waves of snowmelt and plant green-up moving altitudinally and latitudinally in temperate ecosystems each spring. Migratory animals capitalize on resource waves by fine-tuning their movements with the ebb and flow of resources. With increasing variation in weather and temperature patterns, the consistency of phenological events, and hence resource waves, will inevitably change in complex ways.This project is a collaborative effort between researchers at the University of Wyoming, the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, NASA, and the U.S. Geological Survey. This project will develop an automated analytical system that utilizes high-end computing to calculate derived metrics of environmental predictability – such as timing of green-up, brown-down, snow melt, winter severity, etc. – from relatively long-term remote sensors and algorithms (e.g., MODIS, SNODAS, PRISM), which will provide researchers, wildlife managers, and land managers access to derived metrics of environmental phenology and variability based on decades of earth surface monitoring.
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Modeling the density of a parasite impacting salmonids in the Klamath River
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November 2023
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The objective of this project is to generate a predictive model of weekly waterborne <i>Ceratonova shasta </i>parasite spore density to improve estimates of mortality risk for juvenile salmonids in the Klamath River. <i>C. shasta </i>is a parasite endemic to the Klamath River basin that has been linked to population declines in native salmonids. High densities of waterborne spores of the parasite are known to cause increasing infection and mortality risk for juvenile salmonids. A recently constructed population dynamics model for Klamath River salmonids, the Stream Salmonid Simulator (S3 model), includes a sub-model to simulate <i>C. shasta </i>disease and mortality risk for outmigrating juveniles in response to potential management alternatives. We have partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agency for this project. Developing models that are able to better estimate mortality risk for juvenile salmonids will provide a means to incorporate these models into the S3 model. This then provides an adaptive management tool for managers to understand how different management decisions (e.g. flow) might affect the population.
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The objective of this project is to generate a predictive model of weekly waterborne <i>Ceratonova shasta </i>parasite spore density to improve estimates of mortality risk for juvenile salmonids in the Klamath River. <i>C. shasta </i>is a parasite endemic to the Klamath River basin that has been linked to population declines in native salmonids. High densities of waterborne spores of the parasite are known to cause increasing infection and mortality risk for juvenile salmonids. A recently constructed population dynamics model for Klamath River salmonids, the Stream Salmonid Simulator (S3 model), includes a sub-model to simulate <i>C. shasta </i>disease and mortality risk for outmigrating juveniles in response to potential management alternatives. We have partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agency for this project. Developing models that are able to better estimate mortality risk for juvenile salmonids will provide a means to incorporate these models into the S3 model. This then provides an adaptive management tool for managers to understand how different management decisions (e.g. flow) might affect the population.
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Large wood restoration effectiveness for salmonids in Pudding Creek, California: A before-after-control-impact experiment
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June 2021
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The object of this project is to evaluate the growth and survival response of endangered Central California Coast Coho Salmon (<i>Oncorhynchus kisutch</i>) and threatened Northern California steelhead (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>) to large woody debris (LWD) treatments on Pudding Creek in Fort Bragg, California using a before-after-control-impact design. This analysis comes from data collected in a Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) study initiated in 2012 based on monitoring salmon populations on both Caspar and Pudding creeks. In 2015, LWD was strategically placed in 80% of mainstem Pudding Creek while Caspar Creek was the untreated control. The standardized mean abundance estimates of Coho Salmon parr captured in outmigrant traps followed a similar trend in both creeks, suggesting the creeks work well as paired watersheds for the BACI design. A growth analysis using summer and fall electrofishing data found that steelhead have not been greatly impacted by wood treatment while Coho Salmon growth per day (mm•d-1) after treatment was significantly higher in Pudding Creek than Caspar Creek. Billions of dollars have been spent on watershed restoration in California in recent decades, yet relatively few studies have linked habitat improvements with any effects on fish survival, growth, or abundance. This study will quantitatively measure the effect of large woody debris supplementation on the survival, growth, and abundance of Coho salmon and Steelhead trout so that managers can make informed decisions on how to most efficiently spend the limited amount of restoration funds available.
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The object of this project is to evaluate the growth and survival response of endangered Central California Coast Coho Salmon (<i>Oncorhynchus kisutch</i>) and threatened Northern California steelhead (<i>Oncorhynchus mykiss</i>) to large woody debris (LWD) treatments on Pudding Creek in Fort Bragg, California using a before-after-control-impact design. This analysis comes from data collected in a Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) study initiated in 2012 based on monitoring salmon populations on both Caspar and Pudding creeks. In 2015, LWD was strategically placed in 80% of mainstem Pudding Creek while Caspar Creek was the untreated control. For this project, we have partnered with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC), Lyme Redwood Forest Company, and Trout Unlimited. Billions of dollars have been spent on watershed restoration in California in recent decades, yet relatively few studies have linked habitat improvements with any effects on fish survival, growth, or abundance. This study will quantitatively measure the effect of large woody debris supplementation on the survival, growth, and abundance of Coho salmon and Steelhead trout so that managers can make informed decisions on how to most efficiently spend the limited amount of restoration funds available.
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Differential survival of two size classes of Rainbow Trout and the predatory impact of Northern Pike in a high elevation New Mexico reservoir
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June 2022
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The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish manages Rainbow Trout at Eagle Nest Lake for New Mexico citizens as a put, grow, and take fishery. Management objectives stipulate that 10 Rainbow Trout per hour of electrofishing with a size structure of 50% Rainbow Trout greater than 254 mm (10 in) total length. However, population surveys reported a decline in Rainbow Trout per hour of electrofishing that presumably coincided with the illegal introduction of Northern Pike into Eagle Nest Lake.<br>Our goal is to develop a Rainbow Trout stocking strategy for Eagle Nest Lake that meets the objectives for New Mexico's citizens to catch Rainbow Trout greater than 254 mm. We are evaluating the predator-prey relationship of Northern Pike and Rainbow Trout using a combination of stomach contents (i.e., diet) and stable isotopes of Northern Pike to assess whether Rainbow Trout represent a substantive part of Northern Pike diet, or, are a periodic part of the diet that occurs at the time of the Rainbow Trout stockings. Seasonal sample collections timed with stocking of Rainbow Trout will reveal the relative contribution of Rainbow Trout versus other fishes to the Northern Pike diet of Eagle Nest Lake. Ultimately, fish size (fingerling vs. sub-catchable), and season stocked can be adjusted to maximize survival and growth of Rainbow Trout for capture by New Mexico fishers.
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The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish manages Rainbow Trout at Eagle Nest Lake for New Mexico citizens as a put, grow, and take fishery. Management objectives stipulate that 10 Rainbow Trout per hour of electrofishing with a size structure of 50% Rainbow Trout greater than 254 mm (10 in) total length. However, population surveys reported a decline in Rainbow Trout per hour of electrofishing that presumably coincided with the illegal introduction of Northern Pike into Eagle Nest Lake.Our goal is to develop a Rainbow Trout stocking strategy for Eagle Nest Lake that meets the objectives for New Mexico's citizens to catch Rainbow Trout greater than 254 mm. We are evaluating the predator-prey relationship of Northern Pike and Rainbow Trout using a combination of stomach contents (i.e., diet) and stable isotopes of Northern Pike to assess whether Rainbow Trout represent a substantive part of Northern Pike diet, or, are a periodic part of the diet that occurs at the time of the Rainbow Trout stockings. Seasonal sample collections timed with stocking of Rainbow Trout will reveal the relative contribution of Rainbow Trout versus other fishes to the Northern Pike diet of Eagle Nest Lake. Ultimately, fish size (fingerling vs. sub-catchable), and season stocked can be adjusted to maximize survival and growth of Rainbow Trout for capture by New Mexico fishers.
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Forecasting Aquatic Invasions in Rivers: Using Riverscapes Genetics to Inform Invasive Fish Species Management at Regional Scales
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August 2025
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Invasive species have significant, negative effects on ecosystem structure and function, and predicting and limiting the spread of invasive organisms a priority for environmental managers. Invasive species management is particularly challenging in aquatic habitats, where higher invasion velocities and stronger interactions with native biota result in more significant disruptions to ecosystem structure and function. In particular, through competition, predation, and disruption to nutrient and energy flows, invasive species often lead to a reduction and/or loss of native populations and can decrease ecosystem resiliency to disturbance. In collaboration with state fisheries management agencies and Penn State University, we will apply a novel quantitative framework for riverscape genetics to better understand and predict the invasion potential of invasive flathead catfish in the Susquehanna River Basin. This research will identify management scenarios that can be used to limit future invasion and we will develop a web viewer to communicate the efficacy of different management scenarios to stakeholders and managers.
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Invasive species have significant, negative effects on ecosystem structure and function, and predicting and limiting the spread of invasive organisms a priority for environmental managers. Invasive species management is particularly challenging in aquatic habitats, where higher invasion velocities and stronger interactions with native biota result in more significant disruptions to ecosystem structure and function. In particular, through competition, predation, and disruption to nutrient and energy flows, invasive species often lead to a reduction and/or loss of native populations and can decrease ecosystem resiliency to disturbance. In collaboration with state fisheries management agencies and Penn State University, we will apply a novel quantitative framework for riverscape genetics to better understand and predict the invasion potential of invasive flathead catfish in the Susquehanna River Basin. This research will identify management scenarios that can be used to limit future invasion and we will develop a web viewer to communicate the efficacy of different management scenarios to stakeholders and managers.
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Comparison of Largemouth-Bass reservoirs in GA.
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August 2022
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The overarching objective of this proposed project is to further assess variability in monitoring data for fish populations. For instance, we may be able to further explore quantifiable shifts in fish population metrics in response to ecological perturbations or management interventions. Thus, the project’s focus will be on data analytics and multi-agency collaboration. This project is intended to involve a partnership with one or more federal or state agencies in the southeastern U.S. Analyses focused on variability may help inform survey designs (e.g., reduce monitoring effort by eliminating sites or skipping years?), have implications for interpreting data produced by monitoring programs (e.g., trend detection), and be an important consideration for scenario forecasting (e.g., predicting potential frequency of extreme events).
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We intend to collaborate with one or more partners conducting monitoring, research, or management of fishes in the southeastern U.S. This partnership will likely include working with the collaborator to identify and prioritize an information need along with an assessment of access to sufficient monitoring data. Model development will be initially guided by discussions with potential project partners in order to identify availability of fish population data (e.g., # of sampling sites and sampling years) as well as availability of covariate information or site-level characteristics (e.g., water clarity, temperature, sampling depth, spatial location). Of course, some details of model development and data analysis will be dependent on available data. However, we expect that a mixed-model framework will be conducive for asking questions about changes in spatial or temporal variation. This project will support the professional development of one or more graduate students, including the opportunity to report findings. The project will help build capacity in quantitative assessment and further support development of statistically sound long-term natural resource monitoring.
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Updating population parameters of Sicklefin Redhorse with new data form the Hiawassee River Basin
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August 2021
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The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) is engaged in collaborative efforts to monitor Sicklefin Redhorse (<i>Moxostoma</i>, undescribed) in north Georgia. We are adding new data from GADNR and attempting to estimate additional parameters.
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Sicklefin Redhorse (<i>Moxostoma</i> sp.) is a native freshwater fish (undescribed species), whose range includes the Hiwassee River Basin in NC and GA, and the Little Tennessee River Basin in NC. The fish is rare within its range and is facing potential threats such as habitat degradation and migratory barriers. Little is currently known about the status and population dynamics of Sicklefin Redhorse, which could impede effective management. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is engaged in collaborative efforts to monitor Sicklefin Redhorse in north Georgia. In addition, the Sicklefin Redhorse Conservation Committee (which is a partnership that consists of state agencies, federal agencies, NGOs, and power companies) is devoted to conservation and management of the species. The Georgia Cooperative Research Unit recently collaborated with the Sicklefin Redhorse Conservation Committee and researchers from University of Georgia to develop a population model estimating important parameters to evaluate the status of the Sicklefin Redhorse population in Brasstown Creek, GA using capture-mark-recapture data. More recent data will be included in an updated model to refine estimates of important population parameters, which may influence future monitoring or management decisions.
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Impact of extreme events on native and nonnative fauna on Hawaii stream ecosystem
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November 2020
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Freshwater is a critical driver for island ecosystems. Climate change has fundamentally altered the water cycle in these tropical islands. The changes in dynamic patterns of streamflow could result in the temporal and spatial difference in the fluvial, estuarine, and coastal habitats. In particular, these habitats support the nine native aquatic species in Hawaii at different stages of their amphidromous life cycle. To examine how changes in streamflow regime has impacted habitat quality for native migratory aquatic species, an ongoing project has examined statewide long-term stream records. We are in the process of building hydrological models and connecting the stream dynamics with existing biological data to address the climate impact on stream habitats. In this study we will examine the historical daily flow and rainfall records to describe the hydrological patterns of stream habitats in Hawaii and we will empirically evaluate the swimming performance of various non-native species in order to better predict the effect of extreme high flow events on non-native fish populations in various stream reaches. With similar concept, we will connect with like-minded researchers in Puerto Rico to explore and develop a comparative study to address the changing aquatic ecosystems due to the extreme flood. This research project has arisen explicitly from existing research and discussions with local stakeholders (e.g., Commission on Water Resource Management, Hawaii Fish Habitat Partnership, National Fish Habitat Partnership, Pacific Island Fisheries and Wildlife Services) and researchers from different regions. Intermediate results will be presented to stakeholders to determine the most useful format for final dissemination to user groups.
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Freshwater is a critical driver for island ecosystems. Climate change has fundamentally altered the water cycle in these tropical islands. The changes in dynamic patterns of streamflow could result in the temporal and spatial difference in the fluvial, estuarine, and coastal habitats. In particular, these habitats support the nine native aquatic species in Hawaii at different stages of their amphidromous life cycle. To examine how changes in streamflow regime has impacted habitat quality for native migratory aquatic species, an ongoing project has examined statewide long-term stream records. We are in the process of building hydrological models and connecting the stream dynamics with existing biological data to address the climate impact on stream habitats. In this study we will examine the historical daily flow and rainfall records to describe the hydrological patterns of stream habitats in Hawaii and we will empirically evaluate the swimming performance of various non-native species in order to better predict the effect of extreme high flow events on non-native fish populations in various stream reaches. With similar concept, we will connect with like-minded researchers in Puerto Rico to explore and develop a comparative study to address the changing aquatic ecosystems due to the extreme flood. This research project has arisen explicitly from existing research and discussions with local stakeholders (e.g., Commission on Water Resource Management, Hawaii Fish Habitat Partnership, National Fish Habitat Partnership, Pacific Island Fisheries and Wildlife Services) and researchers from different regions. Intermediate results will be presented to stakeholders to determine the most useful format for final dissemination to user groups.
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Identifying Pollinator Habitat Along Power Line Right of Ways in the Georgia Piedmont
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September 2022
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The Piedmont prairie is a biologically diverse grassland found in Georgia, hosting several obligate plant species and other plant species that allow pollinators, including the monarch butterfly, to complete their life cycle. This diversity is under threat due to habitat fragmentation caused by incompatible land uses, but powerline right-of-ways (ROWs) may provide an opportunity to conserve these grasslands and maintain some degree of habitat connectivity. Little is known about the occurrence and distribution of Piedmont prairies along powerline ROWs. Identifying these sites will assist managers in making decisions about resource allocation between management of existing prairie habitat and creating new habitat. The University of Georgia is conducting this work in collaboration with the Georgia Power Company and the Electric Power Research Institute. The research will contribute to basic understanding about distribution and abundance of Piedmont prairies within the powerline ROW network in Georgia. The research will also help managers decide on targets for pollinator habitat conservation.
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The Piedmont prairie is a biologically diverse grassland found in Georgia, hosting several obligate plant species and other plant species that allow pollinators, including the monarch butterfly, to complete their life cycle. This diversity is under threat due to habitat fragmentation caused by incompatible land uses, but powerline right-of-ways (ROWs) may provide an opportunity to conserve these grasslands and maintain some degree of habitat connectivity. Little is known about the occurrence and distribution of Piedmont prairies along powerline ROWs. Identifying these sites will assist managers in making decisions about resource allocation between management of existing prairie habitat and creating new habitat. The University of Georgia is conducting this work in collaboration with the Georgia Power Company and the Electric Power Research Institute. The research will contribute to basic understanding about distribution and abundance of Piedmont prairies within the powerline ROW network in Georgia. The research will also help managers decide on targets for pollinator habitat conservation.
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How will changing reefscapes affect the prevalence of ciguatera on Hawaiian reefs?
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August 2022
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Ciguatera is caused by consuming reef fishes containing toxins produced by epiphytic dinoflagellates in the genus <i>Gambierdiscus</i>. Climate change and overfishing alter reefscapes, potentially increasing <i>Gambierdiscus</i> spp. habitat availability or altering how ciguatoxins (CTX) move through food webs. It is not clear how altered reefscapes influence the prevalence of ciguatoxic fishes posing a health risk to communities dependent coral reef fisheries. Therefore, the objectives of this study are to evaluate the relationship between a habitat and environmental characteristics at multiple spatial scales on the probability of fish testing positive for CTX and the concentration of CTX using a semi-quantitative <i>in vitro</i> neuro-2a cytotoxicity assay on two common species: Roi (Peacock Grouper) <i>Cephalopholis argus </i>and Kole (Goldring Bristletooth) <i>Ctenochaetus strigosus</i> sampled bi-annually across four sites along west Hawai'i Island. Both the probability of Roi testing positive and CTX concentration in Roi increased with fish length and decreased with the exposure to periods of high temperatures and fishing pressure. For Kole, the probability of testing positive for CTX and CTX concentration decreased with fish length, exposure to high temperature periods, effluent, fishing pressure. At small spatial scales, climate change and fishing pressure seem to be influencing the prevalence of ciguatoxic fishes, though not always in the ways expected. While most fishers likely take the risk of ciguatera in stride and have beliefs and practices to mitigate risk, these results suggest that those practices may lose effectiveness under altered conditions and necessitate better communication between researchers, managers, and stakeholders to adapt.
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Cigtera fish poisoning (CFP) is caused by consumption of reef fishes containing toxins produced by epiphytic dinoflagellates in the genus <i>Gambierdiscus</i>. Anthropogenic climate change and alteration of reef fish assemblages have the potential to increase the abundance and range of <i>Gambierdiscus</i> spp. However, it is not clear how the resulting changes to reef ecosystems may interact to influence the prevalence of ciguatoxic fishes and thus the risk of CFP posed to local communities dependent upon these fisheries. Therefore, the overall goal of the proposed study is to begin to disentangle the complex relationship between the effects of anthropogenic climate change, fishing pressure on herbivorous reef fishes, and the prevalence of ciguatoxic fishes. Therefore, the primary objective of this proposed study is to assess the prevalence of ciguatoxins in reef fishes along a disturbance gradient created by a major coral bleaching event that spans sites inside and outside areas protected from fishing pressure along the west coast of Hawai‘i Island. Secondarily, the degree of temporal stability or seasonality in the prevalence of ciguatoxins in reef fishes over the course of the proposed study will be assessed to the extent possible under the proposed sampling regime. This project is being conducted in collaboration with Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources, The Nature Conservancy, Kaupulehu Marine Life Advisory Council, and other community and stakeholder groups.
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OA 95: Nest Survival and Site Selection of Avian Communities in Pinyon-Juniper Woodlands Undergoing Thinning Prescriptions
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September 2023
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In 2018 a US BLM funded study was initiated to assess changes in avian community structure and species density among pinyon-juniper stands that have or are undergoing prescribed thinning at the BLM Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area. While that study will provide information on avian community structure response to prescribed thinning, it is not addressing how such changes may manifest in reproductive effort and output. For example, some species may persist in treated areas, but reproductive output is higher or lower than untreated stands. This translates to long term persistence, recruitment and, ultimately, potential changes in community structure.<br> <br>This proposed study will address those questions as to changes in nest site selection and nest survival among the avian community in the treated and untreated pinyon-juniper woodlands, and will serve as a complimentary ‘sister’ project to the aforementioned ongoing BLM funded study. It will build on data already collected in 2019, and add two additional years of data collection (2020, 2021). In 2019, over 150 nests were located and monitored, but increased sample sizes are needed for robust analysis of species specific differences in nest survival or nest site selection between treatment types. The resulting data will better inform land and wildlife managers on what level of thinning and removal provide the maximum benefit for avian communities and meet the broader objectives to restore grass and woodland habitats in New Mexico and across this habitat type in the Southwest United States.
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In 2018 a US BLM funded study was initiated to assess changes in avian community structure and species density among pinyon-juniper stands that have or are undergoing prescribed thinning at the BLM Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area. While that study will provide information on avian community structure response to prescribed thinning, it is not addressing how such changes may manifest in reproductive effort and output. For example, some species may persist in treated areas, but reproductive output is higher or lower than untreated stands. This translates to long term persistence, recruitment and, ultimately, potential changes in community structure. This proposed study will address those questions as to changes in nest site selection and nest survival among the avian community in the treated and untreated pinyon-juniper woodlands, and will serve as a complimentary ‘sister’ project to the aforementioned ongoing BLM funded study. It will build on data already collected in 2019, and add two additional years of data collection (2020, 2021). In 2019, over 150 nests were located and monitored, but increased sample sizes are needed for robust analysis of species specific differences in nest survival or nest site selection between treatment types. The resulting data will better inform land and wildlife managers on what level of thinning and removal provide the maximum benefit for avian communities and meet the broader objectives to restore grass and woodland habitats in New Mexico and across this habitat type in the Southwest United States.
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OA 91: NWI SWiFT Bird Environmental Study
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September 2022
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Sandia National Laboratories and Texas Tech University have partnered to initiate wind energy research with scaled wind turbines at a Scaled Wind Farm Technology (SWiFT) facility. However, a component of permitting for this site is research and monitoring of the local avian community to assess immediate and long-term influences of the facility.<br><br>Wind energy is a clean form of energy but the negative influences through direct mortality and/or habitat displacement are not well understood.<br><br>We are collaborating with Texas Tech University to conduct this study.<br><br> Our research is aimed at assessing direct mortality of volant species due to wind turbines, but also long term trends in occupancy and, for select species, survival and productivity of resident and migrant grassland species.
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Sandia National Laboratories and Texas Tech University have partnered to initiate wind energy research with scaled wind turbines at a Scaled Wind Farm Technology (SWiFT) facility. However, a component of permitting for this site is research and monitoring of the local avian community to assess immediate and long-term influences of the facility.Wind energy is a clean form of energy but the negative influences through direct mortality and/or habitat displacement are not well understood.We are collaborating with Texas Tech University to conduct this study. Our research is aimed at assessing direct mortality of volant species due to wind turbines, but also long term trends in occupancy and, for select species, survival and productivity of resident and migrant grassland species.
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OA 92: Pilot study - Guana Island Avian Response to Hurricanes
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September 2021
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The Caribbean region is considered a biodiversity hotspot and a priority for ecological conservation efforts. The Caribbean is also recognized as a region that will likely undergo substantive environmental changes over the next century. Climate models are generally consistent in predicting increased summer droughts in the region and increased intensity of hurricanes. <br><br>Understanding how environmental conditions influence survival of Caribbean wildlife is an important information need given the predicted changing climate in the region. Unfortunately, there is a lack of adequate monitoring of bird populations in the Caribbean that allow informed conservation efforts. In a workshop review of how hurricanes influence Caribbean birds, a strong consensus was that monitoring programs should be established to provide baseline information prior to hurricane arrivals. Additionally, it is not known how the endangered stout iguana will respond to these environmental changes. We had conducted different studies on the bird life and iguanas of Guana Island from 2003 – 2015 and developed a rigorous and standardized survey method for estimating stout iguanas in 2009. <br><br>In 2017, Guana Island suffered a direct strike from Hurricane Irma and a subsequent hit from Hurricane Maria. In October 2019 we returned to Guana to conduct assessments of the avian and iguana populations. Our objectives were to do a quick pilot study to assess current status of the avian community and compare it to previous study years with an emphasis on Bananaquits, Bridled Quail Doves, and Pearly-eyed Thrashers, and to conduct focused surveys and population assessment for the current status of the Stout Iguana population and compare it to previous estimates. Depending on results, this may develop into a more formalized long-term study.
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The Caribbean region is considered a biodiversity hotspot and a priority for ecological conservation efforts. The Caribbean is also recognized as a region that will likely undergo substantive environmental changes over the next century. Climate models are generally consistent in predicting increased summer droughts in the region and increased intensity of hurricanes.Understanding how environmental conditions influence survival of Caribbean wildlife is an important information need given the predicted changing climate in the region. Unfortunately, there is a lack of adequate monitoring of bird populations in the Caribbean that allow informed conservation efforts. In a workshop review of how hurricanes influence Caribbean birds, a strong consensus was that monitoring programs should be established to provide baseline information prior to hurricane arrivals. Additionally, it is not known how the endangered stout iguana will respond to these environmental changes. We had conducted different studies on the bird life and iguanas of Guana Island from 2003 – 2015 and developed a rigorous and standardized survey method for estimating stout iguanas in 2009.In 2017, Guana Island suffered a direct strike from Hurricane Irma and a subsequent hit from Hurricane Maria. In October 2019 we returned to Guana to conduct assessments of the avian and iguana populations. Our objectives were to do a quick pilot study to assess current status of the avian community and compare it to previous study years with an emphasis on Bananaquits, Bridled Quail Doves, and Pearly-eyed Thrashers, and to conduct focused surveys and population assessment for the current status of the Stout Iguana population and compare it to previous estimates. Depending on results, this may develop into a more formalized long-term study.
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Mapping Big Game Migration Corridors - New Mexico
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July 2025
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Recent research indicates that migration corridors are culturally transmitted from one generation of ungulates to the next. Thus without appropriate management, the continued persistence of these migratory populations could be threatened. To assist state and federal management agencies make informed decisions regarding conservation of migratory populations, the location of migration routes, stopovers, and seasonal ranges need to be identified and mapped. This work is being done in response to Secretarial Order 3362, and will assist the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish with mapping big game migration corridors, stopover locations and seasonal ranges across the state. Once mapped, these geospatial data will then be used to inform land and wildlife management plans in order to ensure the long-term persistence of these populations through conservation of their migratory routes, seasonal ranges and stopovers.
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Recent research indicates that migration corridors are culturally transmitted from one generation of ungulates to the next. Thus without appropriate management, the continued persistence of these migratory populations could be threatened. To assist state and federal management agencies make informed decisions regarding conservation of migratory populations, the location of migration routes, stopovers, and seasonal ranges need to be identified and mapped. This work is being done in response to Secretarial Order 3362, and will assist the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish with mapping big game migration corridors, stopover locations and seasonal ranges across the state. Once mapped, these geospatial data will then be used to inform land and wildlife management plans in order to ensure the long-term persistence of these populations through conservation of their migratory routes, seasonal ranges and stopovers.
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Identification and characterization of habitat conditions of mule deer, elk and pronghorn migration routes and stopover locations in northern New Mexico
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December 2023
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Migratory ungulate populations require distinct winter and summer ranges (and resources therein) to fulfill their life history characteristics, reproductive requirements, and to maintain adequate nutritional status allowing for population vital rates (e.g., adult and neonate survival) sufficient to prevent population declines. Our objectives are to identify and map seasonal ranges, migration routes, and stopover locations for mule deer, pronghorn, and elk in northern New Mexico allowing state and federal agencies to identify and mitigate potential threats to the persistence of these migration routes. Further, we are also assessing habitat characteristics along the migration route and at stopover locations to allow for more informed management of these migratory populations.
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Migratory ungulate populations require distinct winter and summer ranges (and resources therein) to fulfill their life history characteristics, reproductive requirements, and to maintain adequate nutritional status allowing for population vital rates (e.g., adult and neonate survival) sufficient to prevent population declines. Our objectives are to identify and map seasonal ranges, migration routes, and stopover locations for mule deer, pronghorn, and elk in northern New Mexico allowing state and federal agencies to identify and mitigate potential threats to the persistence of these migration routes. Further, we are also assessing habitat characteristics along the migration route and at stopover locations to allow for more informed management of these migratory populations.
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Range-wide population viability analysis for the Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)
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June 2021
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Puerto Rican Boa Population Viability Analysis for Species Status Assessment
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September 2022
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Working USFWS biologists and partner agencies and researchers we are developing viability models using available information to support classification decisions for Puerto Rican Boa and Eastern Black Rail.
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Working USFWS biologists and partner agencies and researchers we are developing viability models using available information to support classification decisions for Puerto Rican Boa and Eastern Black Rail.
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Assessing the precision of estimates of population vital rates for polar bears in Alaska
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May 2021
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Polar bears (<i>Ursus maritimus) </i>are a trust species managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and protected under the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act, and the ability to monitor these animals is key to status assessment and management. Polar bears in the Southern Beaufort Sea (SBS) subpopulation occur in areas of increasing Arctic development and rapidly changing habitat conditions, increasing the importance of high-quality monitoring data. We are collaborating with the Applied Physics Laboratory at University of Washington and the USGS Alaska Science Center to complete a power analysis to determine the statistical power to detect changes in survival and abundance under various monitoring designs. Using this information, the U.S. and Canada will be better able to identify cost-effective monitoring approaches for the SBS at a time when sampling the subpopulation is becoming increasingly difficult.
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Polar bears (<i>Ursus maritimus) </i>are a trust species managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and protected under the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act, and the ability to monitor these animals is key to status assessment and management. Polar bears in the Southern Beaufort Sea (SBS) subpopulation occur in areas of increasing Arctic development and rapidly changing habitat conditions, increasing the importance of high-quality monitoring data. We are collaborating with the Applied Physics Laboratory at University of Washington and the USGS Alaska Science Center to complete a power analysis to determine the statistical power to detect changes in survival and abundance under various monitoring designs. Using this information, the U.S. and Canada will be better able to identify cost-effective monitoring approaches for the SBS at a time when sampling the subpopulation is becoming increasingly difficult.
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Population modeling to support conservation of Cook Inlet beluga whales
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July 2022
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The Cook Inlet Beluga Whale is a federally endangered population with a declining trend and a lack of clarity on the causes of decline. A better understanding of the dynamics of this population is needed to assess hypothesized causes of decline and evaluate potential conservation actions. In collaboration with the National Marine Fisheries Service and the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies, we are developing an integrated population model for the Cook Inlet Beluga Whale. This model will be used to improve our understanding of the causes of, and potential solutions to, the ongoing decline of this iconic animal.
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The Cook Inlet Beluga Whale is a federally endangered population with a declining trend and a lack of clarity on the causes of decline. A better understanding of the dynamics of this population is needed to assess hypothesized causes of decline and evaluate potential conservation actions. In collaboration with the National Marine Fisheries Service and the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies, we are developing an integrated population model for the Cook Inlet Beluga Whale. This model will be used to improve our understanding of the causes of, and potential solutions to, the ongoing decline of this iconic animal.
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Seabird ecology at Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
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December 2025
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The atoll of Tetiaroa, French Polynesia, is a critical nesting area for several species of seabirds in the South Pacific. Seabirds here and elsewhere around the globe face several threats - including introduced mammalian predators and changing ocean conditions. In collaboration with the Tetiaroa Society, we are working to understand the ecology of seabirds at Tetiaroa, with a focus on how seabirds will respond to eradication of rats from the atoll. This work will inform tropical seabird conservation worldwide.
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The atoll of Tetiaroa, French Polynesia, is a critical nesting area for several species of seabirds in the South Pacific. Seabirds here and elsewhere around the globe face several threats - including introduced mammalian predators and changing ocean conditions. In collaboration with the Tetiaroa Society, we are working to understand the ecology of seabirds at Tetiaroa, with a focus on how seabirds will respond to eradication of rats from the atoll. This work will inform tropical seabird conservation worldwide.
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Constructing a modeling tool for wolf status review in Washington
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August 2022
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The gray wolf is protected as an endangered species by the State of Washington. Washington State law requires periodic review of the status of protected species, during which progress toward recovery criteria can be assessed. The purpose of this project is to develop a spatially explicit integrated population model for gray wolves in Washington, making use of a variety of data collected in Washington over the past 12 years. The goal is to build a model that will allow for estimation of demographic rates and dispersal and provide projections of probability of extinction, expected time to recovery, distribution, and abundance under a variety of ecological and management scenarios, developed in collaboration with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. This modeling tool will provide the basis for a status review of gray wolves in Washington.
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The gray wolf is protected as an endangered species by the State of Washington. Washington State law requires periodic review of the status of protected species, during which progress toward recovery criteria can be assessed. In collaboration with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, we are developing a spatially explicit population model that can be used to forecast the distribution and viability of Washington's wolf population. This model will be used to inform the periodic status review for wolves in Washington.
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Marine use of Atlantic sturgeon in the Gulf of Maine
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September 2021
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Atlantic sturgeon in the Gulf of Maine use freshwater habitat in the summer to spawn and feed before moving back to the marine environment. Patterns of marine habitat use are poorly characterized and this represents a conspicuous gap in knowledge of critical habitat use for these threatened/endangered fish. We sought to use satellite tags to track fish from the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers in Maine to identify areas of marine use.
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Atlantic sturgeon in the Gulf of Maine use freshwater habitat in the summer to spawn and feed before moving back to the marine environment. We used satellite tags to track fish from the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers in Maine to identify areas of marine use.
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Does predation limit Atlantic salmon recovery?
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December 2025
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Among migratory fish, Atlantic salmon have been culturally, economically and ecologically important. These fish have also been impacted by a suite of threats and the Gulf of Maine DPS Atlantic salmon were added to the federal Species of Concern list in 1997 and the Endangered Species list in 2000. In 2009, Atlantic salmon returning to the Penobscot, Kennebec, and Androscoggin Rivers were included in the Gulf of Maine DPS as a federally endangered species.<br><br>Atlantic salmon are native to the northern Atlantic Ocean and its drainages. The anadromous form hatches from eggs deposited in cold headwater streams where it develops into a small, territorial drift-feeding fish (parr). As territorial juveniles in freshwater, Atlantic salmon parr may compete for resources with native and introduced species, limiting their access to resources (Callaway and Aschehoug 2000) and decreasing survival (Nakano et al. 1998; Gunckel et al. 2002). Smallmouth bass are notable as they were introduced into New England waters more than a century ago and have expanded into nearly every historical Atlantic salmon watershed (Warner 2005; Valois et al. 2009). Where they overlap, introduced smallmouth bass may compete with Atlantic salmon for physical habitat and food (Fausch 1998; Coghlan and Ringler 2005). Atlantic salmon populations may also suffer from direct predation by smallmouth bass in fresh water.<br><br>The stream-dwelling parr undergoes a complex suite of behavioral, morphological and physiological changes resulting in a migratory smolt (McCormick and Saunders 1987). The parr-smolt transition is a critical transitional stage in the life history of this species. Successful transition into the marine environment is thought to occur during a “window of opportunity,” when physiological condition is optimal for survival (McCormick and Saunders 1987). Poor synchrony can result in high mortality in the estuary (McCormick et al. 1999; Stich et al., 2015) or at sea (Virtanen et al., 1991; Staurnes et al., 1993; Stich et al., 2014). As smolts leave rearing habitats and migrate seaward, they encounter geomorphic barriers, changing flow, varying turbidity, and a gauntlet of predators. Atlantic salmon currently travel through waters with a diverse array of nonnative resident fishes, including brown trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. Migration is a time of high risk of predation (Blackwell et al. 1997; Kocik et al. 2009; Hawkes et al. 2013). High mortality of smolts is often observed in the estuaries (Kocik et al., 2009; Holbrook et al., 2011) and near-coastal waters (Lacroix, 2008; Dempson et al., 2011; Thorstad et al., 2012a; 2012b). The proposed work is aimed at better characterizing the role predation may have during their early life history.
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In 2009, Atlantic salmon returning to the Penobscot, Kennebec, and Androscoggin Rivers were included in the Gulf of Maine DPS as a federally endangered species. As territorial juveniles in freshwater, Atlantic salmon parr may compete for resources with native and introduced species, limiting their access to resources and decreasing survival . This project will evaluate these influences to inform restoration efforts
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Southwestern Species Status Assessment
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March 2020
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Developed modeling techniques to support a variety of listing decisions under the Endangered Species Act supporting the USFWS. We worked on Sonora Desert Tortoise, Gila Chub, White-Bark Pine, White-tailed Ptarmigan among others. We also developed curriculum for a short course on data analysis and modeling for USFWS biologists.
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Developed modeling techniques to support a variety of listing decisions under the Endangered Species Act supporting the USFWS.
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Documenting Mule Deer Movements, Season Ranges and Habitat Use in the Bighorn Mountains
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August 2024
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Wyoming Game and Fish (WGFD) managers and various stakeholders are concerned with mule deer populations and management in the northern Bighorn Mountains. WGFD managers have initiated preseason mule deer surveys to gather baseline vital rates and summer distribution. Managers would like a better understanding of mule deer seasonal habitats, habitat use and movement. There has never been a detailed study of mule deer in the northern Bighorn Mountains. Consequently, seasonal ranges and migration corridors have not been delineated using GPS technology. There is a need for greater understanding of seasonal habitats, habitat use, and migration routes. This information could also inform potential transmission risks for CWD in this herd. Armed with this information, decisions can be made with public and private land managers to conserve and improve habitats and migration corridors. Potential outcomes include habitat improvements, guidance for forest planning, fence modifications, conservation easements and modifications to hunting season structure.
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Wyoming Game and Fish (WGFD) managers and various stakeholders are concerned with mule deer populations and management in the northern Bighorn Mountains. WGFD managers have initiated preseason mule deer surveys to gather baseline vital rates and summer distribution. Managers would like a better understanding of mule deer seasonal habitats, habitat use and movement. There has never been a detailed study of mule deer in the northern Bighorn Mountains. Consequently, seasonal ranges and migration corridors have not been delineated using GPS technology. There is a need for greater understanding of seasonal habitats, habitat use, and migration routes. This information could also inform potential transmission risks for CWD in this herd. Armed with this information, decisions can be made with public and private land managers to conserve and improve habitats and migration corridors. Potential outcomes include habitat improvements, guidance for forest planning, fence modifications, conservation easements and modifications to hunting season structure.
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Alligator Snapping Turtle population viability and listing decisions
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October 2022
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We assisted the USFWS Alligator Snapping Turtle Species Status assessment team to develop a population viability model that predicted future abundance and extinction probability. The results were used in the forthcoming listing decision for both species of alligator snapping turtle.
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We are assisting the USFWS Alligator Snapping Turtle species status assessment (SSA) team in development of a population viability model that predicts future abundance and extinction probability. The results inform the forthcoming listing decision for two species, alligator snapping turtle and Suwannee alligator snapping turtle (M. suwanniensis). We worked with USFWS to establish analysis units (which are geographically relevant spatial subdivisions for population traits) for two alligator snapping turtle species to create the representation and redundancy components of an SSA, and assess the current status of alligator snapping turtles across their native geographic range and within each analysis unit. The future status of the population was assessed, and the model simulated alternative scenarios that examined the effects of on-going threats and stressors to the species. Monitoring recommendations and protocols for alligator snapping turtles across their range were established to inform future decision-making by USFWS.
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Evaluation of the management actions taken in the Lamar River watershed
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May 2024
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Introduction of nonnative fish species has negatively impacted native fishes throughout the United States and the world (Taylor et al. 1984). Yellowstone National Park is not and exception to this unfortunate trend (Koel et al. 2017) with negative effects cascading through the surrounding aquatic and terrestrial food webs (Koel et al. 2017). Beginning in 1889, over 16 million nonnative fish were stocked into Yellowstone's waters; Almost 3 million in the Lamar River watershed (Varley 1981). The Lamar River watershed is considered the most important riverine stronghold for fluvial Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout by the Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout interagency workgroup (NPS, USFS, USGS, States of Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, and Nevada). Over the decades, introduced Rainbow Trout have continued to migrate further upstream in the Lamar River watershed, displacing and hybridizing with native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (Ertel et al. 2017). Numerous mitigation efforts have since been implemented to suppress and curtail the spread of nonnative Rainbow and hybrid trout and protect remaining Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (and the species ecological function) to pre-invasion conditions (Ertel et al. 2017). However, long-term monitoring and independent data analysis are critical to evaluate the progress of management actions. This proposed Statement of Work and associated budget would fund a thorough analysis of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, and hybrid trout response to the institution of a mandatory catch and kill angling regulation coupled with selective mechanical removal of nonnative trout within the watershed. This would be accomplished through a statistical analysis of new and historic fisheries assessment work and creel surveys and interviews of anglers in the watershed.<br><b> </b><br><b>Objectives</b><br><b> </b><br>Objectives<br> <br>1. Develop population estimates of Yellowstone Cutthroat, Rainbow, and hybrid trout populations in different regions of the Lamar River watershed.<br> <br>2. Determine if management actions (selective removal of nonnatives, angling regulations) being undertaken by the NPS are having the desired effect on the native and nonnative fish populations. Are angling regulations being adhered to?<br> <br>3. Develop management recommendations for achieving NPS management goals in the Lamar River watershed.
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Introduction of nonnative fish species has negatively impacted native fishes throughout the United States and the world (Taylor et al. 1984). Yellowstone National Park is not and exception to this unfortunate trend (Koel et al. 2017) with negative effects cascading through the surrounding aquatic and terrestrial food webs (Koel et al. 2017). Beginning in 1889, over 16 million nonnative fish were stocked into Yellowstone's waters; Almost 3 million in the Lamar River watershed (Varley 1981). The Lamar River watershed is considered the most important riverine stronghold for fluvial Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout by the Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout interagency workgroup (NPS, USFS, USGS, States of Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, and Nevada). Over the decades, introduced Rainbow Trout have continued to migrate further upstream in the Lamar River watershed, displacing and hybridizing with native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (Ertel et al. 2017). Numerous mitigation efforts have since been implemented to suppress and curtail the spread of nonnative Rainbow and hybrid trout and protect remaining Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (and the species ecological function) to pre-invasion conditions (Ertel et al. 2017). However, long-term monitoring and independent data analysis are critical to evaluate the progress of management actions. This proposed Statement of Work and associated budget would fund a thorough analysis of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, and hybrid trout response to the institution of a mandatory catch and kill angling regulation coupled with selective mechanical removal of nonnative trout within the watershed. This would be accomplished through a statistical analysis of new and historic fisheries assessment work and creel surveys and interviews of anglers in the watershed.<b> </b><b>Objectives</b><b> </b>Objectives 1. Develop population estimates of Yellowstone Cutthroat, Rainbow, and hybrid trout populations in different regions of the Lamar River watershed. 2. Determine if management actions (selective removal of nonnatives, angling regulations) being undertaken by the NPS are having the desired effect on the native and nonnative fish populations. Are angling regulations being adhered to? 3. Develop management recommendations for achieving NPS management goals in the Lamar River watershed.
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Grizzly Bear Recovery: Modeling Movement, Home Ranges, Range Expansion, and Population Connectivity
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December 2021
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A Post Doc will model grizzly bear movement, home ranges, range expansion, and population connectivity to help answer how and why grizzly bears select particular home ranges, how their movement and home range behavior will affect connectivity, and how to best manage for connectivity.
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Connectivity among wildlife populations is of pressing concern for many species given the ongoing and accelerating threats of habitat loss to human development, which fragments remaining habitats and isolates the populations relying on them. Species that rely on large areas of undisturbed habitat are often the first to disappear. Loss of connectivity among populations may reduce genetic variation and the ability to respond to changing environmental conditions. Theory and empirical precedent have shown that island populations face greater risks of extinction, especially when small<sup>1</sup>. The loss of connectivity may accordingly accelerate the irreversible loss of entire species.Two hundred years ago an estimated 50,000 grizzly bears (<i>Ursus arctos</i>) inhabited North America (fws.gov). The arrival of Europeans brought heavy persecution, habitat destruction, and the rapid downfall of a species that had dominated the landscape for thousands of years. By 1975, within the contiguous US only six small populations clung to existence in just 2% of grizzly bears’ former range<sup>2</sup>.In 1973, the Endangered Species Act was enacted and grizzly bears were among the first species protected. Six recovery ecosystems were designated (Fig. 1) and unprecedented collaborations began among agencies, tribes, landowners, and the public in efforts to recover the last grizzly bear populations. Through these efforts, numbers have slowly increased. Today population estimates exceed 700 animals in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) and 1000 in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE). The Selkirk Ecosystem (SE) has approximately 80 grizzly bears, and augmentations into the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem (CYE) helped boost the population to an estimated 50 animals. To date, the Bitterroot (BE) and North Cascades Ecosystems (NCE) lack any known permanent residents.The once-contiguous grizzly bear populations remain largely isolated. Even though some ecosystems are contiguous into Canada, grizzly bears in these areas face similar threats of low numbers, population fragmentation, and habitat loss<sup>2</sup>. With increasing numbers in the NCDE and GYE, grizzly bears have slowly regained parts of their former range. By 2017, only 110 km separated the two distributions, and individuals had been detected between the ecosystems nearly two dozen times<sup>3</sup>. While the GYE still likely remains isolated, researchersrecently identified potential corridors for male-mediated gene flow between the NCDE and GYE<sup>3</sup>. Their timely work was much needed and well received. No studies have addressed connectivity among the other recovery ecosystems or for females. Although several other ecosystems are in closer proximity to one-another and the NCDE, known dispersals remain rare and the likelihood and viability of connectivity remain unknown. Connectivity remains the best chance for recovering and conserving healthy populations in the CYE and SE. Natural recolonization is likely to be the only opportunity to recover grizzly bears in the BE.Given the importance of connectivity, one of the most urgent conservation challenges for grizzly bears today is the identification of connectivity areas among recovery ecosystems, and proactive efforts to reduce the potential for human-grizzly bear conflicts. Connectivity is most likely to first occur through male movements because males disperse farther than females, who often stay in the vicinity of their mothers’ home ranges<sup>4-6</sup>. Ecosystems will therefore likely become genetically connected first, but will remain demographically isolated unless females also become connected through range expansion. Demographic connectivity would particularly improve long-term conservation of the CYE and SE populations given their low numbers, and is imperative for recovering grizzly bears in the BE. Research is thus needed to assess the potential corridors that could promote genetic and demographic connectivity for males and females among recovery ecosystems. This would require innovative research to adapt a recently-used approach<sup>3</sup> to focus more on habitat use, home range acquisition, and range expansion rather than movement paths alone due to females’ short-distance dispersals. Models are likewise needed to identify specific movement corridors, denning sites, and areas that are most likely to impede movements, such as where corridors are intersected by roads.
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State Parks Foundation
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November 2020
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Work collaboratively with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to develop a template, process and staff training from which a series of foundation documents for each of the 55 units of the state park system will be written. Assist the division in consolidating and editing the documents
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Establish the purpose and intent of foundation documents for the state parks division. Define how foundation documents will tie to other park planning efforts. Develop document templates. Develop a process for the completion of foundation documents by individual park managers. Compile all documents into a single document that reads with a common voice
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Predicting puma densities and distribution
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May 2022
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The masters student will act as project coordinator analyzing existing data and providing direction on new data collection needs or modeling opportunities. It is expected that the student will lead at least two peer reviewed journal articles resulting from this research collaboration.
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Prior to European settlement, pumas occupied all of the contiguous US (CONUS). Two centuries of persecution, depletion of ungulate prey, and habitat loss reduced their range to the western states and southern Florida (Logan and Sweanor 2010). Pumas are a hunted species in all states except California and Florida. As an area-sensitive species that requires dispersal among neighboring populations (Beier 1993, Grigione 2002), they would benefit from coordinated management at large spatial scales, sometimes spanning state boundaries. Despite public support for restoring large carnivores and the puma’s status as a flagship species for conservation, coordination across large areas rarely occurs. Such efforts would be abetted by a comprehensive assessment of puma densities across their range in the contiguous US (CONUS). This project will use existing cougar data sets to predict cougar density and distribution across North America. The findings of this project will inform hunting programs, provide insight into cougar ecology, anticipate and manage eastward re-colonization, identify small or potentially isolated populations, and help shape future land use and connectivity plans.
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Preventing Predation: Mechanistic Drivers of and Deterrents in Conflict with Jaguars
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May 2021
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A Post Doctoral Research Associate will act as project coordinator analyzing existing data and providing direction on new data collection needs. It is expected that the postdoc will lead at least two peer reviewed journal articles resulting from this research collaboration.
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Large carnivores are both feared and revered in many cultures. In North America large carnivores where once extirpated from the vast majority of their range mostly due to a perceived threat to humans and their livestock. Primary research into the ecology of wolves, cougars, and grizzly bears and a renewed conservation ethic valuing the ecological role of large carnivores has helped lead effective measures that today are seeing these large carnivores expand back into historical range. Outside of North America most jurisdictions strive for some level of carnivore conservation yet conflict and retaliatory killing remains a great conservation concern. Like many carnivores, one of the greatest human impacts on jaguars stems from conflict surrounding human agricultural developments. Retaliatory killing of jaguars in response to real or perceived depredation threat is thought to reduce the presence of jaguars on the landscape. The main objective of this research is to determine the mechanistic drivers of predator–prey distribution and interactions of jaguars in unprotected agricultural areas.
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Mandatory Reporting and Harvest Surveys Evaluation
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June 2021
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A research associate to conduct analyses exploring the relative accuracy and costs of the mandatory reporting and harvest survey systems considered in previously completed, collaborative research.
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The specific objective of this project is to evaluate the relative accuracy and financial costs of mandatory, self-reporting of harvest by hunters versus survey sampling to estimate the harvest of big game animals in Montana.
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Predator use of white-tailed deer, mule deer, moose, and elk and influence on population dynamics.
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June 2021
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The Ph.D. project will evaluate population dynamics and predator use of white-tailed deer, mule deer, moose, and elk in northern Idaho. The primary study objective is to improve understanding of how multiple predator species select and utilize multiple prey species across different habitat types in northern Idaho.
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We’ll use existing data from elk (GPS-collared as part of statewide survival monitoring), and new data from white-tailed deer, mule deer, and moose GPS-collared specifically for this investigation to estimate survival, reproduction, and cause-specific mortality of various sex- and age-classes (fawns/calves, females, males). Specifically, we will capture white-tailed deer and mule deer, fit adult females with a linked iridium GPS/ VIT system, and capture neonatal fawns at less than 1-day old from marked females. Adult males will be marked with expandable collars or solar-powered eartags. Mortality sites will be investigated and cause of death determined from each age and sex class. We will also use existing data from wolves (collared as part of previous statewide investigations) and new data from wolves, black bears, and mountain lions collared specifically for this research to determine ungulate kill rates, diet composition, and movement rates. The student is expected to complete a detailed pre-proposal prior to 1 May, 2020. The graduate student will be expected to work in a multi-disciplinary team including: graduate students and professors from University of Idaho, University of Montana, University of Washington, and University of British Columbia; and research and management biologists from the states of Idaho, Montana, Washington, and British Columbia. The 5 graduate students involved in the Idaho portion of the project will make up the primary work force for the projects, with short term assistance from seasonal technicians.
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Quantify and prioritize lake trout spawning habitat for suppression
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December 2023
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Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> and restore natural ecological function since invasive Lake Trout <i>Salvelinus namaycush</i> were first discovered there in 1994. Gillnetting was implemented in 1995 to suppress the Lake Trout population, but despite annual increases in gillnetting effort, the population expanded throughout Yellowstone Lake and increased in abundance until 2012, when the effort became large enough to curtail population growth. The Lake Trout population of Yellowstone Lake is highly resilient to gillnetting, probably because of high early life history survival. Interstitial embryo predators, which are a common source of embryo mortality in the native range of Lake Trout, do not inhabit Yellowstone Lake. Because Lake Trout population growth rates are most sensitive to changes in age-0 survival, alternative methods are being developed to reduce prerecruit survival, with an overall goal of increasing suppression efficiency while reducing long-term costs.<br> <br>We sought to intentionally degrade interstitial water quality at Lake Trout spawning sites in Yellowstone Lake because salmonid embryos are highly susceptible to sedimentation and degraded water quality. Rapid mortality of Lake Trout embryos occurs when dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations are below 3.4 mg/L. Whole and ground Lake Trout carcasses caused 100% mortality of Lake Trout embryos at the substrate surface and at a depth of 20 cm in the substrate at treated spawning sites. Biological oxygen demand of the decomposing carcasses caused DO to decline to 0mg/L soon after treatments and caused the high embryo mortality. Although these previous studies suggested that Lake Trout carcasses may be a useful embryo suppression tool, the Lake Trout spawning period peaks during the last week of September, allowing only 2–3 weeks to treat spawning sites prior to the end of gillnetting (which limits carcass availability) and onset of dangerous winter conditions on Yellowstone Lake. Lake Trout carcasses are also difficult to transport in large quantities in boats, time-consuming to apply, and prone to drift or dispersal by wildlife from spawning sites. We therefore sought an analogous organic material that would alleviate these constraints. Pelletized carcass-analogs have been used to restore nutrients and ecosystem function in areas of the Pacific Northwest, where anadromous salmonids historically contributed to stream productivity through carcass decomposition. Fish-based and plant-based organic pellet formulations induced high mortality of embryos in laboratory bioassays by decreasing DO, increasing ammonia, and increasing hydrogen sulfide concentrations. These experiments provided proof of concept for application on Yellowstone Lake.<br> <br>Fourteen Lake Trout spawning sites were identified in Yellowstone Lake over the past two decades by gillnetting spawning fish and locating telemetered fish. Spawning at these sites was verified by locating Lake Trout embryos by snorkeling (shallow sites), scuba diving, remotely operated vehicle imaging, or benthic sled sampling. Depths of Lake Trout spawning sites vary from <1 to 30m, and surface areas of sites where the outer perimeter has been delineated (n = 11) vary from 0.3 to 2.0 ha (total of 11.4 ha). Although some Lake Trout spawning site substrates consist of angular rock, most are embedded cobble, hardened material deposited by geothermal vents, bedrock, or some combination thereof (Table A.1) with little or no interstitial space, resulting in embryos remaining <20 cm deep in the substrate during development and hatching. Additional, as yet unverified, Lake Trout spawning sites probably exist.
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Yellowstone Lake has been the site of intensive efforts to conserve native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri</i> and restore natural ecological function since invasive Lake Trout <i>Salvelinus namaycush</i> were first discovered there in 1994. Gillnetting was implemented in 1995 to suppress the Lake Trout population, but despite annual increases in gillnetting effort, the population expanded throughout Yellowstone Lake and increased in abundance until 2012, when the effort became large enough to curtail population growth. The Lake Trout population of Yellowstone Lake is highly resilient to gillnetting, probably because of high early life history survival. Interstitial embryo predators, which are a common source of embryo mortality in the native range of Lake Trout, do not inhabit Yellowstone Lake. Because Lake Trout population growth rates are most sensitive to changes in age-0 survival, alternative methods are being developed to reduce prerecruit survival, with an overall goal of increasing suppression efficiency while reducing long-term costs. We sought to intentionally degrade interstitial water quality at Lake Trout spawning sites in Yellowstone Lake because salmonid embryos are highly susceptible to sedimentation and degraded water quality. Rapid mortality of Lake Trout embryos occurs when dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations are below 3.4 mg/L. Whole and ground Lake Trout carcasses caused 100% mortality of Lake Trout embryos at the substrate surface and at a depth of 20 cm in the substrate at treated spawning sites. Biological oxygen demand of the decomposing carcasses caused DO to decline to 0mg/L soon after treatments and caused the high embryo mortality. Although these previous studies suggested that Lake Trout carcasses may be a useful embryo suppression tool, the Lake Trout spawning period peaks during the last week of September, allowing only 2–3 weeks to treat spawning sites prior to the end of gillnetting (which limits carcass availability) and onset of dangerous winter conditions on Yellowstone Lake. Lake Trout carcasses are also difficult to transport in large quantities in boats, time-consuming to apply, and prone to drift or dispersal by wildlife from spawning sites. We therefore sought an analogous organic material that would alleviate these constraints. Pelletized carcass-analogs have been used to restore nutrients and ecosystem function in areas of the Pacific Northwest, where anadromous salmonids historically contributed to stream productivity through carcass decomposition. Fish-based and plant-based organic pellet formulations induced high mortality of embryos in laboratory bioassays by decreasing DO, increasing ammonia, and increasing hydrogen sulfide concentrations. These experiments provided proof of concept for application on Yellowstone Lake. Fourteen Lake Trout spawning sites were identified in Yellowstone Lake over the past two decades by gillnetting spawning fish and locating telemetered fish. Spawning at these sites was verified by locating Lake Trout embryos by snorkeling (shallow sites), scuba diving, remotely operated vehicle imaging, or benthic sled sampling. Depths of Lake Trout spawning sites vary from <1 to 30m, and surface areas of sites where the outer perimeter has been delineated (n = 11) vary from 0.3 to 2.0 ha (total of 11.4 ha). Although some Lake Trout spawning site substrates consist of angular rock, most are embedded cobble, hardened material deposited by geothermal vents, bedrock, or some combination thereof (Table A.1) with little or no interstitial space, resulting in embryos remaining <20 cm deep in the substrate during development and hatching. Additional, as yet unverified, Lake Trout spawning sites probably exist.
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Westslope Cutthroat Trout Project
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June 2021
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A graduate research assistant to focus on the project which includes monitoring migrations often identify causes for mortality/impairment that may be mitigated via restoration such as screening a diversion or removing a culvert barrier. Identification of key spawning habitat also allows managers to better protect these key habitats and may provide a way to identify and prioritize land acquisition and easement projects in these areas.
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Rock Creek is a world class trout fishery located in western Montana which also supports a robust native fish community including fluvial westslope cutthroat trout. Westslope cutthroat trout comprise a major component (appx. 40%) of the salmonid sport-fishery in the upper portion of the Rock Creek drainage. While westslope cutthroat trout are found in lower densities lower in the drainage, these populations still provide quality angling opportunities with angler catch rates of westslope cutthroat trout being quite high in comparison to their abundance (Liermann 2017, in prep). Understanding native fishes’ life histories is a key component of properly managing these species. Spawning migrations are obviously an important component of a fish’s life history as the successful completion of spawning is imperative to sustaining populations. Due to the long distances commonly traveled by westslope cutthroat trout to spawn in their natal tributaries, they commonly encounter difficulties in completing these migrations and may not even survive. Monitoring these migrations often identify causes for mortality/impairment that may be mitigated via restoration such as screening a diversion or removing a culvert barrier. Identification of key spawning habitat also allows managers to better protect these key habitats and may provide a way to identify and prioritize land acquisition and easement projects in these areas. The first year of this study was completed in 2018 and included some interesting findings. Genetic testing of tagged fish showed that most were non-hybridized westslope cutthroat trout based on SNPs analysis. Only three fish were found to have greater than 10% introgression with rainbow trout. Thus, it appears that this population is not just providing quality recreational angling but is also a population of conservation importance. Based on these results we have altered our study plan to further understand this population and threats to it. We are also proposing to fund a graduate research assistant to focus on the project.
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Human dimensions of grizzly bear management in MT - Grizzly Bear Social Survey
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June 2020
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A graduate student will work closely with FWP Staff to develop, implement, and report on a survey of Montanans' attitudes about grizzly bears and grizzly bear management.
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Design a survey to provide information about public tolerance for grizzly bears, attitudes about grizzly bear management, and the social and personal drivers of public attitudes in specific areas of Montana.Design a sampling scheme that will result in estimates of the quantities of interest at the appropriate spatial scales, for the populations of interest.Implement the survey in a timely and cost-efficient manner, including incorporation of methodology to account for non-response bias.Analyze data using rigorous techniques and sample response weighting to ensure accurate inferences to the extent possible.Present results for distribution in a concise written report and for publication in the peer-reviewed literature, as well as in verbal presentations.Provide recommendations regarding approaches to grizzly bear management in line with survey results and in the context of grizzly bear management outlined in existing FWP documentation of the grizzly bear planning Structured Decision Making process and other ongoing grizzly bear planning efforts.
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Blackfoot Clearwater Elk Study
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June 2022
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A graduate student will conduct a research project evaluating the effects of wildfire on elk forage, demography, and distributions in the Blackfoot-Clearwater area, and will lead data analysis, writing, and completion of the final report.
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The specific objectives of this project are to:1. Collect elk diet data.2. Evaluate elk body condition and pregnancy rates.3. Evaluate and compare elk use of areas that burned at different levels of fire severity.4. Evaluate and compare vegetation and forage resources in areas that burned at different levels of fire severity.5. Develop a resource selection probability function model to evaluate the effects of wildfire and other factors on summer elk distributions.6. Provide preliminary recommendations or guidelines for fire management that improve elk forage quality, security, and/or elk use of treatment areas.
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Grizzly Bear Integrated Population Modeling and Interface Development
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December 2020
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The project is to work with collaborating scientists to develop a database to store grizzly bear population data required for an integrated population model.
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Provide a web interface to query and display up-to-date information on bear populations (data query and visualization - moralities, telemetry Information, etc.)Develop a tool and analyze data to guide monitoring data collection in the future Develop a tool to predict and display future population size and human caused mortality risks including measures of precision for all predictions.
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Evaluation of survey approches to assess status of Species of Greatest Inventory Need and effects of MFWP habitat management on non-game indicator species
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December 2020
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A Postdoctoral to provide evaluation of survey approaches to assess status of Species of Greatest Inventory Need and effects of MFWP habitat management on non-game indicator species.
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<b>Project need and purpose: </b>The fundamental objectives of the Montana FWP non-game management program include:(1) conserving, enhancing and restoring habitat for nongame wildlife,(2) maintaining nongame species distribution and abundance, and(3) minimizing the number of nongame species that meet criteria for Federal listing or are state listed as Species of Concern (SOC) category ≤3. These program priorities are also reflected in the Montana State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). Several non-game species are classified as SOC ≤3 (higher priority) and/or as Species of Greatest Inventory Need (SGIN) in the SWAP, due to a lack of information on population status or distribution. Changing the SOC status for species for which we lack information and assessing the impacts of habitat management on non-game avian species both rely upon survey and monitoring programs to provide information about status and trend (Yoccoz et al. 2001, Gitzen & Millspaugh 2012). Existing monitoring tools such as the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS; Sauer et al. 2016), and Integrated Monitoring in Bird Conservation Regions (IMBCR; Pavlacky et al. 2017) provide measures of trend (BBS), density and occupancy (IMBCR) for many bird species to inform these objectives. However, these programs don’t provide sufficient information on species that are uncommon (e.g. Great Gray Owl, <i>Strix nebulosa</i>), elusive (e.g. Greater Short-Horned Lizard, <i>Phrynosoma hernandesi</i>), or restricted to specific habitats (e.g. Black Rosy Finches, <i>Leucosticte atrata</i>) or habitat features (e.g. Black Swifts; <i>Cypseloides niger</i>). As such, MFWP has initiated extensive survey efforts for several SGIN not sufficiently detected by existing monitoring programs. These efforts have already identified potential habitat and provided further information regarding range extent, while also highlighting the limitations of some survey designs to acquire the needed information for some species. A framework that characterizes the <u>survey effort needed to attain certain information</u> based on species characteristics would <u>support efficient survey effort </u>to support status assessment for SGIN species (Legg & Nagy 2006).<b> </b>In addition to acquiring adequate information to inform conservation status for remaining SGIN species, MFWP is tasked with assessing the effectiveness of habitat management. FWP expends considerable resources on habitat management on FWP-owned and private lands, which in many cases is focused in part on improving habitat for non-game species and thereby maintaining or improving their distribution. Within existing habitat management initiatives, the Forest Management Plan (MFWP 2017) requires decadal (or sooner) review while the Grassland Initiative (MFWP 2017) calls for quantitative effectiveness monitoring in order to meet conservation objectives. Historically, addressing specific conservation objectives has utilized independent monitoring designs for local management units, but the diversity of designs precludes utility and effective integration into management programs at larger scales (Bart 2005). Existing programs, which identify the effects of habitat change at larger spatial and temporal scales (e.g. Hitch & Leberg 2007, Pavlacky et al. 2017, Specht & Arnold in review), may provide sufficient power to detect changes in populations resulting from local habitat management treatments over short time periods if supplemented with additional targeted sampling (Pavlacky et al. 2017). This approach would capitalize on existing rigorous sampling designs, analytical approaches and expertise while contributing to larger datasets (Gitzen & Millspaugh 2012). Power analyses can be used to understand the relative efficiency of independent monitoring designs compared to that of large-scale, coordinated monitoring programs and adaptations at detecting the effects of habitat conservation and management actions on bird communities, as well as informing discussion about the level of effort that might be required for rigorous evaluations of the effects of habitat management.
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Fisher Occupancy, Habitat Needs, and Responses to Management in the Northern Rocky Mountains
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June 2022
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A MS student will estimate the probability that potentially suitable habitat is occupied across the 3-state range of NRM fishers (occupancy estimate); estimate the influence of forest type, known fisher population centers, translocation history, and harvest/incidental mortality on fisher occupancy; and integrate survey design with the multi-state wolverine occupancy survey design, and coordinate field logistics with similar survey efforts by USFS staff in specific forest units.
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The NRM fisher population is considered a distinct population segment by the USFWS because it is disjunct from other fisher populations. NRM fisher have been petitioned for listing as a federally threatened species on multiple occasions. In 2011, the USFWS determined fishers were not warranted for listing. In response to another petition in 2013, the USFWS initiate a status review in January 2017 to consider fishers for protections under the Endangered Species Act, and they decided in October 2017 that fishers are not warranted for listing. Fishers are currently classified as a furbearer with a closed season in Idaho, and they are managed as a furbearer with a very limited quota in Montana.
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Sage Grouse Grazing Project PhD Student
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June 2022
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A PhD student to provide research, evaluation and development for a project evaluating the impacts of grazing on sage-grouse population dynamics in central Montana, FWP Region 5.
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Services (salary, fringe, and health) of one Ph.D. student to help complete deliverables for the State’s sage-grouse grazing project near Roundup, Montana; services (salary, fringe, and health) of Victoria Dreitz, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Director of the Avian Science Center, The University of Montana, as the student’s advisor. This sage-grouse project is assessing biological responses of sage-grouse adult females and chicks, and sage-grouse habitat, to large-scale grazing treatments. This collaborative project is led by State staff Lorelle Berkeley, Ph.D., Research Wildlife Biologist, and a Conservation Technician; and University of Montana (UMT) staff supervised by Dr. Dreitz.
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Kootenai River Trout Survival Analysis
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August 2020
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Estimate annual apparent survival and abundance estimates for rainbow, cutthroat, bull and brown trout for each of the four Kootenai River sections and evaluate the correlation of these estimates with the environmental and biological covariates.
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Little information exists related to growth and survival of Kootenai River trout populations below Libby Dam. Operations at Libby Dam since construction have generally been a gradual conversion to conditions that more closely simulate normative river conditions. Montana FWP conducted annual mark recapture surveys of resident trout (rainbow, cutthroat, brown and bull trout) in the Kootenai River in four sections including the Libby Dam (river mile [RM] 218.2-221.7; 18,480 feet), the Re-Regulation (Re-reg) section (RM 213.2-215.1; 8,700 feet), the Flower-Pipe Section (RM 201.1-204.0; 15,450 feet), and Troy section (RM 183.8-186.2; 12,619 feet). Collectively the length of these four river sections comprise about 21% of the Montana portion of the Kootenai River downstream of Libby Dam. The Libby Dam, Flower-Pipe and Troy sections were sampled annually during September 2011-2017 and the Re-Regulation section was sampled annually in March 2011-2018. MFWP also attempted to partition apparent survival into approximately 6-month periods by sampling the Re-Reg section in the fall of 2015, 2016, and 2017, and the Flower-Pipe and Troy sections during the spring of 2016 and 2017 (Table 1). The objective of this work is to estimate apparent survival of resident trout in four sections of the Kootenai River and attempt to correlate several biological and environmental covariates to these vital statistics with the expectation of developing management recommendations to improve the survival of Kootenai River trout. MFWP is seeking technical assistance from the University of Montana to complete these analyses. We have discussed this project with Dr. Paul Lukacs and worked collaboratively to develop this statement of work.
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Modeling large mammal predator-prey dynamics to inform harvest management
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June 2021
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A PhD student is to us IDFG's existing data to fomulate and parameterize predator-prey models, with the aim to help manage Idaho's multiple predators (wolves, cougars, bears, coyotes, and bobcats) and multiple prey species (mule deer, elk, white-tailed deer, and moose) in a community context.
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Predation is a fundamental ecological process. It is critically important in shaping biological communities, and affecting coupled human-natural systems. However, the effects of predation on prey populations are continually debated (e.g., Schmitz, Hamback & Beckerman 2000; Shurin et al. 2002). Predation can be compensatory (Errington 1946; Vucetich, Smith & Stahler 2005), where prey population dynamics are not significantly affected (e.g., predators remove the least fit individuals that were not going to survive the winter); or predation can be additive (Gasaway et al. 1983; Messier 1994), where prey population dynamics are significantly impacted by predators. When predation is additive, it can be limiting or regulating (dependent on prey densities). These species interactions can be key in shaping communities.Most predator-prey models and theory are based on data from single predator, single prey systems such as the iconic Isle Royale Moose-wolf system (Messier 1994; Vucetich et al. 2011). However, there is a current lack of studies on how multiple predators and multiple prey species can interact to determine the overall community dynamics. In reality, multiple predators and multiple prey are part of the same community and can interact in fundamental ways. Indeed, the recent recovery of gray wolves, expansion of grizzly bears, and reported increases in mountain lion populations across some areas of the west, including Idaho, have dramatically increased the complexity and number of interactions between now 3-4 predators, and up to 6 large ungulate species. In many systems, for example, there may be wolves, and mountain lions simultaneously preying on shared elk, white-tailed deer, mule deer and bighorn sheep.However, most current management strategies evaluate and manage populations independently. For example, state wildlife agencies often have independent, isolated, elk, deer, or wolf (for example) management plans that are not integrated. Historically, in the absence of such complexity, such independent management may have been warranted. Unfortunately, predator and prey population dynamics do not operate in isolation, especially in more complex ecological communities. For example, altering harvest of mule deer and elk are likely to affect predator populations that are dependent on them. Conversely, management of wolves is likely to have an effect on the wolves’ prey population dynamics, and, potentially other shared predators on those same prey populations.The goal of this project is to use IDFG’s existing data to formulate and parameterize predator-prey models, with the aim to help manage Idaho’s multiple predators (wolves, cougars, bears, coyotes, and bobcats) and multiple prey species (mule deer, elk, white-tailed deer, and moose) in a community context. These models will incorporate how the multiple predator and prey populations affect each other. We will formulate mechanistic mathematical models that include species interactions and feedbacks, mainly using existing IDFG data on these populations, but also drawing from previous research in other areas. These models will allow us to explore various management strategies to optimize management across the entire predator-prey community. For example, researchers and managers recently developed and applied such mathematical predator-prey modeling to systems of wolves, moose, caribou, mountain lions and ‘deer’ (including mule deer and white-tailed deer) in British Columbia to guide multispecies harvest (and recovery of endangered caribou) management for both ungulates and carnivores.
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A strategic process for fisheries management and aquatic conservation. PI: M. E. Mather, 2018-2026.
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December 2026
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<i><b>A Strategic process for fisheries management and aquatic conservation.</b></i><b> PI: M. E. Mather, 2019-2022.</b><br><br>I am dedicated to the Unit mission elements of (a) providing excellent training for graduate students that will help them succeed in the rigorous science-based conservation required for the changing world, and (b) delivering proactive, effective research that identifies, then implements, solutions to the problems facing our management colleagues. Over my > 25 years with the Cooperative Research Unit Program, I have gained specific insights into what state and federal managers within our cooperating agencies need to be effective in science-based, data-driven conservation and management. Throughout my career, I have also gained substantial insights into the science, valued by universities, needed to provide lasting and effective decision support. Over the last three years (2018-2020), I have used my experience and commitment to develop then deliver insights that can help Unit cooperators address common problems (e.g., gear selection, harvest regulation evaluations, strategic planning, setting science-based goals for management and conservation, methodology for the creation of problem-related question networks that guide data analysis/collection, data fusion, and identifying metrics for success). These contributions promise to substantially improve the long-term implementation of the mission of our state, federal, and university cooperators.
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<i><b>A Strategic process for fisheries management and aquatic conservation.</b></i><b> PI: M. E. Mather, 2019-2022. </b>I am dedicated to the Unit mission elements of (a) providing excellent training for graduate students that will help them succeed in the rigorous science-based conservation required for the changing world, and (b) delivering proactive, effective research that identifies, then implements, solutions to the problems facing our management colleagues. Over my > 25 years with the Cooperative Research Unit Program, I have gained specific insights into what state and federal managers within our cooperating agencies need to be effective in science-based, data-driven conservation and management. Throughout my career, I have also gained substantial insights into the science, valued by universities, needed to provide lasting and effective decision support. Over the last three years (2018-2020), I have used my experience and commitment to develop then deliver insights that can help Unit cooperators address common problems (e.g., gear selection, harvest regulation evaluations, strategic planning, setting science-based goals for management and conservation, methodology for the creation of problem-related question networks that guide data analysis/collection, data fusion, and identifying metrics for success). These contributions promise to substantially improve the long-term implementation of the mission of our state, federal, and university cooperators.
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Lower Blackfoot Bear Stress Study
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September 2024
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An undergraduate student will evaluate the stress response of black bears and grizzly bears interacting with roads that fragment their natural habitat and we will elucidate unique insights into the physiological stress response of a large mammal using a new and innovative non-invasive survey technique.
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STATEMENT OF NEED:In collaboration with the University of Montana, the Bureau of Land Management Missoula Field Office,and Working Dogs for Conservation we will evaluate the stress response of black bears and grizzly bears interactingwith roads that fragment their natural habitat and we will elucidate unique insights into the physiological stressresponse of a large mammal using a new and innovative non-invasive survey technique. In collaboration with MPGRanch, we will evaluate the stress response of black bears using the private conservation property. We will measurethe stress response of black bears and grizzly bears in the Lower Blackfoot Valley of Northwest Montana using scatdetectiondogs (WD4C, 2019) and on MPG Ranch opportunistically by researchers who are checking and backtrackingblack bear sightings at game cameras. In the Lower Blackfoot, we will relate this response to opposinglevels of road management and traffic during the spring black bear hunting season following den emergence. OnMPG Ranch we want to be able to elucidate the stress response of bears using the property to be able to determine ifcurrent levels and patterns of use are sustainable for the individual’s persistence. We will also be obtainingindividual sex, individual ID, and species data from fecal DNA analyses for both study areas.Using cortisol concentrations that we obtain from the scat samples, we will address the followingquestions: (1) do bears exhibit a stress response to roads?; (2) if so, does the stress response vary among the levels ofaccess restrictions we are testing?; (3) what distance within our 800m buffer do bears begin to show a physiologicalstress response?; (4) is there any variation in stress response between individuals or species?; and, (5) do males orfemales show a greater stress response? The ability roads have to give humans access into wildlife habitat has beenshown to have a negative physiological effect on bears. Bears have large home ranges that often overlap with forestroads. Thus, we hypothesize that motorized use roads will cause a bear to have an increased stress response greaterthan both non-motorized use roads and our control group. If this is true, then we predict that when a bear encountersmotorized use roads, we will observe the largest spike in cortisol concentrations. Whereas, when a bear encounters anon-motorized use road, we believe the observed cortisol concentrations will be greater than our control group butless than the motorized use group. Regardless, we will obtain baseline fecal glucocorticoid levels from the WalesCreek Wilderness Study Area.This study will provide support for a number of secretarial orders including: No. 3347, No. 3356, No. 3362,No. 3366 by improving game and habitat management, improving and/or maintaining hunting, fishing, shooting,recreating, and wildlife conservation opportunities, and lastly, by improving habitat quality of big game species. Wewill be collaborating with state (Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks), federal (Bureau of Land Management), andnon-governmental organizations (MPG Ranch) to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities by promoting coexistencebetween humans and large carnivores. We will be communicating our science through professional workshops andmeetings (est. 2020 International Bear Association Kalispell, MT Conference, 2020 TWS Montana, etc). theobjectives outlined above are essential to identifying, restoring, and conserving roads and habitat. And lastly, weintend to stimulate public understanding of the BLM’s role in maintaining and enhancing viable big gamepopulations of wildlife and wildlife habitat through education.
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Understanding perceptions of risk from chronic wasting for tribal communities in the Midwest
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December 2024
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The objectives of the project are to better understand key concerns and perspectives of tribes in Region 3 USFWS related to CWD management and CWD’s potential to impact hunting participation and the food security of tribal members for whom deer and elk are managed for hunting. Addressing CWD and its impacts will be a long-term, nationwide effort. This proposal will serve as a primary step to building essential knowledge about the potential for CWDs to impact the North American Model of Wildlife Management as well as for addressing CWD on tribal lands. We will use culturally appropriate ethnographic approaches to conduct indepth interviews and nominal group research to better understand tribal perspectives and indigenous knowledge concerning the risks of CWD to hunting opportunities, food security, and cultural practices (Daigle, Michelle, Ranco, and Emery 2019; Dockry, Hall, Van Lopik, and Caldwell 2016; Emery, Wrobel, Hansen, Dockry, Moser, Stark, and Gilbert 2014). Such systematic information concerning the perceived threat of CWD will be extremely useful to the tribes and wildlife management agencies in planning and prioritizing future research and management activities to address CWD and its impacts. Specifically, we will:<br> <br>1) Complete a systematic review of research and activities addressing the human dimensions of CWD to develop a state-of-the-knowledge summary of the topic; 2) Complete interviews and nominal groups workshops with tribal leadership and members across Region 3 USFWS affected or potentially affected by CWD; 3) Identify participants’ perceived risks of CWD to hunting, food security, and cultural practices; 4) Identify the Tribes indigenous knowledge and participants’ personal beliefs about research and management activities to address the perceived risks of CWD to hunting, food security, and cultural practices; 5) Identify participants’ prioritization for research and management activities to address the perceived risks of CWD to hunting, food security, and cultural practices; 6) Use the study results to help information management plans and programs at the federal, state and tribal levels design to address the threat of CWD to hunting and food security.<i> </i><br><i></i><br>The proposed project is the first step in assessing the key threats posed by CWD for hunting participation, cultural practices, and food security for Tribes in the Midwest. A better understanding of these threats and management actions to address such threats could help in the design of the federal, state, and tribal programs that are resilient to such threats. Results of the group workshops will provide useful information about CWD threats and potential management actions and will be crucial to designing long-term management programs and research efforts.
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The scope of this study includes: 1) completing a systematic review to determine the state-of-knowledge concerning management activities and human dimensions research related to CWD and the use of Indigenous knowledge for wildlife management; and 2) identifying and prioritizing the key concerns and perspectives of tribes related to CWD in Region 3 USFWS. The outcomes of this study will be used to provide direction for future human dimensions research and management action on CWD relevant to tribal communities.
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Habitat Use and Survival of Ringtail in Southwest Oregon
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August 2023
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The ringtail (<i>Bassariscus astutus</i>) is a small, secretive, omnivorous, nocturnal relative of the raccoon (<i>Procyon lotor</i>) that occurs in southwesthern Oregon, the most northern portion of the species range. Ringtail are listed as “Sensitive” and a Conservation Strategy species in Oregon with identified knowledge gaps including the need for an assessment of the species distribution and abundance, and basic information on habitat use and selection across all life stages. In collaboration with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, this project focused on estimating annual and seasonal survival rates, home range size, movement patterns and vegetation characteristics of home ranges and den sites for ringtail in Oregon. These data will aid in the development of a large-scale monitoring program for ringtail in Oregon, and add to our basic understanding of ringtail ecology and demographics at the most northern edge of their distribution.
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The ringtail (<i>Bassariscus astutus</i>) is a small, secretive, omnivorous, nocturnal relative of the raccoon (<i>Procyon lotor</i>) that occurs in southwestern Oregon, the most northern portion of the species range. Ringtail are listed as “Sensitive” and a Conservation Strategy species in Oregon with identified knowledge gaps including the need for an assessment of the species distribution and abundance, and basic information on habitat use and selection across all life stages. In collaboration with Oregon Department of Conservation and Oregon State University, this project will estimate annual and seasonal survival rates, home range size, movement patterns and vegetation characteristics of home ranges and den sites for ringtail in Oregon. These data will aid in the development of a large-scale monitoring program for ringtail in Oregon, and add to our basic understanding of ringtail ecology at the most northern edge of their distribution.
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Large Downed Wood as Post-fire Refugia for Terrestrial Salamanders in Pacific Northwest Forests
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August 2023
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Downed wood on the forest floor does more than provide habitat for amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. These decomposing habitat structures modify the temperature and moisture conditions in the forest itself. Inside and around downed wood, local climate conditions, or microclimates, provide wildlife with stable habitats that allow for persistence during and after wildfires. Cooler, wetter microclimates buffer the effects of wildfire in Oregon’s forests, making microclimate an important component of forest management. Despite the significance of downed wood to forest ecosystem function, forest management practices require only two downed logs to be retained for every acre harvested. To better inform forest management and species conservation efforts, it is vital that we better understand the role of downed wood in post-fire recovery of forest-dependent species. We propose a three-year study that explores the relationship between downed wood, microclimate, and wildfire on terrestrial salamander diversity. Terrestrial salamanders are sensitive to environmental change, dependent on moist habitats, and are strongly associated with downed wood. We will compare salamander diversity and abundance in forests that vary in time since fire in forests across western Oregon, capturing the inherent climate variation from the moist northern end to the drier southern end of the state. We will relate salamander presence and abundance with microclimates associated with downed wood, expecting to find more salamanders, including rare and threatened species, in forests with cooler, wetter microclimates. In areas with recent, high severity fire, we expect downed wood to facilitate salamander persistence, particularly in the drier forests of southern Oregon. This research will provide managers with important information on the quantity and quality of downed wood needed to maintain microclimate conditions that can protect and buffer forests from the ever-increasing threat of climate-driven wildfires.
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By modifying the temperature and moisture conditions in the forest itself, downed wood in forest ecosystems provide wildlife with local climate conditions, or microclimates, that allow for persistence during and after wildfires. To better inform forest management and species conservation efforts, it is vital that we better understand the role of downed wood in post-fire recovery of forest-dependent species. In collaboration with Oregon State University and the Northwest Climate Science Adaptation Center, we propose a three-year study that explores the relationship between downed wood, microclimate, and wildfire on terrestrial salamander diversity. Terrestrial salamanders are sensitive to environmental change, dependent on moist habitats, and are strongly associated with downed wood. This research will provide managers with important information on the quantity and quality of downed wood needed to maintain microclimate conditions that can protect and buffer forests from the ever-increasing threat of climate-driven wildfires.
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Assessment of angler use and catch during 2020 at Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska
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January 2022
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The Nebraska Public Power District is a publicly-owned utility and a political subdivision of the State of Nebraska. Its chartered service territory is vast, including all or parts of 86 of Nebraska's 93 counties. The utility works through partnerships to help serve more than an estimated 600,000 Nebraskans with retail and wholesale electric power and energy-related services. The Nebraska Public Power District owns and manages Sutherland Reservoir, a 3,000-surface-acre reservoir located three miles south of the Interstate 80 Exit at Sutherland, Nebraska, as part of its hydropower system, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission oversees most of the recreation areas at this reservoir. The purpose of this study is to estimate angler use and catch at Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska, from April through October 2021 (intended 2020, but delayed due to pandemic). Specifically, we obtained monthly estimates of angler pressure, catch, and harvest. This information will allow the Nebraska Public Power District to evaluate angler use and influence of the fishery at Sutherland Reservoir, and is a required component of its hydropower operating license.
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Sutherland Reservoir (1,220 hectares) is the first canal reservoir downstream from Lake McConaughy and is utilized for the cooling of Nebraska Public Power District’s (NPPD) Gerald Gentleman Station. Permitting requires ongoing monitoring of activities, including recreational fishing. The purpose of this study is to estimate angler use and catch of Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska, during 2020 (postponed to 2021 due to pandemic). This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Nebraska—Lincoln and the Nebraska Public Power District. Information gained on angler behavior will be important for increased effectiveness of fishery management, as well as increased effectiveness of plant operations.
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Using engineered DNA to assess spatial and temporal variation in eDNA as a measure of the temporal and spatial variation of biodiversity
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December 2022
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Baseline information on fish and wildlife populations are essential for natural resource management; however, many taxa remain elusive and costly to monitor. eDNA tools are providing new approaches for monitoring organisms in situ. In this collaboration spanning Cornell and the USGS Coop Units, we are advancing cutting edge eDNA tools to assess abundance and population genetics of aquatic organisms. Results from this work will provide novel techniques to assess the ecology of aquatic species.
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Baseline information on fish and wildlife populations are essential for natural resource management; however, many taxa remain elusive and costly to monitor. eDNA tools are providing new approaches for monitoring organisms in situ. In this collaboration spanning Cornell and the USGS Coop Units, we are advancing cutting edge eDNA tools to assess abundance and population genetics of aquatic organisms. Results from this work will provide novel techniques to assess the ecology of aquatic species.
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Integration of molecular methods into predator diet analyses to advance understanding of juvenile Chinook salmon predation mortality in the Delta
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June 2021
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Chinook salmon stocks along the West Coast U.S. are significantly depressed relative to historical levels. A range of stressors are currently impacting these species, including predation by non-native predators in freshwater habitats. in a collaboration involving the USGS Cooperative Research Units, California Fish and Game, and NOAA, were we advance recently developed DNA mixture analyses to quantify predation rates on juvenile Chinook salmon in the Sacramento Delta. Results will inform management of threatened Pacific salmon stocks.
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Chinook salmon stocks along the West Coast U.S. are significantly depressed relative to historical levels. A range of stressors are currently impacting these species, including predation by non-native predators in freshwater habitats. in a collaboration involving the USGS Cooperative Research Units, California Fish and Game, and NOAA, were we advance recently developed DNA mixture analyses to quantify predation rates on juvenile Chinook salmon in the Sacramento Delta. Results will inform management of threatened Pacific salmon stocks.
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New York Breeding Bird Atlas
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April 2025
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The New York Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA) provides the best, and often only, estimate of bird species distributions across New York State. The third BBA will allow for trends between atlas periods to be used to analyze population trends for hundreds of species of<br>birds. Statewide distribution data will enable estimating current distribution, identification of key bird conservation focus areas such as Important Bird Areas (IBAs) and grassland breeding bird conservation centers and evaluate trends in species distributions.<br><br>NYCFWRU will estimate occupancy of select bird species using an occupancy modeling framework where repeated visits to the same location, by the same observer are used. NYCFWRU will integrate covariates such as latitude, longitude, landcover types, and the effect of year. This will allow for the estimation of a seasonal occupancy model by dividing the year into 2-week periods and estimating seasonal occupancy and detectability. Use of eBird ‘observer expertise’ scores will be integrated as a covariate to help explain inter-observer variation in detectability. Models will be fit in R with the ‘occur’ function package of ‘unmarked’. In addition, the multi-species occupancy model framework can be used to estimate species richness. If data are available on counts, we can join count data with occupancy data in an integrated model and/or use repeated surveys to produce abundance maps with binomial N-mixture models that include environmental covariates.
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The New York Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA) provides the best, and often only, estimate of bird species distributions across New York State. The third BBA will allow for trends between atlas periods to be used to analyze population trends for hundreds of species ofbirds. Statewide distribution data will enable estimating current distribution, identification of key bird conservation focus areas such as Important Bird Areas (IBAs) and grassland breeding bird conservation centers and evaluate trends in species distributions.NYCFWRU will estimate occupancy of select bird species using an occupancy modeling framework where repeated visits to the same location, by the same observer are used.
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New York Mammal Atlas
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March 2025
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The New York Mammal Atlas seeks to provide data on the distribution of mammals in New York State and to evaluate the population status of selected mammals which are<br>rare or of particular management interest. Research from the mammal atlas will inform the status assessment updates of mammalian Species of Greatest Conservation Need and Species of Potential Conservation Need (SPCN). Distribution data will help evaluate whether SPCN may warrant some other status, and if other native mammal species may merit additional protections. Distribution and population status information is needed in order to determine specific conservation actions that could be taken to improve the population status of selected mammal species.<br><br>The Mammal Atlas will involve both small mammal trapping as well as the use of remotely activated trail cameras. The use of citizen science approaches is increasing, and the NYCFWRU developed the iSeeMammals App specifically for black bear research. However, there is great opportunity to expand the utility of iSeeMammals to<br>allow citizen scientists to contribute camera trapping images to help collect data for the Mammal Atlas. NYCFWRU will design a statewide camera trap survey to detect mammal species in New York. Citizen science data projects collect hundreds of thousands of images, which require identification, often using humans and hundreds of hours of staff time. Recent approaches using machine learning can identify species using an automated process. NYCFWRU may develop an automated species identification algorithm for camera trap images in New York that will significantly reduce staff time in tagging images. NYCFWRU will evaluate data collected from the central NY fisher study and previous black bear research that used camera trapping and estimate occupancy of the following species: Virginia opossum, coyote, red fox, gray fox, black bear, striped skunk, raccoon, marten, fisher ermine, long-tail weasel, mink, bobcat, deer, chipmunk, woodchuck, gray squirrel, fox squirrel, red squirrel, flying squirrel (N & S), beaver, eastern cottontail, New England cottontail, snowshoe hare.
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The New York Mammal Atlas seeks to provide data on the distribution of mammals in New York State and to evaluate the population status of selected mammals which arerare or of particular management interest. Research from the mammal atlas will inform the status assessment updates of mammalian Species of Greatest Conservation Need and Species of Potential Conservation Need (SPCN). Distribution data will help evaluate whether SPCN may warrant some other status, and if other native mammal species may merit additional protections. Distribution and population status information is needed in order to determine specific conservation actions that could be taken to improve the population status of selected mammal species.
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Parasitic Threats to Moose and Moose Juvenile Survival
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May 2025
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Health metrics on adult moose indicate a high pregnancy rate and subsequent calf production. However, the majority (78%) of adult cow moose in New York have been exposed to deer brainworm, which has been implicated as a major pathogen for juvenile moose. Moose in New York may be exposed to brainworm as calves, which affects their ability to survive the first year and become breeding age animals. Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont are experiencing significant juvenile mortality associated with winter ticks. Although overall moose density in the Adirondacks of New York is relatively low, high moose densities in preferred habitats may increase winter tick transmission potential. Initiating a research study at the beginning of an epizootic event will offer greater insights into mechanisms and allow for potential treatment alternatives. <br><br>We will estimate survival and collect tick density data, implement a camera trapping study to monitor winter tick prevalence, conduct white-tailed deer pellet surveys to estimate deer density, collect gastropods and deer pellets to test for brainworm and liver fluke, and will develop a risk model for parasitic threats to moose in the northwestern Adirondacks. The project is in collaboration with the Cornell Wildlife Health Lab (Dr. Krysten Schuler), State University of New York, College of Environmental Science Forestry (Dr. Jacqueline Frair), The Wildlife Conservation Society (Dr. Heidi Kretser), and theNew York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
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Health metrics on adult moose indicate a high pregnancy rate and subsequent calf production. However, the majority (78%) of adult cow moose in New York have been exposed to deer brainworm, which has been implicated as a major pathogen for juvenile moose. Moose in New York may be exposed to brainworm as calves, which affects their ability to survive the first year and become breeding age animals. Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont are experiencing significant juvenile mortality associated with winter ticks. Although overall moose density in the Adirondacks of New York is relatively low, high moose densities in preferred habitats may increase winter tick transmission potential. Initiating a research study at the beginning of an epizootic event will offer greater insights into mechanisms and allow for potential treatment alternatives.We will estimate survival and collect tick density data, implement a camera trapping study to monitor winter tick prevalence, conduct white-tailed deer pellet surveys to estimate deer density, collect gastropods and deer pellets to test for brainworm and liver fluke, and will develop a risk model for parasitic threats to moose in the northwestern Adirondacks. The project is in collaboration with the Cornell Wildlife Health Lab (Dr. Krysten Schuler), State University of New York, College of Environmental Science Forestry (Dr. Jacqueline Frair), The Wildlife Conservation Society (Dr. Heidi Kretser), and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
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Wild Turkey Harvest Modeling
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May 2022
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Several states have recently expanded spring hunting opportunities from half-day hunting during the spring (typically ½ hour before sunrise to noon) to all-day spring hunting (1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset). Despite declines in turkey populations in<br>New York, surveys of small game hunters and turkey permit holders indicate that a majority of hunters still have interest in all-day spring turkey hunting. Despite claims that all-day hunting during the spring has negligible impacts on turkey populations and positively influences hunter satisfaction, there is a conspicuous lack of research that addresses the potential impacts of all-day spring hunting on gobbler harvest and survival<br>rates, and how changes in these parameters may subsequently impact population age structure and hunter satisfaction. Previous research has indicated that in some parts of New York, harvest rates on male turkeys are already very high (50% or more), and all day hunting may push this rate even higher, altering the age structure of the population and hunter satisfaction. All day hunting may also negatively affect hen survival or hen nest success.<br>DEC will implement an experimental all-day spring season in four study areas, including up to 31 Wildlife Management Units open to spring turkey hunting. DEC will employ modified mandatory harvest reporting, post-season surveys, and in-season activity logs<br>that will be used to assess harvest pressure, take, and hunter satisfaction. NYCFWRU will estimate the effects of all‐day spring hunting (vs. half‐day hunting) on harvest rates and survival of male wild turkeys in different regions of New York. In addition,<br>NYCFWRU will work with the Cornell Center for Conservation Social Sciences (within the New York State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences) to estimate the effects of all‐day spring hunting (vs. half day hunting) on hunter effort, success, and satisfaction in<br>different regions of New York. The results will provide DEC with an evaluation of the effects of spring hunting (all-day vs. half-day hunting) on harvest and survival rates and hunter satisfaction.
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Several states have recently expanded spring hunting opportunities from half-day hunting during the spring (typically ½ hour before sunrise to noon) to all-day spring hunting (1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset). Despite declines in turkey populations inNew York, surveys of small game hunters and turkey permit holders indicate that a majority of hunters still have interest in all-day spring turkey hunting. Despite claims that all-day hunting during the spring has negligible impacts on turkey populations and positively influences hunter satisfaction, there is a conspicuous lack of research that addresses the potential impacts of all-day spring hunting on gobbler harvest and survivalrates, and how changes in these parameters may subsequently impact population age structure and hunter satisfaction. Previous research has indicated that in some parts of New York, harvest rates on male turkeys are already very high (50% or more), and all day hunting may push this rate even higher, altering the age structure of the population and hunter satisfaction. All day hunting may also negatively affect hen survival or hen nest success.DEC will implement an experimental all-day spring season in four study areas, including up to 31 Wildlife Management Units open to spring turkey hunting. DEC will employ modified mandatory harvest reporting, post-season surveys, and in-season activity logsthat will be used to assess harvest pressure, take, and hunter satisfaction. NYCFWRU will estimate the effects of all‐day spring hunting (vs. half‐day hunting) on harvest rates and survival of male wild turkeys in different regions of New York. In addition,NYCFWRU will work with the Cornell Center for Conservation Social Sciences (within the New York State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences) to estimate the effects of all‐day spring hunting (vs. half day hunting) on hunter effort, success, and satisfaction indifferent regions of New York. The results will provide DEC with an evaluation of the effects of spring hunting (all-day vs. half-day hunting) on harvest and survival rates and hunter satisfaction.
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Fisher Harvest Modeling
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May 2025
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Historically, fishers were distributed across New York, but the species was nearly extirpated by the 1930s as a result of unregulated trapping. Populations have since recovered in many areas, allowing for sustainable harvest opportunities in some parts of the state (e.g., parts of the Adirondacks and eastern New York). The DEC recently opened new areas to fisher harvest in central New York with a conservative trapping season as a result of occupancy work suggesting that the specific WMUs may be able to support a harvest season. The NYCFWRU assisted the DEC with design and implementation of new field surveys to make inferences about fisher distribution in New York that will be used to help inform management, including the potential for opening even more areas of the state to fisher harvest.<br><br>However, there is need to evaluate the effects of the conservative trapping season by comparing occupancy and density pre versus post trapping season regulation change. In addition to work in the central Adirondacks, fishers in the northern zone may be declining in several Adirondack Wildlife Management Units. It is possible that trapping harvest may have exceeded sustainable rates and may be additive to natural mortality. The NYCFWRU will evaluate harvest management scenarios on population growth (SUNY ESF is estimating demographic parameters to use in the model – kit production, survival) and evaluate harvest management scenarios that incorporate trapping season length, timing, bag limits, and the influence of food abundance on harvest vulnerability. This research will provide necessary decision-making guidance for sound harvest management that is based on population models and projections.
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Historically, fishers were distributed across New York, but the species was nearly extirpated by the 1930s as a result of unregulated trapping. Populations have since recovered in many areas, allowing for sustainable harvest opportunities in some parts of the state (e.g., parts of the Adirondacks and eastern New York). The DEC recently opened new areas to fisher harvest in central New York with a conservative trapping season as a result of occupancy work suggesting that the specific WMUs may be able to support a harvest season. The NYCFWRU assisted the DEC with design and implementation of new field surveys to make inferences about fisher distribution in New York that will be used to help inform management, including the potential for opening even more areas of the state to fisher harvest. However, there is need to evaluate the effects of the conservative trapping season by comparing occupancy and density pre versus post trapping season regulation change. In addition to work in the central Adirondacks, fishers in the northern zone may be declining in several Adirondack Wildlife Management Units. It is possible that trapping harvest may have exceeded sustainable rates and may be additive to natural mortality. The NYCFWRU will evaluate harvest management scenarios on population growth (SUNY ESF is estimating demographic parameters to use in the model – kit production, survival) and evaluate harvest management scenarios that incorporate trapping season length, timing, bag limits, and the influence of food abundance on harvest vulnerability. This research will provide necessary decision-making guidance for sound harvest management that is based on population models and projections.
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Occupancy of spotted lanternfly using detection dogs
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July 2022
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When spotted lanternfly (SLF, Lycorma delicatula) arrived in Pennsylvania, severe ecological and economic damage ensued– and as of August 2020, spotted lanternfly has been detected for the first time in New York City. Although the insect’s cryptic nature can make detection difficult, early detection is key to protecting both the livelihoods and ecosystems of NY, and new research is advancing the effort. <br>With recent funding from the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability– an organization that supports collaborative sustainability research at Cornell University– the New York Invasive Species Research Institute (NYISRI) is partnering with Cornell Researchers Dr.’s Ann Hajak, Greg Loeb, and NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit Leader Angela Fuller, as well as the NY-NJ Trail Conference (NYNJTC) Conservation Dogs team, Working Dogs for Conservation (W4DC), NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets (DAM), and Cornell’s Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic, to explore the detection and occurrence of SLF in a new way: with both human observers, and dogs. <br> By surveying vineyards and adjacent natural areas for SLF-egg masses in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, both humans and canines will put their detection skills to the test. The data gathered will be used in an occupancy model, which will estimate the probability that 1) a location is occupied by SLF, and 2) that a human or canine can detect it. Using these methods, the group will compare the efficacy of human observers and detection dogs, identify environmental factors that influence dogs’ detection abilities, and model the probability of SLF occurrence– all in an effort to pilot optimal search strategies for SLF. <br>While it’s not the first time detection dogs have been used to identify invasive species, this study is the first to compare SLF detection probability between dogs and humans. And the dogs are well-prepared: WD4C brings 20+ years of experience as the leading conservation dog organization, and the NYNJTC Conservation Dogs Program has been training dogs to detect SLF at all life stages for the past year. NYNJTC’s trained dog teams currently works with NYS Parks, NYS Department of Transportation, and NYS DAM to conduct cargo searches and field surveys for spotted lanternfly. <br>The overarching goal of the project is to mitigate the negative impacts of spotted lanternfly. By directly informing search strategies of SLF, this project also helps protect the livelihoods of small agricultural producers in New York State. As Dr. Pete Coppolillo of WD4C remarked in his endorsement, “This project will help mitigate and address [SLF] damage, but to be sure, the new tools and expertise it will provide for land managers and canine trainers and handlers will assist in the fight against all invasive species, not just spotted lanternfly.”
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When spotted lanternfly (SLF, Lycorma delicatula) arrived in Pennsylvania, severe ecological and economic damage ensued– and as of August 2020, spotted lanternfly has been detected for the first time in New York City. Although the insect’s cryptic nature can make detection difficult, early detection is key to protecting both the livelihoods and ecosystems of NY, and new research is advancing the effort. With recent funding from the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability– an organization that supports collaborative sustainability research at Cornell University– the New York Invasive Species Research Institute (NYISRI) is partnering with Cornell Researchers Dr.’s Ann Hajak, Greg Loeb, and NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit Leader Angela Fuller, as well as the NY-NJ Trail Conference (NYNJTC) Conservation Dogs team, Working Dogs for Conservation (W4DC), NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets (DAM), and Cornell’s Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic, to explore the detection and occurrence of SLF in a new way: with both human observers, and dogs. By surveying vineyards and adjacent natural areas for SLF-egg masses in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, both humans and canines will put their detection skills to the test. The data gathered will be used in an occupancy model, which will estimate the probability that 1) a location is occupied by SLF, and 2) that a human or canine can detect it. Using these methods, the group will compare the efficacy of human observers and detection dogs, identify environmental factors that influence dogs’ detection abilities, and model the probability of SLF occurrence– all in an effort to pilot optimal search strategies for SLF. While it’s not the first time detection dogs have been used to identify invasive species, this study is the first to compare SLF detection probability between dogs and humans. And the dogs are well-prepared: WD4C brings 20+ years of experience as the leading conservation dog organization, and the NYNJTC Conservation Dogs Program has been training dogs to detect SLF at all life stages for the past year. NYNJTC’s trained dog teams currently works with NYS Parks, NYS Department of Transportation, and NYS DAM to conduct cargo searches and field surveys for spotted lanternfly. The overarching goal of the project is to mitigate the negative impacts of spotted lanternfly. By directly informing search strategies of SLF, this project also helps protect the livelihoods of small agricultural producers in New York State. As Dr. Pete Coppolillo of WD4C remarked in his endorsement, “This project will help mitigate and address [SLF] damage, but to be sure, the new tools and expertise it will provide for land managers and canine trainers and handlers will assist in the fight against all invasive species, not just spotted lanternfly.”
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Closing the loop: characterizing habitat requirements, movements, and life stage linkages of river herring in Massachusetts watersheds
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August 2025
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In this study, we aim to “close the loop” in our understanding of river herring life stages and limits to productivity by collecting novel data on juvenile river herring density, growth, and survival in estuaries and information on river herring emigrating from lakes. Specifically, our objectives are to: 1)characterize density, growth, and mortality of juvenile river herring in estuaries and upstream lakes, 2) assess age, size, and timing of juvenile river herring during emigration from freshwater to estuarine habitats, and 3) evaluate relationships between spawning adults, juvenile abundance and timing of movements to identify conditions that promote growth and survival. We hypothesize that the timing of juvenile emigration from lakes, size at emigration, and growth in lakes and estuaries will vary among systems and will depend on river herring densities, habitat characteristics, and food resources. The new data collected will be incorporated into a full life-cycle model developed by our collaborators at MADMF to inform the run dynamics and migration timing that leads to the best growth and maintenance of densities, and to inform our work linking life-stages in collaboration with project partners and a population model produced as part of that work. Modeling of factors controlling juvenile size and number during egress, combined with estimates of estuarine-marine survival and growth, will help close current gaps in knowledge of the river herring life cycle and allow for improved understanding of stock-recruitment relationships and population modeling efforts.
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River herring (alewife and blueback herring) undergo complex movements between oceanic, estuarine, and freshwater habitats for spawning and rearing of juveniles. Estuaries are likely critical habitats for growth particularly where upstream freshwater habitat is limited; however, no research has sampled juveniles across the freshwater to marine transition to understand the relative contributions to production in different habitats. The proposed project adds to ongoing efforts focused on assessing factors impacting freshwater productivity, monitoring of out-migrants and preliminary estuarine sampling to close the loop in our understanding of factors controlling growth and survival during emigration across the two river herring species. We will partner with other universities (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, University of Connecticut), state agencies (Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries), federal agencies (US Fish and Wildlife Service, NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center), non-profit organizations (Mystic River Watershed Association, River Herring Network, The Nature Conservancy), and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to engage citizen scientists in emigration data collection and disseminate information to scientific, public, and policy outlets. The research will lead to improved understanding of stock-recruitment relationships and population modeling efforts toward improving management of river herring.
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Surveillance Optimization Project for Chronic Wasting Disease: Streamlining a Web Application for Disease Visualization and Data-Driven Decisions
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August 2022
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The overarching goal is to build a CWD-community science and management communication platform to improve coordination, planning, and knowledge sharing. Efficient CWD surveillance, response, monitoring, and management requires coordination between neighboring states. Starting with the development of the shared data system and the continuance of partnership among stage wildlife agencies and non-government organization in the collaborative process, we can pool our resources and knowledge to improve our understanding of the ecology, epidemiology, and ultimately, management of CWD. The proposed product will be hosted by the CWD Alliance for long-term viability with a steering committee directing future products and tools. Our commitment to continued coordination with other interested parties will make this product a “one-stop shop” with the long-term aim to serve the entire U.S. and Canada.<br>However, efficient CWD information sharing and strategic coordination between neighboring states requires an established infrastructure, or “data language”, with which to communicate efficiently. By engaging a computer scientist, we can program linkages between various components and ensure there is full functionality between each piece. This will require custom software development to connect the state agency data to the Data Warehouse, which will then feed through a computational pipeline to the CWD Dashboard and back to state wildlife agencies for planning recommendations and progress reports.
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The overarching goal is to build a CWD-community science and management communication platform to improve coordination, planning, and knowledge sharing. Efficient CWD surveillance, response, monitoring, and management requires coordination between neighboring states. Starting with the development of the shared data system and the continuance of partnership among stage wildlife agencies and non-government organization in the collaborative process, we can pool our resources and knowledge to improve our understanding of the ecology, epidemiology, and ultimately, management of CWD. The proposed product will be hosted by the CWD Alliance for long-term viability with a steering committee directing future products and tools. Our commitment to continued coordination with other interested parties will make this product a “one-stop shop” with the long-term aim to serve the entire U.S. and Canada.However, efficient CWD information sharing and strategic coordination between neighboring states requires an established infrastructure, or “data language”, with which to communicate efficiently. By engaging a computer scientist, we can program linkages between various components and ensure there is full functionality between each piece. This will require custom software development to connect the state agency data to the Data Warehouse, which will then feed through a computational pipeline to the CWD Dashboard and back to state wildlife agencies for planning recommendations and progress reports.
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Context-Dependent Deep Learning for Bird Recognition in Drone Survey Imagery
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December 2021
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Surveys of colonial nesting birds typically are conducted with a combination of ground-based surveys and by counting birds recorded on aerial imagery captured from planes and unoccupied aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones). Manually interpreting this imagery is time-intensive. There are many emerging applications of artificial intelligence to increase efficiency and accuracy of interpreting digital imagery, but these also can be time-intensive and require substantial computer resources. We are exploring effects of context of the focal object in training the deep learning system, to decrease network training time through improved computational complexity (by reducing dimensionality, feature number, and image size), while improving accuracy. We expect this approach will facilitate leveraging knowledge from human experts to reduce the training time and augment the performance of the image analysis system, which is generally difficult to do with deep learning systems.
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Surveys of colonial nesting birds typically are conducted with a combination of ground-based surveys and by counting birds recorded on aerial imagery captured from planes and unoccupied aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones). Manually interpreting this imagery is time-intensive. There are many emerging applications of artificial intelligence to increase efficiency and accuracy of interpreting digital imagery, but these also can be time-intensive and require substantial computer resources. This collaboration of computer scientists and wildlife ecologists at the University of Maine, in partnership with Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, is exploring effects of context of the focal object (e.g., nesting seabirds) in training the deep learning system, to decrease network training time through improved computational complexity (by reducing dimensionality, feature number, and image size), while improving accuracy. We expect this approach will facilitate leveraging knowledge from human experts to reduce the training time and augment the performance of the image analysis system, which is generally difficult to do with deep learning systems., and ultimately lead to more accurate population estimates developed from aerial imagery.
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Living in a gradient: The influence of water temperature variation on development, settling time and survival of Pallid Sturgeon larvae in the Missouri River
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December 2022
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Release of cold, hypolimnetic water below Missouri River impoundments can suppress downstream water temperature for long distances (>300 km), especially during summer months. Because cooler water temperatures are associated with reduced growth and development of sturgeon, they can delay the behavioral transition from negative to positive rheotaxis in Pallid Sturgeon larvae; an important life history event associated with switching from endogenous to exogenous feeding. Using empirical data from the upper Missouri River, we are quantifying effects of water temperature increase on growth, settling time, and survival of Pallid Sturgeon larvae. Information gained from this study will help guide management options for warm-water releases from impoundments and identify potential stocking locations for larvae that enhance settling and survival.
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Release of cold, hypolimnetic water below Missouri River impoundments can suppress downstream water temperature for long distances (>300 km), especially during summer months. Because cooler water temperatures are associated with reduced growth and development of sturgeon, they can delay the behavioral transition from negative to positive rheotaxis in Pallid Sturgeon larvae; an important life history event associated with switching from endogenous to exogenous feeding. Using empirical data from the upper Missouri River, we are quantifying effects of water temperature increase on growth, settling time, and survival of Pallid Sturgeon larvae. Information gained from this study will help guide management options for downstream release of water from impoundments and identify potential stocking locations for larvae that enhance settling and survival.
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North American interdisciplinary chronic wasting disease research consortium: NC1209
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September 2024
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NC1209: North American interdisciplinary chronic wasting disease research consortium: Research across multiple disciplines is needed to fully address the complexities of CWD and acquire the knowledge needed to limit or eliminate its spread. Research programs are emerging and maturing at multiple universities and government agencies. These are developing in parallel with little coordination. For example, within institutions of higher education located in the Midwest alone, three large studies have been initiated within the last two years to investigate the role of movement behavior in shaping epidemiological models of CWD. Our intent is to form a multistate consortium designed to improve information exchange among universities and researchers with common goals, but different backgrounds and knowledge bases. Increased collaboration would improve research quality and avoid duplication of work at a critical time when effective solutions are needed quickly.<br>Previous ID: NCDC234: North American interdisciplinary chronic wasting disease consortium
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Research across multiple disciplines is needed to fully address the complexities of CWD and acquire the knowledge needed to limit or eliminate its spread. Research programs are emerging and maturing at multiple universities and government agencies. These are developing in parallel with little coordination. For example, within institutions of higher education located in the Midwest alone, three large studies have been initiated within the last two years to investigate the role of movement behavior in shaping epidemiological models of CWD. Our intent is to form a multistate consortium designed to improve information exchange among universities and researchers with common goals, but different backgrounds and knowledge bases. Increased collaboration would improve research quality and avoid duplication of work at a critical time when effective solutions are needed quickly.
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Regional assessment of cause-specific mortality in white-tailed deer populations, and influence of landscape attributes and deer density on CWD spread through juvenile deer dispersal and seasonal movements
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August 2021
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Collaborator providing GPS locations from white-tailed deer in the Mid-Atlantic Region and Lead Role in identifying definition of dispersal and risk of infection across the landscape
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Results from a multitude of adult white-tailed deer survival studies across the Upper Midwest have been published in peer-reviewed journals. However, the scope of inference was limited because data from each study represented only one or two areas, and the variation in timing among research projects has not allowed a meta-analysis. Recently initiated concurrent research projects in Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin related to the discovery and spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) has afforded an opportunity to combine information to make more robust and larger-scale spatial inference about deer survival.This proposal attempts to harness data from the concurrent CWD research activities being undertaken by states’ wildlife management agencies. These various research projects each entail annually marking adult deer with GPS collars in Michigan (Lansing and Upper Peninsula), southeastern Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and southwestern Wisconsin for at least 2 years. Additional data may be available from radiocollared deer in study areas representing central and northcentral Pennsylvania.
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A standardized, high-throughput genetic resource to inform white-tailed deer population and disease management
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August 2021
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Current techniques to manage genetic data of white-tailed deer and disease have significant limitations, including high costs, slow results and difficulty in standardization. This study will design a new suite of efficient, cost-effective, collaborative genomic resources for white-tailed deer that will be commercially available to wildlife managers and researchers at roughly half the current cost.
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The majority of ecological genetic studies that have been conducted on white-tailed deer have employed 10-15 microsatellite markers to investigate population structure and relatedness or Sanger sequencing/targeted SNP assays to investigate variation at the PRNP gene. However, a number of genetic technologies have been developed over the last few years that could significantly decrease costs and increase resolution of ecological genetic analysis in deer. Dr. Chris Seabury at Texas A&M has sequenced hundreds of full whitetail deer genomes and is currently developing high-density SNP arrays containing hundreds of thousands of SNPs using these data. These sequence data could be used to develop a smaller and more cost-effective panels for parentage/population structure analyses and PRNP genotyping. Principal Investigators have identified three new approaches that could be used to conduct genetic analysis in deer: (1) genomic analyses using thousands of SNPs to investigate fine-scale population structure and local adaptation, (2) SNP panel analysis using hundreds of SNPs to investigate coarse population structure, conduct parentage analysis, and identify PRNP variation, and (3) PRNP genotyping using amplicon sequencing.
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A distributional atlas and identification guide to West Virginia fishes
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December 2023
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A distributional atlas and identification guide to West Virginia's fishes will benefit federal and state agencies, anglers, and the general public in understanding the distribution, habitat, and the conservation needs and concerns of each fish species found within West Virginia. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). Information provided in this book will aid WVDNR in the management of sportfishes and non-game fishes and their associated habitats and resources.
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A distributional atlas and identification guide to West Virginia's fishes will benefit federal and state agencies, anglers, and the general public in understanding the distribution, habitat, and the conservation needs and concerns of each fish species found within West Virginia. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). Information provided in this book will aid WVDNR in the management of sportfishes and non-game fishes and their associated habitats and resources.
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Scale, Space, and Time: A Unifying Approach to Aquatic Invasions
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December 2026
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Species invasions are a major catalyst in the global biodiversity crisis, with particularly acute effects in river ecosystems. Yet despite decades of research, ecology still faces a glaring paradox: Many invasion theories are at odds with one another, but each is supported by strong empirical evidence. The paradox exists because studies have been constrained in three key dimensions: <i>scale, space, and time</i>. Using riverine fishes as a model system, the project team will integrate invasion theories to develop a more unified framework of species invasions. Because this research will be broadly applicable to other systems and taxa, it will support our partners, including state and federal fish and wildlife agencies, in their management decision making processes designed to prevent, manage, and predict the spread of invasive species.
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Species invasions are a major catalyst in the global biodiversity crisis, with particularly acute effects in river ecosystems. Yet despite decades of research, ecology still faces a glaring paradox: Many invasion theories are at odds with one another, but each is supported by strong empirical evidence. The paradox exists because studies have been constrained in three key dimensions: <i>scale, space, and time</i>. Using riverine fishes as a model system, the project team will integrate invasion theories to develop a more unified framework of species invasions. Because this research will be broadly applicable to other systems and taxa, it will support our partners, including state and federal fish and wildlife agencies, in their management decision making processes designed to prevent, manage, and predict the spread of invasive species.
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Why do turtles "bask" at night?
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December 2021
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The use of automated field research equipment, such as time-lapse game cameras, are allowing researchers to discover previously unknown behaviors of wildlife. Recently, researchers in Australia discovered that at least one species of turtle regularly comes out of the water at night to "bask". It is unknown how many turtles display this behavior and the underlying reasons why they do it. Together with collaborators across the globe, we are using time-lapse game cameras to explore how widespread this behavior is and to then explore potential hypotheses for the behavior including: predator avoidance, ectoparasite shedding, or thermoregulation.
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The use of automated field research equipment, such as time-lapse game cameras, are allowing researchers to discover previously unknown behaviors of wildlife. Recently, researchers in Australia discovered that at least one species of turtle regularly comes out of the water at night to "bask". It is unknown how many turtles display this behavior and the underlying reasons why they do it. Together with collaborators across the globe, we are using time-lapse game cameras to explore how widespread this behavior is and to then explore potential hypotheses for the behavior including: predator avoidance, ectoparasite shedding, or thermoregulation.
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Global horizon scan to assess U.S. invasion risk of terrestrial and freshwater vertebrates in trade
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September 2023
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Invasive species can be ecologically and economically devastating. The ability to predict the next catastrophic invasive species before it arrives and established could yield incredible dividends. Project Horizon Scan seeks to review approximately 19,000 potentially invasive species and rank their risk of establishing in the United States based on propogule pressure (how many individuals are brought into the USA each year), how well the climate matches between their native range and parts of the USA, their taxonomic relationship to other invasive species, and aspects of their life history. Horizon Scan uses these qualities to rank each of the 19,000 species to identify the 500 most likely future invaders and then convenes panels of taxonomic experts to evaluate these rankings. This information will be crucial to policy makers in deciding how to regulate the importation of particular species.
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Invasive species can be ecologically and economically devastating. The ability to predict the next catastrophic invasive species before it arrives and established could yield incredible dividends. Project Horizon Scan seeks to review approximately 19,000 potentially invasive species and rank their risk of establishing in the United States based on propogule pressure (how many individuals are brought into the USA each year), how well the climate matches between their native range and parts of the USA, their taxonomic relationship to other invasive species, and aspects of their life history. Horizon Scan uses these qualities to rank each of the 19,000 species to identify the 500 most likely future invaders and then convenes panels of taxonomic experts to evaluate these rankings. This information will be crucial to policy makers in deciding how to regulate the importation of particular species.
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Quantifying the impacts of climate change on fish growth and production to enable sustainable management of diverse inland fisheries
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August 2022
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Fisheries managers in Midwestern lakes and reservoirs are tasked with balancing multiple management objectives related to the abundance and growth of several priority fish species across a landscape of diverse lakes. Growth rates of fish are indicators of population status, and directly influence the effectiveness of regulations designed to protect spawning fish or to promote trophy fishing opportunities. Growth, combined with reproduction and survival, also determines the amount of fish biomass available for harvest, known as population production. Changing water temperatures can influence growth and production of managed fish species in multiple and complex ways, increasing the opportunity for harvest in certain locations and decreasing it in others. In this project, we will quantify how climate change influences growth and productivity of priority fish species in lakes and reservoirs throughout the Midwest. This information will enable managers to adapt management objectives to take advantage of increased growth and harvest potential in certain places, while implementing protective actions where climate change is likely to have negative effects. Such work is particularly important given that climate change impacts on fish populations are often indirect, influencing species interactions, growth rates, and recruitment in ways that are often counterintuitive and vary across the landscape of Midwestern Lakes and reservoirs.
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Climate change is altering all aspects of freshwaters, with important implications for managed fisheries. Both individual growth and population production are fundamental metrics for designing and evaluating effective regulations. Partners in this research include state fisheries management agencies of Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin, in addition to USGS National Climate Adaptation Center, the University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, Michigan State University, and the University of Missouri. Results of this project will be used to inform managers about the effectiveness of length-based regulations under changing climates, in addition to providing managers with a tool to identify populations most likely to have experienced declines in population productivity.
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Quantitative Assessment of Pelagic Fishes in Colorado Reservoirs
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June 2027
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<b>The goals of this project are to implement a statewide pelagic fish </b><b>assessment, involving paired gill-netting and nocturnal hydroacoustics surveys. We wish to quantify the density</b><br><b>and distribution of key sport and forage fish in Colorado's large standing waters. </b>
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<b><b>Kokanee salmon and other pelagic sportfish are worth millions of dollars annually to Colorado's economy and it is critically important to collect date to guide management decisions. A</b>nnual </b><b>hydroacoustics surveys are particularly important for monitoring and managing Colorado's pelagic f</b><b>isheries. They provide population assessments as well as estimates of forage and environmental conditions.</b><b> The assessment is being done in collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife</b><b>. </b>
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Intrusion of bigheaded carps into major oxbow lakes of the Lower Mississippi River
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June 2022
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Asian carp have invaded lakes and waterways through a large section of the Mississippi River Basin. Adjacent oxbow lakes provide unique and important fisheries, but invasive bigheaded carps may divert trophic resources from native fish communities. Barriers that prevent movement of bigheaded carps into lakes may be a way to minimize the effect of fish invasions but an understanding of movements in and out of the lakes is needed to develop control strategy. We will use telemetry to monitor fish movement in and out of a major oxbow lake adjacent to the Mississippi River, identify potential migration routes, and investigate temporal aspects as they relate to temperature and discharge from the lake.
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Asian carp have invaded lakes and waterways through a large section of the Mississippi River Basin. Oxbow lakes flanking the Mississippi River provide unique and important fisheries, but invasive bigheaded carps may divert trophic resources from native fish communities. We are investigating carp movement in and out of lakes to develop strategy for barriers that prevent movement. The information generated may be applicable to develop similar programs throughout the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. We are working in cooperation with state agencies in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
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UDWR: A Multi-faceted Reconstruction of the Population Structure and Life History Expressions of a Remnant Metapopulation of Bonneville Cutthroat Trout
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May 2020
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Fishes that evolutionarily demonstrated a fluvial life history expression and migrated to spawning and rearing habitat using lotic corridors are increasingly impacted by fragmentation. The overall goal of this study was to identify the contemporary importance of mainstem connectivity and tributaries to maintaining life history expression, population structure, and viability of a large metapopulation of Bonneville Cutthroat Trout (BCT; <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii utah</i>) persisting in the Weber River, a highly fragmented Utah river. We used a multifaceted approach including active sampling, mark-recapture, passive PIT-tag detection, otolith microchemistry, and genetics. We collected BCT in all tributaries and the mainstem, encountering age-0 fish in three tributaries, indicating successful reproduction. In tributaries, the size structure was bimodal and consisted of smaller fish deemed to be resident and larger fish deemed to be fluvial, whereas all sizes and ages (≥ age-1) were present in the mainstem. We identified up to eight age classes; tributaries were dominated by ages 2 and 8, and the mainstem was dominated by ages 2, 5, 6, and 7. Tributary BCT had lower growth rates than BCT in the mainstem. We observed a surprising degree of fluvial life history expression, and fish also demonstrated very complex movement patterns across their life span. Average apparent survival (33%) was within the range estimated in similar studies for BCT, and resight rate was best explained by angler management regulations. This project was a collaboration between the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Trout Unlimited - Utah, and Utah State University. The fact that BCT in the Weber River and tributaries still reproduce successfully in most years and are still able to grow into large, fluvial fish, suggests connectivity must be occasionally available despite considerable fragmentation. Therefore, this metapopulation may need little further human intervention if barriers to fish passage could be removed and thus connectivity could be improved and represents a high priority metapopulation for conservation, thus also highlighting the utility of our approach.
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Fishes that evolutionarily demonstrated a fluvial life history expression and migrated to spawning and rearing habitat using lotic corridors are increasingly impacted by fragmentation. The overall goal of this study was to identify the contemporary importance of mainstem connectivity and tributaries to maintaining life history expression, population structure, and viability of a large metapopulation of Bonneville Cutthroat Trout (BCT; <i>Oncorhynchus clarkii utah</i>) persisting in the Weber River, a highly fragmented Utah river. We used a multifaceted approach including active sampling, mark-recapture, passive PIT-tag detection, otolith microchemistry, and genetics. We collected BCT in all tributaries and the mainstem, encountering age-0 fish in three tributaries, indicating successful reproduction. In tributaries, the size structure was bimodal and consisted of smaller fish deemed to be resident and larger fish deemed to be fluvial, whereas all sizes and ages (≥ age-1) were present in the mainstem. We identified up to eight age classes; tributaries were dominated by ages 2 and 8, and the mainstem was dominated by ages 2, 5, 6, and 7. Tributary BCT had lower growth rates than BCT in the mainstem. We observed a surprising degree of fluvial life history expression, and fish also demonstrated very complex movement patterns across their life span. Average apparent survival (33%) was within the range estimated in similar studies for BCT, and resight rate was best explained by angler management regulations. his project was a collaboration between the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Trout Unlimited - Utah, and Utah State University. The fact that BCT in the Weber River and tributaries still reproduce successfully in most years and are still able to grow into large, fluvial fish, suggests connectivity must be occasionally available despite considerable fragmentation. Therefore, this metapopulation may need little further human intervention if barriers to fish passage could be removed and thus connectivity could be improved and represents a high priority metapopulation for conservation, thus also highlighting the utility of our approach.
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Chinook salmon passage and recovery on the Willamette River
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September 2024
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Willamette River basin adult spring-run Chinook salmon (<i>Oncorhynchus tshawytscha</i>) are prevented from returning to their historic spawning grounds by large dams managed jointly by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Bonneville Power Administration, and Bureau of Reclamation. In response, USACE and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists initiated an adult transportation program in the 1990’s with an objective of facilitating natural spawning of these populations above the dams. Unfortunately, annual rates of pre-spawn mortality (PSM) in adult Chinook salmon transported upstream of dams are high (often >40%), and could limit the ability to establish a natural population of spring Chinook if not reduced. The progeny of these outplanted adults face similar downstream passage difficulties that is further complicated by very high parasitic infection rates (>90%) of a native copepod (<i>Salmincola californiensis</i>). The infections affect the ability of outmigrating juvenile to swim, withstand stressors, and survive in saltwater during their ocean transition. This is an integrated project whose ultimate goal is the safe passage of juvenile and adult spring-run Chinook salmon to assist in the recovery of this listed stock.
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Stream fragmentation and water development are among the greatest threats facing Chinook Salmon in the Pacific Northwest.Recovery of this iconic species will require the development of effective fish passage strategies to facilitate juvenile and adult passage to and from their historic spawning grounds.This project is a collaboration of an interdisciplinary team of researchers and managers from USGS, USACE, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Oregon State University, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.Water resource managers will be provided with the information needed to develop safe and efficient passage systems for juvenile and adult Chinook salmon.
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Physiological Performance of Native and Invasive Northern Pike: Implications for Barrier Design in Invaded Systems
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December 2022
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Northern Pike are an important native fish species north and west of the Alaska Mountain Range, but illegal introductions and the natural spread of pike have led to thriving invasive populations in Southcentral Alaska where they are predating on native or costly stocked salmon and trout. Although methods to remove pike in Alaska (e.g., rotenone and gillnetting) are effective under certain conditions, alternatives are needed in the greater Cook Inlet region where the risk that pike will reinvade after removal is high due to abundant and interconnected lakes and river systems. The placement of short waterfall barriers may be a potential option to prevent pike from reinvading salmon habitat. First, it is essential to determine the maximum leaping heights and swimming speeds of pike to then confidently design and test such barriers in the field. The objective of this study is to determine the maximum leaping heights, swimming speeds, and swimming endurance of pike, and how a variety of factors affect these physiological end-points in pike. We will collect pike from Fort Peck Reservoir in Montana, transport them to the Bozeman Fish Technology Center, and run leaping trials using an adjustable waterfall apparatus and swimming trials using both a swim tunnel and open channel flume. We will quantify how waterfall height, plunge pool depth, water temperature, fish size, and fish condition affect leaping abilities, and quantify how the latter three affect swimming speed and endurance maximums. Based on the literature, we expect to find that moderately sized pike will be the most successful at ascending the most difficult waterfall conditions (high waterfall heights with shallow pool depths), and water temperature will increase both leaping and swimming performance, while low fish condition will lead to reduced leaping and swimming performance. We will determine waterfall heights, pool depths, and water velocities that will both aerobically exhaust and prevent ascent of barriers by the most high-performing pike included in our trials. The results of this multi-experiment study will provide waterfall barrier parameters that theoretically will exhaust and prevent pike movement upstream. These specifications will be used to design and test barriers against invasive pike movement in the southcentral region to determine if they are a viable management option for pike in Alaska. If successful, the barrier designs can be modified and implemented in similar areas to target invasive pike while reducing impacts on native species.
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Northern Pike are an important native fish species north and west of the Alaska Mountain Range, but illegal introductions and the natural spread of pike have led to thriving invasive populations in Southcentral Alaska where they are predating on native or costly stocked salmon and trout. Although methods to remove pike in Alaska (e.g., rotenone and gillnetting) are effective under certain conditions, alternatives are needed in the greater Cook Inlet region where the risk that pike will reinvade after removal is high due to abundant and interconnected lakes and river systems. The placement of short waterfall barriers may be a potential option to prevent pike from reinvading salmon habitat. First, it is essential to determine the maximum leaping heights and swimming speeds of pike to then confidently design and test such barriers in the field. The objective of this study is to determine the maximum leaping heights, swimming speeds, and swimming endurance of pike, and how a variety of factors affect these physiological end-points in pike. We will collect pike from Fort Peck Reservoir in Montana, transport them to the Bozeman Fish Technology Center, and run leaping trials using an adjustable waterfall apparatus and swimming trials using both a swim tunnel and open channel flume. We will quantify how waterfall height, plunge pool depth, water temperature, fish size, and fish condition affect leaping abilities, and quantify how the latter three affect swimming speed and endurance maximums. Based on the literature, we expect to find that moderately sized pike will be the most successful at ascending the most difficult waterfall conditions (high waterfall heights with shallow pool depths), and water temperature will increase both leaping and swimming performance, while low fish condition will lead to reduced leaping and swimming performance. We will determine waterfall heights, pool depths, and water velocities that will both aerobically exhaust and prevent ascent of barriers by the most high-performing pike included in our trials. The results of this multi-experiment study will provide waterfall barrier parameters that theoretically will exhaust and prevent pike movement upstream. These specifications will be used to design and test barriers against invasive pike movement in the southcentral region to determine if they are a viable management option for pike in Alaska. If successful, the barrier designs can be modified and implemented in similar areas to target invasive pike while reducing impacts on native species.
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Integrating spatial data for predicting the influence of altered hydrologic and thermal conditions on fish assemblage traits and taxa across stream flow regimes
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June 2025
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Stream hydrology and temperature are among the most influential regulators of life-history traits and community structure of aquatic organisms (Buisson et al. 2008; Bruckerhoff et al. 2019). Hydrologic and thermal gradients strongly affect individual fitness and ultimately species success by imposing fundamental constraints on behavior, metabolic rates, reproduction, growth and ecological interactions. Stream hydrology and water temperature are also among the most frequently altered components of lotic systems due to human activities and other environmental disturbance (Poff et al 2010; Bae et al. 2015). Despite their critical role in sustaining native aquatic biodiversity, few studies have examined the cross-scale influence of hydrology and water temperature on freshwater biota using a multi-species and flow regime analytical framework.<br><br>The Ozark and Ouachita Interior Highlands and Gulf Coastal Plains regions are characterized by high biological diversity and species endemism (Matthews and Robison 1998), in addition to a rapidly growing human population dependent on freshwater resources (Northwest Arkansas Council, 2017). Human activities leading to hydrologic and temperature alteration are common in this region. Additionally, climate change scenarios predict more frequent temperature and precipitation extremes leading to increased warming, increased flooding in winter and spring, and increased drought during summer and fall in streams in the Interior Highlands and Gulf Coastal Plain (Diffenbaugh et al. 2005). Due to these changes, a growing percentage of streams are predicted to experience flow and temperature regime shifts over the next decades.<br><br>We propose to leverage high performance computing resources at the University of Arkansas and through the Google Earth Engine to quantify the influence of hydrology, temperature and landscape change on fish and aquatic macroinvertebrate assemblages. To do so, we will link large species taxonomic and functional trait databases with hydrologic metrics derived from the USGS national stream gage network, and satellite remote-sensing data including daily NASA Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurements (IMERG-GPM) and daily land surface temperature (LST) and emissivity from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). We will use a new machine learning approach, Gradient Forest modeling, that is based on Random Forest models to examine non-linear environmental thresholds. Gradient Forests split values of a predictor variable and evaluate where species composition or traits change along an environmental gradient leading to the identification of environmental thresholds, or not, dependent on the underlying data. Results will indicate significant hydrologic, temperature and land use thresholds for individual fish species and functional traits. This approach can focus on entire assemblages, species of greatest conservation need or those of management concern. We have recently presented our approach to examining hydrologic thresholds of fish assemblages and species of greatest conservation need at multiple venues to great interest by researchers, managers and decision makers, and we feel there is a great opportunity to continue to develop and expand this approach to address important natural resource questions at local, regional, and national scales.
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Stream hydrology and temperature are among the most influential regulators of life-history traits and community structure of aquatic organisms (Buisson et al. 2008; Bruckerhoff et al. 2019). Hydrologic and thermal gradients strongly affect individual fitness and ultimately species success by imposing fundamental constraints on behavior, metabolic rates, reproduction, growth and ecological interactions. Stream hydrology and water temperature are also among the most frequently altered components of lotic systems due to human activities and other environmental disturbance (Poff et al 2010; Bae et al. 2015). Despite their critical role in sustaining native aquatic biodiversity, few studies have examined the cross-scale influence of hydrology and water temperature on freshwater biota using a multi-species and flow regime analytical framework.The Ozark and Ouachita Interior Highlands and Gulf Coastal Plains regions are characterized by high biological diversity and species endemism (Matthews and Robison 1998), in addition to a rapidly growing human population dependent on freshwater resources (Northwest Arkansas Council, 2017). Human activities leading to hydrologic and temperature alteration are common in this region. Additionally, climate change scenarios predict more frequent temperature and precipitation extremes leading to increased warming, increased flooding in winter and spring, and increased drought during summer and fall in streams in the Interior Highlands and Gulf Coastal Plain (Diffenbaugh et al. 2005). Due to these changes, a growing percentage of streams are predicted to experience flow and temperature regime shifts over the next decades.We propose to leverage high performance computing resources at the University of Arkansas and through the Google Earth Engine to quantify the influence of hydrology, temperature and landscape change on fish and aquatic macroinvertebrate assemblages. To do so, we will link large species taxonomic and functional trait databases with hydrologic metrics derived from the USGS national stream gage network, and satellite remote-sensing data including daily NASA Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurements (IMERG-GPM) and daily land surface temperature (LST) and emissivity from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). We will use a new machine learning approach, Gradient Forest modeling, that is based on Random Forest models to examine non-linear environmental thresholds. Gradient Forests split values of a predictor variable and evaluate where species composition or traits change along an environmental gradient leading to the identification of environmental thresholds, or not, dependent on the underlying data. Results will indicate significant hydrologic, temperature and land use thresholds for individual fish species and functional traits. This approach can focus on entire assemblages, species of greatest conservation need or those of management concern. We have recently presented our approach to examining hydrologic thresholds of fish assemblages and species of greatest conservation need at multiple venues to great interest by researchers, managers and decision makers, and we feel there is a great opportunity to continue to develop and expand this approach to address important natural resource questions at local, regional, and national scales.
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Examining Effects of Invasive Crayfish and Drought on Faxonius marchandi, an Ozark-endemic Petitioned Crayfish
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August 2025
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<i>Faxonius marchandi</i> (Mammoth Spring Crayfish), is a narrow-ranged endemic occurring in the Ozark Highlands of northern Arkansas and southern Missouri and is under consideration by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Populations of <i>F. marchandi</i> are limited to small streams on the eastern side of the Spring River drainage (Flinders and Magoulick 2005, DiStefano et al. 2017). Population genetics indicate two main clades of <i>F. marchandi </i>in the upper vs lower reaches of the Spring River drainage, suggesting these populations be given Evolutionary Significant Unit status (Yarra et al. 2018). The threat of an advancing invasive species that has displaced two native species, along with potential habitat loss and fragmentation, makes determining potential invasive species effects extremely important. Major questions that need to be addressed include “How will invasion of <i>F. neglectus</i> potentially affect <i>F. marchandi</i> populations?”, “Will drought and other disturbance influence the interaction between <i>F. marchandi</i> and <i>F. neglectus</i>?”, and “Do <i>F. marchandi</i> and <i>F. neglectus</i> have differing effects on stream ecosystem structure and function?”. Based on our previous research, we hypothesize that <i>F. marchandi</i> populations are at risk due to small geographic range and are susceptible to invasion by <i>F. neglectus</i>. We also hypothesize that drying and intermittent streams may act as refuges for <i>F. marchandi</i>. Finally, we hypothesize that <i>F. marchandi</i> and <i>F. neglectus</i> will not be ecologically redundant.<br><b><u>Objectives</u></b><br>Examine effects of invasive species (<i>F. neglectus</i>) and drought on survival and growth of <i>F. marchandi</i>. Examine differences in effects on stream structure and function among <i>F. marchandi</i> and invasive<i> F. neglectus </i>in the presence and absence of stream drying. Develop and improve models to examine potential effects of crayfish invasion and disturbance on extinction risk and population dynamics of both ESU’s of <i>F. marchandi</i>.
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<i>Faxonius marchandi</i> (Mammoth Spring Crayfish), is a narrow-ranged endemic occurring in the Ozark Highlands of northern Arkansas and southern Missouri and is under consideration by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Populations of <i>F. marchandi</i> are limited to small streams on the eastern side of the Spring River drainage (Flinders and Magoulick 2005, DiStefano et al. 2017). Population genetics indicate two main clades of <i>F. marchandi </i>in the upper vs lower reaches of the Spring River drainage, suggesting these populations be given Evolutionary Significant Unit status (Yarra et al. 2018). The threat of an advancing invasive species that has displaced two native species, along with potential habitat loss and fragmentation, makes determining potential invasive species effects extremely important. Major questions that need to be addressed include “How will invasion of <i>F. neglectus</i> potentially affect <i>F. marchandi</i> populations?”, “Will drought and other disturbance influence the interaction between <i>F. marchandi</i> and <i>F. neglectus</i>?”, and “Do <i>F. marchandi</i> and <i>F. neglectus</i> have differing effects on stream ecosystem structure and function?”. Based on our previous research, we hypothesize that <i>F. marchandi</i> populations are at risk due to small geographic range and are susceptible to invasion by <i>F. neglectus</i>. We also hypothesize that drying and intermittent streams may act as refuges for <i>F. marchandi</i>. Finally, we hypothesize that <i>F. marchandi</i> and <i>F. neglectus</i> will not be ecologically redundant.<b><u>Objectives</u></b>Examine effects of invasive species (<i>F. neglectus</i>) and drought on survival and growth of <i>F. marchandi</i>. Examine differences in effects on stream structure and function among <i>F. marchandi</i> and invasive<i> F. neglectus </i>in the presence and absence of stream drying. Develop and improve models to examine potential effects of crayfish invasion and disturbance on extinction risk and population dynamics of both ESU’s of <i>F. march</i>
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Effect of current and future climate on Endangered Yellowcheek Darter (Etheostoma moorei) growth, survival and refuge use
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September 2024
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Yellowcheek Darter (<i>Etheostoma moorei</i>) is a fish endemic to the Little Red River watershed in Arkansas (Fig. 1). As a result of threats, geographic isolation and declining abundance, the species was listed as endangered in 2011. Populations have declined, in part, due to intense seasonal stream drying and inundation of lower stream reaches (Fig. 1). It is hypothesized that in headwater streams where periodic drying is common, habitat selection influences Yellowcheek Darter distribution and abundance. Seasonal drought is typical in this region, and as drying occurs, individuals must move from riffles into neighboring pools, move into the hyporheic zone, migrate large distances to a persistent riffle, or perish. It is well-established that other darter species take refuge in pools during riffle drying. However, Yellowcheek Darter has only been collected in riffles, and hence has been identified as an obligate riffle-dweller. We seek to determine the patterns of Yellowcheek Darter refuge selection and how this may effect bioenergetics and population dynamics. Additionally, we propose to examine effects of current and future climate on Yellowcheek Darter population dynamics. This information will help conserve this endangered species. Our approach could also be readily transferable to other aquatic species in the Southeast Region and nationally.
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Yellowcheek Darter (<i>Etheostoma moorei</i>) is a fish endemic to the Little Red River watershed in Arkansas (Fig. 1). As a result of threats, geographic isolation and declining abundance, the species was listed as endangered in 2011. Populations have declined, in part, due to intense seasonal stream drying and inundation of lower stream reaches (Fig. 1). It is hypothesized that in headwater streams where periodic drying is common, habitat selection influences Yellowcheek Darter distribution and abundance. Seasonal drought is typical in this region, and as drying occurs, individuals must move from riffles into neighboring pools, move into the hyporheic zone, migrate large distances to a persistent riffle, or perish. It is well-established that other darter species take refuge in pools during riffle drying. However, Yellowcheek Darter has only been collected in riffles, and hence has been identified as an obligate riffle-dweller. We seek to determine the patterns of Yellowcheek Darter refuge selection and how this may effect bioenergetics and population dynamics. Additionally, we propose to examine effects of current and future climate on Yellowcheek Darter population dynamics. This information will help conserve this endangered species. Our approach could also be readily transferable to other aquatic species in the Southeast Region and nationally.
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Hydrologic alteration and geomorphic instability in the Illinois River Watershed and potential impacts on mussel SGCN and associated fish communities
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April 2022
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The Illinois River Watershed (IRW) has undergone significant alteration due to recent land use and land cover (LULC) changes associated with rapid urbanization in Northwest Arkansas. We propose to (1) quantify and assess the influence of impervious surface area and other natural and anthropogenic land use factors on hydrologic alteration and geomorphic instability of gaged and ungaged streams in the IRW; (2) evaluate the influence of hydrologic alteration and LULC change on the spatial distribution of mussel SGCN (Table 1) and associated fish communities in the IRW using state aquatic GAP species location data and museum collection records; and (3) communicate findings to the public through stakeholder workshops, government forums, and an online data portal. The timeline for implementation of the project will be 2 years.
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The Illinois River Watershed (IRW) has undergone significant alteration due to recent land use and land cover (LULC) changes associated with rapid urbanization in Northwest Arkansas. We propose to (1) quantify and assess the influence of impervious surface area and other natural and anthropogenic land use factors on hydrologic alteration and geomorphic instability of gaged and ungaged streams in the IRW; (2) evaluate the influence of hydrologic alteration and LULC change on the spatial distribution of mussel SGCN (Table 1) and associated fish communities in the IRW using state aquatic GAP species location data and museum collection records; and (3) communicate findings to the public through stakeholder workshops, government forums, and an online data portal. The timeline for implementation of the project will be 2 years.
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Early Life History Metabolism in AtlanticS almon
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December 2022
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The energetic costs of migrating Atlantic salmon are high, and high energy demands likely influence gonadal development (egg size), spawning performance and probability of surviving to spawn again. Because the size of an egg can be a good predictor of survival probability, how egg size relates to embryo physiology is of interest for both conservation and aquaculture. <br> Working with partners at the University of Maine, we are developing techniques to quantify energy expenditure during embryonic development Moving forward, the respirometer trials will be expanded to include temperature acclimation treatments of embryos in conjunction with later life metabolic patterns. Such information can help to better understand the combined roles of dams and climate change in the restoration of Atlantic salmon.
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The energetic costs of migrating Atlantic salmon are high, and high energy demands likely influence gonadal development (egg size), spawning performance and probability of surviving to spawn again. Because the size of an egg can be a good predictor of survival probability, how egg size relates to embryo physiology is of interest for both conservation and aquaculture. Working with partners at the University of Maine, we are developing techniques to quantify energy expenditure during embryonic development Moving forward, the respirometer trials will be expanded to include temperature acclimation treatments of embryos in conjunction with later life metabolic patterns. Such information can help to better understand the combined roles of dams and climate change in the restoration of Atlantic salmon.
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. Greater prairie-chicken response to natural and anthropogenic disturbance on Fort Riley
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December 2020
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Greater prairie-chickens are sensitive to disturbances on the landscape. However, effects of military activities on greater prairie-chicken demography and space use are unknown. Determining if military activities and other stochastic disturbances affect greater prairie-chickens is important for developing conservation and mitigation strategies. Given that Fort Riley supports a stable population of greater prairie-chickens, assessing space use and movements of that population may assist in management of other, declining populations.This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Fort Riley, Department of Defense. Greater prairie-chickens appear to adjust their movements and space use in response to military activity. Further, the population supported by Fort Riley is isolated and does not appear to be connected to other populations.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Greater prairie-chickens are sensitive to disturbances on the landscape. However, effects of military activities on greater prairie-chicken demography and space use are unknown.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Determining if military activities and other stochastic disturbances affect greater prairie-chickens is important for developing conservation and mitigation strategies. Given that Fort Riley supports a stable population of greater prairie-chickens, assessing space use and movements of that population may assist in management of other, declining populations.<b>Partners:</b>This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Fort Riley, Department of Defense.<b>Research that informs decisions: </b>Greater prairie-chickens appear to adjust their movements and space use in response to military activity. Further, the population supported by Fort Riley is isolated and does not appear to be connected to other populations.
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Changing Fish Communities in the Penobscot River After Dam Removal.
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December 2022
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Dam removals re-establish natural flow regimes and increase connectivity, profoundly affecting fish assemblages throughout the watershed. In Maine, the Penobscot River Restoration Project removed the two lowermost dams on the river and improved fish passage at other dams to help recover declining sea-run fishes and increase resilience of entire ecosystems. To quantify spatial and temporal changes associated with river rehabilitation efforts, fish assemblages are being assessed using boat electrofishing surveys (three years each, spring and autumn) prior to dam removal, shortly after removal, and six years post removal (in progress).<br>Together with NOAA and TNC, we have described distinct fish assemblages present prior to dam, and followed how these communities have changed to a more riverine assemblage. These changes, and their timeline, are important for understanding the management outcomes of dam removal.
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Dam removals re-establish natural flow regimes and increase connectivity, profoundly affecting fish assemblages throughout the watershed. In Maine, the Penobscot River Restoration Project removed the two lowermost dams on the river and improved fish passage at other dams to help recover declining sea-run fishes and increase resilience of entire ecosystems. To quantify spatial and temporal changes associated with river rehabilitation efforts, fish assemblages are being assessed using boat electrofishing surveys (three years each, spring and autumn) prior to dam removal, shortly after removal, and six years post removal (in progress). Together with NOAA and TNC, we have described distinct fish assemblages present prior to dam, and followed how these communities have changed to a more riverine assemblage. These changes, and their timeline, are important for understanding the management outcomes of dam removal.
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Lesser prairie-chicken and grassland response to intensive wildfire in the mixed-grass prairie
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September 2020
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The occurrence of wide-spread, intensive wildfires is increasing in the range of the lesser prairie-chicken. These fires may affect population demography of lesser prairie-chickens. Documenting the population response to intensive wildfires is important for developing conservation strategies. Mitigation of wildfire effects can be developed once effects are measured. This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, and NRCS Lesser Prairie-Chicken Initiative. Lesser prairie-chickens avoid areas affected by wildlife for at least 3 years post-fire. However, annual survival and nest success are not affected.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>The occurrence of wide-spread, intensive wildfires is increasing in the range of the lesser prairie-chicken. These fires may affect population demography of lesser prairie-chickens.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Documenting the population response to intensive wildfires is important for developing conservation strategies. Mitigation of wildfire effects can be developed once effects are measured.<b>Partners:</b>This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, and NRCS Lesser Prairie-Chicken Initiative.<b>Research that informs decisions: </b>Lesser prairie-chickens avoid areas affected by wildlife for at least 3 years post-fire. However, annual survival and nest success are not affected.
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Ring-necked pheasant survival, nest habitat use, and predator occupancy in Kansas spring cover crops
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June 2020
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Ring-necked pheasant populations are declining across the midwestern United States. Pheasant hunting is a critical contribution to economy of these areas. Developing alternative management strategies is important for management of pheasants. Use of spring cover crops can potentially benefit both pheasants and producers. This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, and Star Seed Company.<br>Spring cover crops use by pheasants is related to distance from CRP tracts. Therefore, strategic placement of spring cover crops is necessary to maximize use by pheasants.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Ring-necked pheasant populations are declining across the midwestern United States. Pheasant hunting is a critical contribution to economy of these areas.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Developing alternative management strategies is important for management of pheasants. Use of spring cover crops can potentially benefit both pheasants and producers.<b>Partners:</b>This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, and Star Seed Company.<b>Research that informs decisions: </b>Spring cover crops use by pheasants is related to distance from CRP tracts. Therefore, strategic placement of spring cover crops is necessary to maximize use by pheasants.
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Ring-necked pheasant population and space use response to landscapes including spring cover crops.
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June 2020
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Ring-necked pheasant populations are declining across the midwestern United States. Pheasant hunting is a critical contribution to economy of these areas. Developing alternative management strategies is important for management of pheasants. Use of spring cover crops can potentially benefit both pheasants and producers. This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, and Star Seed Company.<br>Spring cover crops are used by pheasants, but only following the nesting season. Therefore, quality nesting cover must continue to provide if implementing this management strategy.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Ring-necked pheasant populations are declining across the midwestern United States. Pheasant hunting is a critical contribution to economy of these areas.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Developing alternative management strategies is important for management of pheasants. Use of spring cover crops can potentially benefit both pheasants and producers.<b>Partners:</b>This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, and Star Seed Company.<b>Research that informs decisions: </b>Spring cover crops are used by pheasants, but only following the nesting season. Therefore, quality nesting cover must continue to provide if implementing this management strategy.
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Landscape patterns contributing to lek establishment and morphometrics of attending lesser prairie-chickens
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December 2021
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Lesser prairie-chickens are a species of conservation concern due to declining populations and occupied range. Managers are developing strategies, including translocation, to restore populations. Translocation to restore populations is a possible conservation strategy for this species. Assessing lek locations, establishment, and persistence is necessary to determine the success of the strategy. This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Forest Service. Translocated birds do join and establish leks. However, leks are associated with quality nesting habitat and relatively high female densities, which are not found at the release sites.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Lesser prairie-chickens are a species of conservation concern due to declining populations and occupied range. Managers are developing strategies, including translocation, to restore populations.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Translocation to restore populations is a possible conservation strategy for this species. Assessing lek locations, establishment, and persistence is necessary to determine the success of the strategy.<b>Partners:</b>This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Forest Service.<b>Research that informs decisions: </b>Translocated birds do join and establish leks. However, leks are associated with quality nesting habitat and relatively high female densities, which are not found at the release sites.
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Dispersal, reproductive success, and habitat use by translocated lesser prairie-chickens
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December 2021
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Lesser prairie-chickens are a species of conservation concern due to declining populations and occupied range. Managers are developing strategies, including translocation, to restore populations. Translocation to restore populations is a possible conservation strategy for this species. Assessing habitat quantity and quality at release locations is necessary to determine the success of the strategy. This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Forest Service. Initial release sites provide little quality habitat for translocated birds. Thus, long distance movements by translocated birds occur requiring an assessment of the potential for a much large area to support lesser prairie-chickens than previously thought.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Lesser prairie-chickens are a species of conservation concern due to declining populations and occupied range. Managers are developing strategies, including translocation, to restore populations.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Translocation to restore populations is a possible conservation strategy for this species. Assessing habitat quantity and quality at release locations is necessary to determine the success of the strategy.<b>Partners:</b>This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Forest Service.<b>Research that informs decisions: </b>Initial release sites provide little quality habitat for translocated birds. Thus, long distance movements by translocated birds occur requiring an assessment of the potential for a much large area to support lesser prairie-chickens than previously thought.
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Translocation of the lesser prairie-chicken to the Sand Sagebrush Prairie Ecoregion
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May 2021
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Lesser prairie-chickens are a species of conservation concern due to declining populations and occupied range. Managers are developing strategies, including translocation, to restore populations. Translocation to restore populations is a possible conservation strategy for this species. Assessing the fate and movements of translocated birds is necessary to determine the success of the strategy. This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Forest Service. Translocated birds have a low initial survival rate and tend to leave release locations, which makes targeted restoration unlikely. However, translocated birds do nest and reproduce providing evidence that the conservation strategy may have merit.
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Lesser prairie-chickens are a species of conservation concern due to declining populations and occupied range. Managers are developing strategies, including translocation, to restore populations. Assessing the fate and movements of translocated birds is therefore necessary to determine the success of the strategy. This research is a collaborative effort among USGS, Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Forest Service. Results indicate translocated birds have a low initial survival rate and tend to leave release locations, which makes targeted restoration unlikely. However, translocated birds do nest and reproduce providing evidence that the conservation strategy may have merit.
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Fawn survival and bed-site selection of mule deer and white-tailed deer in western Kansas
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December 2022
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Mule deer are declining throughout their range, including western Kansas. The expansion of white-tailed deer may be affecting population demography and space use by mule deer. Fawn survival is a driving force in population trends of deer. Determination of factors influencing fawn survival will provide insight on population trends of white-tailed deer and mule deer in western Kansas. The project is a collaboration of researchers including the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Wildlife and Enterprise Management Department at Kansas State University, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, Kansas Bowhunters Association, and Mule Deer Foundation. Fawn survival is relatively low for both mule deer and white-tailed deer, but bed site selection differed between the two species. Coyote predation within the first week following birth is the primary source of fawn mortality.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Mule deer are declining throughout their range, including western Kansas. The expansion of white-tailed deer may be affecting population demography and space use by mule deer.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Fawn survival is a driving force in population trends of deer. Determination of factors influencing fawn survival will provide insight on population trends of white-tailed deer and mule deer in western Kansas.<b>Collaboration/Partners:</b>The project is a collaboration of researchers including the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Wildlife and Enterprise Management Department at Kansas State University, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, Kansas Bowhunters Association, and Mule Deer Foundation.<b>Research That Informs Decisions:</b>Fawn survival is relatively low for both mule deer and white-tailed deer, but bed site selection differed between the two species. Coyote predation within the first week following birth is the primary source of fawn mortality.
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Early Detection and Rapid Response to the African Walking Catfish in Puerto Rico: Identification and Removal of a Threat to Endemic Species and Minimizing Risk to Continental U.S. Expansion
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December 2023
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Using environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect location of a newly detected invasive species in Puerto Rico to inform removals.
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Invasive species create risks to ecological communities. Recently, in Puerto Rico, African Walking Catfish were discovered as a new invasive. This project will use environmental DNA (eDNA) to sample streams and help inform where physical removal efforts should be allocated. We are working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and University of Puerto Rico to identify removal and monitoring locations. The outcomes of the project will help inform control needs to an invasive species in Puerto Rico.
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Angler responses to state management stocking
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December 2022
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The project will evaluate how angler effort and catch rates relate to state management decisions.
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Stocking fish is an intensive effort, and one of the highest budget items, for state agencies. We are using a long-term database to explore how angler effort and catches relate to agency stocking efforts across the Tennessee landscape.
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Population characteristics of three important commercial fish species in Tennessee: Skipjack Herring, Smallmouth Buffalo, and Silver Carp
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December 2022
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Age and growth of three commercially harvested species in Tennessee to inform management.
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<sup>Commercially harvested species require population dynamics information for stock assessment. Critical information includes age structure, growth and recruitment that helps understand how much harvest can be allowed for sustainable populations. The objectives of this study include gaining information for three commercially harvested species in Tennessee: skipjack herring, smallmouth buffalo, and silver carp. All species in the study are harvested in surrounding partner states including Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi; yet, demographic information and models are lacking. Results will help inform population status for states to make management decisions. </sup>
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Phenology and habitat use of larval Percina in the upper Roanoke River basin – Phase 2
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May 2020
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North American darters are a widely threatened subfamily of freshwater fishes, with little known about their larval ecology. A key hurdle to better understanding the population ecology and early-life history of imperiled darters is the lack of standard methods for identifying darter larvae to species.<br>Research documenting when and where larval darters occur, especially for imperiled species, can provide new insights into when and where to apply management actions to ensure those actions are cost-effective.<br>The project is a collaboration between university scientists (geneticists and ecologists) and a state conservation agency.<br>The project will provide new information on how to distinguish co-occurring larval darter species and on how their abundances vary across time and space. Project results will provide methods useful to other researchers and inform managers about when and where actions to conserve darters would be most effective.
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North American darters are a widely threatened subfamily of freshwater fishes, with little known about their larval ecology. A key hurdle to better understanding the population ecology and early-life history of imperiled darters is the lack of standard methods for identifying darter larvae to species. Research documenting when and where larval darters occur, especially for imperiled species, can provide new insights into when and where to apply management actions to ensure those actions are cost-effective. The project is a collaboration between university scientists (geneticists and ecologists) and a state conservation agency.The project will provide new information on how to distinguish co-occurring larval darter species and on how their abundances vary across time and space. Project results will provide methods useful to other researchers and inform managers about when and where actions to conserve darters would be most effective.
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The development of integrated adaptive management for restoration of freshwater-estuarine ecosystems
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December 2025
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California Central Valley is the largest basin-estuary comoplex on the Pacific Coast that supports more than 500 fish, wildlife and plant species. It is also the home of millions of people that depend on the freshwater resources of the area . By its nature , the management of water resources in the Central Valley involves the evaluation of potential tradeoffs between conservation objectives, such as restoring or conserving at-risk species, and other values, such as providing reliable water supply to the public. This can result in conflict among competing objectives making the decision-making difficult. We are integrating management, science, and monitoring using the structured decision making process to develop an adaptive framework for restoration of aquatic ecosystems.
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Most natural resource problems are complex, and decision makers and stakeholders often disagree on the best decision. The process by which decision makers traditionally arrive at decisions also tends to be difficult to explain, which in turn makes it difficult to communicate the decision-making process to stakeholders and the general public resulting in conflict.A structured adaptive, approach can help mitigate these problems and reduce their effect by fostering better communication and knowledge transfer and facilitator the integration of new information for improved decision making.This project is a collaboration with researchers and managers in multiple state and federal agencies including the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Bureau of Reclamation, the National Marine Fisheries Service CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, CA Delartment of Water Resources, non-governmental organizations, and local municipalities operating in the Central Valley.Structured decision making process has allowed decision makers to develop and evaluate restoration strategies, identify factors that largely drive restoration decision-making helping them focus on those aspects that are most important and prioritize research and monitoring to reduce critical uncertainties and improve decision making.
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Evaluating efficacy of agricultural BMPs in the upper Clinch, Powell, and Holston river drainages
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December 2022
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Agricultural best management practices (BMPs) are implemented widely. and at great taxpayer expense, to mitigate adverse effects of nutrient and sediment pollution in streams. However, the efficacy of most BMPs for reducing biophysical impacts of pollution is scarcely documented.<br>Rigorous assessments of which BMPs, how many BMPs, and in what spatial arrangements are needed to inform land-management choices by agencies and landowners. Such choices are especially important in watersheds supporting many imperiled species, such as the upper Tennessee River basin.<br>The project is a collaboration among Natural Resources Conservation Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and state agencies in Virginia and Tennessee.<br>Results from field-based data analysis and computer models will be synthesized to provide guidelines to farmland managers regarding how to implement BMPS cost-effectively.<br><b>OBJECTIVES: </b><br>1. Characterize spatial patterns (at HUC12 resolution) of BMP implementation and predicted sediment and nutrient loading in the Clinch-Powell river drainage upstream of Norris Reservoir and in the Holston River drainage upstream of the Virginia-Tennessee line (collectively, the upper CPH);<br>2. Analyze the influences of BMPs, relative to other watershed features, on predicted sediment and nutrient loads in HUC12s across the upper CPH;<br>3. Quantify relations among BMP implementation, observed instream water quality and habitat quality, and observed biotic assemblages; <br>4. Quantify cost-effectiveness of BMP implementation in HUC12s across the upper CPH.
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Agricultural best management practices (BMPs) are implemented widely. and at great taxpayer expense, to mitigate adverse effects of nutrient and sediment pollution in streams. However, the efficacy of most BMPs for reducing biophysical impacts of pollution is scarcely documented.Rigorous assessments of which BMPs, how many BMPs, and in what spatial arrangements are needed to inform land-management choices by agencies and landowners. Such choices are especially important in watersheds supporting many imperiled species, such as the upper Tennessee River basin.The project is a collaboration among Natural Resources Conservation Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and state agencies in Virginia and Tennessee.Results from field-based data analysis and computer models will be synthesized to provide guidelines to farmland managers regarding how to implement BMPS cost-effectively.<b>OBJECTIVES: </b>1. Characterize spatial patterns (at HUC12 resolution) of BMP implementation and predicted sediment and nutrient loading in the Clinch-Powell river drainage upstream of Norris Reservoir and in the Holston River drainage upstream of the Virginia-Tennessee line (collectively, the upper CPH);2. Analyze the influences of BMPs, relative to other watershed features, on predicted sediment and nutrient loads in HUC12s across the upper CPH;3. Quantify relations among BMP implementation, observed instream water quality and habitat quality, and observed biotic assemblages; 4. Quantify cost-effectiveness of BMP implementation in HUC12s across the upper CPH.
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Resource selection and activity patterns of female mule deer and white-tailed deer in western Kansas.
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December 2022
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Mule deer have been decreasing in abundance and occupied range in Kansas for the past three decades. Increasing numbers and expanding white-tailed deer may be contributing to trends in mule deer population. Mule deer are highly prized game animals that generate considerable revenue for Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism and private landowners.The project is a collaboration of among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Wildlife Enterprise and Outdoor Management Program at Kansas State University, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, Kansas Bowhunters Association, and Mule Deer Foundation. Understanding landscape segregation, space use, and movements by female mule deer and white-tailed deer will inform landscape-scale management strategies and determine the influence of the presence of white-tailed deer on mule deer populations. Female habitat use and vegetation selection will allow for development of management strategies benefiting mule deer.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Mule deer have been decreasing in abundance and occupied range in Kansas for the past three decades. Increasing numbers and expanding white-tailed deer may be contributing to trends in mule deer population.<b>So What? Why this research matters:</b>Mule deer are highly prized game animals that generate considerable revenue for Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism and private landowners.<b>Collaboration/Partners:</b>The project is a collaboration of among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Wildlife Enterprise and Outdoor Management Program at Kansas State University, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, Kansas Bowhunters Association, and Mule Deer Foundation.<b>Research That Informs Decisions:</b>Understanding landscape segregation, space use, and movements by female mule deer and white-tailed deer will inform landscape-scale management strategies and determine the influence of the presence of white-tailed deer on mule deer populations. Female habitat use and vegetation selection will allow for development of management strategies benefiting mule deer.
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Avian community change across time, elevations, and latitudes
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May 2023
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Changing environmental conditions due to global climate change can have significant consequences for regional bird populations and communities over time, particularly along elevational and latitudinal gradients. For instance, populations of high-elevation species may decline and low-elevation species may begin to expand into higher elevations in response to increasing temperatures, with those rates potentially differing across latitudes. Thus, there is a critical need to investigate the effects of climate change on long-term community dynamics while incorporating elevational variability and latitudinal ranges. The objective of the proposed research is to improve understanding of the extent and causes of avian community change over time and across elevational and latitudinal gradients within the Appalachian Mountains. The specific aims of this study are to quantify the relationships of climate factors, habitat, elevation, and latitude with changes in avian species abundance and community turnover. The research will advance current scientific understanding of the role that changing climatic conditions have played in long-term avian community and population dynamics, with explicit consideration for patterns arising across elevational and latitudinal gradients. The study also lays the foundation for future research focused on climate change effects of birds in high-elevation habitats and mountain ranges, an important focus for emerging investigations of climate refugia.
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Changing environmental conditions due to global climate change can have significant consequences for regional bird populations and communities over time, particularly along elevational and latitudinal gradients. For instance, populations of high-elevation species may decline and low-elevation species may begin to expand into higher elevations in response to increasing temperatures, with those rates potentially differing across latitudes. Thus, there is a critical need to investigate the effects of climate change on long-term community dynamics while incorporating elevational variability and latitudinal ranges. The objective of the proposed research is to improve understanding of the extent and causes of avian community change over time and across elevational and latitudinal gradients within the Appalachian Mountains. The specific aims of this study are to quantify the relationships of climate factors, habitat, elevation, and latitude with changes in avian species abundance and community turnover. The research will advance current scientific understanding of the role that changing climatic conditions have played in long-term avian community and population dynamics, with explicit consideration for patterns arising across elevational and latitudinal gradients. The study also lays the foundation for future research focused on climate change effects of birds in high-elevation habitats and mountain ranges, an important focus for emerging investigations of climate refugia.
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Mapping and conserving big game migration corridors in Wyoming and other western states
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December 2028
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In 2018, USGS assembled a Corridor Mapping Team to work with individual State wildlife agencies and DOI partners to facilitate mapping of migration corridors and develop a mapping report. The Team has been in place since the beginning of 2019. It is based out of the Wyoming CRU and includes key biologists in participating State agencies. The Corridor Mapping Team is providing expertise, statistical code, troubleshooting, metadata, and map templates as well as overall direction for this west-wide mapping effort. This collaborative effort includes the state wildlife agencies of all 11 public lands states in the West, and is closely integrated with the corridor mapping goals of the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Through this effort, the collaborative team is developing numerous products to address science and management needs related to understanding big-game use of corridor habitat, winter ranges and stopover areas. A primary goal of this effort is to create a standardized inventory of big game migration corridors in the western US that can be used to guide conservation and management.
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In 2018, USGS assembled a Corridor Mapping Team to work with individual State wildlife agencies and DOI partners to facilitate mapping of migration corridors and develop a mapping report. The Team has been in place since the beginning of 2019. It is based out of the Wyoming CRU and includes key biologists in participating State agencies. The Corridor Mapping Team is providing expertise, statistical code, troubleshooting, metadata, and map templates as well as overall direction for this west-wide mapping effort. This collaborative effort includes the state wildlife agencies of all 11 public lands states in the West, and is closely integrated with the corridor mapping goals of the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Through this effort, the collaborative team is developing numerous products to address science and management needs related to understanding big-game use of corridor habitat, winter ranges and stopover areas. A primary goal of this effort is to create a standardized inventory of big game migration corridors in the western US that can be used to guide conservation and management.
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Evaluating the Influence of Wind Energy on the Movement, Distribution, and Habitat Quality of Pronghorn
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December 2025
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Wyoming has approximately half of the world's total population of pronghorn, and local herds are strongly challenged by harsh winter weather. Much of the Shirley Basin in southeast Wyoming is designated crucial winter range for the Medicine Bow pronghorn herd. The Shirley Basin winter range contains a substantial footprint of proposed wind energy development and thus presents an opportunity to learn about how pronghorn respond to wind development. We are studying the effects of wind energy development on the movement of pronghorn that winter in the Shirley Basin. The project is a collaboration between the Wyoming Unit, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and The Nature Conservancy, in cooperation with the associated wind power companies. The overall goal of the study is to evaluate whether and how wind development influences pronghorn habitat use, the results of which will provide a useful comparison with prior work done on the influence of oil and gas development on mule deer and elk and will guide pronghorn management amid continued development.
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Wyoming has approximately half of the world's total population of pronghorn, and local herds are strongly challenged by harsh winter weather. Much of the Shirley Basin in southeast Wyoming is designated crucial winter range for the Medicine Bow pronghorn herd. The Shirley Basin winter range contains a substantial footprint of proposed wind energy development and thus presents an opportunity to learn about how pronghorn respond to wind development. We are studying the effects of wind energy development on the movement of pronghorn that winter in the Shirley Basin. The project is a collaboration between the Wyoming Unit, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and The Nature Conservancy, in cooperation with the associated wind power companies. The overall goal of the study is to evaluate whether and how wind development influences pronghorn habitat use, the results of which will provide a useful comparison with prior work done on the influence of oil and gas development on mule deer and elk and will guide pronghorn management amid continued development.
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BoR & NPS: Efficacy of conservation actions for native fishes in tributaries of the Colorado River, Grand Canyon
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May 2021
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The predominantly endemic fishes of the American Southwest are highly imperiled due to pervasive hydrological alteration of aquatic habitats through river regulation and human water use, compounded by the widespread introduction of nonnative competitors and predators. The Colorado River’s desert fishes evolved in an environment characterized by seasonally variable temperatures and frequent flooding and drought. However, stabilized flow and thermal regimes in the post-dam era favor nonnative fishes whose life history strategies evolved in stable and predictable environments. In the Grand Canyon, Arizona, conservation actions including nonnative fish suppression and flow experiments designed to benefit nearshore habitats and encourage juvenile fish recruitment, have been underway to recover the endangered humpback chub (Gila cypha). Yet the responses in the population dynamics of both native and nonnative fishes to these conservation actions have been equivocal; environmental variability and ecosystem complexity have sometimes confounded the interpretation of results. Two recent experimental conservation actions have been implemented in tributaries within Grand Canyon National Park including the intensive stream-wide suppression of nonnative brown trout (Salmo trutta) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Bright Angel Creek, and translocations of humpback chub. The aim of these actions is to enhance resiliency and redundancy of the Grand Canyon humpback chub population, reduce the risk of predation by nonnative salmonids, and enhance native fish populations. Translocations are conducted in three tributaries of differing physical and biological attributes, following nonnative fish suppression. The objectives of this study are to assess the efficacy of these efforts in restoring native fish communities and establishing reproducing populations of humpback chub, by 1) quantifying the effects of nonnative suppression and environmental variability on demographic vital rates (i.e., survival, recruitment, mortality) of native fishes and introduced salmonids; 2) assessing factors contributing to the likelihood of establishing self-sustaining humpback chub populations in small Colorado River tributaries; and, 3) developing an integrated population model for brown trout to quantify future levels of suppression necessary to reduce or eradicate the population in the Grand Canyon and beyond. Through detailed evaluations of humpback chub vital rates in translocated populations, plans for the reestablishment of the species in the Upper Colorado River Basin may be more-informed. Detailed examination of the response of brown trout, one of the most destructive invaders introduced across the globe, will assist fisheries managers in designing mechanical control strategies where eradication through chemical means is not a socially or logistically acceptable option.
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The predominantly endemic fishes of the American Southwest are highly imperiled due to pervasive hydrologic alteration of aquatic habitats through river regulation and human water use, compounded by the widespread introduction of nonnative competitors and predators. In the Grand Canyon, Arizona, conservation actions including nonnative fish suppression and flow experiments designed to benefit nearshore habitats and encourage juvenile fish recruitment, have been underway to recover the endangered humpback chub (Gila cypha). Yet the responses in the population dynamics of both native and nonnative fishes to these conservation actions have been equivocal; environmental variability and ecosystem complexity have sometimes confounded the interpretation of results. The aim of these actions is to enhance resiliency and redundancy of the Grand Canyon humpback chub population, reduce the risk of predation by nonnative salmonids, and enhance native fish populations. Translocations are conducted in three tributaries of differing physical and biological attributes, following nonnative fish suppression. The objectives of this study are to assess the efficacy of these efforts in restoring native fish communities and establishing reproducing populations of humpback chub, by 1) quantifying the effects of nonnative suppression and environmental variability on demographic vital rates (i.e., survival, recruitment, mortality) of native fishes and introduced salmonids; 2) assessing factors contributing to the likelihood of establishing self-sustaining humpback chub populations in small Colorado River tributaries; and, 3) developing an integrated population model for brown trout to quantify future levels of suppression necessary to reduce or eradicate the population in the Grand Canyon and beyond. Through detailed evaluations of humpback chub vital rates in translocated populations, plans for the reestablishment of the species in the Upper Colorado River Basin may be more-informed. Detailed examination of the response of brown trout, one of the most destructive invaders introduced across the globe, will assist fisheries managers in designing mechanical control strategies where eradication through chemical means is not a socially or logistically acceptable option.The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center and State and Federal natural resource managers in the Pacific Northwest.
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Changes in forest composition through time due to charcoal production for the iron industry, tree harvest, and deer browse
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September 2021
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Historic charcoal production is an example of abrupt change across northern Appalachian forest ecosystems that we hypothesize has had a lasting effect on forests; forest managers can be better prepared to adapt to future abrupt change by studying this model system of past abrupt change.<br><br>Abrupt changes in a forest ecosystem, whether natural or anthropogenic, are changes that occur over short time periods; such disturbance has the potential to drive state changes and alter forest resilience. Understanding how present-day abrupt forest change may alter ecosystem services is becoming more important due to ever-growing anthropogenic stresses.<br><br>This project is a collaboration of researchers at Penn State University with expertise in soils, forests, and white-tailed deer.<br><br>Forest managers trying the adapt to anthropogenic stress can benefit from the study and quantification of past abrupt changes in forests, especially when the legacy of past disturbance is still evident.
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Historic charcoal production is an example of abrupt change across northern Appalachian forest ecosystems that we hypothesize has had a lasting effect on forests; forest managers can be better prepared to adapt to future abrupt change by studying this model system of past abrupt change.Abrupt changes in a forest ecosystem, whether natural or anthropogenic, are changes that occur over short time periods; such disturbance has the potential to drive state changes and alter forest resilience. Understanding how present-day abrupt forest change may alter ecosystem services is becoming more important due to ever-growing anthropogenic stresses.This project is a collaboration of researchers at Penn State University with expertise in soils, forests, and white-tailed deer.Forest managers trying the adapt to anthropogenic stress can benefit from the study and quantification of past abrupt changes in forests, especially when the legacy of past disturbance is still evident.
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Effects of Tile Drainage on Restored Oxbows as Habitat for Endangered Topeka Shiners and other Biota
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December 2021
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Oxbow restoration has been shown to promote conservation of the endangered Topeka shiner and enhance agricultural floodplain habitat for other taxa, while parallel research has identified oxbow restoration as a potentially effective strategy for reducing nutrient export from cropland to Iowa's waterways. Because of this potential benefit, oxbow restoration was recently adopted by the Science Advisory Team of the Iowa Nutrient Research Center (INRC) as an approved conservation practice, which will accelerate its proliferation on the landscape. The nutrient reduction effectiveness of these restored oxbows depends on their interception of tile drainage before it reaches natural waterways, and future oxbows restored under the INRC program will be fed by tiles. However, an important and as yet unanswered question is whether introduction of tile drainage will affect the conservation benefits of restored oxbows. Numerous agencies are partners in this research and will benefit from its results, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, The Iowa Soybean Association, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. This research will quantify the establishment of biota and habitat conditions in recently restored oxbows, with and without tile drainage, to test the effects of tile drainage on conservation benefits of oxbow restoration.
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Oxbow restoration has been shown to promote conservation of the endangered Topeka shiner and enhance agricultural floodplain habitat for other taxa, while parallel research has identified oxbow restoration as a potentially effective strategy for reducing nutrient export from cropland to Iowa's waterways. Because of this potential benefit, oxbow restoration was recently adopted by the Science Advisory Team of the Iowa Nutrient Research Center (INRC) as an approved conservation practice, which will accelerate its proliferation on the landscape. The nutrient reduction effectiveness of these restored oxbows depends on their interception of tile drainage before it reaches natural waterways, and future oxbows restored under the INRC program will be fed by tiles. However, an important and as yet unanswered question is whether introduction of tile drainage will affect the conservation benefits of restored oxbows. Numerous agencies are partners in this research and will benefit from its results, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, The Iowa Soybean Association, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. This research will quantify the establishment of biota and habitat conditions in recently restored oxbows, with and without tile drainage, to test the effects of tile drainage on conservation benefits of oxbow restoration.
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An Index of Oxbow Restoration Quality for Topeka Shiners Based on the Fish Assemblage
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December 2021
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Restored oxbows are important habitats for the endangered Topeka shiner, but because of their rarity, the “signal” associated with presence of Topeka shiners in restored oxbows is weak. While the value of restored oxbows is increasingly recognized and the pace of oxbow restoration programs is accelerating, difficulty in accurately assessing restoration effectiveness poses a significant roadblock for evaluating restoration methods. For assessing the quality and conservation value of restored oxbows, conservation decision-makers need a better tool than simply relying on the presence or abundance of Topeka Shiners in samples. Numerous agencies are partners in this research and will benefit from its results, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, The Iowa Soybean Association, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The purpose of this study is to develop an index of oxbow restoration quality for conservation of endangered Topeka shiners based on characteristics of the fish assemblage. The index will enable evaluation of oxbow restorations when direct methods, such as documenting presence or increased abundance of Topeka shiners, are not possible.
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Restored oxbows are important habitats for the endangered Topeka shiner, but because of their rarity, the “signal” associated with presence of Topeka shiners in restored oxbows is weak. While the value of restored oxbows is increasingly recognized and the pace of oxbow restoration programs is accelerating, difficulty in accurately assessing restoration effectiveness poses a significant roadblock for evaluating restoration methods. For assessing the quality and conservation value of restored oxbows, conservation decision-makers need a better tool than simply relying on the presence or abundance of Topeka Shiners in samples. Numerous agencies are partners in this research and will benefit from its results, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, The Iowa Soybean Association, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The purpose of this study is to develop an index of oxbow restoration quality for conservation of endangered Topeka shiners based on characteristics of the fish assemblage. The index will enable evaluation of oxbow restorations when direct methods, such as documenting presence or increased abundance of Topeka shiners, are not possible.
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Snowshoe hare habitat relationships in response to prescribed burn and northern forest management
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June 2022
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In the face of climate change, land development, and the ephemeral nature of early successional habitats, the Pennsylvania Game Commission needs to develop a comprehensive spatial understanding of snowshoe hare habitat relationships to better understand factors affecting snowshoe hare abundance and distribution in Pennsylvania.<br><br>The snowshoe hare is classified as a game animal (34 Pa. CSA, § 102) and was listed as a species of maintenance concern on Pennsylvania’s 2005 State Wildlife Action Plan due to sensitivity to habitat alteration, apparent decline, and potential importance of Pennsylvania’s population for gene flow between states to the north and south. Currently, the distribution is thought to be limited to mountainous sections of the northern half of Pennsylvania (Merritt 1987) and in small, isolated populations in higher elevations of southern parts of the state (Boyd 2015) in areas where suitable habitats exist (Diefenbach et al. 2016).<br><br>This project is a collaboration with the Pennsylvania Game Commission.<br><br>The findings from this research will help to develop guidelines for habitat managers to consider and implement when managing northern forest habitats, habitats managed with prescribed fire, and for protecting critical habitat features to conserve and expand sustainable snowshoe hare populations.
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In the face of climate change, land development, and the ephemeral nature of early successional habitats, the Pennsylvania Game Commission needs to develop a comprehensive spatial understanding of snowshoe hare habitat relationships to better understand factors affecting snowshoe hare abundance and distribution in Pennsylvania.The snowshoe hare is classified as a game animal (34 Pa. CSA, § 102) and was listed as a species of maintenance concern on Pennsylvania’s 2005 State Wildlife Action Plan due to sensitivity to habitat alteration, apparent decline, and potential importance of Pennsylvania’s population for gene flow between states to the north and south. Currently, the distribution is thought to be limited to mountainous sections of the northern half of Pennsylvania (Merritt 1987) and in small, isolated populations in higher elevations of southern parts of the state (Boyd 2015) in areas where suitable habitats exist (Diefenbach et al. 2016).This project is a collaboration with the Pennsylvania Game Commission.The findings from this research will help to develop guidelines for habitat managers to consider and implement when managing northern forest habitats, habitats managed with prescribed fire, and for protecting critical habitat features to conserve and expand sustainable snowshoe hare populations.
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BoR: Understanding and quantifying potential movement patterns of Rio Grande Silvery Minnow in the Middle Rio Grande, New Mexico
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January 2023
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The Rio Grande Silvery Minnow (RGSM, <i>Hybognathus amarus)</i> is listed as endangered under the ESA and remains critically imperiled in the Middle Rio Grande River. Although there is existing information on their basic habitat and life histories, there are many critical data gaps. These pelagic spawners release semi-buoyant eggs in the water column and rely on floodplain connectivity for rearing, after drifting downstream and being retained in available habitats. Habitat alteration, loss of inundated floodplains, and alteration and dampening of the hydrograph have negatively impacted the species through reduction in floodplain connectivity, and in the absence of floodplain connectivity, the eggs drift further causing upstream persistence of the species to become reliant on the ability of these fish to move upstream to recolonize areas above. This project aims to describe and quantify the ability to move and drivers of RGSM movement in its contemporary fragmented habitat. To do this, we are releasing PIT-tagged RGSM into the Middle Rio Grande River and tracking their movement during differing environmental conditions and seasons with a combination of stationary and mobile PIT-tag antennas. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our project will inform the design and implementation of future modifications to dams in the Middle Rio Grande aimed at allowing fish movement in the upstream direction in particular.
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The Rio Grande Silvery Minnow (RGSM, <i>Hybognathus amarus)</i> is listed as endangered under the ESA and remains critically imperiled in the Middle Rio Grande River. Although there is existing information on their basic habitat and life histories, there are many critical data gaps. These pelagic spawners release semi-buoyant eggs in the water column and rely on floodplain connectivity for rearing, after drifting downstream and being retained in available habitats. Habitat alteration, loss of inundated floodplains, and alteration and dampening of the hydrograph have negatively impacted the species through reduction in floodplain connectivity, and in the absence of floodplain connectivity, the eggs drift further causing upstream persistence of the species to become reliant on the ability of these fish to move upstream to recolonize areas above. This project aims to describe and quantify the ability to move and drivers of RGSM movement in its contemporary fragmented habitat. To do this, we are releasing PIT-tagged RGSM into the Middle Rio Grande River and tracking their movement during differing environmental conditions and seasons with a combination of stationary and mobile PIT-tag antennas. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our project will inform the design and implementation of future modifications to dams in the Middle Rio Grande aimed at allowing fish movement in the upstream direction in particular.
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BoR: Hydrologic controls on abundance and distribution of the endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow in the Middle Rio Grande
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September 2021
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Rio Grande Silvery Minnow have experienced dramatic reductions in range and abundance, ultimately being listed as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Their range is currently restricted to the Middle Rio Grande in New Mexico, where habitat degradation and hydrologic alterations present continuing challenges to silvery minnow conservation. Water managers are tasked with meeting many different and sometimes competing objectives with a limited supply of water in the basin. In this project, we are examining the relationship between annual hydrologic conditions and silvery minnow productivity, and will ultimately use our model to examine the relative performance of alternative water management approaches in the basin. This project is a collaboration with researchers and managers across multiple agencies and stakeholder groups, including the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District, and New Mexico Interstate Stream Commision. Using the model developed in this project will help managers determine how likely silvery minnow conservation goals are to be met under alternative management options, informing decisions to benefit this endangered species in the presence of great uncertainty.
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Rio Grande Silvery Minnow have experienced dramatic reductions in range and abundance, ultimately being listed as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Their range is currently restricted to the Middle Rio Grande in New Mexico, where habitat degradation and hydrologic alterations present continuing challenges to silvery minnow conservation. Water managers are tasked with meeting many different and sometimes competing objectives with a limited supply of water in the basin. In this project, we are examining the relationship between annual hydrologic conditions and silvery minnow productivity, and will ultimately use our model to examine the relative performance of alternative water management approaches in the basin. This project is a collaboration with researchers and managers across multiple agencies and stakeholder groups, including the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District, and New Mexico Interstate Stream Commision. Using the model developed in this project will help managers determine how likely silvery minnow conservation goals are to be met under alternative management options, informing decisions to benefit this endangered species in the presence of great uncertainty.
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Habitat Suitability for Gila Chub Reintroduction in the Upper San Francisco River Drainage
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December 2023
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Gila chub (Gila robusta), a fish of greatest conservation need, has not been collected from the San Francisco River in New Mexico since 1948. The goal of federal and state management agencies is to replicate Gila Chub populations to ensure representation, resiliency, and redundancy by expanding GIla chub throughout its historical range. Our research will characterize whether the river has suitable habitat for eventual reintroduction of the species. We will work closely with our federal (USBOR, USFWS, USFS) and state (NMCFWRU and AZFW) partners to conduct a thorough habitat and hydrological assessment of the San Francisco River. Our research will be used to inform federal and state managers of the feasibility of a successful translocation of the fish species.
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Gila chub (Gila robusta), a fish of greatest conservation need, has not been collected from the San Francisco River in New Mexico since 1948. The goal of federal and state management agencies is to replicate Gila Chub populations to ensure representation, resiliency, and redundancy by expanding GIla chub throughout its historical range. Our research will characterize whether the river has suitable habitat for eventual reintroduction of the species. We will work closely with our federal (USBOR, USFWS, USFS) and state (NMCFWRU and AZFW) partners to conduct a thorough habitat and hydrological assessment of the San Francisco River. Our research will be used to inform federal and state managers of the feasibility of a successful translocation of the fish species.
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Unintended fragmentation: fish community impacts and conservation implications of the Piute Farms Waterfall on the San Juan River.
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December 2020
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Stream fragmentation and non-native species introductions shape the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems and contribute to the decline of stream fish biodiversity. On the San Juan River, Utah, a novel waterfall poses a barrier to upstream movement of both ESA-listed migratory fishes and invasive predatory species from Lake Powell. This project is a collaborative effort by researchers from the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and the US Bureau of Reclamation. The project will provide a quantitative assessment of the waterfall's emerging impacts on species interactions and endangered fish population dynamics. Describing and predicting effects of this barrier on native fish populations will inform management decisions (i.e., should fish passage be considered, and if so, what type?) regarding both the waterfall and analogous features emerging as reservoir levels decline in the Colorado River Basin; such as Pearce Ferry Rapid in lower Grand Canyon.
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Stream fragmentation and non-native species introductions shape the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems and contribute to the decline of stream fish biodiversity. On the San Juan River, Utah, a novel waterfall poses a barrier to upstream movement of both ESA-listed migratory fishes and invasive predatory species from Lake Powell. This project is a collaborative effort by researchers from the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and the US Bureau of Reclamation. The project will provide a quantitative assessment of the waterfall's emerging impacts on species interactions and endangered fish population dynamics. Describing and predicting effects of this barrier on native fish populations will inform management decisions (i.e., should fish passage be considered, and if so, what type?) regarding both the waterfall and analogous features emerging as reservoir levels decline in the Colorado River Basin; such as Pearce Ferry Rapid in lower Grand Canyon.
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Assessing the impact of nutrient enrichment in the Henry’s Fork Headwaters.
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May 2023
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The section of the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River upstream of Island Park Reservoir (“Upper Henry’s Fork”) is a popular recreational angling destination and potential cold water refuge in the face of changing climate conditions that has seen a decline fishery quality since the 1980s. To restore and enhance this historically important state fishery, I am working with the non-profit Henrys Fork Foundation and its many NGO, private, and government partners at the local, state, and federal level to conduct good science that will inform future management. On the way, we look to test key underlying theories of stream ecology in the hopes of informing effective stream ecology research and management locally and across the West.
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Western U.S. rivers are experiencing changes in nutrient loading due to rapid urban development, but the effects of changing nutrient loading on the structure and function of stream ecosystems, especially fish habitat, are not fully understood. The Henry’s Fork of the Snake River in east Idaho is a wide, shallow, clear, spring-fed river whose fish habitat is primarily provided by nutrient-sensitive macrophytes and is experiencing nutrient loading changes from commercial and residential development in its watershed. My goal is to study connections between nutrient availability, ecosystem structure, and fish habitat in in the Henry’s Fork. Methods will include a comparative study along a natural spatio-temporal gradient of nutrient loading in the Henry’s Fork, a nutrient addition experiment, and quantifying fish habitat utilizing fish bioenergetics theory. The project will produce predictive models of fish habitat given certain levels of nutrient enrichment. The model will assist local (Fremont County and area private businesses), state (Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality), non-profit (Henry's Fork Foundation, the Nature Conservancy) and federal (U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Forest Service) resource managers in mitigating human development for the benefit of river ecosystems. My project will contribute to our understanding of how changing nutrient loading may influence stream ecosystem structure and function, and ultimately impact fish habitat.
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Evaluations of Yellow Perch spawning and water level fluctuations for Cheat Lake, West Virginia
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August 2020
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Hydropower reservoirs support many recreational and economic benefits, including recreational fisheries. These reservoirs often undergo seasonal water level drawdowns for power production. Drawdowns often conflict with fish spawning times, where reduced water levels result in dewatered fish eggs and negative impacts to fish populations. This study examined spawning success of a Yellow Perch population relative to drawdowns of Cheat Lake, a hydropower reservior in northern West Virginia. This study was a collaborative effort by the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR), and Cube Hydro, LLC. Results of this research will be used for negotation of the extent of drawdowns during FERC relicensing of the hydropower dam. Results will inform decisions of WVDNR for management of the Yellow Perch fishery.
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Hydropower reservoirs support many recreational and economic benefits, including recreational fisheries. These reservoirs often undergo seasonal water level drawdowns for power production. Drawdowns often conflict with fish spawning times, where reduced water levels result in dewatered fish eggs and negative impacts to fish populations. This study examined spawning success of a Yellow Perch population relative to drawdowns of Cheat Lake, a hydropower reservior in northern West Virginia. This study was a collaborative effort by the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR), and Cube Hydro, LLC. Results of this research will be used for negotation of the extent of drawdowns during FERC relicensing of the hydropower dam. Results will inform decisions of WVDNR for management of the Yellow Perch fishery.
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Corridor H stream monitoring project
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May 2022
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An environmental impact assessment is required for the construction of Corridor H, a four lane highway under construction in eastern West Virginia. Specifically, the West Virginia Division of Transportation (WVDOT) was required to establish a long-term investigation focused on providing community level information on stream ecosystems. This study is a long-term monitoring effort with analyses of macroinvertebrate communities in streams affected by Corridor H road construction, including assessments before, during, and after road construction efforts. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and WVDOT. Our results provide WVDOT with biological impact information relative to the road construction project, and are specifically used by WVDOT to meet their federal permit requirements for continued advancement toward completion of the project.
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An environmental impact assessment is required for the construction of Corridor H, a four lane highway under construction in eastern West Virginia. Specifically, the West Virginia Division of Transportation (WVDOT) was required to establish a long-term investigation focused on providing community level information on stream ecosystems. This study is a long-term monitoring effort with analyses of macroinvertebrate communities in streams affected by Corridor H road construction, including assessments before, during, and after road construction efforts. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, West Virginia University, and WVDOT. Our results provide WVDOT with biological impact information relative to the road construction project, and are specifically used by WVDOT to meet their federal permit requirements for continued advancement toward completion of the project.
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Ungulate Migrations of the Wind River Indian Reservation
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December 2025
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The Wind River Indian Reservation provides vast and intact winter range for at least 10,000 elk and 4,000- 5,000 mule deer on the Owl Creek and Wind River Mountain winter ranges in northwest Wyoming. As such, the Wind River Reservation is of high-importance to the sustainability of elk and mule deer within northwest WY. Despite the numerous benefits of elk and mule deer to the local community and hunters of Wyoming, we do not know the location of their migration corridors or stopover areas. Understanding the location and use of these areas is critical to conserving and managing the elk and mule deer populations for future generations. Further, we have a limited understanding of the demography of elk (adult survival, pregnancy rates), and how diseases such as Brucellosis could be influencing population growth. This project seeks to gather this information, working in collaboration with the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapahoe Tribal Fish and Game and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This migration study will provide new maps of migration corridors, stopover areas, and winter ranges for these herds, thereby advancing population management and on-the-ground work to keep corridors open.
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The Wind River Indian Reservation provides vast and intact winter range for at least 10,000 elk and 4,000- 5,000 mule deer on the Owl Creek and Wind River Mountain winter ranges in northwest Wyoming. As such, the Wind River Reservation is of high-importance to the sustainability of elk and mule deer within northwest WY. Despite the numerous benefits of elk and mule deer to the local community and hunters of Wyoming, we do not know the location of their migration corridors or stopover areas. Understanding the location and use of these areas is critical to conserving and managing the elk and mule deer populations for future generations. Further, we have a limited understanding of the demography of elk (adult survival, pregnancy rates), and how diseases such as Brucellosis could be influencing population growth. This project seeks to gather this information, working in collaboration with the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapahoe Tribal Fish and Game and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This migration study will provide new maps of migration corridors, stopover areas, and winter ranges for these herds, thereby advancing population management and on-the-ground work to keep corridors open.
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Ohio River Asian Carp Program
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January 2021
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Invasive species have become a major concern of natural resource agencies, in part, because of negative impacts to native species. Asian carps, which include several species, are invasive in the Mississippi River drainage and are expanding their ranges upstream into the Ohio River drainage. Invasive Asian carps have been shown to alter ecosystems, through trophic cascade effects on food chains. Many native species, often unable to compete with Asian carps, experience reduced population sizes. This research is a collaborative effort involving the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Research Unit, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, West Virginia University, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and Missouri State University. Monitoring the population expansion of Asian carps in the Ohio RIver and taking steps to reduce population sizes are important measures to reduce impacts of these invasive species. Data on the expansion of Asian carps in the Ohio River will inform mangement decisions of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.
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Invasive species have become a major concern of natural resource agencies, in part, because of negative impacts to native species. Asian carps, which include several species, are invasive in the Mississippi River drainage and are expanding their ranges upstream into the Ohio River drainage. Invasive Asian carps have been shown to alter ecosystems, through trophic cascade effects on food chains. Many native species, often unable to compete with Asian carps, experience reduced population sizes. This research is a collaborative effort involving the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Research Unit, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, West Virginia University, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and Missouri State University. Monitoring the population expansion of Asian carps in the Ohio RIver and taking steps to reduce population sizes are important measures to reduce impacts of these invasive species. Data on the expansion of Asian carps in the Ohio River will inform mangement decisions of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.
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Modeling and Optimization to Advance Decision-making for Trust and At-risk Species
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March 2022
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Since 2012, an adaptive management framework has been in place to guide harvest of horseshoe crabs in the Delaware Bay in a way that maximizes crab harvest while leaving in place sufficient foraging resources for shorebirds. However, estimates of crab abundance that inform the decision model are known to have biases, and the software that generates tables of optimal actions runs only on outdated, unsupported operating systems. Basing harvest management decisions on biased information compromises management performance, and outdated optimization software prevents the implementation of technical improvements. Addressing both shortcomings of the decision making framework will increase quality of harvest management decisions. The University of Georgia is conducting this work in collaboration with USGS and member agencies of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). The research will result in improved estimates of state, model refinements, and a new optimization platform. Together, these components will provide annual recommendations of optimal harvest packages to be considered by members of the ASMFC.
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Since 2012, an adaptive management framework has been in place to guide harvest of horseshoe crabs in the Delaware Bay in a way that maximizes crab harvest while leaving in place sufficient foraging resources for shorebirds. However, estimates of crab abundance that inform the decision model are known to have biases, and the software that generates tables of optimal actions runs only on outdated, unsupported operating systems. Basing harvest management decisions on biased information compromises management performance, and outdated optimization software prevents the implementation of technical improvements. Addressing both shortcomings of the decision making framework will increase quality of harvest management decisions. The University of Georgia is conducting this work in collaboration with USGS and member agencies of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). The research will result in improved estimates of state, model refinements, and a new optimization platform. Together, these components will provide annual recommendations of optimal harvest packages to be considered by members of the ASMFC.
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Development of a long-term paddlefish monitoring program on the Ohio River in West Virginia
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December 2021
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The Paddlefish is a unique, long-lived, and large-bodied fish of the Mississippi River drainage. This species has undergone dramatic population declines owing to anthropogenic alterations of large river ecosystems. Many state natural resource agencies, including West Virginia, are conducting stocking programs toward recovery of Paddlefish populations. A long-term monitoring effort is needed to evaluate the success of this program. This research is a collaborative effort involving the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Research Unit, West Virginia University, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and Missouri State University. This study will evalute population status, movement patterns, and reproductive success of Paddlefish in the Ohio River of West Virginia. Information from this study will inform management decisions for this species, aiding the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources toward their goal of a re-established population of Paddlefish in the Ohio River.
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The Paddlefish is a unique, long-lived, and large-bodied fish of the Mississippi River drainage. This species has undergone dramatic population declines owing to anthropogenic alterations of large river ecosystems. Many state natural resource agencies, including West Virginia, are conducting stocking programs toward recovery of Paddlefish populations. A long-term monitoring effort is needed to evaluate the success of this program. This research is a collaborative effort involving the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Research Unit, West Virginia University, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and Missouri State University. This study will evalute population status, movement patterns, and reproductive success of Paddlefish in the Ohio River of West Virginia. Information from this study will inform management decisions for this species, aiding the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources toward their goal of a re-established population of Paddlefish in the Ohio River.
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Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish Population Demographics, Habitat Use, and Movement in the Robert C. Byrd Pool of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers
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December 2021
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Fishes of large river ecosystems provide important recreational fisheries with real economic contributions. Management of these large river fish populations, however, is often limited owing to a lack of ecological information. Currently little information is known about the population ecology of Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish in the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers of West Virginia. This collaborative study involves researchers from the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Research Unit, West Virginia University, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and Missouri State University. Data from this study on population demographics, habitat use, and movement of Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish will inform management decisions for these species, providing data to aid the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources toward further development of these large river fisheries.
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Fishes of large river ecosystems provide important recreational fisheries with real economic contributions. Management of these large river fish populations, however, is often limited owing to a lack of ecological information. Currently little information is known about the population ecology of Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish in the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers of West Virginia. This collaborative study involves researchers from the USGS West Virginia Cooperative Research Unit, West Virginia University, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and Missouri State University. Data from this study on population demographics, habitat use, and movement of Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish will inform management decisions for these species, providing data to aid the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources toward further development of these large river fisheries.
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A survey of current distributions for Wyoming crayfishes
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December 2021
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Many North American crayfishes are highly imperiled with an estimated 48% at some level of extinction risk. For most Wyoming crayfish species, abundance and population status is unknown. Crayfish can play an important positive role in ecosystems through consuming detritus and serving as forage food for fish, but nonnative species, such as rusty crayfish, can have serious negative effects. An understanding of native crayfish distribution and early detection of nonnative crayfish is critical for management and control. In collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are updating Wyoming crayfish distributions to refine range maps and species of conservation need rank. A better understanding of crayfish ecology is crucial for preserving native species and preventing nonnative species introduction.
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Many North American crayfishes are highly imperiled with an estimated 48% at some level of extinction risk. For most Wyoming crayfish species, abundance and population status is unknown. Crayfish can play an important positive role in ecosystems through consuming detritus and serving as forage food for fish, but nonnative species, such as rusty crayfish, can have serious negative effects. An understanding of native crayfish distribution and early detection of nonnative crayfish is critical for management and control. In collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are updating Wyoming crayfish distributions to refine range maps and species of conservation need rank. A better understanding of crayfish ecology is crucial for preserving native species and preventing nonnative species introduction.
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Drought, water availability, and the implications for fish
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December 2028
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In semi-arid systems, water availability is a critical resource for species to track, but we do not have good quantification of water availability. Climate change and increased water abstraction will increase the frequency and intensity of drought, but the ecological implications are not well understood. There is a need to better quantify water availability and evaluate implications for fish populations. This project is a collaboration of researchers between the USGS Wyoming Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative. Maps of spatial and temporal variation in water availability will be developed that will be useful in the planning and prioritization of management actions.
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In semi-arid systems, water availability is a critical resource for species to track, but we do not have good quantification of water availability. Climate change and increased water abstraction will increase the frequency and intensity of drought, but the ecological implications are not well understood. There is a need to better quantify water availability and evaluate implications for fish populations. This project is a collaboration of researchers between the USGS Wyoming Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative. Maps of spatial and temporal variation in water availability will be developed along with a characterization of fish susceptibility to water availability that will be useful in the planning and prioritization of management actions.
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Quantifying secretive marshbird habitat use across the full annual cycle: a meta-analysis
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June 2021
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The group of birds known, collectively, as secretive marshbirds (SMB) includes some hunted species as well as species of greatest conservation need, within the Midwest region and the Mississippi Flyway. However, there is limited basic ecological information that evaluates whether wetland habitats available on public lands, and management actions directed toward other wetland-dependent taxa within the Mississippi Flyway, are meeting annual life cycle needs for this diverse suite of birds. The overall goal of this project is to better understand habitat requirements of SMB across their full annual cycle (i.e., migration, breeding and wintering periods) throughout the Midwest and the Mississippi Flyway and evaluate how wetland management practices on public lands have potential to influence SMB species distribution and habitat use. Thus, we have designed a multi-phase project involving 1) a meta-analysis to quantitatively assess our current knowledge of SMB habitat associations and identify broad trends across life history events and wetland types within the Mississippi Flyway, and 2) a literature review of how wetland management actions for other wetland-dependent species wetland habitats have the potential to impact SMB species. This project will further our understanding of seasonal interactions for SMB species throughout the Midwest, identify critical information gaps in our knowledge of full annual cycle SMB habitat needs and meet technical information needs identified by the Midwest Marshbird Working Group and the Mississippi Flyway Nongame Technical Section.
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The group of birds known, collectively, as secretive marshbirds (SMB) includes some hunted species as well as species of greatest conservation need, within the Midwest region and the Mississippi Flyway. However, there is limited basic ecological information that evaluates whether wetland habitats available on public lands, and management actions directed toward other wetland-dependent taxa within the Mississippi Flyway, are meeting annual life cycle needs for this diverse suite of birds. The overall goal of this project is to better understand habitat requirements of SMB across their full annual cycle (i.e., migration, breeding and wintering periods) throughout the Midwest and the Mississippi Flyway and evaluate how wetland management practices on public lands have potential to influence SMB species distribution and habitat use. Thus, we have designed a multi-phase project involving 1) a meta-analysis to quantitatively assess our current knowledge of SMB habitat associations and identify broad trends across life history events and wetland types within the Mississippi Flyway, and 2) a literature review of how wetland management actions for other wetland-dependent species wetland habitats have the potential to impact SMB species. This project will further our understanding of seasonal interactions for SMB species throughout the Midwest, identify critical information gaps in our knowledge of full annual cycle SMB habitat needs and meet technical information needs identified by the Midwest Marshbird Working Group and the Mississippi Flyway Nongame Technical Section.
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Coordinating Aquatic Conservation Tools to Connect Priority Geographies and Guide Landscape-Level Conservation
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June 2023
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Recent efforts by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) have focused on landscape-level conservation planning but managers may not be aware of the diversity of conservation planning tools available or in development to assist them with conservation decisions, or how to coordinate their use to maximize effectiveness. The objectives of this project are to 1) Identify areas of greatest aquatic conservation value within and outside the existing Priority Geographies (PG) and Watersheds (PW) and PG network including priorities for creating or maintaining spatial connectivity of important habitats, 2) Work with the PW development team to identify information needed to make landscape-level conservation decisions associated with PWs and enhance managers’ knowledge and use of the various tools available, 3) Develop a decision tree or similar guide with supporting datasets to help managers coordinate use of existing tools to answer landscape-level questions. This project will help MDC and its partners identify important landscapes both within and outside of the existing PG and PW and Watersheds and target areas that would benefit from actions that improve connectivity within and among geographies.
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Recent efforts by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) have focused on landscape-level conservation planning but managers may not be aware of the diversity of conservation planning tools available or in development to assist them with conservation decisions, or how to coordinate their use to maximize effectiveness. The objectives of this project are to 1) Identify areas of greatest aquatic conservation value within and outside the existing Priority Geographies (PG) and Watersheds (PW) and PG network including priorities for creating or maintaining spatial connectivity of important habitats, 2) Work with the PW development team to identify information needed to make landscape-level conservation decisions associated with PWs and enhance managers’ knowledge and use of the various tools available, 3) Develop a decision tree or similar guide with supporting datasets to help managers coordinate use of existing tools to answer landscape-level questions. This project will help MDC and its partners identify important landscapes both within and outside of the existing PG and PW and Watersheds and target areas that would benefit from actions that improve connectivity within and among geographies.
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Developing Adaptation Strategies and Replacement Costs for Recreational and Tribal Fisheries
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March 2023
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<b> </b>Recreational and tribal fisheries are popular in the upper Midwest, but there is concern that fish communities may change in the future, which may result in recreational and tribal fishers leaving the fishery. Understanding how climate change may affect walleye recruitment and how fishery managers can develop strategies for adapting to these changes is important to both recreational and tribal fishers. We will quantify the replacement cost of recreational and tribal angling in lakes in Wisconsin and identify approaches that help glacial lakes managers integrate climate adaptation into current fisheries management. This will be done by updating models that predicting walleye recruitment and presenting this information to agency and tribal biologists to develop multiple adaptation scenarios that weigh costs associated with retaining fisheries in these glacial lakes against the benefits or costs to anglers. Our approach will engage agency biologists in the glacial lakes region to identify management strategies that are available to them, determine to what extent these strategies can maintain fisheries important to their stakeholder group (e.g., walleye). The project will collectively provide various adaptation strategies coproduced with agency managers to better manage walleyes and other glacial lakes fishes under a changing climate.
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Recreational and tribal fisheries are popular in the upper Midwest, but there is concern that fish communities may change in the future, which may result in recreational and tribal fishers leaving the fishery. Understanding how climate change may affect walleye recruitment and how fishery managers can develop strategies for adapting to these changes is important to both recreational and tribal fishers. We will quantify the replacement cost of recreational and tribal angling in lakes in Wisconsin and identify approaches that help glacial lakes managers integrate climate adaptation into current fisheries management. This will be done by updating models that predicting walleye recruitment and presenting this information to agency and tribal biologists to develop multiple adaptation scenarios that weigh costs associated with retaining fisheries in these glacial lakes against the benefits or costs to anglers. Our approach will engage agency biologists in the glacial lakes region to identify management strategies that are available to them, determine to what extent these strategies can maintain fisheries important to their stakeholder group (e.g., walleye). The project will collectively provide various adaptation strategies coproduced with agency managers to better manage walleyes and other glacial lakes fishes under a changing climate.
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Habitat Selection and Quality of Wood Frogs in the Bighorn Mountains
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September 2022
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Wyoming contains the most disjunct populations of wood frogs (<i>Lithobates sylvaticus</i>) in the species’ North American range. A glacial relict species, the Wood Frog occurs as two isolated populations in Wyoming, including one in the Medicine Bow Range. Because of their limited distribution, isolation, and lack of data on habitat use and population status, the Wood Frog is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan. In addition, the chytrid fungus (<i>Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis</i>) responsible for the chytridiomycosis disease and amphibian declines and extirpations worldwide is present in the Medicine Bow, rendering information about ideal habitat characteristics necessary and timely. The main project cooperator is the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, with cooperation and assistance from the Medicine Bow National Forest.
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Wyoming contains the most disjunct populations of wood frogs (<i>Lithobates sylvaticus</i>) in the species’ North American range. A glacial relict species, the Wood Frog occurs as two isolated populations in Wyoming, including one in the Medicine Bow Range. Because of their limited distribution, isolation, and lack of data on habitat use and population status, the Wood Frog is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan. In addition, the chytrid fungus (<i>Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis</i>) responsible for the chytridiomycosis disease and amphibian declines and extirpations worldwide is present in the Medicine Bow, rendering information about ideal habitat characteristics necessary and timely. The main project cooperator is the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, with cooperation and assistance from the Medicine Bow National Forest.
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Full life-cycle effects of natural gas development on sagebrush-obligate songbirds
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September 2026
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One of the primary challenges for the management of sagebrush habitats and wildlife is the conversion and fragmentation of habitat for energy extraction. All three species of sagebrush-obligate songbirds (Brewer's sparrow, sagebrush sparrow, sage thrasher) are declining and species of concern for many state and federal agencies. Large gaps in understanding remain, moreover, about how development influences key life stages outside of the nesting period, including the post-fledging period and annual survival, and the extent to which the fidelity of birds to breeding sites may influence trends in abundance. Moreover, the migratory routes and over-wintering locations for sagebrush songbirds remain unknown, which precludes the ability to assess which life stages may be most limiting. Project cooperators include the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative (USGS). Results will address vital informational gaps necessary to update species conservation plans and inform future sighting decisions.
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One of the primary challenges for the management of sagebrush habitats and wildlife is the conversion and fragmentation of habitat for energy extraction. All three species of sagebrush-obligate songbirds (Brewer's sparrow, sagebrush sparrow, sage thrasher) are declining and species of concern for many state and federal agencies. Large gaps in understanding remain, moreover, about how development influences key life stages outside of the nesting period, including the post-fledging period and annual survival, and the extent to which the fidelity of birds to breeding sites may influence trends in abundance. Moreover, the migratory routes and over-wintering locations for sagebrush songbirds remain unknown, which precludes the ability to assess which life stages may be most limiting. Project cooperators include the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative (USGS). Results will address vital informational gaps necessary to update species conservation plans and inform future sighting decisions.
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Habitat attributes of northern long-eared bat maternity roosts in Wyoming
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June 2023
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The northern long-eared bat (NLEB) has suffered catastrophic population losses in portions of its range with the arrival of white-nose syndrome, and is currently listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. ESA protections for the NLEB are partly centered on limiting disturbance to summer day roost trees which are critical as they provide shelter for females to raise their offspring. The habitat attributes preferred for female NLEBs for their roost sites, however, remain unknown for many parts of the range including within Wyoming. This project is in cooperation with the State of Wyoming (through a Governor's ESA fund grant), the U.S. Forest Service, and the Wyoming Natural Diversity Database. Results will contribute vital information for forest management practices geared towards forestalling further population declines of a threatened bat species.
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The northern long-eared bat (NLEB) has suffered catastrophic population losses in portions of its range with the arrival of white-nose syndrome, and is currently listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. ESA protections for the NLEB are partly centered on limiting disturbance to summer day roost trees which are critical as they provide shelter for females to raise their offspring. The habitat attributes preferred for female NLEBs for their roost sites, however, remain unknown for many parts of the range including within Wyoming. This project is in cooperation with the State of Wyoming (through a Governor's ESA fund grant), the U.S. Forest Service, and the Wyoming Natural Diversity Database. Results will contribute vital information for forest management practices geared towards forestalling further population declines of a threatened bat species.
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Assessing effects of anthropogenic and climate-induced change on health of coastal ecosystems.
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December 2026
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Florida’s coastline is constantly reworked by long and short-term climatic cycles. Shifts in the frequency and intensity of those cycles due to global change, in conjunction with anthropogenic alterations, are affecting the resilience of coastal habitats and the species that rely on them. This research will integrate existing approaches with novel techniques to examine the coupling of oceanographic and onshore processes and their effects on sea turtle nest incubation and dune stabilization. Sea turtles nest in a variety of beach environments, and the success of an individual nest is influenced by its location on the beach and the resulting incubation micro-environment. The effects of tide-driven gas exchange on sea turtle nest incubation, beach microbial communities, and dune stabilization have received little attention. Our recent research indicates that incursion and retreat of the saltwater wedge causes substantial movement of gases through the beach during the tidal cycle, and that alterations like beach nourishment have the potential to suppress this natural pumping effect. We will evaluate how nest incubation dynamics and productivity respond to altered gaseous environments. Additionally, we will examine the role of beach nourishment in shifting offshore/onshore organic matter budgets, and the implications for greenhouse gas emissions. The results of this work will identify how and where habitat suitability issues might arise, and inform sound conservation planning measures and better nourishment practices, including mitigation and alternative actions.
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Florida’s coastline is constantly reworked by long and short-term climatic cycles. Shifts in the frequency and intensity of those cycles due to global change, in conjunction with anthropogenic alterations, are affecting the resilience of coastal habitats and the species that rely on them. This research will integrate existing approaches with novel techniques to examine the coupling of oceanographic and onshore processes and their effects on sea turtle nest incubation and dune stabilization. Sea turtles nest in a variety of beach environments, and the success of an individual nest is influenced by its location on the beach and the resulting incubation micro-environment. The effects of tide-driven gas exchange on sea turtle nest incubation, beach microbial communities, and dune stabilization have received little attention. Our recent research indicates that incursion and retreat of the saltwater wedge causes substantial movement of gases through the beach during the tidal cycle, and that alterations like beach nourishment have the potential to suppress this natural pumping effect. We will evaluate how nest incubation dynamics and productivity respond to altered gaseous environments. Additionally, we will examine the role of beach nourishment in shifting offshore/onshore organic matter budgets, and the implications for greenhouse gas emissions. The results of this work will identify how and where habitat suitability issues might arise, and inform sound conservation planning measures and better nourishment practices, including mitigation and alternative actions.
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Assessing the Biotic Community of Wetland Reserve Program Restorations in Western Kentucky and Tennessee
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July 2023
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The Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) enrolls private lands in conservation easements and seeks to achieve the greatest wetland functions and values, along with optimum wildlife habitat, on every acre enrolled in the program. Restoration activities on WRP sites often focus on improving wildlife habitat that supports hunted species such as migratory waterfowl but it is uncertain how restoration methods affect non-game waterbird communities (Charadriiformes, Gruiformes, Ciconiiformes, and Podicipediformes). The objectives of this project are to quantify vegetation, macroinvertebrate, and avian communities on WRP restorations and evaluate the potential for waterfowl to serve as umbrella taxa for wetland ecosystems.
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The Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) enrolls private lands in conservation easements and seeks to achieve the greatest wetland functions and values, along with optimum wildlife habitat, on every acre enrolled in the program. Restoration activities on WRP sites often focus on improving wildlife habitat that supports hunted species such as migratory waterfowl but it is uncertain how restoration methods affect non-game waterbird communities (Charadriiformes, Gruiformes, Ciconiiformes, and Podicipediformes). The objectives of this project are to quantify vegetation, macroinvertebrate, and avian communities on WRP restorations and evaluate the potential for waterfowl to serve as umbrella taxa for wetland ecosystems.
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Evaluating the role of Wetland Reserve Program easements in providing for multiple ecosystem functions
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July 2023
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Bottomland hardwood (BLH) forests were once the dominant ecosystem in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV), however conversion for agricultural purposes reduced the area of BLH forest across the MAV by 75%. Due to wetland loss and subsequent effects on biotic communities and water quality, the Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) was initiated in 1990 to restore marginal agricultural lands to wetlands. The purpose of our project is to evaluate the effectiveness of WRP restoration projects at providing multiple ecosystem services, including nutrient cycling and wildlife habitat in the MAV. Providing information on the extent to which wetlands provide both wildlife habitat and nutrient cycling can guide future restoration efforts to ensure that project goals are met.
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Bottomland hardwood (BLH) forests were once the dominant ecosystem in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV), however conversion for agricultural purposes reduced the area of BLH forest across the MAV by 75%. Due to wetland loss and subsequent effects on biotic communities and water quality, the Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) was initiated in 1990 to restore marginal agricultural lands to wetlands. The purpose of our project is to evaluate the effectiveness of WRP restoration projects at providing multiple ecosystem services, including nutrient cycling and wildlife habitat in the MAV. Providing information on the extent to which wetlands provide both wildlife habitat and nutrient cycling can guide future restoration efforts to ensure that project goals are met.
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Agent-based modeling of movements and habitat selection of mid-continent mallards
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January 2021
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Landscape management for waterfowl conservation depends on the evaluation of waterfowl responses to habitat conditions, which may be based on complex and emergent interactions between behavioral, environmental and anthropogenic factors. Agent-based models (ABMs) offer a spatially and temporally explicit approach to simulate and evaluate the response of waterfowl populations to conservation scenarios. Our project aims to develop a tool that can be used to test the suitability of alternative conservation allotments to sustain and promote mallard populations during the non-breeding season, consisting of different amounts, configurations, and conditions of management units under a range of management and future environmental conditions.
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Landscape management for waterfowl conservation depends on the evaluation of waterfowl responses to habitat conditions, which may be based on complex and emergent interactions between behavioral, environmental and anthropogenic factors. Agent-based models (ABMs) offer a spatially and temporally explicit approach to simulate and evaluate the response of waterfowl populations to conservation scenarios. Our project aims to develop a tool that can be used to test the suitability of alternative conservation allotments to sustain and promote mallard populations during the non-breeding season, consisting of different amounts, configurations, and conditions of management units under a range of management and future environmental conditions.
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Mitigating emerging disease impacts in fisheries: adaptive strategies to ensure a safe, healthy seafood supply
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December 2021
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A diverse team is organized at the University of Georgia to synthesize existing literature and for adaptive strategies for fisheries in the face of disease outbreaks.
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Humans are expected to have increased demands for seafood. The health and population size of fish stocks are important to food production and security. There are needs for a systematic and comprehensive analysis and for new tools to address consequences and form adaptive strategies for fisheries in the face of disease outbreaks. For instance, in Georgia, shrimp fishing is important, but detrimentally affected by an ongoing epidemic of a parasitic ciliate called shrimp black gill. A diverse team is organized at the University of Georgia to synthesize existing literature, develop flexible modeling approaches for predicting and managing disease outbreaks in fisheries, and leverage efforts into a larger discipline-bridging proposal. A PhD student at the University of Georgia is being supported by this project. This interdisciplinary work aims to broaden the University’s capacity to lead in anticipating or responding to emerging diseases that threaten provision of safe and sustainable seafood (fishery and aquaculture).
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Benefit-cost Analysis for the Threatened and Endangered Species Program of the Bureau of Land Management
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January 2021
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The Georgia Unit is partnering with applied economists at the University of Georgia in an attempt to quantify and monetize the resulting beneficial outputs stemming from a selection of BLM programs and evaluate the benefits of avoiding the listing of a species or the delisting of a previously listed species.
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This project is a first step to focus on operational cost savings or other programmatic benefits derived from the BLM’s Threatened and Endangered Species program. Effort is focusing on a question of broad interest: “What are the benefits of proactive conservation?” The Georgia Unit is partnering with applied economists at the University of Georgia in an attempt to quantify and monetize the resulting beneficial outputs stemming from a selection of BLM programs and evaluate the benefits of avoiding the listing of a species or the delisting of a previously listed species. Project tasks include producing an annotated bibliography with a narrative discussion related to economics of endangered species and ESA programs and seeking additional federal case-study examples to document restrictions, expenditures, transaction costs, or benefits related to delisting or avoiding listing.
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Statistical support for long-term natural resource monitoring
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December 2024
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Throughout the world, monitoring surveys provide essential information for understanding, restoring, and managing populations. The National Park Service (NPS) Inventory and Monitoring (I&M) Program aims to understand status and trends in resource conditions and provide accessible information. The Georgia Unit is assisting NPS I&M with evaluation of sampling designs and pilot data as well as analytical and reporting approaches for monitoring data. This project supports development of statistically sound long-term natural resource monitoring, and will directly assist NPS consider monitoring objectives, data limitations, and potential predictors of interest. The project is currently looking to support a Post-doctoral Research Associate, at the University of Georgia, to collaboratively develop methods and tools for quality-control review; provide statistical and technical applications for analyzing or visualizing monitoring data; and interact with several partners across the southeast region. This project provides statistical and technical assistance to the National Park Service’s Inventory and Monitoring Division, with a focus on developing interactive data dashboards for reviewing and analyzing long-term monitoring data for a variety of resources (including but not limited to water, vegetation, cave biota, and amphibians).
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Throughout the world, monitoring surveys provide essential information for understanding, restoring, and managing populations. The National Park Service (NPS) Inventory and Monitoring (I&M) Program aims to understand status and trends in resource conditions and provide accessible information. The Georgia Unit is assisting NPS I&M with evaluation of sampling designs and pilot data as well as analytical and reporting approaches for monitoring data. This project supports development of statistically sound long-term natural resource monitoring, and will directly assist NPS consider monitoring objectives, data limitations, and potential predictors of interest. The project is currently looking to support a Post-doctoral Research Associate, at the University of Georgia, to collaboratively develop methods and tools for quality-control review; provide statistical and technical applications for analyzing or visualizing monitoring data; and interact with several partners across the southeast region.
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Comparing recruitment estimation methods for age-1 Atlantic Sturgeon in the Altamaha River, GA from 2008-2020
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August 2021
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This project is comparing methods for estimating abundance of age-1 Atlantic Sturgeon in the Altamaha River, Georgia in an attempt to improve population estimates and gain insight into potential factors influencing recruitment.
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The Atlantic Sturgeon (<i>Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus</i>) is an anadromous fish species that was once of great commercial importance in many of the coastal rivers of the eastern U.S. As a result of multiple centuries of overharvest and habitat degradation, this species is now listed as endangered over most of its range. Due to a complex life history, determining population size within a particular river is logistically difficult. Sampling river-resident juveniles is therefore a practical method for investigating long-term population trends. The project is being conducted by the University of Georgia and is funded by the National Marine Fisheries Service as well as the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at UGA. Three abundance estimation methods, which will consider different components of the capture data including spatial information, environmental covariates, and varying effort, will be used to estimate age-1 abundance of Atlantic Sturgeon in the Altamaha River, Georgia. Comparing the precision of these methods will improve future population estimates as well as give insight into the abiotic factors affecting recruitment variability within Atlantic Sturgeon populations.
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Assessing Actively Poached Galax Populations to Inform Restoration and Law Enforcement
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December 2021
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This project is a partnership with the National Parks Service, the Appalachian Highlands Monitoring Network, as well as the University of Georgia and USGS. This research will support decisions on galax management within the Blue Ridge Parkway, including law enforcement activity and identifying further research needs to assess the status of galax in the park.
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The southern Appalachians are a hotspot of biodiversity and some local species may be being harvested to the point of overexploitation. <i>Galax urceolata</i> is harvested for sale and use in background foliage and floral decorations. In recent years, illegal harvest on the Blue Ridge Parkway has increased to a point that it may be contributing to population declines. There is a growing need to understand the scope of poaching in protected areas, and to study the impact of harvest on non-timber forest products. Assessment of the impact of harvest and other factors on galax abundance will help identify possible solutions to this issue. This project is a partnership with the National Parks Service, the Appalachian Highlands Monitoring Network, as well as the University of Georgia and USGS. This research will support decisions on galax management within the Blue Ridge Parkway, including law enforcement activity and identifying further research needs to assess the status of galax in the park.
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Effects of Drought on Seed Germination and Biomass Allocation in Seedlings of Bottomland Hardwood Trees
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June 2021
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Global changes to floodplain hydrology for flood control and water-management coupled with increased climatic variability has led to intensified drought conditions in riparian forest communities, including bottomland hardwood forests of the southern United States. Bottomland hardwoods are experiencing range wide shifts in species composition to less flood tolerant species but there is a lack of process-level understating regarding the effects of altered hydrology on bottomland hardwood community structure. This project will evaluate the effects of drought, or differing levels of water availability, on seed germination of select bottomland hardwood species. In addition, greenhouse and field experiments will evaluate how different species of bottomland hardwood seedlings allocate carbon among roots, stems, and leaves under varying soil moisture conditions. This research will begin to allow us to understand how the mechanisms of bottomland hardwood regeneration are affected by drought and to develop more effective forest management approaches under changing hydrologic and soil moisture conditions.
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Global changes to floodplain hydrology for flood control and water-management coupled with increased climatic variability has led to intensified drought conditions in riparian forest communities, including bottomland hardwood forests of the southern United States. Bottomland hardwoods are experiencing range wide shifts in species composition to less flood tolerant species but there is a lack of process-level understating regarding the effects of altered hydrology on bottomland hardwood community structure. This project will evaluate the effects of drought, or differing levels of water availability, on seed germination of select bottomland hardwood species. In addition, greenhouse and field experiments will evaluate how different species of bottomland hardwood seedlings allocate carbon among roots, stems, and leaves under varying soil moisture conditions. This research will begin to allow us to understand how the mechanisms of bottomland hardwood regeneration are affected by drought and to develop more effective forest management approaches under changing hydrologic and soil moisture conditions.
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NSF: Unifying mathematical and statistical approaches for modeling animal movement and resource selection
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July 2020
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Modeling animal movement through landscapes is a key component to understanding population<br>ecology, how populations can be managed, how human actions impact the population, and how the population could respond to anthropogenic change factors such as climate and/or urbanization. Dramatic improvements in two critical types of data have recently occurred: remotely sensed environmental data and high-resolution animal location (telemetry) data. These data drive a statistical industry serving Federal and State wildlife management agencies, private companies, and academia. This is a collaborative project funded by the National Science Foundation, and in conjunction with Colorado State University, and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. We will combine approaches in statistics and mechanistic dispersal models and develop a unified method for analyzing telemetry data that naturally accommodates heterogeneous environments and barriers/constraints to movement. Developed tools will be applied to foraging ungulates in Utah, harbor seals in the Gulf of Alaska, and Canada lynx in Colorado.
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Modeling animal movement through landscapes is a key component to understanding populationecology, how populations can be managed, how human actions impact the population, and how the population could respond to anthropogenic change factors such as climate and/or urbanization. Dramatic improvements in two critical types of data have recently occurred: remotely sensed environmental data and high-resolution animal location (telemetry) data. These data drive a statistical industry serving Federal and State wildlife management agencies, private companies, and academia. This is a collaborative project funded by the National Science Foundation, and in conjunction with Colorado State University, and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. We will combine approaches in statistics and mechanistic dispersal models and develop a unified method for analyzing telemetry data that naturally accommodates heterogeneous environments and barriers/constraints to movement. Developed tools will be applied to foraging ungulates in Utah, harbor seals in the Gulf of Alaska, and Canada lynx in Colorado.
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RWO 70 - Research, Education, and Training in the Proper Application of Species Distribution and Habitat Models to the Management and Conservation of Plant and Animal Species
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September 2022
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Virtually all spatially-based (landscape-scale) management and conservation relies to some extent on models of species distributions and habitats (SDHM). At the level of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), distributions are clearly integral to the vast bulk of ESA-related Federal Register documentation, as well as on the USFWS ECOS site. However, for many species the state-of-art distribution map is 25+ year old Gap Analysis outputs, or locations tagged to land tenure units frequently the size of US counties, or polygon-based "blobs." None of these provide spatial resolutions useful in management today. This project is a collaboration between the US Geological Survey, Ecosystems, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Ecological Services, and the FWS National Conservation Training Center. , and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. This proposal will train and educate a wide range of USGS and CRU-based scientists and students, and well as cooperating Federal and state biologists, in the proper constriction of defensible SDHM. The process will facilitate meeting user-specific research objectives related to SDHMs and their application to management.
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Virtually all spatially-based (landscape-scale) management and conservation relies to some extent on models of species distributions and habitats (SDHM). At the level of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), distributions are clearly integral to the vast bulk of ESA-related Federal Register documentation, as well as on the USFWS ECOS site. However, for many species the state-of-art distribution map is 25+ year old Gap Analysis outputs, or locations tagged to land tenure units frequently the size of US counties, or polygon-based "blobs." None of these provide spatial resolutions useful in management today. This project is a collaboration between the US Geological Survey, Ecosystems, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Ecological Services, and the FWS National Conservation Training Center. , and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. This proposal will train and educate a wide range of USGS and CRU-based scientists and students, and well as cooperating Federal and state biologists, in the proper constriction of defensible SDHM. The process will facilitate meeting user-specific research objectives related to SDHMs and their application to management.
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Chronic Wasting Disease management in the Midwest
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August 2023
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Wildlife management agencies have historically applied a variety of disease control strategies to slow the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD; a fatal disease of deer, elk and moose), but manipulation of harvest regulations has been the primary tool used to reduce density and presumably slow the spread of CWD. Despite the wide spread use of harvest as a CWD management tool, rigorous evaluations of the effectiveness of harvest regulations to significantly change deer harvest and CWD risk has not been conducted, owing to the difficulty in measuring the impacts of varying harvest approaches within a single jurisdiction. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. A critical examination of the impact of harvest regulations on harvest and CWD dynamics will be done and will be used to guide a regional application of adaptive management strategies for wildlife agencies to coordinate disease mitigation efforts.
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Wildlife management agencies have historically applied a variety of disease control strategies to slow the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD; a fatal disease of deer, elk and moose), but manipulation of harvest regulations has been the primary tool used to reduce density and presumably slow the spread of CWD. Despite the wide spread use of harvest as a CWD management tool, rigorous evaluations of the effectiveness of harvest regulations to significantly change deer harvest and CWD risk has not been conducted, owing to the difficulty in measuring the impacts of varying harvest approaches within a single jurisdiction. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. A critical examination of the impact of harvest regulations on harvest and CWD dynamics will be done and will be used to guide a regional application of adaptive management strategies for wildlife agencies to coordinate disease mitigation efforts.
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The development and evaluation of monitoring protocols to inform water resource decision making
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December 2022
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Natural resource managers invest a considerable amount of resources on surveillance monitoring programs to track the distribution and abundance of species. Although these data can be useful when evaluating spatial and temporal trends for populations, using these data directly assumes the population dynamics signal is greater than the noise in the data that stems from the sampling process. This assumption is frequently unmet. An equally important consideration is the integration of monitoring and natural resource decision-making. Here we are evaluating the adequacy of long term monitoring data from San Francisco Bay-Delta to depict the status of fish populations and developing alternative estimators that can be integrated with water resource decision-making.
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Effective water resources management requires depends upon the quality of monitoring and research data.Unfortunately, the adequacy of sampling protocols are rarely assessed. Managers need reliable and cost-efficient survey protocols that are formally integrated with management decision-making.This project is a collaboration with researchers in multiple federal agencies including the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Bureau of Reclamation, the National Marine Fisheries Service and CA State and Federal managers in the San Francisco Bay Delta.The quality of existing long-term monitoring data will be evaluated. Alternative sample designs and estimators that are integrated with water management decision making will be developed and evaluated. These data will then be integrated with decision support models.
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Integrating monitoring, modeling, and management for amphibian conservation in the western United States
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September 2021
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Amphibians play an important role in ecosystems, providing a critical link in the food web across aquatic and terrestrial habitats and used as indicator species to gauge overall ecosystem health. However, there is an accumulation of evidence that amphibian communities are facing global declines in abundance and diversity. Although these declines are related to a suite of interrelated factors, habitat modification is the most implicated source of amphibian declines. The strong link between habitat modification and loss of amphibians is probably related to the complex life cycle of amphibians, where individuals rely on both aquatic and terrestrial habitats to meet life history demands. We are developing a framework for integrating information from monitoring, remote sensing, and research to better information managers in the Pacific Northwest.
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Amphibians are the most threatened class of vertebrates. Global declines in amphibians are related to a variety of factors including habitat, climate change, disease, contaminants, and invasive species.As nongame vertebrates, amphibians received little direct research or management until the last few decades when declines became well documented and recognized. An integrated, adaptive framework is needed in the Pacific Northwest for identifying information gaps and developing management strategies for amphibians and their habitats.The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center and State and Federal natural resource managers in the Pacific Northwest.A useful decision-making model will be developed that will reasonably approximate the complex life cycle of amphibians while balancing the complexity with available information. The model will integrate subsequent amphibian monitoring data to reduce uncertainty about the factors affecting amphibians and their habitats and to improve reliability of the model predictions.
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Changes in stream fish distribution and occurrence in seven National Park Service units of the Eastern Rivers and Mountains Network
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December 2023
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The National Park Service (NPS) mission to preserve, protect, and maintain the integrity of park ecosystems for the enjoyment of future generations relies upon access to science-based information regarding the status and trends of ecosystem condition. The Eastern Rivers and Mountains Network (ERMN) includes nine parks located in four states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia ranging in size from approximately 66 to 30,000 hectares with over 690 km of rivers and streams. The ERMN documents long-term change in the ecological integrity of one of the most abundant surface water ecosystems types in the network (high gradient, wadeable streams) by monitoring stream fish communities. Assessment of changes in fish community composition, occupancy and abundance is necessary in order to ensure the NPS mission is achieved. The project is a collaboration of researchers from USGS, NPS, and Pennsylvania State University. The statistical models developed during this project will inform decision making processes for the management of park ecosystems.
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The National Park Service (NPS) mission to preserve, protect, and maintain the integrity of park ecosystems for the enjoyment of future generations relies upon access to science-based information regarding the status and trends of ecosystem condition. The Eastern Rivers and Mountains Network (ERMN) includes nine parks located in four states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia ranging in size from approximately 66 to 30,000 hectares with over 690 km of rivers and streams. The ERMN documents long-term change in the ecological integrity of one of the most abundant surface water ecosystems types in the network (high gradient, wadeable streams) by monitoring stream fish communities. Assessment of changes in fish community composition, occupancy and abundance is necessary in order to ensure the NPS mission is achieved. The project is a collaboration of researchers from USGS, NPS, and Pennsylvania State University. The statistical models developed during this project will inform decision making processes for the management of park ecosystems.
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Strategies for climate-ready fishing communities: optimal fishing portfolios for changing ocean ecosystems
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February 2023
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Climate change is advancing rapidly, particularly in high latitude oceans leading to shifting marine species distributions, and impacting fish population productivity and variability. As a result, fishing communities face increasing threats to local economies and cultural heritage as they bear risk of losing fishing access under changing marine ecosystems. in this collaboration with USGS, Cornell University, The Nature Conservancy, Alaska Pacific University, and fishing stakeholders, we seek to address a key sustainability challenge for fisheries-reliant communities: How can communities maintain access to commercial fishing resources in the face of climate-driven ocean changes? Using AK fisheries as a focal system, we are quantifying the degree of climate risk facing fishing communities, identifying optimal community fishing rights portfolio that are robust to climate-driven fishery changes, and advancing efforts to operationalize climate-robust fishing portfolios through innovative finance opportunities to support fishing community climate adaptation strategies. To achieve our project goals, we have assembled a cutting-edge interdisciplinary team, integrating across marine ecology, fisheries management, finance, and computer science experts.
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Climate change is advancing rapidly, particularly in high latitude oceans leading to shifting marine species distributions, and impacting fish population productivity and variability. As a result, fishing communities face increasing threats to local economies and cultural heritage as they bear risk of losing fishing access under changing marine ecosystems. in this collaboration with USGS, Cornell University, The Nature Conservancy, Alaska Pacific University, and fishing stakeholders, we seek to address a key sustainability challenge for fisheries-reliant communities: How can communities maintain access to commercial fishing resources in the face of climate-driven ocean changes? Using AK fisheries as a focal system, we are quantifying the degree of climate risk facing fishing communities, identifying optimal community fishing rights portfolio that are robust to climate-driven fishery changes, and advancing efforts to operationalize climate-robust fishing portfolios through innovative finance opportunities to support fishing community climate adaptation strategies. To achieve our project goals, we have assembled a cutting-edge interdisciplinary team, integrating across marine ecology, fisheries management, finance, and computer science experts.
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Restoring fish community resilience to support ecosystem stability in the Great Lakes: Cisco restoration in Keuka Lake
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April 2024
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As inland lakes in the Northeast U.S. evolve under changing climate and variable nutrient inputs, maintaining fish community biodiversity has been identified as a key ecosystem management strategy to promote resilient fishery resources. Cisco were once abundant throughout the Great Lakes basin, however, many inland lake populations had been lost by the mid 1900s. Managers are now looking to restore these populations and increase lake forage fish diversity. In this collaboration across USGS, Cornell, and the NY State Department of Conservation, we are pioneering whole-lake monitoring and novel acoustic tagging technology to re-introduce Cisco in Keuka Lake. Our project is providing survival and food web information that can guide Cisco restoration across the Great Lakes basin, contributing vital empirical evidence to inform species restoration efforts.
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As inland lakes in the Northeast U.S. evolve under changing climate and variable nutrient inputs, maintaining fish community biodiversity has been identified as a key ecosystem management strategy to promote resilient fishery resources. Cisco were once abundant throughout the Great Lakes basin, however, many inland lake populations had been lost by the mid 1900s. Managers are now looking to restore these populations and increase lake forage fish diversity. In this collaboration across USGS, Cornell, and the NY State Department of Conservation, we are pioneering whole-lake monitoring and novel acoustic tagging technology to re-introduce Cisco in Keuka Lake. Our project is providing survival and food web information that can guide Cisco restoration across the Great Lakes basin, contributing vital empirical evidence to inform species restoration efforts.
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Assessing the value of prior and novel information in managing a mixed-stock recreational Chinook Salmon fishery
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June 2021
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Mixed-stock fisheries are systems that consist of multiple populations of fish with sizes amenable to resource management and are harvested simultaneously. When different stocks have varying levels of abundance, productivity, and vulnerability to fishing pressure, fishery managers often are faced with the competing objectives of protecting the more vulnerable stocks while maximizing sustainable harvest on remaining healthy stocks. The challenges associated with managing a mixed-stock fishery are typified by the Columbia River fall-run Chinook fishery at the mouth. The fishery includes numerous fall-run stocks with eight separate fall-run management components, including two protected stocks: Snake River wild brights and Lower Columbia River tules. The recreational fishery is an important economic benefit to the surrounding communities, generating over $25M/year depending on season length.To further complicate the management, a growing number of the recreational anglers believe that they can identify tule Chinook from upriver brights and purport to release an unknown portion of their catch (those identified as tules) to ensure that the season is open as long as possible. Thus, management of the fishery requires reliable estimates of in-season harvest, while taking into account changes in angler behavior. Our objectives are to develop the tools (including novel assessment methods and regulatory options) and systemic understanding necessary to promote effective management of the mixed-stock fishery in the face of existing conservation priorities and changing angler behavior.
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Mixed-stock fisheries are notoriously difficult to manage. When different stocks have varying levels of abundance, productivity, and vulnerability to fishing pressure, fishery managers often are faced with the competing objectives of protecting the more vulnerable stocks while maximizing sustainable harvest on remaining healthy stocks.The efficacy of mixed-stock fishery management is challenged by the degree of uncertainty in preseason run size forecasts, creel surveys, and tagging data to assess in-season exploitation rates for the different management stocks and changes in angling behavior. An integrated approach is needed to incorporate these sources of information to more effectively manage mixed stock fisheries.The project is a collaboration with State and Federal natural resource managers in the Columbia River Basin.The goal of this study to develop the tools (including novel assessment methods and regulatory options) and systemic understanding necessary to promote effective management of the a mixed-stock fishery in the face of existing conservation priorities and changing angler behavior.
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Adaptively Manageing Instream Flows for Ecological Needs
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August 2020
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Sustaining the ecological integrity of aquatic ecosystems while meeting human needs for water resources is a major challenge facing today’s society. In many regions, including much of the western US, the growing demand for water supply and energy and increased human development have altered hydrologic regimes in streams and rivers that society depends upon for ecosystem services, including support of native biodiversity. Meeting the challenge of balancing human needs for water resources with protecting aquatic ecosystems requires the identification of management objectives and the integration of science-based information to help managers evaluate tradeoffs and identify optimal management strategies. Here we are working with managers and scientists to develop a framework for informing flow management in the Willamette River Basin.
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Stream flow regulation is one of the most important issues facing natural resource managers and planners. Aquatic resource managers need tools for assessing the potential impacts of river regulation and water development on ecological systems.Several tools have been developed for assessing the effects of streamflow alteration but none have been integration with decision making and monitoring to reduce critical uncertainties. An integrated adaptive framework is needed to manage aquatic resources, identify information gaps, and facilitate the development of aquatic resource management strategies.The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Oregon Water Science Center, and managers several state and federal agencies in the Pacific Northwest.An integrated adaptive framework that includes quantitative decision models will be developed for threatened salmonids and integrated with monitoring to facilitate their improvement, thereby improving management.
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Effects of conifer expansion and removal on songbird abundances and reproductive success in high-elevation sagebrush of Southwestern Montana
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August 2024
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Understanding the consequences of conifer removal for abundance and reproductive output of songbirds using both conifer and sagebrush habitats is needed to understand best practices for enhancing populations of all wildlife. Mountain sagebrush landscapes include other woody habitat like denser conifer stands at the periphery of conifer removal areas. Conifer removal can create artificial ‘hard’ edges that might yield high predation near the edges both inside and outside the conifer. This could even create ecological traps, where abundances are high but breeding productivity creates population sinks that yield declining populations near the edges in both habitats. We will examine: 1) abundance and reproductive output of sagebrush-obligate songbirds in sagebrush habitat in Sage-grouse core areas and including some active leks without versus with conifer removal, 2) abundance and reproductive output of conifer-dependent songbirds in adjacent conifer stands, 3) the change in songbird species composition from conifer to sagebrush habitats, and 4) impacts of distance from woody vegetation on nesting success and population trajectories (i.e., lambda) of songbirds. This information will inform the management removal of conifer trees located in stands of mountain big sagebrush habitats, and provide specific recommendations on the landscape contexts and distances from woody cover that will benefit songbirds the most.
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Conifer removal is a core practice in sage-steppe restoration to benefit Elk (<i>Cervus </i>Canadensis) and Greater Sage-grouse (<i>Centrocercus urophasianus</i>) as well as other sagebrush species of management concern. Research to identify the demographic impacts on sagebrush obligate songbirds, as well as conifer-dependent songbird species, is lacking. Understanding the consequences of conifer removal for abundance and reproductive output of songbirds using both conifer and sagebrush habitats in high elevation Montana is needed to understand best practices for enhancing populations of all wildlife. Partners include US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Bureau of Land Management, Montana Fish, Wildife and Parks, Nature Conservancy and private landowners. This information will inform the management removal of conifer trees located in stands of mountain big sagebrush habitats, and provide specific recommendations on the landscape contexts and distances from woody cover that will benefit songbirds the most.
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Estimating Elk Abundance and Herd Demographics
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June 2025
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After being extirpated in Virginia since the late 1960s, elk have been reintroduced to the southwest Coalfields. Managers need information on movements and habitat use of reintroduced elk in the Coalfields to increase the herd to understand program success and minimize human-conflict. Response of reintroduced elk in southwest Virginia relative to movement, home range establishment and habitat use is unknown and required by state managers and other stakeholders to ensure long-term success and viability. Efforts are underway to understand movements and habitat use, develop monitoring techniques and assess areas for herd expansion. The project partners are the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Coal Industry, Conservation NGOs and state sportsman groups. These data, particularly, censusing will inform how, when and where of elk management with particular emphasis on setting harvest regulations. Managers need to know where elk occur, how they are expanding and what recruitment, survival and population growth is.
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After being extirpated in Virginia since the late 1960s, elk have been reintroduced to the southwest Coalfields. Efforts are underway to understand movements and habitat use, develop monitoring techniques and assess areas for herd expansion. Using GPS-collared animals, the Virginia Unit is showing the reliance of elk on reclaimed surface mines as the primary habitat, though forest cover that provides thermal protection in the summer and as escape cover in the fall also are important. Annual recruitment has occurred and between that and migration from surrounding states, the herd is slowly growing and expanding in distribution. Efforts to develop Virginia-specific censusing techniques are underway.
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Refining Survey Efforts and Distributional Modeling for the Endangered Carolina Northern Flying Squirrel
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December 2022
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Data from radio-telemetry, camera-surveys, acoustic surveys and nest-box surveys are being used to refine predictive habitat and occupancy models for the endangered Carolina northern flying squirrel which occurs in the highly imperiled spruce-fir ecosystems of the Southern Appalachians.
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Data from radio-telemetry, camera-surveys, acoustic surveys and nest-box surveys are being used to refine predictive habitat and occupancy models for the endangered Carolina northern flying squirrel which occurs in the highly imperiled spruce-fir ecosystems of the Southern Appalachians. Efforts to remap potential habitat using remotely-sensed imagery in conjunction with understanding necessary level of survey effort from a variety of techniques are being used to inform management efforts for state and federal partners. Data are being used to update species assessment plans and continuation of listing status. Moreover, because the squirrel is a sentinel species in this ecosystem, ability to track its status improves our ability to assess spruce-fir ecosystem integrity.
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Coastal Bat Migration
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June 2021
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Tree bats such as the eastern red bat, hoary bat and silver-haired bat exhibit south to north spring and north to south autumn migrations rather than engage in hibernation during the dormant season. Use of the Appalachian Mountains and Atlantic Coast have meant that wind-energy related mortality for the species is high. Efforts are underway to examine environmental and climate relationships to tree bat presence and movements to inform development of wind-energy best management practices and to better understand migration ecology.
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Tree bats such as the eastern red bat, hoary bat and silver-haired bat exhibit south to north spring and north to south autumn migrations rather than engage in hibernation during the dormant season. Use of the Appalachian Mountains and Atlantic Coast have meant that wind-energy related mortality for the species is high. Efforts are underway to examine environmental and climate relationships to tree bat presence and movements to inform development of wind-energy best management practices and to better understand migration ecology. Using RIF-nanotags, bats have been tagged in coastal Virginia, Delaware and New Jersey and tracked using the stationary MOTUS tower network. Red bats have shown surprising cross-water movements in the Delaware and Chesapeake bays indicating a higher use of open water flight that previously thought in the mid-Atlantic.
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Determining the consequences of land management actions on fish population dynamics and distributions
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May 2025
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Better understanding the drivers and stressors affecting fish health, fish habitat and aquatic conditions remains a significant management need in cool and warmwater rivers. Quantifying the effects of land management activities on aquatic ecosystems plays an important role in environmental management and decision-making. This research will address stakeholder needs related to understanding the effects of land management actions on stream and river habitat conditions – habitat that is critical for supporting socioeconomically and ecologically important fish communities throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS and state fisheries management agencies across the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Through the development of several modeling frameworks, this research will focus on quantifying the effects of land management actions on population-level outcomes that are relevant to managers, including effects on abundance, recruitment, the number of spawners, and size structure.
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Better understanding the drivers and stressors affecting fish health, fish habitat and aquatic conditions remains a significant management need in cool and warmwater rivers. Quantifying the effects of land management activities on aquatic ecosystems plays an important role in environmental management and decision-making. This research will address stakeholder needs related to understanding the effects of land management actions on stream and river habitat conditions – habitat that is critical for supporting socioeconomically and ecologically important fish communities throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS and state fisheries management agencies across the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Through the development of several modeling frameworks, this research will focus on quantifying the effects of land management actions on population-level outcomes that are relevant to managers, including effects on abundance, recruitment, the number of spawners, and size structure.
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Seasonal Movement of Roundtail Chub in the Blacks Fork Drainage
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August 2022
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Freshwater fishes are threatened due to water diversion, habitat alteration, and nonnative species. The Roundtail Chub is a fish species endemic to the Colorado River Basin that currently occupies only 45% of its historic range. The Blacks Fork population constitutes the largest contiguous (i.e., not fragmented by barriers) population of Roundtail Chub remaining in Wyoming, but very little is known about their current status and life history. This project is a collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Our goal is to determine general movement patterns of all Roundtail Chub life stages, timing of movements, how populations are connected, and whether they are using tributaries. The results of this study will provide information necessary for managers to conserve Roundtail Chub populations in the Blacks Fork drainage and across their range.
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Freshwater fishes are threatened due to water diversion, habitat alteration, and nonnative species. The Roundtail Chub is a fish species endemic to the Colorado River Basin that currently occupies only 45% of its historic range. The Blacks Fork population constitutes the largest contiguous (i.e., not fragmented by barriers) population of Roundtail Chub remaining in Wyoming, but very little is known about their current status and life history. This project is a collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Our goal is to determine general movement patterns of all Roundtail Chub life stages, timing of movements, how populations are connected, and whether they are using tributaries. The results of this study will provide information necessary for managers to conserve Roundtail Chub populations in the Blacks Fork drainage and across their range.
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Sediment and fisheries: An assessment to inform sediment management practices at Wyoming dams
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August 2022
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Sediment accumulation behind dams presents managers with a substantial challenge. Allowing sediment to accumulate behind dams can impair dam operations, compromise structural integrity, and increase maintenance costs, but large sediment releases can harm downstream uses such as fisheries. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Bureau of Reclamation, and Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Our project will provide insight into the relationship between sediment and fisheries thus providing managers with the tools and information to effectively address fisheries management below dams. This study will be directly applicable to Willwood Dam near Powell, Wyoming and will also assist in evaluating Wyoming’s water quality criteria for suspended sediment and turbidity.
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Sediment accumulation behind dams presents managers with a substantial challenge. Allowing sediment to accumulate behind dams can impair dam operations, compromise structural integrity, and increase maintenance costs, but large sediment releases can harm downstream uses such as fisheries. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Bureau of Reclamation, and Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Our project will provide insight into the relationship between sediment and fisheries thus providing managers with the tools and information to effectively address fisheries management below dams. This study will be directly applicable to Willwood Dam near Powell, Wyoming and will also assist in evaluating Wyoming’s water quality criteria for suspended sediment and turbidity.
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Evaluating the effects of Brook Stickleback on native nongame fishes
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June 2022
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Nonnative species pose a substantial threat to aquatic ecosystems. Brook Stickleback is small fish non-native in Wyoming where it co-occurs with native non-game fish including at least six species that are listed as Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Despite this extensive overlap, there has been no research on potential interactions between these species so it is unclear what level of risk Brook Stickleback establishment and expansion poses to the Wyoming native nongame fish assemblage. This work is in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. An understanding of the potential effects of Brook Stickleback on native nongame fish populations will help determine whether management actions to control Brook Stickleback would be justified.
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Nonnative species pose a substantial threat to aquatic ecosystems. Brook Stickleback is small fish non-native in Wyoming where it co-occurs with native non-game fish including at least six species that are listed as Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Despite this extensive overlap, there has been no research on potential interactions between these species so it is unclear what level of risk Brook Stickleback establishment and expansion poses to the Wyoming native nongame fish assemblage. This work is in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. An understanding of the potential effects of Brook Stickleback on native nongame fish populations will help determine whether management actions to control Brook Stickleback would be justified.
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Trophic ecology of Walleyes in Lake Pend Oreille
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December 2023
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Walleyes <i>Sander vitreus </i>are ecologically and recreationally important. A non-native population of Walleyes has recently been established in the Lake Pend Oreille system in northern Idaho. Walleyes are piscivorous and the new population raises concerns regarding their potential effect on the system particularly regarding consumption of salmonids. The objective of thisresearch was to evaluate the trophic ecology of Walleyes throughout the system, identify factors related to growth of Walleyes, and relate individual variability in growth to variability in isotopes (i.e., <sup>15</sup>N, <sup>13</sup>C). Food habits were diverse, and Walleyes consumed various fishes and macroinvertebrates. Kokanee <i>Oncorhynchus nerka</i> was the most frequently consumed prey item, and abundance of kokanee was related to growth of Walleyes in the system. Fast-growing individuals consumed prey items at higher trophic positions and from pelagic habitats. These results suggest that Walleyes will likely have negative effects on the kokanee population. This research provides valuable information regarding the direct and indirect effects of an established Walleye population in the Lake Pend Oreille system.
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Walleye are among the most popular sport fishes in North America. However, they are a concern in areas where they are nonnative and have been introduced. Walleyes have been introduced to Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho, and are likley a threat to both species of recreational and conservation importance. We are closely with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to better understand the potential influence of Walleyes on fishes in the system. Results of this work will provide a comprehensive understanding of the population dynamics of Walleyes and their food habits in Lake Pend Oreille. This information will be used to develop population models and bioenergetics models that, in turn, can be used to evaluate different management actions.
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Research on Data Integration
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December 2022
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I am exploring several developments related to data integration approaches including combining multiple data sources (e.g., autonomous recording units and point count data or aerial and ground count data) and power analyses for integrated population models.
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Combining multiple sources of data is a new area of research. The development of new models allows for the integration of data sources from different data streams to better inform management and conservation. I am partnering with South Carolina Dept. of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and USDA NRCS on various projects related to data integration. The research will inform potential conservation efforts related to a wide variety of vertebrate species.
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Assessing the fish community in the Chehalis River with occupancy models
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June 2021
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is conducting a project in the Chehalis River of southwest Washington to determine the effects of salmon- and steelhead- focused restoration efforts on other native freshwater fish. The goals of this study are to, 1) define a baseline from which WDFW can monitor changes in native fish occupancy following restoration actions, and 2) describe the relationship between native freshwater fish occupancy and habitat and landscape metrics. WDFW aims to develop a multi-site occupancy model to describe how the fish community is influenced by habitat or landscape metrics. This information will inform the design and location of future restoration projects.
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Salmon- and steelhead-focused restoration efforts are common in river systems of the Pacific Northwest, but their effects on overall stream communities are not well understood. Understanding these effects will help managers to target restoration efforts appropriately. This goals of this project are to 1) define a baseline for monitoring changes in native fish occupancy following restoration actions in the Chehalis River Basin of Washington, and 2) describe the relationship between native freshwater fish occupancy and habitat and landscape metrics. This project - a collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife - aims to develop a multi-site occupancy model to describe how the fish community is influenced by habitat and landscape metrics. This information will inform the design and location of future restoration projects.
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Long-term seabird monitoring data analysis to update Channel Islands National Park seabird inventory and monitoring program and Inform management and conservation
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June 2024
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Established in 1980, Channel Islands National Park contains essential breeding grounds for at least fourteen seabirds and shorebirds. Seabirds were identified as one of the park’s monitoring Vital Signs to provide critical information about trends in natural resource conditions and a Seabird Monitoring Handbook was created in 1983 to guide priorities and objectives for the Seabird Monitoring Program. This handbook was updated in 1988. Since then, staff turnover and funding gaps have led to an inconsistent effort in monitoring by the park. More recently, the Channel Islands National Park Seabird Biologist, in coordination with the National Park Service's Mediterranean Coast Network Inventory & Monitoring Program, has identified the need to conduct a scientific review of the park’s seabird program. Furthermore, a recent monitoring plan assessment report by Point Blue Conservation Science identified seven focal seabird species plus one shorebird species to be prioritized in an updated monitoring program. The purpose of the project proposed here is to advance Channel Islands National Park's Seabird Monitoring Program by compiling all known digitally available datasets for the eight prioritized species and conducting species-specific in-depth program reviews following NPS guidelines and in coordination with Channel Islands National Park and the National Park Service's Inventory & Monitoring Program.
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Established in 1980, California's Channel Islands National Park contains essential breeding grounds for at least fourteen seabirds and shorebirds. These species were collectively identified as one of the Park’s monitoring Vital Signs, but staff turnover and funding gaps have led to inconsistent effort in monitoring. The purpose of this project is to advance Channel Islands National Park's Seabird Monitoring Program by compiling all known datasets for eight prioritized species and conducting species-specific in-depth program and status reviews. This project is a collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Channel Islands National Park, and the National Park Service's Inventory & Monitoring Program. The results of the research will inform status reviews and identify threats for seabirds at Channel Islands National Park, and will inform the development of updated monitoring plans to make best use of monitoring funds.
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Threats, flows, and ecology: modelling and decision tools to support recovery of listed and at-risk species in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River Basin.
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September 2021
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We will provide expertise to ongoing USFWS efforts in the ACF Basin to recover listed species, conserve at-risk species, and implement an adaptive management process to minimize incidental take of listed species from water management operations. We will synthesize existing information to create an updated threats analysis and employ hydrologic modeling and spatial analyses to quantitatively assess the primary threats to recovery of the six listed freshwater mussels species in the ACF Basin: Purple Bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus, T), Chipola Slabshell (Elliptio chipolaensis, T), Fat Threeridge (Amblema neislerii, E), Oval Pigtoe (Pluerobema pyriforme, E), Shinyrayed pocketbook (Hamiota subangulata, E), and Gulf Moccasinshell (Medionidus penicillatus, E). All species have five year reviews in process, and two are also in process for having full Species Status Assessments completed in the next year. Threats include water quantity and quality in the rivers of the basin, which are impacted by drought frequency and severity. Additionally, historical river dredging is hypothesized to have contributed to mussel decline in the Basin, and population increases have been observed for some species since dredging ceased in the early 2000s. However, navigation is an authorized purpose of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), so future dredging is possible and analyzing how dredging areas may intersect with contemporary mussel distribution must be considered in understanding future scenarios for securing subpopulations of the ACF mussels. We will apply hydrologic modeling to evaluate alternative water management operations to investigate effects to at-risk species and assist in upcoming reanalysis of the ACF Biological Opinion. We will also engage with the ongoing Adaptive Management process with USFWS, USACE, and scientific experts to help develop decision endpoints. This project has multiple high value, decision-relevant deliverables to the Service.
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We will provide expertise to ongoing USFWS efforts in the ACF Basin to recover listed species, conserve at-risk species, and implement an adaptive management process to minimize incidental take of listed species from water management operations. We will synthesize existing information to create an updated threats analysis and employ hydrologic modeling and spatial analyses to quantitatively assess the primary threats to recovery of the six listed freshwater mussels species in the ACF Basin: Purple Bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus, T), Chipola Slabshell (Elliptio chipolaensis, T), Fat Threeridge (Amblema neislerii, E), Oval Pigtoe (Pluerobema pyriforme, E), Shinyrayed pocketbook (Hamiota subangulata, E), and Gulf Moccasinshell (Medionidus penicillatus, E). All species have five year reviews in process, and two are also in process for having full Species Status Assessments completed in the next year. Threats include water quantity and quality in the rivers of the basin, which are impacted by drought frequency and severity. Additionally, historical river dredging is hypothesized to have contributed to mussel decline in the Basin, and population increases have been observed for some species since dredging ceased in the early 2000s. However, navigation is an authorized purpose of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), so future dredging is possible and analyzing how dredging areas may intersect with contemporary mussel distribution must be considered in understanding future scenarios for securing subpopulations of the ACF mussels. We will apply hydrologic modeling to evaluate alternative water management operations to investigate effects to at-risk species and assist in upcoming reanalysis of the ACF Biological Opinion. We will also engage with the ongoing Adaptive Management process with USFWS, USACE, and scientific experts to help develop decision endpoints. This project has multiple high value, decision-relevant deliverables to the Service.
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A structured decision making rapid prototyping workshop to incorporate stakeholder and expert opinion for evaluation of water management actions to reduce incidental take of listed freshwater mussels and Gulf Sturgeon in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River basin in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida.
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September 2021
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A 4.5 day structured decision making (SDM) collaboration with experienced SDM coaches is a necessary component to further ongoing adaptive management (AM) processes in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River Basin. Drs. Walsh and Irwin have worked collaboratively on the ACF AM leadership team with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District (USACE) since 2017 to develop incidental take and adaptive management monitoring plans for listed species in the Apalachicola River. However, quantitative models that predict the impact of alternate flow management regimes on populations of listed species do not exist. A SDM workshop at this time will leverage significant existing products, expertise, and interagency partnerships developed in the AM process to date to efficiently integrate stakeholder and scientific expert knowledge to quantify biological objectives and measurable biological endpoints and inform quantitative predictive models that will be developed at the workshop. The models will forecast and predict the impact of flow management in the basin to populations of seven listed species. The project has the potential to make significant gains in achieving conservation delivery in a high profile, contentious river basin where informed and prudent multi-use water management will be essential to conserve and recover aquatic species and habitats long-term.
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A 4.5 day structured decision making (SDM) collaboration with experienced SDM coaches is a necessary component to further ongoing adaptive management (AM) processes in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River Basin. Drs. Walsh and Irwin have worked collaboratively on the ACF AM leadership team with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District (USACE) since 2017 to develop incidental take and adaptive management monitoring plans for listed species in the Apalachicola River. However, quantitative models that predict the impact of alternate flow management regimes on populations of listed species do not exist. A SDM workshop at this time will leverage significant existing products, expertise, and interagency partnerships developed in the AM process to date to efficiently integrate stakeholder and scientific expert knowledge to quantify biological objectives and measurable biological endpoints and inform quantitative predictive models that will be developed at the workshop. The models will forecast and predict the impact of flow management in the basin to populations of seven listed species. The project has the potential to make significant gains in achieving conservation delivery in a high profile, contentious river basin where informed and prudent multi-use water management will be essential to conserve and recover aquatic species and habitats long-term.
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Impacts of PFAS Contaminants on Oyster Health and Food Safety.
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September 2022
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We are investigating the potential impacts of PFAS (toxins) on oyster populations in Mobile Bay. Variation in PFAS body burden in relation to environmental conditions will be measured in oysters collected from the bay. In addition, we are quantifying the physiological consequences of these toxins to respiration and growth of oysters. Stakeholders will use our results to inform management of oyster populations, water quality, and food safety protocols.
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Maintaining sustainable oyster fisheries is a primary objective of state management agencies in the Gulf of Mexico region. A primary driver of productive oyster fisheries is provision of water quality that maintains viable populations that are safe for human consumption. We are investigating the potential impacts of PFAS (toxins) on oyster populations in Mobile Bay. Variation in PFAS body burden in relation to environmental conditions will be measured in oysters collected from the bay. In addition, we are quantifying the physiological consequences of these toxins to respiration and growth of oysters. Stakeholders include marine resource and public health agencies, EPA, and NGOs concerned with water quality and public safety. Results will be used to help decision makers site locations for oyster restoration, set season and creel limits, and determine food safety standards.
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Exploring mechanisms underlying the persistence of Yellowstone cutthroat trout despite hybridization in the North Fork Shoshone River drainage
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June 2021
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Cutthroat trout populations are declining across the Western U.S. Hybridization with introduced rainbow trout, and backcrossing with parental species and other hybrids, has led to genetic introgression and the presence of hybrid individuals with a mix of ancestry. A recent study on the extent of cutthroat trout hybridization in the North Fork Shoshone watershed found no allopatric genetically unaltered streams. However in a subset of North Fork Shoshone tributaries pure cutthroat trout remain, raising the question of what mechanisms are allowing these cutthroat trout to persist. This project is a collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department and U.S. Forest Service to identify and evaluate mechanisms that maintain cutthroat trout in the North Fork Shoshone River drainage despite potential for hybridization. If mechanisms are found, for example temporal segregation in spawn timing, management actions can be modified to promote cutthroat trout.
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Cutthroat trout populations are declining across the Western U.S. Hybridization with introduced rainbow trout, and backcrossing with parental species and other hybrids, has led to genetic introgression and the presence of hybrid individuals with a mix of ancestry. A recent study on the extent of cutthroat trout hybridization in the North Fork Shoshone watershed found no allopatric genetically unaltered streams. However in a subset of North Fork Shoshone tributaries pure cutthroat trout remain, raising the question of what mechanisms are allowing these cutthroat trout to persist. This project is a collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department and U.S. Forest Service to identify and evaluate mechanisms that maintain cutthroat trout in the North Fork Shoshone River drainage despite potential for hybridization. If mechanisms are found, for example temporal segregation in spawn timing, management actions can be modified to promote cutthroat trout.
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Field Examination of Wastewater Treatment Effluent Thermal Regimes and Effects on Reproduction of Johnny Darter Etheostoma Nigrum
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June 2022
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The ultimate goal of our study is to provide Colorado Parks and Wildlife guidance as to appropriate thermal regimes to conserve transition zone native fishes. The results will be implemented into management strategies for the conservation and recovery of native transition zone fishes.<br><br>We will characterize wastewater treatment effluent thermal effects on transition zone streams by placing temperature loggers above and below wastewater treatment facilities along the Front Range to determine potential thermal alterations. Wastewater treatment facilities will be included based on input from previous research and CPW staff—especially the Water Quality Coordinator. Critical time periods include winter and shoulder seasons (transition seasons between fall–winter and winter–spring).<br> <br>We will also evaluate how altered thermal regimes are affecting reproduction of Johnny darter, <i>Etheostoma nigrum</i>. Field collections of Johnny darter will take place above and below wastewater treatment facilities to examine if there are differences in reproductive output. To examine seasonality of egg production, Johnny darter will be collected every month. Once collected, fish will be preserved and examined for egg production. Egg production includes number of eggs produced, size of eggs, developmental stage of eggs, and timing of egg production.<br>
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Historically, the South Platte River Basin naturally experienced a wide range of seasonal temperatures. However, urbanization and development of WWTPs have contributed to warmer and more consistent water temperatures throughout the year that may effect fish reproduction. We are collaborating with Colorado Parks and Wildlife on this project. Assessing the thermal requirements of warm water fishes will provide valuable information towards establishing protective winter water temperature standards in effluent-dominated streams.
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Bighorn sheep respiratory disease monitoring
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September 2022
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Glacier National Park provides refuge to iconic North American species, including bighorn sheep (<i>Ovis canadensis</i>), whose range covers diverse Department of Interior lands. Across this range, bighorns face the ongoing threat of a polymicrobial infection, Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease, which can reduce juvenile survival for many years, decimate populations, and lead to local extinctions. Although Glacier’s bighorns are thought to be free of the disease, a corridor of contiguous wilderness connects Glacier to populations that have tested positive for the most critical pathogen associated with this disease, <i>Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae</i>. As such, efficient biosurveillance programs are essential to anticipating and mitigating the effects of Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease outbreaks in Glacier National Park.<br>However, molecular screening for Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease is financially and logistically challenging, requiring physical capture and multiple lab assays. Such costs preclude large-scale, continuous biosurveillance, potentially missing detections and hindering risk assessment. We will address this issue by developing an animal-behavior-based, citizen-driven biosurveillance program for Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease in Glacier National Park. We are cooperating with Glacier National Park, U.S. Forest Service, and Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks staff on this project. We will provide the NPS with a tool to detect Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease and thus determine when mitigation strategies are necessary,
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Glacier National Park provides refuge to iconic North American species, including bighorn sheep (<i>Ovis canadensis</i>), whose range covers diverse Department of Interior lands. Across this range, bighorns face the ongoing threat of a polymicrobial infection, Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease, which can reduce juvenile survival for many years, decimate populations, and lead to local extinctions. Although Glacier’s bighorns are thought to be free of the disease, a corridor of contiguous wilderness connects Glacier to populations that have tested positive for the most critical pathogen associated with this disease, <i>Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae</i>. As such, efficient biosurveillance programs are essential to anticipating and mitigating the effects of Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease outbreaks in Glacier National Park.However, molecular screening for Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease is financially and logistically challenging, requiring physical capture and multiple lab assays. Such costs preclude large-scale, continuous biosurveillance, potentially missing detections and hindering risk assessment. We will address this issue by developing an animal-behavior-based, citizen-driven biosurveillance program for Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease in Glacier National Park. We are cooperating with Glacier National Park, U.S. Forest Service, and Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks staff on this project. We will provide the NPS with a tool to detect Bighorn Sheep Respiratory Disease and thus determine when mitigation strategies are necessary,
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Developing capture techniques and monitoring the movement of sandhill cranes breeding in Iowa
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December 2025
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Sandhill cranes (<i>Antigone canidensis</i>) were extirpated from Iowa in the late 19<sup>th</sup> century as a result of habitat loss and over-harvest. Nearly 100 years passed before sandhill cranes began recolonizing Iowa, with the first breeding effort since 1894 documented in 1992 (Dinsmore 1994). In recent years successful breeding has been confirmed in 29 counties and cranes have been documented in 62 of Iowa’s 99 counties (Iowa Department of Natural Resources unpublished data).<br><br>Our understanding of cranes in modern-day Iowa is limited due to the relatively recent and un-assisted recolonization of cranes in Iowa. Information regarding the population such as trends, dynamics, and affiliations consist of anecdotal reports or are entirely unknown. As this population grows there is increased interest from a wide array of stakeholders including conservation managers, bird watchers, private landowners, agriculture producers and hunters. There is considerable uncertainty regarding the Iowa crane population, such as the population affiliation, population size, and habitat use. We are working cooperatively with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. This information will greatly improve our understanding of how sandhill cranes use the modern day Iowa landscape, define suitable habitat for cranes and provide evidence on the migration routes and wintering grounds of Iowa’s breeding cranes.
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Sandhill cranes (<i>Antigone canidensis</i>) were extirpated from Iowa in the late 19<sup>th</sup> century as a result of habitat loss and over-harvest. Nearly 100 years passed before sandhill cranes began recolonizing Iowa, with the first breeding effort since 1894 documented in 1992 (Dinsmore 1994). In recent years successful breeding has been confirmed in 29 counties and cranes have been documented in 62 of Iowa’s 99 counties (Iowa Department of Natural Resources unpublished data). Our understanding of cranes in modern-day Iowa is limited due to the relatively recent and un-assisted recolonization of cranes in Iowa. Information regarding the population such as trends, dynamics, and affiliations consist of anecdotal reports or are entirely unknown. As this population grows there is increased interest from a wide array of stakeholders including conservation managers, bird watchers, private landowners, agriculture producers and hunters. There is considerable uncertainty regarding the Iowa crane population, such as the population affiliation, population size, and habitat use. We are working cooperatively with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. This information will greatly improve our understanding of how sandhill cranes use the modern day Iowa landscape, define suitable habitat for cranes and provide evidence on the migration routes and wintering grounds of Iowa’s breeding cranes.
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Effects of forest management on early-successional avian species in South Carolina
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May 2021
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We will assess the response of Ruffed Grouse, Golden-Winged Warblers, and other early-successional forest species to habitat management in the upstate of South Carolina.
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South Carolina contains the southern-most extent for several early-successional avian species in the Appalachian Region, yet it is often not included when monitoring or surveying for these species. As several of these species are in decline, more information is needed to determine how they are using habitats in the southern portion of the range as well as a more information on their occupancy rates across suitable habitats. This project is in collaboration with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Information from the study will help to inform management practices and conservation needs of species in the state as well as general ecological information about habitat use of these avian species at the edge of their range.
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Wetlands of Nebraska: An Outreach and Education Project
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March 2023
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Informing people about Nebraska’s wetland resources and the important services these systems provide is a keystone to continuing to develop and refine our state’s wetland program. The main objective of this project was to produce and distribute a series of integrated outreach and education products to increase awareness of the importance of wetlands in Nebraska and an understanding of the need for wetland conservation. The products include:<br><br>--Five feature films about Nebraska’s wetlands and the wildlife and people that depend on them--- Sandhills, Playas, Saline, Riverine, and Urban. The films were produced by the talented Platte Basin Timelapse team at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and will take you on a journey across Nebraska. You will meet some interesting characters and will get a chance to see some scenes and wildlife that few people get to experience.<br>--A shorter overview film.<br>--Five ESRI StoryMaps---Sandhills, Playas, Saline, Riverine, and Urban.<br>--An updated Guide to Nebraska’s Wetlands and their Conservation Needs publication.<br>--A new booklet for kids entitled Wetlandology.<br>--Two educational videos about plant adaptations and animal engineers that were developed specifically for classroom use.<br>--An educator guide to the products and paired lesson plans for the educational videos are nearing completion and will be shared soon.<br><br>These products provide up-to-date information about Nebraska’s wetlands, which is aligned with the Nebraska Statewide education standards and delivers information in a format that is favorable to today’s audiences.<br><br>Partners on the project include Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s award-winning NEBRASKAland Magazine (outdoornebraska.gov), the Platte Basin Timelapse (PBT) group at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and Ducks Unlimited.
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There is a strong need and demand from the general public, schools, conservation partners, and community organizations for outreach and education materials specifically relating to Nebraska’s wetland resources. Informing people about Nebraska’s wetland resources and the important services that they provide is a keystone to continuing to develop and refine Nebraska’s wetland program. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple organizations and includes the U.S. Geological Survey, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, University of Nebraska, and the Platte Basin Timelapse Project. The objective is to produce and distribute a series of integrated wetland outreach and education products to increase awareness of the importance of wetlands in Nebraska and develop an understanding of the need for wetland conservation. These products will provide up-to-date information about Nebraska’s wetlands, will be aligned with the Nebraska Statewide education standards, and will deliver information in a format that is favorable to today’s audiences.
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Evaluating sea duck detectability in the Puget Sound winter ambient monitoring program
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May 2023
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife annually conducts a survey to monitor sea ducks in Puget Sound. This survey, the Puget Sound Ambient Monitoring Program, is critical to understanding status and trends of sea ducks on this continentally important wintering area, and also to informing management of the Washington sea duck hunting season. While relative abundance has been available from the survey, a lack of information on detection rates has made estimation of absolute abundance untenable. A 2012 effort led to collection of digital imagery to inform the estimation of detection; such estimates could be used to calculate absolute abundance from the survey. However, a lack of dedicated program staff has complicated efforts to complete the analysis for the 2012 data. The purpose of this project is to complete analysis of these data to produce a correction factor for sea duck detection in the sea duck survey in Puget Sound.
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife annually conducts a survey to monitor sea ducks in Puget Sound. This survey, the Puget Sound Ambient Monitoring Program, is critical to understanding status and trends of sea ducks on this continentally important wintering area, and also to informing management of the Washington sea duck hunting season. While relative abundance has been available from the survey, a lack of information on detection rates has made estimation of absolute abundance untenable, but a 2012 effort led to collection of digital imagery to inform the estimation of detection. The purpose of this project is to complete analysis of these data to produce a correction factor for sea duck detection. This project is a collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Results of the research will inform the design and analysis of the Puget Sound Ambient Monitoring Program to better inform the status of sea ducks in Puget Sound.
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Monitoring, Mapping and Risk Assessment and Management of Invasive Species in Nebraska - Part II
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December 2024
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The Nebraska Invasive Species Council focuses on early detection, prevention and management of invasive species within the state of Nebraska. The members of this council are committed to minimizing the harmful effects of invasive species, with an ultimate goal of promoting healthy landscapes and healthy people. To help fulfill this commitment, Allison Zach served as the Coordinator for the Nebraska Invasive Species Council from September 2013 through March 2023. In this capacity, Allison served as a liaison with Nebraska’s Governor and State Legislature. Allison developed and provided invasive species outreach and education to Nebraska resource agencies, individual stakeholders, educators and the general public. She served on the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) Board, and was the NAISMA Play, Clean, Go committee Chair.<br><br> The Nebraska Invasive Species Council develops management tools including an invasive species adaptive management plan, a risk analysis for high-risk invasive species in Nebraska, a multi-agency prevention protocol for preventing the spread of invasive species (terrestrial and aquatic), and identification of invasive species introduction pathways. The Council created a 2-sided outreach card during 2020 and updated its adaptive management during 2021. The Council’s website has a reporting tool; concerned citizens have identified new infestations of zebra mussels and other invasive species—these reports are referred to an appropriate invasive species expert for investigation and guidance.
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Invasive species are a threat to native species and a threat to ecosystem services. Invasive species exist in many forms, and thus, jurisdictions exist across a multitude of management entities. Coordination across these entities is important. This project is a collaboration with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to continue funding a position for a coordinator among the state and federal entities that interface with invasive species within the state of Nebraska. The coordinator facilitates risk analyses, encourages collaboration on management recommendations, and ensures information sharing among stakeholders of biological invasions.
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Response of Bachman's Sparrow to habitat management
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December 2021
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We are conducting research to determine how Bachman's Sparrow respond to habitat management such as fire and thinning in a wiregrass-free ecosystem.
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Bachman's Sparrow is a species of conservation concern that typically inhabits open forest systems with wiregrass; however, little is known about how the species responds to wiregrass-free ecosystems like those in South Carolina. Our research will focus on quantifying abundance, nest success, and survival of Bachman's Sparrow in these special ecosystems to provide insights into management of wiregrass-free habitats for managers. This project is in collaboration with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. The results will help managers understand optimal burn frequencies and vegetation needs for Bachman's Sparrow and also provide additional information about the ecology of the species.
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Monitoring of rock gnome lichen populations
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May 2021
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We are working to develop a monitoring protocol to provide a status and assessment tool for rock gnome lichen.
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Rock gnome lichen is an endangered species of lichen currently occupying the Southern Appalachians. Population monitoring for the species has occurred twice previously, but a consistent survey methodology is needed to monitor populations for 5-year status updates and potential delisting of the species in the future. We are working with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to develop a monitoring protocol to provide a status and assessment tool for rock gnome lichen. Our survey design will be implemented for future population monitoring efforts as well as inform ecology of the species related to the effects of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on rock gnome lichen populations through vegetation changes.
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Variation of Chronology of Wild Turkey Gobbling in the Upstate of South Carolina
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December 2021
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We are researching the chronology of wild turkey gobbling in the upstate of South Carolina using point counts and autonomous recording units. We are comparing gobbling chronology in the upstate to other locations as well as looking at variation in gobbling related to date, hunting pressure, and elevation.
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Wild Turkeys are an important game species but potentially declining in the Southeast. Information about the timing of harvest relative to their breeding season is needed to better determine the effects of harvest on survival and reproduction. We are comparing gobbling chronology in the upstate to other locations as well as looking at variation in gobbling related to date, hunting pressure, and elevation to better inform management decisions about harvest seasons and ecology of Wild Turkeys in Upstate South Carolina. This project is in collaboration with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Our research will inform management decisions related to harvest of turkeys in this region relative to other regions in South Carolina.
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Phylogeography of the masked bobwhite
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December 2020
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The masked bobwhite is endangered in Arizona and Mexico. It is a subspecies of bobwhite and this study incorporates genomic methods from samples of contemporary and ancient (museum) specimens including 9 subspecies throughout their range, to determine the relationships among them.
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The masked bobwhite occurs in grassland habitats in the Sonoran Deserts and became endangered as overgrazing reduced the quality of grassland habitats in the Sonoran deserts of Arizona and Mexico. It is a subspecies of bobwhite in Arizona and Mexico with a captive breeding program in the US. The study incorporates genomic methods for data collection from samples of contemporary and ancient (museum) specimens including 9 subspecies throughout the range of the bobwhite species, to determine the relationships among them. This study will also inform how the subspecies' genome has changed since it was brought into captivity, potential selection for captivity, and other genetic characteristics that will aid management of this endangered subspecies.
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Fish habitat restoration to promote adaptation: resilience of sport fishing in lakes of the Upper Midwest
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July 2025
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Climate change is influencing fish communities in lakes throughout the upper Midwest. Popular sport fish such as walleye are declining in many lakes, while warmwater species such as largemouth bass are increasing. However, not all lakes or fish species respond in the same way, even when they experience the same conditions. In some cases, local management actions such as restoration or protection of lake habitat can slow down or mitigate the negative effects of climate change on economically and ecologically important fish species. This project aims to understand how multiple fish species (walleye, yellow perch, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and cisco) with different temperature preferences respond to climate change, and how their responses are affected by lake habitat conditions. Researchers will develop models to predict responses to climate change in tens of thousands of lakes in the upper Midwest. By identifying habitat factors that make certain lakes more or less vulnerable to climate change, this research will enable lake and watershed managers to prioritize management actions aimed at reducing the negative effects of climate change. At the same time, lakes where certain species are unlikely to exist under future conditions will also be identified, which will enable managers and citizens to prepare for shifts in fish community composition. Project results will be communicated to managers and the public using online data visualization and communication tools to demonstrate how lakes in the Midwest are affected by climate change and identify lakes where local actions may be effective in preserving cold- and coolwater fish species as the climate warms.<br><br>The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, USGS, Wisconsin DNR, Minnesota DNR, Midwest Glacial Lakes Partnership, and Michigan DNR.
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Climate change is influencing fish communities in lakes throughout the upper Midwest. Popular sport fish such as walleye are declining in many lakes, while warmwater species such as largemouth bass are increasing. However, not all lakes or fish species respond in the same way, even when they experience the same conditions. In some cases, local management actions such as restoration or protection of lake habitat can slow down or mitigate the negative effects of climate change on economically and ecologically important fish species. This project aims to understand how multiple fish species (walleye, yellow perch, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and cisco) with different temperature preferences respond to climate change, and how their responses are affected by lake habitat conditions. Researchers will develop models to predict responses to climate change in tens of thousands of lakes in the upper Midwest. By identifying habitat factors that make certain lakes more or less vulnerable to climate change, this research will enable lake and watershed managers to prioritize management actions aimed at reducing the negative effects of climate change. At the same time, lakes where certain species are unlikely to exist under future conditions will also be identified, which will enable managers and citizens to prepare for shifts in fish community composition. Project results will be communicated to managers and the public using online data visualization and communication tools to demonstrate how lakes in the Midwest are affected by climate change and identify lakes where local actions may be effective in preserving cold- and coolwater fish species as the climate warms.The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, USGS, Wisconsin DNR, Minnesota DNR, Midwest Glacial Lakes Partnership, and Michigan DNR.
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Diet composition of invasive Flathead Catfish in the Susquehanna River Basin: quantifying impacts on native and migratory fishes and recreational fisheries
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January 2022
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Flathead Catfish are an indiscriminate predator of other fish and an expanding invader to large river systems outside of its native range, including the Susquehanna River Basin in Pennsylvania. Research efforts are beginning to provide insight on the distribution of this invader in the Susquehanna River Basin, however, there is considerable uncertainty about the potential ecological impacts of Flathead Catfish. In particular, there are concerns about their impacts on native and migratory fish species and on economically important recreational fisheries. To begin understanding the ecological effects of Flathead Catfish invasion, we propose a comprehensive diet study on Flathead Catfish in the Susquehanna River Basin. We will quantify Flathead Catfish diet composition using morphology and molecular identification of ingested prey items. Our study will help inform future fisheries management in the Susquehanna River Basin by increasing our understanding about the predatory effects and potential ecological consequences of invasive Flathead Catfish.
The project is in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and Penn State University.
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Flathead Catfish are an indiscriminate predator of other fish and an expanding invader to large river systems outside of its native range, including the Susquehanna River Basin in Pennsylvania. Research efforts are beginning to provide insight on the distribution of this invader in the Susquehanna River Basin, however, there is considerable uncertainty about the potential ecological impacts of Flathead Catfish. In particular, there are concerns about their impacts on native and migratory fish species and on economically important recreational fisheries. To begin understanding the ecological effects of Flathead Catfish invasion, we propose a comprehensive diet study on Flathead Catfish in the Susquehanna River Basin. We will quantify Flathead Catfish diet composition using morphology and molecular identification of ingested prey items. Our study will help inform future fisheries management in the Susquehanna River Basin by increasing our understanding about the predatory effects and potential ecological consequences of invasive Flathead Catfish.
The project is in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and Penn State University.
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Avian abundance and use patterns in fields of Mississippi managed for the mourning dove: a multi-scale approach
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June 2022
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Agriculture is a dominant land use in large sections of the southeastern United States and thus, a major habitat component available to birds and many other wildlife species. One avian species common to agricultural landscapes is the mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). Mourning doves are among the most abundant birds in North America and are familiar to the public. Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) data collected during the past 52 years indicates mourning dove populations have increased in the Eastern Management Unit (EMU), where Mississippi is located. During 2017, approximately 225,100 mourning doves were harvested in Mississippi by 13,800 hunters investing 31,700 hunter-days afield.
Research on mourning dove abundance and use of managed fields in Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) is ongoing. Study sites include WMAs where fields are actively managed using dove attracting crops and were selected based on records of variable hunting pressure and harvest. In Mississippi, some WMAs are managed with an emphasis on demonstration of field management practices for small game species, namely bobwhite quail and mourning dove. Study areas include Black Prairie WMA, Okatibbee WMA, William C. Deviney WMA, and Muscadine Farms WMA.
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Dove hunting is a very popular outdoor activity in Mississippi, generating supplemental dollars in revenue for landowners. Research on mourning doves has been relatively limited in Mississippi. A limited amount of research on mourning doves in Mississippi has been conducted in recent years the Mississippi CRU. This included research on landscape changes around mourning dove call-count routes and banding studies assessing movements and survival.
We are conducting research on abundance patterns and multi-scale characteristics of managed fields used by mourning doves on Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP). Study sites include WMAs where fields are actively managed using dove attracting crops and based on records of variable hunting pressure and harvest. In Mississippi, some WMAs are managed with an emphasis on demonstration of field management practices for small game species, namely bobwhite quail and mourning dove. Fields on private lands near selected WMAs are part of the study.
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Quantifying the Roles of Changing Watershed Conditions and Biotic Interactions in Structuring Pennsylvania Stream Fish Communities
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January 2022
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Understanding and predicting fish community interactions and their response to environmental stressors is of utmost importance for fisheries and water resource management. For example, state agencies and other water resource agencies rely on knowledge of stream and river fish communities for assessment programs, many of which have regulatory ramifications and implications for water and fisheries management and aquatic resource use activities. However, traditional fish community studies fail to accommodate potential interactions that exist among the entire fish assemblage and thus represent an overly simplistic view of community dynamics. This is important because treating species independently when quantifying and predicting their responses to changing watershed conditions ignores potential dependencies between species due to biotic interactions and can lead to erroneous predictions. Therefore, the overarching goal of this research is to help inform fisheries and water resource management and conservation by improving our understanding of the relative roles of fish species interactions, environmental factors, and how species traits influence a species’ response to changing watershed conditions in Pennsylvania streams and rivers.
The project is in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, and Penn State University.
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Understanding and predicting fish community interactions and their response to environmental stressors is of utmost importance for fisheries and water resource management. For example, state agencies and other water resource agencies rely on knowledge of stream and river fish communities for assessment programs, many of which have regulatory ramifications and implications for water and fisheries management and aquatic resource use activities. However, traditional fish community studies fail to accommodate potential interactions that exist among the entire fish assemblage and thus represent an overly simplistic view of community dynamics. This is important because treating species independently when quantifying and predicting their responses to changing watershed conditions ignores potential dependencies between species due to biotic interactions and can lead to erroneous predictions. Therefore, the overarching goal of this research is to help inform fisheries and water resource management and conservation by improving our understanding of the relative roles of fish species interactions, environmental factors, and how species traits influence a species’ response to changing watershed conditions in Pennsylvania streams and rivers.
The project is in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, and Penn State University.
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Modeling bald and golden eagle and other raptor populations and take rates
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November 2023
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The USFWS has scientifically evaluated sustainable take rates for both bald and golden eagles, established regional eagle management units (EMU) with population objectives, conducted surveys to estimate population sizes, and set annual take limits for each species of eagle in each EMU. For incidental take permits for wind energy facilities, the USFWS has developed a peer-reviewed collision risk model (CRM) to predict eagle take at proposed wind energy projects. The USFWS has also adopted a formal adaptive management process for updating the initial take estimates based on post-construction fatality monitoring data once the wind energy project becomes operational.
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Eagle collisions with turbines at wind energy facilities is a common occurrence in some areas of the US. If wind turbine collision-related mortality rates are sufficiently high, it could compromise population growth rates and population persistence. We are assisting the USFWS with conducting demographic analyses using the collision risk model, and then updating estimates with fatality monitoring data. These results aid in the issuance of incidental take permits to operators of wind energy facilities. Additionally, the USFWS is seeking to improve the models it uses to predict fatalities, and to use the data collected under individual permits to formally update the overall modeling process. Further, the USFWS is interested in exploring how covariates that might influence eagle exposure or collision risk can be incorporated into the collision risk model to improve the accuracy of, and decrease the uncertainty around the estimates. This project is a collaboration between the USFWS, New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Ecology at New Mexico State University.
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Modeling Species at Risk to Support Species Status Assessments in the Southeast
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December 2023
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Effective conservation planning requires reliable information on the geographic distribution of organisms, something often incomplete for many species, especially for rare ones, due to limited observation data. Species distribution models (SDM) are highly valuable in determining critical remaining and potential habitats of at-risk species for conservation planning. Despite the proliferation of SDM and tools in the past two decades, management programs have not fully adopted them to inform species surveys and other monitoring efforts; instead, many rely on expert knowledge and other traditional methods to locate extant populations. One important framework that would benefit from SDM is the Species Status Assessment (SSA) developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. While the SSA considers multiple elements associated with species condition, including distributions, there are no standard requirements to estimate species distributions. Our objective is to find an optimal SDM approach for at-risk species that can be considered for SSA and similar species monitoring efforts.
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Effective conservation planning requires reliable information on the geographic distribution of organisms, something often incomplete for many species, especially for rare ones, due to limited observation data. Species distribution models (SDM) are highly valuable in determining critical remaining and potential habitats of at-risk species for conservation planning. Despite the proliferation of SDM and tools in the past two decades, management programs have not fully adopted them to inform species surveys and other monitoring efforts; instead, many rely on expert knowledge and other traditional methods to locate extant populations. One important framework that would benefit from SDM is the Species Status Assessment (SSA) developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. While the SSA considers multiple elements associated with species condition, including distributions, there are no standard requirements to estimate species distributions. Our objective is to find an optimal SDM approach for at-risk species that can be considered for SSA and similar species monitoring efforts.
We are applying four modeling approaches (regression, machine learning, boosting modeling, and weighted ensemble modeling) to recent monitoring data for three at-risk species, the Rattlesnake master borer moth Papaipema eryngii, Ocmulgee skullcap Scutellaria ocmulgee, and Purpledisk Honeycombhead Balduina atropurpurea in the Southeastern U.S. Our research has extended this work in the Southeast to address other at-risk species and we are presently scoping model development for the Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon couperi, Mosquito Beaksedge Rhynchospora crinipes, and several others. Further, our research is also presently applying models of future urbanization and climate change to predict future changes to distributions.
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Migration ecology of North American Turkey Vultures Cathartes aura wintering in the Neotropics: spatial and population dynamics
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December 2020
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We are using a database of > 60 vultures radiomarked with satellite transmitters during the last decade. Our objectives in this research is to fill knowledge gaps focusing on three North American Turkey Vulture populations: Cathartes aura aura, C. a. meridionalis, and C. a. septentrionalis across North America. Our research will test ecological hypotheses on migration strategies, migratory connectivity, space use, resource selection and survival of these vulture populations and the influence that multi-resolution landscape characteristics, anthropogenic disturbance and weather conditions play in the life cycle of this North American raptor.
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Landscape composition and configuration may influence migration of raptors. The ecological and functional roles that landscape, at multiple scales, and weather may have on the migration strategies of North American Turkey Vultures has not been studied. Furthermore, there is limited information on factors triggering the processes of outbound and return migration in the Turkey Vulture. Limited studies on Turkey Vulture movements have been conducted, however, information gaps remain particularly related to migration. We are using a database of > 60 vultures radiomarked with satellite transmitters during the last decade. Our objectives in this research is to fill knowledge gaps focusing on three North American Turkey Vulture populations: C. a. meridionalis, C. a. septentrionalis and C. a. aura across North America. Our research will test ecological hypotheses on migration strategies, migratory connectivity, space use, resource selection and survival of these vulture populations and the influence that multi-resolution landscape characteristics, anthropogenic disturbance and weather conditions play in the life cycle of this North American raptor.
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Association of Flow Regime with Fish and Invertebrate Assemblages in Caribbean Streams and Rivers
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September 2020
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The flow regime (i.e., the rate and timing of water flow) is a central physical factor regulating the dynamics of biotic communities in stream and river ecosystems. The determination of optimal flow regimes that meet societal demands for water resources while sustaining and enhancing aquatic life is especially applicable to tropical island aquatic ecosystems, and the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico is an ideal landscape upon which to empirically research such dynamics. Recent destructive tropical storms in the Caribbean further compel and facilitate study of extreme disturbance, both as flooding and drought, and the need to plan adaptation strategies is critical. In response to critical information and research needs, we propose research to address specific objectives, with an ultimate goal of understanding how stream flow dynamics affect aquatic communities, as an initial step toward ultimately developing environmental flow prescriptions to sustain and enhance aquatic life in Caribbean streams and rivers. The proposed research is multidisciplinary, including aspects of ecology, fishery science, hydrology, and climate science, and spans multiple spatial, temporal, and organizational scales. The objectives will be addressed via empirical data analyses of physical and biotic parameters on the island of Puerto Rico, but the findings may be applicable and informative to other tropical Caribbean islands and nations.
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The flow regime (i.e., the rate and timing of water flow) is a central physical factor regulating the dynamics of biotic communities in stream and river ecosystems. The determination of optimal flow regimes that meet societal demands for water resources while sustaining and enhancing aquatic life is especially applicable to tropical island aquatic ecosystems, and the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico is an ideal landscape upon which to empirically research such dynamics. Recent destructive tropical storms in the Caribbean further compel and facilitate study of extreme disturbance, both as flooding and drought, and the need to plan adaptation strategies is critical. In response to critical information and research needs, we propose research to address specific objectives, with an ultimate goal of understanding how stream flow dynamics affect aquatic communities, as an initial step toward ultimately developing environmental flow prescriptions to sustain and enhance aquatic life in Caribbean streams and rivers. The proposed research is multidisciplinary, including aspects of ecology, fishery science, hydrology, and climate science, and spans multiple spatial, temporal, and organizational scales. The objectives will be addressed via empirical data analyses of physical and biotic parameters on the island of Puerto Rico, but the findings may be applicable and informative to other tropical Caribbean islands and nations.
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Birdsbesafe: Is a novel cat collar more effective at stopping domestic cats from killing birds at higher latitudes?
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February 2022
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Up to 4 billion birds are killed annually in the US alone by domestic cats. We examine a novel conservation tool that has the potential to be effective at keeping domestic cats from killing songbirds: the Birdsbesafe® cat collar cover. We are testing whether the BCC is differentially effective at various latitudes. Because birds at higher latitude birds have a shorter breeding season and a concurrent higher spike in testosterone then birds at lower latitudes, we predict that the more "distracted" breeding birds in the northern latitudes will show a higher magnitude difference in predation by cats with and without the BCC.
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Up to 4 billion birds are killed annually in the US alone by domestic cats. We examine a novel conservation tool that has the potential to be effective at keeping domestic cats from killing songbirds: the Birdsbesafe® cat collar cover. We are testing whether the BCC is differentially effective at various latitudes. Because birds at higher latitude birds have a shorter breeding season and a concurrent higher spike in testosterone then birds at lower latitudes, we predict that the more "distracted" breeding birds in the northern latitudes will show a higher magnitude difference in predation by cats with and without the BCC.
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Ecology of the Endangered Nordmann's Greenshank
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December 2021
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The Nordmann's Greenshank is a critically endangered shorebird that breeds in far eastern Russia and migrates through and overwinters in east and southeast Asia. Little is known about this critically endangered species. We will work with Russian collaborators and the Wildlife Conservation Society to find and describe breeding areas and capture and mark birds. Resightings of marked birds can assist in determining migratory pathways and overwintering areas in the East Asian - Australasian Flyway.
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The Nordmann's Greenshank is a critically endangered shorebird that breeds in far eastern Russia and migrates through and overwinters in east and southeast Asia. Little is known about this critically endangered species. We are working with Russian collaborators and the Wildlife Conservation Society to find and describe breeding areas and capture and mark birds. In 2019 we discovered the first Nordman's Greenshank nest found since the 1970s. Information on basic life history of the species can assist in making management decisions that will protect important breeding areas. Resightings of marked birds can assist in determining migratory pathways and overwintering areas in the East Asian - Australasian Flyway.
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NSF Arctic LTER: Climate Change and Changing Disturbance Regimes in Arctic Landscapes: LAKES
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February 2020
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The Arctic is one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth. Responses to this warming involve acceleration of processes common to other ecosystems around the world (e.g., shifts in plant community composition) and changes to processes unique to the Arctic (e.g., carbon loss from permafrost thaw). The objectives of the Arctic Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) Project for 2017-2023 are to use the concepts of biogeochemical and community “openness” and “connectivity” to understand the responses of arctic terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems to climate change and disturbance. These objectives will be met through continued long-term monitoring of changes in undisturbed terrestrial, stream, and lake ecosystems in the vicinity of Toolik Lake, Alaska, observations of the recovery of these ecosystems from natural and imposed disturbances, maintenance of existing long-term experiments, and initiation of new experimental manipulations. Based on these data, carbon and nutrient budgets and indices of species composition will be compiled for each component of the arctic landscape to compare the biogeochemistry and community dynamics of each ecosystem in relation to their responses to climate change and disturbance and to the propagation of those responses across the landscape. The Arctic LTER is a collaborative partnership between 5 Principle Investigators (including Budy) at academic units located at different universities and a conservative estimate of 28 secondary and very interdisciplinary Co-Principle investigators (and their students and staff) housed at 28 other academic units. The proposed research will compare key ecosystems of the Arctic to determine how their degree of openness governs their responses to climate change and acute disturbance such as fire and surface slumping associated with permafrost thaw. The proposed research will also determine how the responses to climate change and disturbance are mediated by landscape connectivity and the movement of nutrients, organic carbon, and organisms across arctic
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The Arctic is one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth. Responses to this warming involve acceleration of processes common to other ecosystems around the world (e.g., shifts in plant community composition) and changes to processes unique to the Arctic (e.g., carbon loss from permafrost thaw). The objectives of the Arctic Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) Project for 2017-2023 are to use the concepts of biogeochemical and community “openness” and “connectivity” to understand the responses of arctic terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems to climate change and disturbance. These objectives will be met through continued long-term monitoring of changes in undisturbed terrestrial, stream, and lake ecosystems in the vicinity of Toolik Lake, Alaska, observations of the recovery of these ecosystems from natural and imposed disturbances, maintenance of existing long-term experiments, and initiation of new experimental manipulations. Based on these data, carbon and nutrient budgets and indices of species composition will be compiled for each component of the arctic landscape to compare the biogeochemistry and community dynamics of each ecosystem in relation to their responses to climate change and disturbance and to the propagation of those responses across the landscape. The Arctic LTER is a collaborative partnership between 5 Principle Investigators (including Budy) at academic units located at different universities and a conservative estimate of 28 secondary and very interdisciplinary Co-Principle investigators (and their students and staff) housed at 28 other academic units. The proposed research will compare key ecosystems of the Arctic to determine how their degree of openness governs their responses to climate change and acute disturbance such as fire and surface slumping associated with permafrost thaw. The proposed research will also determine how the responses to climate change and disturbance are mediated by landscape connectivity and the movement of nutrients, organic carbon, and organisms across arctic
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USFWS: Adaptive Management and Monitoring of Pyramid Lake, Nevada
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June 2024
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Pyramid Lake, Nevada is one of the last remaining strongholds for lacustrine Lahontan cutthroat trout (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 compounded by the stocking of non-native species. The population depends almost entirely on stocking programs and efficient management. For this effort, we are collaborating with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (Lahontan National Fish Hatchery Complex) and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. We provided a three-tiered Monitoring Approach, in which Tier 1 represents the most critical and includes monitoring LCT and their primary forage base tui chub. We will monitor LCT and tui chub abundance annually using two sampling sessions and adapt the management plan as necessary to inform management decisions.
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Pyramid Lake, Nevada is one of the last remaining strongholds for lacustrine Lahontan cutthroat trout (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 compounded by the stocking of non-native species. The population depends almost entirely on stocking programs and efficient management. For this effort, we are collaborating with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (Lahontan National Fish Hatchery Complex) and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. We provided a three-tiered Monitoring Approach, in which Tier 1 represents the most critical and includes monitoring LCT and their primary forage base tui chub. We will monitor LCT and tui chub abundance annually using two sampling sessions and adapt the management plan as necessary to inform management decisions.
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Utah State Lands: Improving the success rate of beaver translocation efforts to benefit stream management and restoration on public lands.
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September 2022
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American beavers (Castor canadensis) are a keystone species and ecosystem engineer. They are especially important to water storage, increasing livestock forage, and creating native fish habitat in arid western ecosystems. For these reasons, beaver translocations are becoming a popular method to enhance stream restoration projects (http://beaver.joewheaton.org). What was once controversial is becoming mainstream and accepted across diverse audiences ranging from ranchers to land managers. For systems where beaver have been extirpated or are not currently in, beaver translocation is a relatively cheap tool that shows much promise and has been used on and off over the past century. The concept of taking nuisance beaver from areas they are not wanted, and releasing them to areas where they can do restoration work is simple and compelling, and USU researchers have been pioneering techniques to make translocation more successful. However, using beaver to scale up restoration efforts to the actual scope of stream degradation may sound promising, but the reality is that the logistics of doing so are not simple. This study will provide critical information on beaver space use and behavioral ecology to increase the effectiveness of future stream restoration projects using beaver translocations. This project is collaboration between the Ecology Center and Department of Watershed Sciences at Utah State University, the US Forest Service, and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Several private and public entities participated in either having beaver removed or reintroduced to their property. This research will aid directly in the management of public lands, help evaluate beaver-based restoration project success, aid in the conservation of species, provide information on beaver ecology and movement, and demonstrate how beaver restoration can be a creative, cost-effective approach to integrate management of private, state, and federal lands in Utah.
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American beavers (Castor canadensis) are a keystone species and ecosystem engineer. They are especially important to water storage, increasing livestock forage, and creating native fish habitat in arid western ecosystems. For these reasons, beaver translocations are becoming a popular method to enhance stream restoration projects (http://beaver.joewheaton.org). What was once controversial is becoming mainstream and accepted across diverse audiences ranging from ranchers to land managers. For systems where beaver have been extirpated or are not currently in, beaver translocation is a relatively cheap tool that shows much promise and has been used on and off over the past century. The concept of taking nuisance beaver from areas they are not wanted, and releasing them to areas where they can do restoration work is simple and compelling, and USU researchers have been pioneering techniques to make translocation more successful. However, using beaver to scale up restoration efforts to the actual scope of stream degradation may sound promising, but the reality is that the logistics of doing so are not simple. This study will provide critical information on beaver space use and behavioral ecology to increase the effectiveness of future stream restoration projects using beaver translocations. This research will aid directly in the management of public lands, help evaluate beaver-based restoration project success, aid in the conservation of species, provide information on beaver ecology and movement, and demonstrate how beaver restoration can be a creative, cost-effective approach to integrate management of private, state, and federal lands in Utah.
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BoR: Understanding and Quantifying Fish Movement, Habitat Use, and Survival Through Innovative PIT Tag Technology
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December 2024
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Beginning in the 1990’s recovery programs throughout the Colorado River Basin have relied on PIT-tagging (Passive Integrated Transponder) as a way to individually mark fish and allows researchers to track fish over time and eventually provide population estimates. These population estimates are critical to determining the effects of management actions and ultimately lead to decisions on whether the fish populations can recover and be delisted. The goal of this project is to assist Reclamation in the continued technological development of fish-detection systems, specifically those related to PIT Tags and to assist in the analyses and storage of the data that is derived from these systems and how it relates to management of Reclamation facilities and waters.
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Beginning in the 1990’s recovery programs throughout the Colorado River Basin have relied on PIT-tagging (Passive Integrated Transponder) as a way to individually mark fish and allows researchers to track fish over time and eventually provide population estimates. These population estimates are critical to determining the effects of management actions and ultimately lead to decisions on whether the fish populations can recover and be delisted.The goal of this project is to assist Reclamation in the continued technological development of fish-detection systems, specifically those related to PIT Tags and to assist in the analyses and storage of the data that is derived from these systems and how it relates to management of Reclamation facilities and waters.Specific objectives of this agreement are to: 1)Assist in the development of PIT tag antenna systems for the detection of fish and wildlife at Reclamation projects and in waters managed by Reclamation.2)Assist in the installation, operation, management and maintenance of PIT tag antenna systems at Reclamation projects and in waters managed by Reclamation.3)Assist in the development of models and programs that allow the analyses of data derived from Mark-Recapture studies and assist with interpreting the results of such analyses to improve management of Reclamation facilities and waters managed by Reclamation to comply with ESA species management plans and recovery plans.4) Assist with the analyses of fisheries data related to survival, mortality, movements, and population abundance of endangered species as it pertains to Mark-Recapture and PIT Tags or other marking techniques.This is a collaborative project between Utah State university and the US Bureau of Reclamation and has direct benefit to the Upper the Upper Colorado and San Juan River Recovery programs.
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Control of sucker spawning migrations in a major tributary of the Gunnison River to increase the production of native sucker larvae
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September 2021
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Non-native suckers in the Upper Colorado River are a major threat to the persistence of native suckers. Our project seeks to manage that threat by removing non-native suckers during the spawning migration. The project consists of 2 goals. First, we will preclude entry of non-native and hybrid suckers to the native spawning run, thus increasing the proportion of native sucker larvae produced in Roubideau Creek. Second, we will PIT tag some of the expected 10,000s of fishes to study the spawning tributary fidelity of Bluehead Sucker, Flannelmouth Sucker and Roundtail Chub. If these fishes exhibit spawning system fidelity the odds of long-term success via exclusion of non-native is possible.
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Non-native suckers in the Upper Colorado River are a major threat to the persistence of native suckers. Our project seeks to manage that threat by removing non-native suckers during the spawning migration. The project consists of 2 goals. First, we will preclude entry of non-native and hybrid suckers to the native spawning run, thus increasing the proportion of native sucker larvae produced in Roubideau Creek. Second, we will PIT tag some of the expected 10,000s of fishes to study the spawning tributary fidelity of Bluehead Sucker, Flannelmouth Sucker and Roundtail Chub. If these fishes exhibit spawning system fidelity the odds of long-term success via exclusion of non-native is possible.The research is being conducted in collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Data from our study will be used to inform management decisions regarding native suckers in the Upper Colorado River Basin.
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Genomic & Phenotypic Links
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December 2023
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Improving our understanding of the interplay between genetics and population dynamics in invasive cheatgrass throughout the intermountain west.
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Problem Statement: Intermountain west ecosystems involve sensitive plant and animal communities that are adapted to specialized and often harsh conditions. Invasive species such as cheatgrass can dramatically affect these natural systems.Why this Research Matters:We are developing a large-scale western regional experiment to learn about the connections between genetics, traits, and population dynamics in cheatgrass under a variety of environmental conditions. This research will help us understand how and why cheatgrass has been such a successful invader.Collaboration/Partners:This project involves a variety of institutions and agencies, including main collaborators at CSU, USU, Penn State, UNR, and USDA.Research that Informs Decisions:Sagebrush occupies a large portion of the western region and is a keystone species in these ecosystems. Several important species depend on sagebrush in their lifecycle and cheatgrass can alter the way these ecosystems function. Our research will help provide guidance about how the mechanisms in this invasive species biology lead to varying levels of success depending on environmental conditions and other biotic interactions.
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Modeling Tree Growth
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September 2021
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Coupling ecosystem models that can simulate forests and how they change over time with field data collected in the Alaska network of National Parks.
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Problem Statement: Alaskan ecosystems are undergoing rapid environmental change, yet the extent to which this change affects ecological communities is not well understood. In particular, for tree species that depend on certain environmental conditions, we seek to better understand how growth and volume may have changed over the past several decades. Why this Research Matters:Substantial progress has been made in developing ecosystem models that simulate vegetation communities and nutrient cycling over decades. However, formal statistical implementations of these models that assimilate field data are still evolving and have not been applied in many systems throughout Alaska. We are developing ways to fit ecosystem models to tree ring data collected in the Alaska network of National Parks to better understand changes in growth and volume of tree species over time.Collaboration/Partners:This project involves a collaboration with the National Park Service and Colorado State University.Research that Informs Decisions: Understanding how forests have changed over decades is a long studied subject throughout the world. However, combing computational ecosystem models and field data can shed new light on best ways to manage and conserve important protected ecosystems in our National Parks.
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Evaluating the status and distributions of bats in WNS-free areas using data from the North American Bat Monitoring Program: acoustic data processing and analysis (RWO122)
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December 2022
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The North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat) was established to provide standardized monitoring protocols and a continental-scale collaborative framework to evaluate the status and distributions of bat species in areas unaffected by white-nose syndrome. This survey is multi-species, and based on detections by stationary and mobile acoustic receivers. An integration of data from each type of receiver is needed, including statistical methods for species occupancy under this integration which account for species identification error, in order to extract maximum information from this monitoring program. This project is a collaboration of USGS-FORT, USGS-NOROCK, NPA, and the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. Result from the analysis will be used to refine NABat monitoring in the future, and species distributions from the analysis will be used as a baseline for assessing WNS impacts.
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The North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat) was established to provide standardized monitoring protocols and a continental-scale collaborative framework to evaluate the status and distributions of bat species in areas unaffected by white-nose syndrome. This survey is multi-species, and based on detections by stationary and mobile acoustic receivers. An integration of data from each type of receiver is needed, including statistical methods for species occupancy under this integration which account for species identification error, in order to extract maximum information from this monitoring program. This project is a collaboration of USGS, National Park Serivce, and the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. Result from the analysis will be used to define NABat monitoring in the future, and species distributions from the analysis will be used as a baseline for assessing WNS impacts.
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Spring and fall stopover food resources and land use patterns for Rocky Mountain Population Sandhill Cranes in the San Luis Valley, Colorado (RWO121)
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September 2023
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The Rocky Mountain population (RMP) of greater sandhill cranes (<i>Antigone canadensis tabida</i>) and a portion of the Mid-Continent Population (MCP) of cranes use the San Luis Valley (SLV) of Colorado as an important migrational stopover area each spring and fall. Declines in water availability for roosts, and in important food sources such as barley, could have negative impacts on these populations. An assessment of available roost habitat and grain, the use of these habitats by cranes, and the carrying capacity of the SLV for cranes is needed to assess the future of these populations and inform refuge management decisions. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Regions 6 and 2, the Intermountain West Joint Venture, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Colorado Open Lands. Results from the analyses will be used to build a decision model to assist Monte Vista NWR in making water and grain management decisions.
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The Rocky Mountain population (RMP) of greater sandhill cranes (<i>Antigone canadensis tabida</i>) and a portion of the Mid-Continent Population (MCP) of cranes use the San Luis Valley (SLV) of Colorado as an important migrational stopover area each spring and fall. Declines in water availability for roosts, and in important food sources such as barley, could have negative impacts on these populations. An assessment of available roost habitat and grain, the use of these habitats by cranes, and the carrying capacity of the SLV for cranes is needed to assess the future of these populations and inform refuge management decisions. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Regions 6 and 2, the Intermountain West Joint Venture, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Colorado Open Lands. Results from the analyses will be used to build a decision model to assist Monte Vista NWR in making water and grain management decisions.
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Integrated population model for black bears in Maine
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May 2021
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To assist the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in developing a cost-efficient monitoring program to inform their black bear management, we are developing an integrated model that estimates spatially explicit population size, movement patterns, and demographic rates of the Maine black bear population. Integrated models (IMs) unite data from multiple sources that are informative about demographic variables. IMs offer several important advantages over analyzing single datasets by themselves. IMs can estimate parameters that are inestimable from single data sets and do so more precisely. Multiple datasets can also overcome biases present in individual datasets, thus leading to more accurate estimates. IMs also can make use of datasets collected for different monitoring purposes at different times and locations, uniting seemingly disparate information to offer multi-scale inference on population patterns. IMs are therefore an efficient way to understand wildlife population dynamics, including survival and recruitment processes by making best use of all available information.
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Integrated population models (IPMs) unite data from multiple sources that are informative about demographic variables. IPMs offer several important advantages over analyzing single datasets by themselves: they can estimate parameters that are inestimable from single data sets and do so more precisely, and multiple datasets can overcome biases present in individual datasets, thus leading to more accurate estimates. The goal of this project is to develop an integrated model that estimates spatially explicit population size, movement patterns, and demographic rates for the Maine black bear population. This project is a collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. An integrated modeling framework will lead to identification of a cost-efficient monitoring program to inform Maine's black bear management.
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Spatial Optimization of Invasive Species Management in New York
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August 2020
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Managing invasive species across large areas often requires multiple objective decisions involving numerous species with a wide range of biological characteristics, impacts to valued goods and services, and a large number of treatment options. Although there have been advancements in models informing the management of invasive species to reduce their impacts, few approaches are available that address the issue of spatially optimizing the allocation of treatments for multiple species subject to a budget constraint and that explicitly considers difficult tradeoffs. Structured decision making provides a framework for informing such complex decisions that is robust, transparent, and values-focused.
We are using a structured decision making approach to aid invasive species management decisions, and are developing a novel decision tool that mangers can use to identify where and which treatments to apply for multiple invasive species that accounts for species-specific impacts, invasive pathways, and treatment feasibility. We are applying our approach to the management of invasive species in New York, considering alternatives for prevention, surveillance, control, and education.
We are working with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)and leaders from the 8 NY Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM). We are developing a tool that builds on the work of NY Heritage Program, NYSDEC, and others to help invasive species managers prioritize management actions based on species, areas, and projects statewide, with flexibility to tailor actions at the regional level. Ultimately, our approach will guide managers in determining which species should prioritized, where those species should be managed, and the best approach to managing them. We will also include metrics of treatment feasibility into the prioritization to ensure management dollars are well spent.
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Managing invasive species across large areas often requires multiple objective decisions involving numerous species with a wide range of biological characteristics, impacts to valued goods and services, and a large number of treatment options. We are using a structured decision making approach to aid invasive species management decisions, and are developing a novel decision tool that mangers can use to identify where and which treatments to apply for multiple invasive species that accounts for species-specific impacts, invasive pathways, and treatment feasibility. We are applying our approach to the management of invasive species in New York, considering alternatives for prevention, surveillance, control, and education. We are working with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)and leaders from the 8 NY Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM). We are developing a tool that builds on the work of NY Heritage Program, NYSDEC, and others to help invasive species managers prioritize management actions based on species, areas, and projects statewide, with flexibility to tailor actions at the regional level. Ultimately, our approach will guide managers in determining which species should prioritized, where those species should be managed, and the best approach to managing them. We will also include metrics of treatment feasibility into the prioritization to ensure management dollars are well spent.
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Capture-recapture meets big data: integrating statistical classification with ecological models of species abundance and occurrence
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April 2022
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Advances in new technologies such as remote cameras, noninvasive genetics and bioacoustics provide massive quantities of electronic data. Much work has been done on automated (“machine learning”) methods of classification which produce “sample class designations” (e.g., identification of species or individuals) that are regarded as observed data in ecological models. However, these “data” are actually derived quantities (or synthetic data) and subject to various important sources of bias and error. If the derived quantities are used to make ecological determinations without consideration of these biases, those inferences which inform monitoring, conservation, and management will be flawed. We propose to develop the concept of coupled classification in which statistical classification models are linked to ecological models of species abundance or occurrence. In this new framework, classification (e.g., species identification) takes into account the local structure of populations, communities and landscapes and does not assume that where a sample is collected is independent of the class structure of the population, as all current classification methods do. The proposed work addresses a significant bottleneck in the utilization of data from new technologies for monitoring and assessment of populations and communities – the lack of formal statistical frameworks (which fully propagate uncertainty) for automatically integrating observed digital monitoring data to ecological objectives of scientific and management concern. This connection between digital data and ecological objectives has yet to be made, except as outlined in our proposal. The work is transformative because it provides a mechanism for directly integrating remotely sensed “big data” with ecological models while accounting for misclassification. With a coupled classification system there stands the possibility of fully automated data collection and processing systems.
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Advances in new technologies such as remote cameras, noninvasive genetics and bioacoustics provide massive quantities of electronic data. Much work has been done on automated (“machine learning”) methods of classification which produce “sample class designations” (e.g., identification of species or individuals) that are regarded as observed data in ecological models. However, these “data” are actually derived quantities (or synthetic data) and subject to various important sources of bias and error. If the derived quantities are used to make ecological determinations without consideration of these biases, those inferences which inform monitoring, conservation, and management will be flawed. We propose to develop the concept of coupled classification in which statistical classification models are linked to ecological models of species abundance or occurrence. In this new framework, classification (e.g., species identification) takes into account the local structure of populations, communities and landscapes and does not assume that where a sample is collected is independent of the class structure of the population, as all current classification methods do.The work is transformative because it provides a mechanism for directly integrating remotely sensed “big data” with ecological models while accounting for misclassification. With a coupled classification system there stands the possibility of fully automated data collection and processing systems.
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Spatial Risk Mapping: A Tool to Plan and Implement Human- Andean Bear Conflict Mitigation in Ecuador
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May 2024
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The Chocó-Andean region of Ecuador lies at the convergence of two of the world’s top 25 biodiversity hotspots and is home to more endemic species than any other hotspot on Earth. Unfortunately, half of this region has been deforested and the expansion of agriculture, development, and recently granted mining concessions threatens remaining forest. Social-ecological systems are linked systems of people and nature, emphasizing that humans must be seen as a part of, not apart from, nature. We will use a socio-ecological system approach and generate alternative strategies to guide the design of public policies that can help communities to cope with the effects of environmental changes. Specific objectives include, 1) Assess the level of knowledge and perception of local communities about the state of their natural resources and the benefits that they obtain from them, 2) Identify strategies and preferences that local communities use for their subsistence (land uses: livestock, agriculture, ecotourism, recreation, ecotourism, conservation) 3) Assess the social capacity of communities to engage in conservation activities, 4) Understand the motivations that influence land use and development decisions, 5) Engage community members in the co-development of a tool to allow growing productive and sustainable agricultural crops in landscapes inhabited by Andean bears, and 6) Develop a spatial risk/benefit map that identifies areas with a high potential for agricultural crop damage by Andean bears. This will serve as a decision-making tool to preemptively avoid conflict with Andean bears and to identify areas for management interventions (e.g., sustainable crop management practices).
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The Chocó-Andean region of Ecuador lies at the convergence of two of the world’s top 25 biodiversity hotspots and is home to more endemic species than any other hotspot on Earth. Unfortunately, half of this region has been deforested and the expansion of agriculture, development, and recently granted mining concessions threatens remaining forest.We will use a socio-ecological system approach and generate alternative strategies to guide the design of public policies that can help communities to cope with the effects of environmental changes. This will serve as a decision-making tool to preemptively avoid conflict with Andean bears and to identify areas for management interventions (e.g., sustainable crop management practices).
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Conservation and management of Andean bears from regional to local scales: occupancy, density, connectivity, and threats
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May 2020
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The Andean bear is the only extant species of bear in South America and is considered threatened across its range due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and illegal hunting. Typically, Andean bear inhabit natural areas with little to no human presence/activity, occurring between 200-4700 m elevation. Nevertheless, in Colombia non-protected areas have historically had a high level of human presence/activity. Consequently, Andean bear populations are isolated, and exposed to a diverse degree of human related threats, including human-bear conflict in the form of retaliatory hunting. Monitoring changes in the Andean bear population, and understanding their relationship with threats and environmental variables is necessary for informing management decisions. The objectives of this study are to 1) evaluate the relationship between real/perceived damage caused by Andean bears, farmers’ attitudes about bears, and bear killing; 2) Evaluate landscape factors and species threats that contribute to regional occupancy of Andean bears. 3) Estimate density and connectivity of Andean bears in priority conservation areas, and evaluate the relationship between density and occupancy.
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The Andean bear is the only extant species of bear in South America and is considered threatened across its range due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and illegal hunting. The objectives of this study are to 1) evaluate the relationship between real/perceived damage caused by Andean bears, farmers’ attitudes about bears, and bear killing; 2) Evaluate landscape factors and species threats that contribute to regional occupancy of Andean bears. 3) Estimate density and connectivity of Andean bears in priority conservation areas, and evaluate the relationship between density and occupancy. Monitoring changes in the Andean bear population, and understanding their relationship with threats and environmental variables is necessary for informing management decisions.
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The next frontier in bioacoustics: modeling sound attenuation and individual space usage to estimate density of animal populations
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December 2021
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Growing economies in developing countries frequently come at the expense of conservation priorities, such as the protection of endangered species, the maintenance of ecosystem services, and the long-term sustainability of resources. Assessing the persistence of native wildlife, a measure of ecosystem health, in rapidly changing landscapes is challenging due to current limitations in methods to survey wildlife populations and analyze the resulting data. Population density is a metric commonly used to assess species status; however, estimating the density of species that are difficult to identify visually is challenging. Passive acoustic monitoring is a new survey method with the potential to provide quick and reliable population density estimates for species that are easy to detect acoustically; however, statistical methods that reliably produce in situ density estimates from acoustic data that are not dependent on human interpretation of call rates are currently undeveloped. We propose to extend recent developments in statistical models for other noninvasive sampling methods to the use of acoustic monitoring devices for density estimation by incorporating spatial information about the spatial structure of the population to produce estimates of call rate in situ, and in turn estimate density. In addition, we will expand on existing automated detection and classification techniques for processing the acoustic data which will allow us to incorporate information about caller identity into our estimates. As a case study in use of these methods, we are applying the methods to endangered gibbons in Borneo, Indonesia. This application will demonstrate how bioacoustics detectors can be used to estimate the density of other species which can be detected acoustically, leading to more reliable conservation and land use decisions worldwide for any vocalizing species.
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Assessing the persistence of native wildlife, a measure of ecosystem health, in rapidly changing landscapes is challenging due to current limitations in methods to survey wildlife populations and analyze the resulting data. Population density is a metric commonly used to assess species status; however, estimating the density of species that are difficult to identify visually is challenging. Passive acoustic monitoring is a new survey method with the potential to provide quick and reliable population density estimates for species that are easy to detect acoustically; however, statistical methods that reliably produce in situ density estimates from acoustic data that are not dependent on human interpretation of call rates are currently undeveloped. We propose to extend recent developments in statistical models for other noninvasive sampling methods to the use of acoustic monitoring devices for density estimation by incorporating spatial information about the spatial structure of the population to produce estimates of call rate in situ, and in turn estimate density. As a case study in use of these methods, we are applying the methods to endangered gibbons in Borneo, Indonesia. This researchi s in partnership with The Nature Conservancy. This application will demonstrate how bioacoustics detectors can be used to estimate the density of other species which can be detected acoustically, leading to more reliable conservation and land use decisions worldwide for any vocalizing species.
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Living with Leopards: Implications of human-leopard interaction on food security and public health in the foothills of the Himalayas
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March 2025
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In Nepal, human-leopard conflict threatens food security of local communities as a result of livestock loss and causes injuries and death to both humans and leopards. We aim to understand key drivers and impacts of human-leopard interactions across a rural-urban gradient and to generate well-informed policy-led interventions for sustainable conservation actions. We will conduct an analysis of leopard diet to better understand the extent to which leopards prey on livestock and feral species and we will develop a spatial conflict risk model that will help to manage or mitigate human-leopard interactions. In partnership with two national conservation champions, we seek to secure national policy commitment by developing a National Policy document to enable site-specific sustainable conflict management responses, and promote local stewardship for the survival of leopards in shared landscapes without compromising human well-being.
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In Nepal, human-leopard conflict threatens food security of local communities as a result of livestock loss and causes injuries and death to both humans and leopards. We aim to understand key drivers and impacts of human-leopard interactions across a rural-urban gradient and to generate well-informed policy-led interventions for sustainable conservation actions. We will conduct an analysis of leopard diet to better understand the extent to which leopards prey on livestock and feral species and we will develop a spatial conflict risk model that will help to manage or mitigate human-leopard interactions. In partnership with two national conservation champions, we seek to secure national policy commitment by developing a National Policy document to enable site-specific sustainable conflict management responses, and promote local stewardship for the survival of leopards in shared landscapes without compromising human well-being.
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Estimating mortality of Lake Sturgeon in the Lake Winnebago system using traditional age-based approaches and capture-recapture models
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July 2022
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The lake sturgeon population in the Lake Winnebago System (LWS) supports a culturally and economically important spear fishery that is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). Current estimates of mortality used to manage this population may be biased because ages are estimated from fin rays and these estimates are not accurate for older fish. We will develop mark-recapture based models for estimating mortality of Lake Winnebago lake sturgeon based on recovery of fish marked with passive integrated transponders and will compare these with mortality estimated from fin ray ages. This will provide biologists with guidance on whether current estimate of mortality are appropriate for management purposes. The project is a collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This research will provide fishery biologists with guidance on estimating mortality rates of lake sturgeon to improve management of this important fishery.
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The lake sturgeon population in the Lake Winnebago System (LWS) supports a culturally and economically important spear fishery that is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). Current estimates of mortality used to manage this population may be biased because ages are estimated from fin rays and these estimates are not accurate for older fish. We will develop mark-recapture based models for estimating mortality of Lake Winnebago lake sturgeon based on recovery of fish marked with passive integrated transponders and will compare these with mortality estimated from fin ray ages. This will provide biologists with guidance on whether current estimate of mortality are appropriate for management purposes. The project is a collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This research will provide fishery biologists with guidance on estimating mortality rates of lake sturgeon to improve management of this important fishery.
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OA 93: Ecology, Habitat Use, and Impacts of Wind Energy on Burrowing Owls.
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September 2021
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Burrowing owls are small owl that are of substantial conservation concern across their breeding distribution in the prairies and steppes of North America, both areas of high wind energy development. Wind energy facilities have been demonstrated to pose threats to avian species, including direct mortality of burrowing owls.<br><br>Wind energy development is increasing at a rapid pace throughout much of the developed world. Of avian species experiencing mortality due to collision with wind turbines, raptors appear to be the most vulnerable and may experience proportionally greater population level influences through direct mortality or habitat loss associated with wind energy development. <br><br>This project is being funded by DOE/Consolidated Nuclear Securities/Pantex.<br><br>Our study will provide comparison data between burrowing owl breeding pairs in context of site occupancy, productivity, and habitat use in areas with and without wind energy development. This will allow assessments of their response to wind energy development and the potential direct and indirect influence of the structures. This will provide important data with which to understand and evaluate risks and determine the need for conservation actions in context of renewable energy development.
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Burrowing owls are small owl that are of substantial conservation concern across their breeding distribution in the prairies and steppes of North America, both areas of high wind energy development. Wind energy facilities have been demonstrated to pose threats to avian species, including direct mortality of burrowing owls.Wind energy development is increasing at a rapid pace throughout much of the developed world. Of avian species experiencing mortality due to collision with wind turbines, raptors appear to be the most vulnerable and may experience proportionally greater population level influences through direct mortality or habitat loss associated with wind energy development. This project is being funded by DOE Pantex.Our study will provide comparison data between burrowing owl breeding pairs in context of site occupancy, productivity, and habitat use in areas with and without wind energy development. This will allow assessments of their response to wind energy development and the potential direct and indirect influence of the structures. This will provide important data with which to understand and evaluate risks and determine the need for conservation actions in context of renewable energy development.
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Wood Turtle Ecology on Army Installations
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December 2020
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Wood turtles are of high conservation concern. With both riparian and terrestrial habitat use, their presence possibly can conflict with military training. Efforts to delineate current distributions are needed for effective BMP creation to conserve this species.
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Wood turtles are of high conservation concern. With both riparian and terrestrial habitat use, their presence possibly can conflict with military training. Efforts to delineate current distributions are needed for effective BMP creation to conserve this species. Preliminary results on both Fort Drum, New York and Fort George Meade, Maryland suggest a high level of use of shrub-scrub riparian habitats.
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Fox Squirrel Presence and Distribution in Eastern Virginia
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December 2022
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This is an effort to determine the residual presence of Scirurus niger niger in the Coastal Plain and the recolonization of the Piedmont by S. n. vulpines in order to help Virginia Army National Guard and Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to better manage this wildlife resource.
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This is an effort to determine the residual presence of Scirurus niger niger in the Coastal Plain and the recolonization of the Piedmont by S. n. vulpines. Preliminary data suggest the squirrel is largely absent on the Piedmont and very rare and localized on the Coastal Plain.
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Minnesota residents’ attitudes toward wolves & wolf management
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June 2020
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The Division of Fish and Wildlife is engaged in an update to the Minnesota Wolf Management Plan. Public input and engagement are at the forefront of these efforts. Understanding the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors of stakeholders can enhance the legitimacy and efficacy of agency decisions with respect to wolf management, while helping to minimize conflict. We propose to assess stakeholder attitudes toward wolves in Minnesota in general, their preferences for potential management priorities, their values toward wildlife, preferred options for funding wolf management, and tolerance of wolves on the landscape.
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Wolves are currently listed as a federally threatened species in Minnesota. However, the species will likely be delisted soon and management responsibility for the wolf will move to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The Division of Fish and Wildlife is engaged in an update to the Minnesota Wolf Management Plan. Public input and engagement are at the forefront of these efforts. Understanding the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors of stakeholders can enhance the legitimacy and efficacy of agency decisions with respect to wolf management, while helping to minimize conflict. We propose to assess stakeholder attitudes toward wolves in Minnesota in general, their preferences for potential management priorities, their values toward wildlife, preferred options for funding wolf management, and tolerance of wolves on the landscape. This information is important for ensuring that the Minnesota Wolf Management Plan is effective and responsive to public interests.
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Assessing attitudes toward chronic wasting disease
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June 2021
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The emergence of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in wild deer in Minnesota, and declining deer hunter participation, are topics of concern for the Minnesota DNR. Consequently, greater capacity to conduct studies that support decision making associated with white-tailed deer management has been identified as an area of need. This proposal supports a Ph.D. student position at the University of Minnesota, housed in the Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit to conduct human dimensions studies on CWD, deer hunters, and white-tailed deer management.
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Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease of animals belonging to the family cervidae including deer, elk, moose and caribou. Since 2002, CWD has been found in wild deer populations and captive deer farm facilities throughout the Midwestern United States, including Minnesota. The disease is always fatal and represents a significant threat to the long-term health of wild deer populations, and the future of deer hunting opportunity where it is found. Identifying effective avenues for disease management is a concern for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Many of the identified solutions for CWD containment, risk management, and elimination require the voluntary participation of statewide deer stakeholders including hunters, landowners, and the general public (Minnesota Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan, 2019). This project will support several studies designed to better understand hunter, landowner, and public beliefs about, attitudes toward, and perceived risks of CWD and their support of management actions and policies to address CWD in Minnesota. This human dimensions information will be integrated with ecological information to develop effective strategies to address CWD in Minnesota. Th expected outcome of the research is to help minimize CWD impacts on deer and deer hunters in Minnesota.
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Evaluation of natural and hatchery-produced kokanee in Flaming Gorge Reservoir
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June 2020
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Kokanee is one of the most important recreational species in western North America and it is also an important prey species for other species of recreational or conservation importance. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Wyoming-Utah, receives a significant portion of Wyoming's hatchery production of kokanee. Unfortunately, little is known about the extent to which hatchery fish contribute to the population and fishery. We are working closely with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to better understand the role of hatchery kokanee in the system. Results of this research will provide managers with information that can be used to efficiently allocate hatchery resources. We also hope to provide insight on factors related to the survival, growth, and ultimate recruitment of hatchery and wild kokanee to the population in Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
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Kokanee is one of the most important recreational species in western North America and it is also an important prey species for other species of recreational or conservation importance. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Wyoming-Utah, receives a significant portion of Wyoming's hatchery production of kokanee. Unfortunately, little is known about the extent to which hatchery fish contribute to the population and fishery. We are working closely with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to better understand the role of hatchery kokanee in the system. Results of this research will provide managers with information that can be used to efficiently allocate hatchery resources. We also hope to provide insight on factors related to the survival, growth, and ultimate recruitment of hatchery and wild kokanee to the population in Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
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Impacts of winter lake drawdowns on downstream flows and stream ecosystems
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June 2022
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Winter lake drawdowns, whereby lakes are drawn down in fall and refilled in spring, are a common lake management tool in Massachusetts. Over the last 6 years, the MA Coop Unit has studied the impacts of drawdowns on lake littoral communities. Not only do winter lake drawdowns impact the hydrology of the lake, but they also cause unintended hydrologic alteration of downstream ecosystems. For example, in the fall during lake water level reductions, water releases cause higher flows than normal. In the spring during refill, flows are greatly reduced during a season when flows are normally the highest. There are general guidelines for drawdowns that include timing of drawdown, limiting maximum flows downstream during drawdown, and maintaining minimum flows downstream during refill; however, it is unknown the extent to which these guidelines are followed, and whether they protect downstream habitats and biota. <br><br>This project will build off preliminary work conducted by MassWildlife, the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (MDER), the Housatonic Valley Association, and the USGS MA Coop Unit downstream of Onota lake in Pittsfield, MA where we observed improved macroinvertebrate assemblages following restoration of flows in Peck’s Brook. MDER has identified priority sites for streamflow restoration downstream of winter drawdown lakes and conducted flow monitoring using time-lapse cameras in 2018. We will also use lake hydrology data from 18 drawdown and 3 non-drawdown lakes in Massachusetts to guide site selection. For this project, we will monitor hydrology, habitat, temperature, and biotic assemblages in streams to assess ecological responses to winter drawdowns.
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Reservoir water-level management in lakes not only influences lake ecosystems, but also downstream ecosystems. Winter drawdowns result in higher stream flows in fall during drawdown and lower stream flows in spring during refill, relative to lakes not managed for drawdown; however, the impacts of this management on downstream ecosystems are unknown. Quantifying the the hydrologic alterations and associated impacts to habitat and biota are critical for developing management strategies. This project is a collaboration between the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, and the MA Coop Unit. Ultimately, the hope is that information on downstream effects, in combination with our prior research on in-lake effects, can be used to set recommendations for lake water-level management that can meet human needs while minimizing impacts to ecosystems.
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Environmental factors controlling juvenile river herring productivity and emigration
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May 2023
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This project expands on recent research on juvenile river herring productivity conducted at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass) by using a combination of lab experiments, field assessments, and analysis of spatial and temporal datasets to assess environmental factors limiting juvenile productivity. The results will provide an understanding the effects of abiotic and biotic factors on juvenile river herring growth, survival, physiology, and emigration rates, which are essential for improving estimates of productivity and developing strategies for conservation and restoration in response to climate change, habitat alterations and other environmental challenges to river herring populations.<br><br>The overall goal of this project is to conduct research to fill critical information gaps about juvenile river herring productivity and emigration. We will achieve this through two major objectives:<br><br>Objective 1. Evaluate limits to juvenile river herring productivity<br>a. Conduct lab experiments to test the impact of temperature, food availability, and turbidity on survival, growth, swimming performance, and seawater tolerance of blueback herring<br>b. Compare blueback herring growth in field enclosures with different environmental conditions<br>c. Assess abiotic and biotic factors associated with river herring productivity (density, growth, mortality) among lakes and rivers in the northeast<br><br>Objective 2. Assess factors influencing juvenile river herring emigration rates and timing<br>a. Assess timing and rates of juvenile emigration in lake and river systems<br>b. Compare biotic characteristics (e.g., size, age, growth rates) of emigrating and non-emigrating juveniles to assess factors influencing emigration timing<br>c. Perform analyses to understand how emigration rates influence juvenile densities in lakes, and thus how productivity estimates are affected by emigration events.
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River herring [collectively alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) and blueback herring (Alosa aestivalis)] have been valued by human societies since pre-colonial times, but populations have undergone a dramatic coast-wide decline over the past five decades. Information on factors influencing freshwater productivity of juvenile river herring, emigration timing, and early seawater survival are needed to understand, predict, and mitigate population declines. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey (Conte Anadromous Fish Lab and Massachusetts Coop Unit), the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. Results of this research will be used to inform population models for river herring stock assessment and decisions related to federal listing of river herring under the Endangered Species Act and management decisions toward restoring river herring in the northeast.
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Exploring assumptions of community occupancy models in stream systems
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May 2023
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Occupancy analyses provide a sufficient tool to determine the distribution and abundance of species across a landscape as well as how certain habitat and environmental factors could affect that species. Occupancy methods have not been widely used in stream systems, and especially in stream communities. Thus, we plan to use field surveys and mathematical modeling approaches to explore the influence of a suite of habitat and environmental characteristics on the distribution of stream communities in the Ozarks.
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Occupancy analyses provide a sufficient tool to determine the distribution and abundance of species across a landscape as well as how certain habitat and environmental factors could affect that species. Occupancy methods have not been widely used in stream systems, and especially in stream communities. Thus, we plan to use field surveys and mathematical modeling approaches to explore the influence of a suite of habitat and environmental characteristics on the distribution of stream communities in the Ozarks.
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Influence of Flow Regime and Land Use on Food Web Dynamics in Streams
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May 2022
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Food chain length, or the maximum trophic position within a food web, is an important aspect of food webs and community dynamics. Food chain length indicatestells the number of trophic transfers that occur from the basal resources to the top predator (1) and it. The length of the food chain determines the amount of energy movement with the system (2). Additionally, the food chain length can impact the amount of carbon fixation by the system, with top predators determining and altering biogeochemical processes and atmospheric interactions (3), and nutrient cycling (4). One theory for the length of food webs is that they are determined by the stability of the system, with systems showingwith frequent or extreme disturbances hypothesized to have shorter food webs (5). Streams are a dynamic systems with varying amounts of disturbance. Based on the dynamic stability hypothesis, streams with less stable flow regimes should have shorter food chain lengths than more stable flow regimes. Understanding the impact of disturbance on food webs and community stability is essential as climatic patterns shift and anthropogenic disturbance becomes more intensive.
Studies on examining the dynamic stability hypothesis have found inconsistent results, including that the trophic position of fish has decreased with disturbance (6), high flow and low flow events reduced food chain length (7), and that while the trophic base of food webs shifted, food chain length did not differ due to flow intermittency (8). In addition, the streams in these studies had different compositions, including: a combination of streams with non-piscivorous fish and no fish (6), perennial streams having piscivorous fish and intermittent streams having small fish or invertebrates as the top predator (7), and no streams having fish (8).
The propsedis research will examine food chain length in runoff flashy and groundwater flashying streams along a gradient of land uses. Runoff flashy and groundwater flashy streams have similar mean daily flows, keeping ecosystem size similar (9). However, runoff flashy streams are characterized by having a greater variability in daily flow, a higher maximum 30-day mean flow, and a greater flood frequency, which are major variables is stream disturbance (9). Piscivorous fish will be present in all streams included in the study. Basal resources, invertebrate, and fish samples have been obtained from 10 sites (5 runoff flashy and 5 groundwater flashy streams) in Northern Arkansas, Western Oklahoma, and Southern Missouri. Sample streams represent a gradient of anthropogenic land uses.
Stable isotope analysis will be run onf samples to determine basal resource use and food web length in each stream and determine the impact disturbance due toinfluence of flow regime has on food chain length. In addition, food chain length with be analyzed in relation to land use in order to determine if land use impacts food chain length and if that impact differs with hydrologic disturbance.
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Food chain length, or the maximum trophic position within a food web, is an important aspect of food webs and community dynamics. Food chain length indicatestells the number of trophic transfers that occur from the basal resources to the top predator (1) and it. The length of the food chain determines the amount of energy movement with the system (2). Additionally, the food chain length can impact the amount of carbon fixation by the system, with top predators determining and altering biogeochemical processes and atmospheric interactions (3), and nutrient cycling (4). One theory for the length of food webs is that they are determined by the stability of the system, with systems showingwith frequent or extreme disturbances hypothesized to have shorter food webs (5). Streams are a dynamic systems with varying amounts of disturbance. Based on the dynamic stability hypothesis, streams with less stable flow regimes should have shorter food chain lengths than more stable flow regimes. Understanding the impact of disturbance on food webs and community stability is essential as climatic patterns shift and anthropogenic disturbance becomes more intensive.
Studies on examining the dynamic stability hypothesis have found inconsistent results, including that the trophic position of fish has decreased with disturbance (6), high flow and low flow events reduced food chain length (7), and that while the trophic base of food webs shifted, food chain length did not differ due to flow intermittency (8). In addition, the streams in these studies had different compositions, including: a combination of streams with non-piscivorous fish and no fish (6), perennial streams having piscivorous fish and intermittent streams having small fish or invertebrates as the top predator (7), and no streams having fish (8).
The propsedis research will examine food chain length in runoff flashy and groundwater flashying streams along a gradient of land uses. Runoff flashy and groundwater flashy streams have similar mean daily flows, keeping ecosystem size similar (9). However, runoff flashy streams are characterized by having a greater variability in daily flow, a higher maximum 30-day mean flow, and a greater flood frequency, which are major variables is stream disturbance (9). Piscivorous fish will be present in all streams included in the study. Basal resources, invertebrate, and fish samples have been obtained from 10 sites (5 runoff flashy and 5 groundwater flashy streams) in Northern Arkansas, Western Oklahoma, and Southern Missouri. Sample streams represent a gradient of anthropogenic land uses.
Stable isotope analysis will be run onf samples to determine basal resource use and food web length in each stream and determine the impact disturbance due toinfluence of flow regime has on food chain length. In addition, food chain length with be analyzed in relation to land use in order to determine if land use impacts food chain length and if that impact differs with hydrologic disturbance.
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Effects of flow regime and habitat on fish assemblage structure
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December 2021
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An important question in conservation ecology is how fishes of conservation concern use habitats and persist in their environment. We examined this question in streams with two distinct flow regimes in the Ozark Highlands of Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Groundwater Flashy (GF) and Runoff Flashy (RF) streams were sampled for fish and crayfish to assess the potential of refuge habitats in these streams facilitating colonization and extinction dynamics during drought, and whether that differed between flow regimes. We intend to incorporate use of refuge habitats during drought to assess the potential of refugia as a driver of metapopulation dynamics. This research will be useful for managers to assess which habitats and flow regimes should receive conservation attention.
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An important question in conservation ecology is how fishes of conservation concern use habitats and persist in their environment. We examined this question in streams with two distinct flow regimes in the Ozark Highlands of Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Groundwater Flashy (GF) and Runoff Flashy (RF) streams were sampled for fish and crayfish to assess the potential of refuge habitats in these streams facilitating colonization and extinction dynamics during drought, and whether that differed between flow regimes. We intend to incorporate use of refuge habitats during drought to assess the potential of refugia as a driver of metapopulation dynamics. This research will be useful for managers to assess which habitats and flow regimes should receive conservation attention.
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Exploring Louisiana's oyster populations: examining population tolerances to salinity
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June 2026
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Louisiana (and Gulf coast) estuarine conditions are changing rapidly due to climate change, river management and coastal management. These changing conditions impact the survival and growth of commercially and ecologically valuable benthic organisms, including the eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica, which is sessile for most of its life. These changing conditions complicate management and conservation of this ecosystem engineer, and would be helped by selection of tolerant oyster stocks. Loss of oyster reefs due to changing estuarine conditions results in the loss of ecosystem services provided by oysters and the reefs they create, such as water filtration, habitat provision and shoreline protection; oyster mortality from changing conditions negatively impacts production of this commercially valuable species. This work is being completed in close collaboration with state partners including Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority who manage oyster production, restoration (LDWF) and overall coastal restoration and protection (CPRA). This project tests performance of previously untested populations of oysters from Louisiana waters under different water quality conditions. The goal is to identify potential stocks for a breeding program, and identify characteristics of oysters to match to environmental settings. Results from this work are being used to inform models of oyster growth, mortality, and reef connectivity, and being used to build genomic selections to identify broodstock for use in production of seed oysters for the oyster industry, and for restoration projects.
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On-going and predicted changes in precipitation and river flow from management impact key estuarine species such as the eastern oyster (<i>Crassostrea virginica</i>). Oysters act as estuarine sentinels, serving as indicators of change, and as ecosystem engineers, altering their environment and providing ecosystem services, including critical habitat and supporting a valuable economic product. However, an estimated 50 to 89% of native oyster populations have been functionally lost in the nGOM due to the combined effects of multiple environmental stressors (climate, extreme events) and anthropogenic activities (oil spills, river management). Yet, unique populations in areas of Louisiana not generally considered to provide good oyster habitat. In collaboration with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and Louisiana Sea Grant, this project tests the performance of previously untested populations of oysters from Louisiana waters under different water quality conditions. The goal is to identify potential stocks for a breeding program, and identify oyster populations that will thrive under current and future water quality conditions.
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Using parentage analysis to investigate the spawning and recruitment dynamics of walleye in Northern Wisconsin
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June 2021
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Walleye have undergone substantial recruitment declines in the upper Midwest, but finding casual mechanisms for these declines has remained illusive. We will use genetic techniques to reconstruct pedigrees for walleye in an attempt to investigate walleye spawning biology and recruitment. This project is a collaboration between USGS and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The results will be used to guide future fishing regulations and to develop conservation plans that protect important habitat features.
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Walleye have undergone substantial recruitment declines in the upper Midwest, but finding casual mechanisms for these declines has remained illusive. We will use genetic techniques to reconstruct pedigrees for walleye in an attempt to investigate walleye spawning biology and recruitment. This project is a collaboration between USGS and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The results will be used to guide future fishing regulations and to develop conservation plans that protect important habitat features.
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Using hydrophones to survey for underwater calling frogs
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December 2021
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The first step to wildlife conservation is understanding where species occur and how many individuals are present. For species that vocalize (such as birds and frogs), surveys are relatively straightforward and easy. However, emerging research indicates that some frogs primarily or exclusively call underwater and these vocalizations rarely break the air-water surface and are unlikely to be detected by surveyors. Coincidentally, most frog species that are known to call underwater are threatened or endangered including the Crawfish Frog, Chiricahua Leopard Frog, and Gopher Frog. In partnership with Cornell University and the Army Corps of Engineers, the Arkansas Unit is testing a novel method, using hydrophone recorders, to document the presence, distribution, and abundance of several imperiled frog species that primarily call underwater. We are demonstrating this technology on Fort Stewart, GA, Coronado Natl Forest, AZ, and at Woolsey Wet Prairie, AR. If an efficient and cost-effective methodology can be established, we will provide an innovative and important new tool for the military and other land managers to survey for and conserve these imperiled species.
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The first step to wildlife conservation is understanding where species occur and how many individuals are present. For species that vocalize (such as birds and frogs), surveys are relatively straightforward and easy. However, emerging research indicates that some frogs primarily or exclusively call underwater and these vocalizations rarely break the air-water surface and are unlikely to be detected by surveyors. Coincidentally, most frog species that are known to call underwater are threatened or endangered including the Crawfish Frog, Chiricahua Leopard Frog, and Gopher Frog. In partnership with Cornell University and the Army Corps of Engineers, the Arkansas Unit is testing a novel method, using hydrophone recorders, to document the presence, distribution, and abundance of several imperiled frog species that primarily call underwater. We are demonstrating this technology on Fort Stewart, GA, Coronado Natl Forest, AZ, and at Woolsey Wet Prairie, AR. If an efficient and cost-effective methodology can be established, we will provide an innovative and important new tool for the military and other land managers to survey for and conserve these imperiled species.
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Spawning Characteristics and an Assessment of Juvenile Sampling Methods and Habitat for Mountain Whitefish in the Green River, Wyoming
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June 2022
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Mountain whitefish Prosopium williamsoni are widely distributed throughout western North America, including many streams and lakes in the western Wyoming (Scott and Crossman 1973; Baxter and Stone 1995). Mountain whitefish are an important ecological and recreational component of streams and lakes in Wyoming, such as the upper Green River. Historically, mountain whitefish were likely one of the most abundant sport fishes in the Intermountain West, including states such as Montana (Brown 1952) and Wyoming. Mountain whitefish prey on a variety of aquatic taxa and terrestrial insects (Brown 1971; Pontius and Parker 1973; Scott and Crossman 1973). Therefore, mountain whitefish often compose a large portion of the biomass present within streams and lakes and likely contribute substantially to ecosystem processes (e.g., nutrient cycling). Additionally, mountain whitefish contribute to the diets of avian predators such as osprey (Van Daele and Van Daele 1982) and terrestrial predators such as river otters (Melquist and Hornocker 1983) and mink. Mountain whitefish can be an indicator species with respect to the effects of global climate change on river water temperatures. For example, upper lethal temperatures for mountain whitefish have not been defined, but weekly mean water temperature tolerances were lower for mountain whitefish than rainbow trout and brown trout (Eaton and Scheller 1996). Finally, mountain whitefish are a native species that makes a substantive contribution to angler recreation in streams of western Wyoming, including the upper Green River.
Status and trends in Wyoming’s mountain whitefish populations are only perceived with a limited baseline for comparison, which is currently being established. A recently completed project by the Aquatic Assessment Crew of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department studied the sampling techniques for adult mountain whitefish (Edwards 2014). In addition, the project evaluated the reliability of data collected on mountain whitefish populations for assessing trends in populations.
Despite the putative abundance of mountain whitefish in the water bodies of western Wyoming (Baxter and Stone 1995) and their availability as a sport fish (Baxter and Stone 1995; Scott and Crossman 1973), relatively little is known about the ecology of mountain whitefish in Wyoming. Fish population monitoring programs in Wyoming have only recently targeted mountain whitefish due to a lack of methodology. Therefore, available data are difficult to decipher and potentially unreliable for identifying long-term trends. This is also the case in neighboring states such as Montana (Mountain Whitefish Summit 2009). Many of Wyoming’s populations appear stable, however, at least some mountain whitefish populations nearby are showing signs of decline (Mountain Whitefish Summit 2009).
In Montana, mountain whitefish numbers have declined in Hebgen Lake since the early 2000s (Mountain Whitefish Summit 2009). Trend data are not available for the Madison River, but the Madison River Foundation and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks indicated concern over an apparent decrease in mountain whitefish. Thus, the Madison River Foundation, Trout Unlimited, NorthWestern Energy, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks funded a research project identifying life-history characteristics, habitat requirements, and factors potentially limiting recruitment of mountain whitefish in the Madison River (Boyer et al. 2017a). Interestingly, mountain whitefish moved downstream to spawning locations in the Madison River and it appeared that channel braiding was important large-scale characteristic in spawning site selection. Maturation and fecundity in the Madison River population were similar to other populations, and reproductive development appeared normal, thus factors influencing recruitment probably occur post spawning. Age-0 fish were associated with silt-laden backwater and eddy habitats. Furthermore, age-0 mountain whitefish were most efficiently sampled with seines. The Boyer et al. (2017a) study added a considerable amount of knowledge to mountain whitefish ecology in the Madison River, Montana.
Spawning characteristics and early life history are major gaps in the research of mountain whitefish ecology. Effective methodology for sampling juvenile whitefish is a concern of field biologists that is untested in many systems. It is probable that Wyoming could experience declines in mountain whitefish populations and would be best prepared to address potential issues by filling these data gaps. Declines in mountain whitefish populations were documented in a few lakes of the upper Green River drainage of Wyoming to date, and were attributed primarily to the addition of non-native piscivores. Riverine mountain whitefish populations appear to be robust throughout the state, but trends have yet to be identified.
Factors limiting production of mountain whitefish may occur at various life-history stages; however, spawning success, abundance of spawning individuals, and early life-history survival can have a strong influence on year-class strength and population abundance. Therefore, identifying large-scale spawning locations and movement, age structure, age-at-maturity, spawning periodicity, and the distribution and habitat requirements of age-0 mountain whitefish will provide a strong foundation for understanding the population dynamics of mountain whitefish in large Wyoming rivers. Knowledge regarding the ecology of mountain whitefish is necessary before we can understand the mechanisms for potential population declines.
Large-scale movement and habitat use by, and the spatial and temporal distribution of age-0 mountain whitefish within streams, is largely unknown. The most recent study conducted on age-0 mountain whitefish in the Madison River, Montana found that age-0 mountain whitefish were most efficiently sampled by seining (Boyer et al. 2017b). It is not clear whether the efficiency of seining is consistent among waterbodies throughout the species range. Therefore, evaluating appropriate methods for sampling age-0 mountain whitefish are warranted for varying waterbodies, and application of appropriate sampling methods to characterize the distribution of age-0 mountain whitefish in a large Wyoming river system may help identify limiting factors for mountain whitefish recruitment.
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Mountain whitefish are an important ecological and recreational component of streams and lakes in Wyoming, such as the upper Green River. Historically, mountain whitefish were likely one of the most abundant sport fishes in the Intermountain West, including states such as Montana and Wyoming. Despite the putative abundance of mountain whitefish in the water bodies of western Wyoming and their availability as a sport fish, relatively little is known about the ecology of mountain whitefish in Wyoming. Thus, here we are studying the factors that may limit production of mountain whitefish at various life-history stages; such as, spawning success, abundance of spawning individuals, movement, and early life-history survival. Knowledge regarding the ecology of mountain whitefish is necessary before we can understand the mechanisms for potential population declines. Partners are Wyoming Game and Fish
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Efficacy of the Nature-like Fish Bypass Channel at Huntley Diversion Dam, Yellowstone River, Montana
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March 2022
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The Huntley Diversion Dam was constructed in 1934 at river kilometer 566 on the Yellowstone River 15 km downstream from Billings, Montana, to supply agricultural irrigation and municipal water. The 3.2-m high rockfill and concrete structure can divert up to 730 cfs of water. Limited upstream movement past the dam was possible by strong-swimming fish species (white sucker, carp, goldeye, brown trout, shorthead redhorse, longnose sucker, flathead chub), but such passage was probably accomplished via the natural side channel on the north side of the island on the north side of the dam; the side channel flows primarily during high runoff discharges. Moreover, no upstream or downstream passage of marked individuals of most species present was observed. In addition, the dam appeared to limit the upstream distribution of a genetically distinct population of sauger; sauger formerly occurred in the Yellowstone River and its Clark Fork tributary upstream of Huntley Dam. Lack of access by this popular sportfish to habitats upstream of the dam may limit recreational opportunities as well as viability of this unique population.
Huntley Dam was repaired and modified following flooding in 1996 and 1997. Concurrently, a nature-like fish bypass channel was constructed around the north end of the dam on the island to enhance fish movements around the dam. Unfortunately, the length of the completed channel was much shorter than originally planned. It failed to provide passage, probably because of excessive gradient and water velocities. The bypass channel was reconfigured to more appropriate design specifications in 2015, but its hydraulics and efficacy for fish passage have not been evaluated.
Nature-like fish bypasses are designed to resemble natural streams or side channels. Their gradient is lower than that of typical fish ladders and their sinuosity and inherent substrate roughness provide diverse water velocities, especially along their margins, thereby ostensibly facilitating passage by a variety of species and sizes. Nature-like bypasses are still rare (though more popular in Europe than in North America) and only a few evaluations of them have been conducted. None of these evaluations were conducted in situations even remotely resembling the reconfigured Huntley bypass channel.
As with all fishways, attraction is critical for nature-like bypasses; fish have to both find the entrance and decide to enter it before attempting to navigate it. Adequate flows are key to attraction, but insufficient evaluations exist to provide thresholds and design criteria, especially for diverse fish assemblages such as that of the Yellowstone River. Upon entry, a fish must traverse the passage successfully and also exit it; again, hydraulics must be appropriate. Failure can occur at any of these stages and assessment thereof is an important component of an evaluation if it is to identify causes of passage problems and possible remedies. Influential factors affecting bypass efficiency (depending on species and size) can include discharge, velocity, gradient, channel length, temperature, and turbidity.
We propose to conduct an evaluation of the reconfigured Huntley fish bypass in 2019 and 2020 by estimating fish passage rates through the bypass and measuring and modeling the hydraulics of the bypass channel to determine its passability by various species under different river stages. Our specific objectives are to:
1) determine approach, attraction, and passage efficiencies (%) of important and abundant fish species through the bypass,
2) determine the locations of any passage bottlenecks within and near (i.e., immediately above and below) the bypass channel,
3) determine fish passage durations through the bypass,
4) determine the seasonal and daily timing of fish passage,
5) characterize the topography, bathymetry, and hydraulics of the bypass and its inlet and outlet to characterize its connectivity with the Yellowstone River, and
6) model the hydraulics of the bypass to identify excessive velocities, attraction flows, and other factors affecting fish passage over the range of flow rates that characterize the river’s hydrograph.
Completion of these objectives will provide an evaluation of how well the fish bypass works, ascertain the causes of any deficiencies, and identify corrective measures if needed.
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The Huntley Diversion Dam on the Yellowstone River limits movements and distributions of fish. Similar dams pose similar problems on large rivers worldwide. A nature-like fish bypass channel designed to resemble a natural stream or side channel was constructed around the dam to enhance fish movements around it in 2015, but its hydraulics and efficacy for fish passage have not been evaluated. The gradient of nature-like bypasses is lower than that of typical fish ladders and their sinuosity and inherent substrate roughness provide diverse water velocities, especially along their margins, thereby ostensibly facilitating passage by a variety of species and sizes. Nature-like bypasses are still rare and only a few evaluations of them have been conducted, with none at a dam as large as Huntley. We are conducting an evaluation of the Huntley fish bypass by estimating fish passage rates through the bypass and measuring and modeling the hydraulics of the bypass channel to determine its passability by various species under different river stages. Partners are Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the Civil Engineering program at Montana State University. Completion of the study will provide an evaluation of how well the fish bypass works, ascertain the causes of any deficiencies, and identify corrective measures if needed.
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Using Carcass and Carcass-Analog Material to Increase Lake T...
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December 2021
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Invasive species introductions cause negative economic effects and disrupt natural ecosystem interactions, with the potential of inducing ecological impairment or ecosystem collapse (Elton 1958; Vitousek 1996; Sala et al. 2000). Invasive species introduction and expansion is the second greatest threat to global biodiversity decline next to habitat degradation (Wilcove 1998; WWF 2016). Additionally, such introductions are recognized as a major threat to aquatic ecosystems (Ricciardi 1999; Pimentel et al. 2005). Invasive species disrupt ecosystems by displacing and reducing native species populations (Vitousek et al. 1996), usually through competition, predation, or both (Cucherousset and Olden 2011). Invasive species have the ability to initiate trophic cascades through the alteration of ecosystem food-web dynamics (Eby et al. 2006). <br>Lake trout have been intentionally or illegally introduced to over 170 locations in the Intermountain West (Martinez et al. 2009), often leading to invasive populations that disrupt food-webs in native ecosystems (e.g., Yellowstone Lake, Lake Pend Oreille, Flathead Lake, Lake Tahoe). Lake trout in their invasive range can predate on native fishes (Ruzycki et al. 2003), compete with native fishes (Donald and Alger 1993; USFWS 1998; Fredenberg 2002), and can affect terrestrial vertebrates dependent on native fish species (Spencer et al. 1991; Schullery and Varley 1995; Tronstad et al. 2010). <br>After being introduced from nearby Lewis Lake in the mid-to-late 1980s (Munro et al. 2005), lake trout were discovered in Yellowstone Lake in 1994 (Kaeding et al. 1995). Yellowstone Lake contains the largest population of genetically pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the world (Gresswell and Varley 1988). The effect of lake trout on Yellowstone cutthroat trout populations through predation and competition for limited resources in lake ecosystems (Syslo 2010) is of particular concern for conservation of Yellowstone cutthroat trout. The persistence of Yellowstone cutthroat trout in Yellowstone Lake has been threatened by the introduction of invasive lake trout, which have greatly reduced the abundance of Yellowstone cutthroat trout (Koel et al. 2005; Tronstad et al. 2010) and disrupted aquatic and terrestrial food webs (Tronstad et al. 2010). The number of spawning individuals in one spawning tributary was reduced from 55,000 Yellowstone cutthroat trout in 1987 to 500 in 2007 (Koel et al. 2012). Additionally, the decline in Yellowstone cutthroat trout abundance triggered a trophic cascade (Tronstad et al. 2010) and disrupted linkages among non-piscene predators throughout the Yellowstone Lake basin (Crait and Ben-David 2006; Baril et al. 2013; Tiesberg et al. 2014). The Yellowstone cutthroat trout population was expected to decrease by as much as 60% within 100 years if the level of predation exerted by lake trout was not suppressed (Stapp and Hayward 2002). Due to the dramatic influence of lake trout in Yellowstone Lake and the Yellowstone Lake basin, the National Park Service initiated a lake trout suppression program in 1995.<br>The original gillnetting program objectives were to remove lake trout from Yellowstone Lake and assess the geographic distribution and population characteristics (Kaeding and Boltz 1997; Ruzycki 2004). Subsequently, contract fishing crews are gillnetting in addition to the National Park Service to increase effort throughout Yellowstone Lake. The National Park Service additionally uses acoustic telemetry to locate lake trout spawning areas and concentrate gillnetting effort during the spawning season (Koel et al. 2015). Gillnetting effort has increased from 1997 through 2014 along with the cost of the program, which is now nearly two million dollars annually. The increase in gillnetting effort is showing some benefit; recently the catch of lake trout has declined and Yellowstone cutthroat trout numbers have slightly increased. <br>Research studies were initiated in 2015 to explore alternative lake trout suppression methods to increase the success of meeting suppression program goals, improve suppression efficiency, and reduce program cost. Currently, the most efficient and cost-effective alternative suppression method has been to suppress lake trout embryos using whole and ground lake trout carcass material and carcass-analog pellets on spawning substrates causing hypoxic conditions unsuitable for developing lake trout embryos (Thomas 2017). Carcass analog pellets are created from plant-based organic materials (gluten/soy) and were created to mimic lake trout carcass material. Addition of lake trout carcass material and carcass-analog pellets have increased lake trout embryo mortality in controlled experiments to near 100% (Thomas 2017; Figure 1; YELL unpublished data 2018; Figure 2) and could be applicable to suppression of lake trout embryos lake-wide, potentially increasing the long-term cost efficiency of the lake trout suppression program. However, with a concentrated addition of lake trout carcass material or carcass-analog pellets at lake trout spawning sites, novel concentrations of nutrients become available for aquatic organisms at all trophic levels that were not historically available. <br>The potential influence of concentrated lake trout carcass or carcass-analog pellet nutrients on the food-web dynamics in Yellowstone Lake is unknown. We predict that unintended consequences from lake trout carcass or carcass-analog pellet deposition will not exist, but this must be objectively evaluated using rigorous scientific methodology. Understanding the potential consequences of lake trout carcass material or carcass-analog pellets on nutrient cycling and food-web dynamics in Yellowstone Lake would be beneficial for National Park Service managers when deciding whether to implement embryo suppression lake-wide using lake trout carcass or carcass-analog pellet deposition—implementing the carcass program would result in considerable cost savings to the lake trout suppression program. The aim of this study is to provide information on the potential trophic cascading effects of suppressing embryos with carcass material or carcass-analog pellets in concentrated littoral and benthic zones of the lake. Specifically, we will determine how this novel suppression method influences nutrient cycling and food-web dynamics in Yellowstone Lake.
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The original gillnetting program objectives were to remove lake trout from Yellowstone Lake and assess the geographic distribution and population characteristics. Subsequently, contract fishing crews are gillnetting in addition to the National Park Service to increase effort throughout Yellowstone Lake. Gillnetting effort has increased from 1997 through 2019 along with the cost of the program, which is now nearly two million dollars annually. The increase in gillnetting effort is showing some benefit; recently the catch of large lake trout has declined and Yellowstone cutthroat trout numbers have slightly increased. Research studies were initiated in 2015 to explore alternative lake trout suppression methods to increase the success of meeting suppression program goals, improve suppression efficiency, and reduce program cost. Currently, the most efficient and cost-effective alternative suppression method has been to suppress lake trout embryos using whole and ground lake trout carcass material and carcass-analog pellets on spawning substrates causing hypoxic conditions unsuitable for developing lake trout embryos. However, with a concentrated addition of lake trout carcass material or carcass-analog pellets at lake trout spawning sites, novel concentrations of nutrients become available for aquatic organisms at all trophic levels that were not historically available. Thus, the aim of this study is to provide information on the potential trophic cascading effects of suppressing embryos with carcass material or carcass-analog pellets in concentrated littoral and benthic zones of the lake. Specifically, we will determine how this novel suppression method influences nutrient cycling and food-web dynamics in Yellowstone Lake. Partners are USGS CRU and Yellowstone National Park
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Quantifying Brown Trout and Lake Trout predation on Burbot and Mountain Whitefish
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June 2023
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Purpose and Need: Burbot and Mountain Whitefish are important native sportfish species in Wyoming, with Burbot classified as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (ranked as Native Species Status 3; WGFD 2017). Additionally, Underwood et al. (2015) revealed that genetic differentiation exists among Wind River tributary drainage Burbot stocks. Thus, the Torrey Creek drainage Burbot stock that occurs in Torrey Creek and Trail, Ring, and Torrey lakes is a high conservation priority (Figure 1).
Managers have been concerned with the declines in Ring Lake Burbot since the 1990s. Burbot catch rate was higher in Ring Lake than four other Wind River drainage lakes from 1967 to 1969, and six other drainage lakes from 1995 to 1996 (Miller 1970a, 1970b; Krueger and Hubert 1997). Conversely, Ring Lake Burbot catch rate in trammel nets was lower than six of seven other drainage lakes from 2007 to 2008 and lowest among six drainage lakes from 2011 to 2013 (Abrahamse 2009; Lewandoski 2015). Additionally, spring 2018 Burbot catch rate in fyke nets was only 0.02/hour, compared to 0.22/hour in 1995 to 1996 (Krueger 1996; unpublished data). Hubert et al. (2008) also estimated that Ring Lake Burbot survival decreased from 77% in 1969-1970 to 56% in 1995-1996. Exploitation was not the cause of decreased Burbot numbers in Ring Lake (Lewandoski et al. 2017). Thus, the cause(s) of the decline in Ring Lake Burbot abundance remains unknown.
Less is known about Mountain Whitefish in the Torrey Creek drainage. Whitefish abundance in Torrey Lake has been consistently low since the early 1950s. Only one mountain Whitefish was captured during 11 gill-net sampling events from 1954 through 1977, and zero were captured during nine gill-net and five trammel-net sampling events from 1980 through 2017 (Connell 1978; WGFD unpublished data). Conversely, high numbers of Mountain Whitefish have been captured in Trail Lake during the same time period, with the most recent sampling event producing a gill-net catch rate of 0.94 fish/hour (WGFD 2018). Available data suggest Ring Lake numbers have decreased since the late 1960s. Connell (1977) reported that gill net catch rate of Mountain Whitefish in Ring Lake averaged 0.29 fish/hour during five sampling events from 1954 through 1970, whereas catch rate during three sampling events from 1998 through
2017 averaged 0.07 fish/hour (WGFD unpublished data). Additionally, no Mountain Whitefish were captured in trammel nets (which are likely a more efficient sampling gear because of a smaller mesh size than the gill nets) during sampling events in 2005 and 2017 (WGFD unpublished data).
A possible cause of the decline in Ring Lake Burbot and Mountain Whitefish abundance that needs further research is the introduction of Brown Trout and Lake Trout. Lake Trout were first stocked in 1937 and Brown Trout likely entered the drainage in the late 1940s or early 1950s (Connell 1977; Connell 1978). The origin of Brown Trout in the drainage is unknown. Immigration from the Wind River was the most likely source. Brown Trout stocking may have also occurred; however, no stocking records exist. Although no sampling data exist for the 17-year period after Lake Trout were first stocked, trend data indicate a gradual decrease in Burbot and Mountain Whitefish abundance in Ring Lake after Brown Trout became established. Brown Trout predation on Burbot was confirmed in the autumn of 2017 in Torrey Creek upstream from Ring Lake (WGFD 2018). Although sample size was small (n = 6 stomachs), Burbot occurred in 33% of Brown Trout stomachs (WGFD 2018). Torrey Creek upstream of Ring and Trail lakes are known Burbot spawning and nursery areas, and managers are concerned that fall-migrating Brown Trout into Torrey Creek may reduce Burbot recruitment through predation (Bjorn 1939; Williams 1959; Miller 1970a; Miller 1970b; Glaid et al. 2016). Mangers also suspect that Brown Trout predation on Mountain Whitefish migrating downstream from Trail Lake may be the cause of low numbers of Mountain Whitefish in Ring Lake.
Goal: To estimate the predatory influence of Brown Trout and Lake Trout on the Burbot population and Mountain Whitefish in the Torrey Creek drainage
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Here we are testing the hypothesis that the decline in burbot is a result of brown trout predation. This research project will provide information that will be used to manage the brown trout population in order to conserve the native burbot population in the Torrey Creek drainage.
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Enhancing survival and condition of first feeding larval pallid sturgeon through diet
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December 2022
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Summary
Conservation propagation facilities in the Upper Basin are currently experiencing variable survival of first feeding larval Pallid Sturgeon. This type of hatchery-induced “selection” can ultimately have unintended, negative consequences on genetic representation of Pallid Sturgeon returned to the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers, and managers are now investigating potential sources of mortality in the hatchery. Larval mortality is high at 19-21 days (at 16-18°C) and occurs as a result of starvation. This study seeks to determine if survival and condition of first feeding larval Pallid Sturgeon and successful weaning to a formulated diet can be enhanced by a diet more similar to dietary options in the wild. The results of this study can be used to develop a feeding regimen to enhance survival and condition of larval Pallid Sturgeon in conservation propagation facilities.
Problem Statement and Background
Conservation propagation is defined as the production of individuals for reintroduction in the wild, and is a critical component of recovery plans for aquatic species at risk of extinction or population loss (Paragamian and Beamesderfer 2004; Caroffino et al. 2008; George et al. 2009; Lorenzen et al. 2010). Conservation propagation has been used to successfully augment populations of multiple imperiled fishes, like Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Fast et al. 2015), and continues at present to be the main source of production of larval Pallid Sturgeon Scaphirhynchus albus in the Upper Missouri River Basin (Steffensen et al. 2010). USFWS conservation propagation hatcheries are currently experiencing variable survival of post-hatch larval Pallid Sturgeon following initiation to exogenous feeding, which directly affects the genetic lots that are returned to the upper Missouri River and potentially artificially selects the genetic composition of the Pallid Sturgeon population in the Upper Missouri River Basin.
There is indication that the observed variability in larval survival at conservation propagation hatcheries is a result of poor response to feed offered to larvae. First feeding larval Pallid Sturgeon in a hatchery setting are introduced to a formulated diet (Otohime) at 3-5 d post-hatch, depending on water temperatures (Webb et al. 2006). However, recent research conducted on multiple species of fish, including several sturgeon species, suggests that first feeding larvae are not well-suited for a formulated diet (Parauka et al. 1991; Bardi et al. 1998; Mohler et al. 2000). First feeding larvae may not be adequately stimulated by the texture or appearance of formulated feed (Person Le Ruyet et al. 1993). However, because visual capabilities are likely not fully functioning at this early stage, chemical attractiveness of food is highly important (Iwai 1980; Kolkovski et al. 2000). There is evidence that formulated dry diets do not have the chemical attractiveness required to cue the taste and olfaction senses or initiate the preliminary stages of digestive processes that first feeding larvae utilize when feeding (Buddington 1985; Kolkovski et al. 1997a).
There is also evidence that first feeding larvae are unable to properly digest formulated diets because of the digestive enzymes present at this stage. Lipase and amylase, the digestive enzymes present at high levels during the time of first feeding, process food sources rich in carbohydrates and glycogen, like the early life-stage zooplankton found in a natural aquatic setting (Buddington and Christofferson 1985; Ricardi 2000; Ware et al. 2006). As larvae transition through the period of first feeding, the complement of digestive enzymes shifts towards greater levels of pepsin, which processes food sources rich in proteins (Ware et al. 2006). Formulated diets, like those currently fed to first feeding sturgeon, are high in protein, and, though digestible at a later period, may be too difficult for early sturgeon larvae to digest and assimilate (Ware et al. 2006). This can result in reduced body weight and larval mortality. Formulated diets have also been shown to result in high levels of larval cannibalism in Beluga Sturgeon (Huso huso; Agh et al. 2012).
Enhancement of the traditional feeding regimen offered to first feeding larvae has been demonstrated to significantly improve survival and condition in multiple species of fish. In one study of Yellow Perch Perca flavescens and Lake Whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis larvae, chemical enhancement of a formulated dry diet was made through top-coating with liquid krill hydrosolate. Food ingestion and larval growth were significantly greater in larvae that received the krill oil-coated dry diet than those that received the regular formulated diet (Kolkovski et al. 2000). Recent research on sturgeon suggests that the addition of live feed (i.e., Artemia) significantly improves larval survival and condition (Ware et al. 2006; Agh et al. 2012). Additionally, Ware et al. (2006) found that a diet comprised of Artemia alone did not affect survival or condition differently than a diet comprised of both formulated diet and Artemia. This is important because it identifies a feeding regimen that improves survival and condition, is not as costly or time-consuming as a diet comprised solely of live feed, and potentially improves weaning success by enabling larvae to imprint on the dry diet.
Dietary requirements of larval fishes are likely species-specific (Hamre et al. 2013). Previous research conducted in 2007 and 2008 on feeding regimens for first feeding Pallid Sturgeon larvae found similar survival (73%-92%) among larvae fed a combination of a formulated diet (Otohime) and live Artemia and other diets containing variations of either solely Otohime or Otohime and additional dietary supplements (Kappenman et al. 2011). However, in this study Artemia were only fed to larvae once per day, which is likely too infrequent to significantly impact larval survival compared to dry diets. Similar research on other sturgeon species presented live Artemia six times per day at regular intervals (Ware et al. 2006; Agh et al. 2012). Given the variability of survival of first feeding Pallid Sturgeon larvae at conservation hatcheries, additional research is necessary to reduce hatchery selection.
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Conservation propagation facilities in the Upper Basin are currently experiencing variable survival of first feeding larval Pallid Sturgeon. This type of hatchery-induced “selection” can ultimately have unintended, negative consequences on genetic representation of Pallid Sturgeon returned to the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers, and managers are now investigating potential sources of mortality in the hatchery. This study seeks to determine if survival and condition of first feeding larval Pallid Sturgeon and successful weaning to a formulated diet can be enhanced by a diet more similar to dietary options in the wild. The results of this study can be used to develop a feeding regimen to enhance survival and condition of larval Pallid Sturgeon in conservation propagation facilities. This project is in collaboration with the USFWS.
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Glade restoration and conservation management of Eastern Collared Lizards in Northern Arkansas
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March 2022
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The Eastern Collared Lizard is a state-protected lizard species that relies upon a decining habitat: the Ozark glade ecosystem. Collared Lizards must maintain high body temperatures and the encroachment of shrubs into glade habitats renders them unsuitable and makes it impossible for Collared Lizards to maintain their preferred temperature while also successfully foraging and mating. Working with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, The US Forest Service, and the National Parks Service, Dr. Casey Brewster and I are using brush removal and prescribed fire to improve glade-habitat quality and connectivity and to conduct Eastern Collared Lizard population recovery efforts at nine glades within the Ozark Highlands. Our objectives include removing cedar from over 200 acres of glade habitat and restoring or reintroducing Eastern Collared Lizards to each glade. This is a direct management and recovery action for an imperiled ecosystem and an imperiled species within the state of Arkansas. This study will assess how lizard populations respond directly to management and may create additional populations by translocating lizards from rock quarries to newly restored habitat patches. These actions will directly improve the viability of Collared Lizard populations in the state of Arkansas.
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The Eastern Collared Lizard is a state-protected lizard species that relies upon a decining habitat: the Ozark glade ecosystem. Collared Lizards must maintain high body temperatures and the encroachment of shrubs into glade habitats renders them unsuitable and makes it impossible for Collared Lizards to maintain their preferred temperature while also successfully foraging and mating. Working with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, The US Forest Service, and the National Parks Service, Dr. Casey Brewster and I are using brush removal and prescribed fire to improve glade-habitat quality and connectivity and to conduct Eastern Collared Lizard population recovery efforts at nine glades within the Ozark Highlands. Our objectives include removing cedar from over 200 acres of glade habitat and restoring or reintroducing Eastern Collared Lizards to each glade. This is a direct management and recovery action for an imperiled ecosystem and an imperiled species within the state of Arkansas. This study will assess how lizard populations respond directly to management and may create additional populations by translocating lizards from rock quarries to newly restored habitat patches. These actions will directly improve the viability of Collared Lizard populations in the state of Arkansas.
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Estimating the spatial and temporal extent of snowpack properties in complex terrain: Leveraging novel data to adapt wildlife and habitat management practices to climate change
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December 2023
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Snow refugia and winter severity can have strong influences on species abundance and distribution. Currently, our ability to accurately measure the locations of snow refugia and relative severity of winter are limited. Developing cost effective indices using remote cameras to measure can aid managers in surveying for species that rely on snow refugia and predicting species responses to severe winter weather (e.g. ungulates). This project is a collaborative effort between the USGS Northwest Science Climate Adaptation Center, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and The University of Idaho. Results will provide managers with potential locations of snow refugia important for species of conservation concern and an index of winter severity that can be used to improve population predictions and subsequent management.
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Snow refugia and winter severity can have strong influences on species abundance and distribution. Currently, our ability to accurately measure the locations of snow refugia and relative severity of winter are limited. Developing cost effective indices using remote cameras to measure can aid managers in surveying for species that rely on snow refugia and predicting species responses to severe winter weather (e.g. ungulates). This project is a collaborative effort between the USGS Northwest Science Climate Adaptation Center, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and The University of Idaho. Results will provide managers with potential locations of snow refugia important for species of conservation concern and an index of winter severity that can be used to improve population predictions and subsequent management.
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Nest ecology of bluebirds across land cover types
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December 2022
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The charismatic bluebird is a ubiquitous box-nester across much of the Eastern United States. However, it has yet to be explored how this species alters its behavior and ecology depending on where it nests. For instance, how do bluebirds nesting in agricultural landscapes differ from those nesting in prairies or suburbs? Understanding these patterns in behavior and nest survival can inform management plans for this charismatic songbird and provide valuable information for how a widespread habitat generalist responds to local stressors and pressures. Working with University of Arkansas's Dr. Sarah DuRant and with the help from the University of Arkansas Agricultural Department, Northwest Arkansas's Land Trust, and the city of Fayetteville, we are exploring the differences in growth, survival, thermal environment, and nest predators for bluebirds nesting in a variety of landscapes across Northwest Arkansas. We believe that the bluebird will be in important indicator of ecosystem health and by examining the species' response to different factors can better understand how a generalist species adapts to its local environment.
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The charismatic bluebird is a ubiquitous box-nester across much of the Eastern United States. However, it has yet to be explored how this species alters its behavior and ecology depending on where it nests. For instance, how do bluebirds nesting in agricultural landscapes differ from those nesting in prairies or suburbs? Understanding these patterns in behavior and nest survival can inform management plans for this charismatic songbird and provide valuable information for how a widespread habitat generalist responds to local stressors and pressures. Working with University of Arkansas's Dr. Sarah DuRant and with the help from the University of Arkansas Agricultural Department, Northwest Arkansas's Land Trust, and the city of Fayetteville, we are exploring the differences in growth, survival, thermal environment, and nest predators for bluebirds nesting in a variety of landscapes across Northwest Arkansas. We believe that the bluebird will be in important indicator of ecosystem health and by examining the species' response to different factors can better understand how a generalist species adapts to its local environment.
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Body Condition Index of Overwintering Mallards in Arkansas
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May 2022
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Many waterfowl species spend the winter in the southern United States before migrating north to breeding grounds in the spring. During the harsh winter, these birds must maintain or gain weight in order to successfully attain mates, migrate north, and immediately initiate reproduction. Body mass should directly be linked to food availability and environmental conditions. Working with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Ducks Unlimited, graduate student John Veon, former unit leader David Krementz and I are using newly collected data in conjunction with historic data from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s to examine how mallard body mass varies across time. We will then examine how fine scale environmental variables (precipitation and temperature) influence body mass. Finally, we will relate body mass of hunter collected ducks with the surrounding land management practices to examine how waterfowl management practices are effecting waterfowl body mass and health. These results should be directly applicable to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's management efforts to increase food availability for this economically important species.
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Many waterfowl species spend the winter in the southern United States before migrating north to breeding grounds in the spring. During the harsh winter, these birds must maintain or gain weight in order to successfully attain mates, migrate north, and immediately initiate reproduction. Body mass should directly be linked to food availability and environmental conditions. Working with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Ducks Unlimited, graduate student John Veon, former unit leader David Krementz and I are using newly collected data in conjunction with historic data from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s to examine how mallard body mass varies across time. We will then examine how fine scale environmental variables (precipitation and temperature) influence body mass. Finally, we will relate body mass of hunter collected ducks with the surrounding land management practices to examine how waterfowl management practices are effecting waterfowl body mass and health. These results should be directly applicable to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's management efforts to increase food availability for this economically important species.
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Nesting ecology of songbirds along an urban to rural gradient
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December 2020
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Nest predation is the primary cause of nest failure for most bird species and thus plays a crucial role in avian population dynamics. Ornithologists are thus interested in what choices birds can make when selecting nest sites to reduce predation risk. However, for birds that nest along an urban to rural gradient, the identity of nest predators is likely to change and thus birds must alter their nest site selections accordingly. Working with volunteer homeowners, Northwest Arkansas Land Trust, and the City of Fayetteville, graduate student Grace Christie and I are exploring how nest site selection, predator identity, and predation risk varies for 6 bird species that nest along an urban to rural gradient. Our results should inform predator-prey ecology theory as well as provide practical management applications for managers tasked with recovering birds that nest in human dominated ecosystems. Additionally, this study will allow us to address several important hypotheses in the predator-prey field including the "urban nest predator paradox" and the "predator prolifieration" hypothesis.
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Nest predation is the primary cause of nest failure for most bird species and thus plays a crucial role in avian population dynamics. Ornithologists are thus interested in what choices birds can make when selecting nest sites to reduce predation risk. However, for birds that nest along an urban to rural gradient, the identity of nest predators is likely to change and thus birds must alter their nest site selections accordingly. Working with volunteer homeowners, Northwest Arkansas Land Trust, and the City of Fayetteville, graduate student Grace Christie and I are exploring how nest site selection, predator identity, and predation risk varies for 6 bird species that nest along an urban to rural gradient. Our results should inform predator-prey ecology theory as well as provide practical management applications for managers tasked with recovering birds that nest in human dominated ecosystems. Additionally, this study will allow us to address several important hypotheses in the predator-prey field including the "urban nest predator paradox" and the "predator prolifieration" hypothesis.
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Population demography and connectivity of Spotted Turtles on an urban military installation
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August 2020
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Spotted turtles are considered endangered by the IUCN and are a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in all 21 U.S. states in which they occur, including Virginia where they were once common. Northern Virginia is one of the fastest developing areas of the country and spotted turtle habitat has been rapidly lost. One area where they are still abundant is on the protected Fort Belvoir, VA. Working with Dr. Jinelle Sperry of the US Army Corps of Engineers, graduate student Ellery Lassiter and I are studying the population demography and movement patterns of turtles on the installation. Using capture-mark-recapture techniques as well as radio-telemetry we are exploring how the populations on Fort Belvoir are faring, if turtles from different areas of the installation are connected, and if Fort Belvoir is acting as a source population for other nearby natural areas. Results from this study will directly inform management activities on Fort Belvoir and will assist the installation biologists with consultation with the USFWS if the species is listed.
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Spotted turtles are considered endangered by the IUCN and are a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in all 21 U.S. states in which they occur, including Virginia where they were once common. Northern Virginia is one of the fastest developing areas of the country and spotted turtle habitat has been rapidly lost. One area where they are still abundant is on the protected Fort Belvoir, VA. Working with Dr. Jinelle Sperry of the US Army Corps of Engineers, graduate student Ellery Lassiter and I are studying the population demography and movement patterns of turtles on the installation. Using capture-mark-recapture techniques as well as radio-telemetry we are exploring how the populations on Fort Belvoir are faring, if turtles from different areas of the installation are connected, and if Fort Belvoir is acting as a source population for other nearby natural areas. Results from this study will directly inform management activities on Fort Belvoir and will assist the installation biologists with consultation with the USFWS if the species is listed.
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Project Snapshot: USA
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December 2029
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As the country undergoes rapid development and alteration to accommodate our growing human population, it becomes ever more important to have baseline data regarding wildlife populations and distribution so we can identify how our actions affect wildlife. Snapshot USA is a coordinated, nationwide camera trapping study aimed at collecting rigorous, long-term baseline data regarding mammalian communities across the country and in different environments. Contributors from all 50 states collect and share data in a standardized fashion. This growing body of publicly-available data will form the foundation for numerous high-impact investigations on the impacts of humans on wildlife and mammal community assembly rules. CRU scientists from different Units including Brett DeGregorio, Robert Lonsinger, Erin Buchholtz, Mike Booth, and Steve Gray contribute to Snapshot USA. They join co-collaborators from state, federal, and tribal entities as well as universities and NGOs. The publicly-available data set generated by Snapshot USA has already proven extremely valuable to practitioners looking to track population declines, changes in distribution, changes in behavior, and changes in community assembly in relation to landscape or anthropogenic factors.
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As the country undergoes rapid development and alteration to accommodate our growing human population, it becomes ever more important to have baseline data regarding wildlife populations and distribution so we can identify how our actions affect wildlife. Snapshot USA's goal is to facilitate the collaboration of cooperators to contribute to a national database of public wildlife data. This nationwide data is being used to examine nationwide trends in mammal community assembly rules associated with natural environmental and anthropogenic filters. Collaborators from all 50 states have and continue to contribute camera trap data from a standardized camera trap array at the same time from each site and the Smithsonian Institute compiles and makes available these data. Brett DeGregorio has been contributing data to this coordinated effort since 2019, first in Arkansas and now in Michigan. To date, Brett and his students have provided data from 6 study sites in Arkansas and will shortly be contributing from 3 in Michigan. Data provided should provide information regarding the occupancy of mesopredators, activity patterns of animals across the country and between habitats, and relatively density of several common species of mammals. This effort continues to expand each year to include more contributors and even additional countries. This database is being established as one of the largest camera trap image repositories in existence and provides the raw material for numerous large-scale ecological examinations of mammal populations.
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Assessing occurrence and effects of neonicotinoid pesticides on Loggerhead Shrike body condition, immunocompetence, survival, and reproduction
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June 2023
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The Loggerhead Shrike is a grassland associated avian species that is one of the fastest declining passerines in Arkansas and North America. Despite the dramatic decline, there is no clear censensus for why these populations continue to trend down so precipitously. One hypothesis that has yet to be evaluated is the influence of agricultural chemicals on the health and reproductive behavior of the Loggerhead Shrike. To improve our ability to conserve this Species of Greatest Conservation Need, we are evaluating the occurrence and impact of neonicotinoid pesticides on individuals. Together with Dr. Than Boves from Arkansas State University and funded by Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's State Wildlife Grant Program, graduate student Connor Gale and I are capturing shrikes and collecting blood and fecal samples from adult and nestlings that inhabit a variety of row-crop habitats as well as more natural grassland and pasture habitat. We are also capturing adult birds across seasons in these same habitat types to assess how pesticide concentrations and potential impacts vary between growing and non-growing seasons. We are also monitoring marked birds to better estimate survival and nests to assess reproduction. These results will inform management by state and federal agencies regarding how to conserve shrikes in human- modified habitats and may elucidate one of the major threats to population viability.
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The Loggerhead Shrike is a grassland associated avian species that is one of the fastest declining passerines in Arkansas and North America. Despite the dramatic decline, there is no clear censensus for why these populations continue to trend down so precipitously. One hypothesis that has yet to be evaluated is the influence of agricultural chemicals on the health and reproductive behavior of the Loggerhead Shrike. To improve our ability to conserve this Species of Greatest Conservation Need, we are evaluating the occurrence and impact of neonicotinoid pesticides on individuals. Together with Dr. Than Boves from Arkansas State University and funded by Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's State Wildlife Grant Program, graduate student Connor Gale and I are capturing shrikes and collecting blood and fecal samples from adult and nestlings that inhabit a variety of row-crop habitats as well as more natural grassland and pasture habitat. We are also capturing adult birds across seasons in these same habitat types to assess how pesticide concentrations and potential impacts vary between growing and non-growing seasons. We are also monitoring marked birds to better estimate survival and nests to assess reproduction. These results will inform management by state and federal agencies regarding how to conserve shrikes in human- modified habitats and may elucidate one of the major threats to population viability.
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Summarizing current knowledge of the factors influencing juvenile salmonid susceptibility to avian predation in the Columbia River Basin
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June 2020
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Avian predation has been identified as a factor that limits the survival of juvenile salmonids in the Columbia River Basin and addressing predation concerns is a component of Biological Opinions and Reasonable and Prudent Alternatives associated with the management of the Federal Columbia River Power System (NOAA 2008). Over the last two decades, numerous avian predation research, monitoring, and evaluation (RM&E) studies have been conducted to evaluate the impact of predation by Caspian terns, double-crested cormorants, and other colonial waterbirds on the survival of Endangered Species Act-listed juvenile salmonids in the Columbia River basin. In this project, we will be collaborating with Real Time Research, Incorporated to summarize results from past studies regarding tern and cormorant nesting ecology, inter-colony movements, dispersal, and predation impacts on juvenile salmonids in the Columbia River basin. A specific emphasis of this work is to summarize our current knowledge of the factors influencing juvenile salmonid susceptibly to avian predation in the Columbia River Basin including factors such as fish rear-type (hatchery, wild), run-timing, and size (fork-length).
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Avian predation has been identified as a factor that limits the survival of juvenile salmonids in the Columbia River Basin and addressing predation concerns is a component of Biological Opinions and associated with the management of the Columbia River power system. Over the last two decades, numerous avian predation research, monitoring, and evaluation studies have been conducted to evaluate the impact of predation by Caspian terns, double-crested cormorants, and other colonial waterbirds on the survival of Endangered Species Act-listed juvenile salmonids in the Columbia River. The goal of this project is to summarize results from past studies regarding tern and cormorant nesting ecology, inter-colony movements, dispersal, and predation impacts on juvenile salmonids. The project is a collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Real Time Research, Incorporated. A specific emphasis of this work is to summarize our current knowledge of the factors influencing juvenile salmonid susceptibly to avian predation in the Columbia River Basin including factors such as fish rear-type (hatchery, wild), run-timing, and size.
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Integrating data sources to characterize demographic responses of Columbia River salmon and steelhead to threats and management actions
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May 2023
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Much of the historical abundance and diversity of Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and steelhead trout (O. mykiss) have been lost in the Interior Columbia River, which led to the listing of many populations under the Endangered Species Act. Recovery goals have not been achieved despite substantial efforts, and there is a need to better understand the effect of various threats and ecosystem drivers on population dynamics. Three factors are of particularly high interest: 1) the effect of the quality of freshwater habitats used for egg incubation and juvenile rearing; 2) the effect of broad-scale ocean conditions on marine survival; and 3) the effect of predation by marine mammals. To characterize how these factors affect population viability, we will develop an integrated population modeling framework for spring-summer Chinook salmon by combining count and mark-recapture data. In this approach, data streams related to survival or productivity will be integrated with data streams related to abundance to estimate demographic parameters with greater statistical precision and less bias than would otherwise be possible. These models will use previously collected data to characterize the role of freshwater habitat, ocean conditions, and marine mammal predation on the abundance, productivity, diversity, and viability of salmon and steelhead populations in the Interior Columbia River. This research will facilitate evaluation of the benefits of past habitat restoration actions, will support decisions about future actions, and will provide an assessment of population viability.
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Much of the historical abundance and diversity of Chinook salmon and steelhead trout have been lost in the Columbia River Basin, which led to the listing of many populations under the Endangered Species Act. Recovery goals have not been achieved despite substantial efforts, and there is a need to better understand the effects of various threats and ecosystem drivers on population dynamics. Three factors are of particularly high interest: 1) the effect of the quality of freshwater habitats used for egg incubation and juvenile rearing; 2) the effect of broad-scale ocean conditions on marine survival; and 3) the effect of predation by marine mammals. The goal of this project is the development of an integrated population modeling framework for spring-summer Chinook salmon, built by combining count and mark-recapture data, and designed to allow for evaluation of the effects of management and threats on Chinook salmon. This project is a collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Yakama Nation. The resulting model will facilitate evaluation of the benefits of past habitat restoration actions, will support decisions about future actions, and will provide an assessment of population viability.
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Evaluating and mitigating the effects of brown treesnakes on Guam's birds
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June 2024
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The brown treesnake is an invasive species on the island of Guam and is responsible for the local extinction of much of Guam’s avifauna. Control of brown treesnakes is critical to conservation of the remaining native fauna and to the eventual reintroduction of many native species. Monitoring of brown treesnake populations will be key to informing control and reintroduction activities. Refinement of field and statistical methodologies is needed to provide information on brown treesnake populations, and this information needs to be fit within system models to inform both control and reintroduction activities. The U.S. Geological Survey Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit plans to undertake a multi-year collaboration with the U.S. Navy on Guam, in addition to the U.S. Geological Survey Fort Collins Science Center, and U.S. Department of Agriculture APHIS Wildlife Services, to develop methods for monitoring brown treesnakes and to fit that information within management models to inform both brown treeesnake control activities and reintroduction of native fauna.
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The brown treesnake is an invasive species on the island of Guam and is responsible for the extinction of much of Guam’s avifauna. Control of brown treesnakes is critical to conservation of the remaining native fauna and to the eventual reintroduction of many native species. Refinement of field and statistical methodologies is needed to provide information on brown treesnake populations, and this information needs to be fit within system models to inform both control and reintroduction activities. The Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Defense, the USGS Fort Collins Science Center, and USDA Wildlife Services, are working to develop methods for monitoring brown treesnakes and to fit that information within management models to inform both brown treeesnake control and reintroduction of native fauna. Results of this work will inform ongoing monitoring and management efforts targeted at restoring Guam's fauna and reducing the economic and ecological damage caused by brown treesnakes.
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Pre- and Post-Treatment Monitoring on Working Lands for Wildlife and Regional Conservation Partnership Program Sites in West Virginia
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March 2021
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Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea; CERW) and Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera; GWWA) are two high-priority species for conservation on private lands in West Virginia through NRCS conservation practices. The effectiveness of these conservation practices for increasing CERW and GWWA populations on private lands has not been examined. We have partnered with West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and Natural Resources Conservation Service to quantify avian populations pre- and post-implementation of management. Results will help to improve future habitat management actions for these species.
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Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea; CERW) and Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera; GWWA) are two high-priority species for conservation on private lands in West Virginia through NRCS conservation practices. The effectiveness of these conservation practices for increasing CERW and GWWA populations on private lands has not been examined. We have partnered with West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and Natural Resources Conservation Service to quantify avian populations pre- and post-implementation of NRCS conservation practices. Focal species for the research also include Blue-winged Warblers and other species in need of conservation in the region. Results will help to improve future habitat management actions for these species.
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Incorporating Structured Decision Making and Alternative Sources of Data into Management of White-tailed Deer in Georgia
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June 2022
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In Georgia, the management of deer populations across the state is challenging because of regional variation in landscapes, deer population status, property ownerships, and other factors. Sources of harvest data available to the state of Georgia primarily through self-reporting mechanisms are potentially usable for providing harvest management decision support, but these data sources have unknown biases. We will investigate the utility of these data sources under a structured decision making framework, which establishes the context for the types of data needed to support harvest decision making and their required degree of quality. This approach will help to identify analytical processes or ancillary data sources that protect the quality of decisions from influence of sampling and self-reporting biases. This work is being performed in a collaboration between the University of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The research will result in recommendation of one or more candidate harvest decision support frameworks that address the goals of stakeholders and that identify priorities for the collection of data most useful for guiding management.
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In Georgia, the management of deer populations across the state is challenging because of regional variation in landscapes, deer population status, property ownerships, and other factors. Sources of harvest data available to the state of Georgia primarily through self-reporting mechanisms are potentially usable for providing harvest management decision support, but these data sources have unknown biases. We will investigate the utility of these data sources under a structured decision making framework, which establishes the context for the types of data needed to support harvest decision making and their required degree of quality. This approach will help to identify analytical processes or ancillary data sources that protect the quality of decisions from influence of sampling and self-reporting biases. This work is being performed in a collaboration between the University of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The research will result in recommendation of one or more candidate harvest decision support frameworks that address the goals of stakeholders and that identify priorities for the collection of data most useful for guiding management.
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Improving and Field Testing Novel Methods to Estimate White-tailed Deer Density Using Camera Traps
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September 2021
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Reliable methods for estimating deer abundance and for monitoring temporal trends in density are important components of effective deer management. A cost-effective, camera-based survey method would be useful for assessing the effects of management practices on trends in density and recruitment rates. In Georgia, concerns exist about declining densities of deer and declining recruitment rates that have resulted from changes in land use and changes in the predator community. Customary camera-based survey approaches for estimating population quantities at the degree of accuracy and precision needed for decision making are cost-prohibitive. This study is a collaborative effort between the University of Georgia and Georgia Department of Natural Resources. This research will produce a cost-effective camera-based survey approach that is cost-effective to apply at large scales and is free of the estimation assumptions that encumbered previous approaches. Deer managers for the state of Georgia will be able to make population and habitat management decisions using more robust demographic information.
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Reliable methods for estimating deer abundance and for monitoring temporal trends in density are important components of effective deer management. A cost-effective, camera-based survey method would be useful for assessing the effects of management practices on trends in density and recruitment rates. In Georgia, concerns exist about declining densities of deer and declining recruitment rates that have resulted from changes in land use and changes in the predator community. Customary camera-based survey approaches for estimating population quantities at the degree of accuracy and precision needed for decision making are cost-prohibitive. This study is a collaborative effort between the University of Georgia and Georgia Department of Natural Resources. This research will produce a cost-effective camera-based survey approach that is cost-effective to apply at large scales and is free of the estimation assumptions that encumbered previous approaches. Deer managers for the state of Georgia will be able to make population and habitat management decisions using more robust demographic information.
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Support tool for fisheries management
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July 2021
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<br>Organizing and planning are among the most demanding tasks of fisheries professionals. Often this process is overwhelming and clear linkages between agency-wide goals, management plan objectives and actions, and monitoring metrics are non-existent. We are developing an online computer application for MDWFP to support structuring and regimentation of management plans. The tool steers the user through a series of menus to build a management plan that outlines objectives, management actions, monitoring protocols, and outcome evaluation. This system uses existing monitoring data, conditional logic, and user input to provide the user with up-to-date, lake-specific information. While still in early development, the application is designed to link monitoring to agency-specified objectives and actions. This coordination can help fisheries professionals more efficiently and effectively organize and plan management activities and pave the way for management decision optimization.
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Organizing and planning are among some of the most demanding tasks of fisheries managers. This process can be perplexing for some managers because linkages between agency-wide goals, management actions, and monitoring metrics are often non-existent. We are developing an online computer application for MDWFP to support online development of management plans. The tool steers the user through a series of menus to build a management plan that outlines objectives, management actions, monitoring protocols, and outcome evaluation.
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Asian carp in the Tennessee River system
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July 2021
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Bigheaded carps have been expanding through the Tennessee River and are now relatively common in Kentucky Lake but also occur in Pickwick Lake and as far upstream as Wheeler Lake. The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, connected to Pickwick Lake, is the newest concern regarding the invasion of the bigheaded carps. If they enter the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway they could access various river systems that drain into the Gulf of Mexico. Colonization by bigheaded carps presents an imminent threat to these aquatic systems as they could be detrimental to native fish assemblages. The objectives of this study include investigating if bigheaded carps have expanded into Bay Springs Lake at the start of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway; determine whether seasonal water level patterns encourage movement of bigheaded carps; and test whether there have been changes in the fish assemblages of Kentucky and Pickwick lakes that could be attributed to the expansion of bigheaded carps.
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The introduced bigheaded carps pose a threat to many aquatic ecosystems. They have recently been expanding into the lower Tennessee River. The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, connected to the Tennessee River is the newest concern regarding the invasion of the bigheaded carps. If they enter the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway they could access various river systems that drain into the Gulf of Mexico. To inform the need for management actions, we aim to determine if bigheaded carps have expanded into the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, if seasonal water level patterns encourage movements, and if there have been changes in the fish assemblages that could be attributed to the expansion of bigheaded carps. Our collaborators include fisheries management agencies in Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.
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Development of eDNA metabarcoding methods for freshwater mussels
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August 2021
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Mussels are an important component of river ecosystems but have undergone substantial declines throughout their range. Our project will leverage genetic techniques (eDNA metabarcoding) to improve estimates of mussel diversity in Michigan rivers. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and USGS. The techniques developed here can be used to conduct research that will inform mussel conservation strategies in the future.
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Mussels are an important component of river ecosystems but have undergone substantial declines throughout their range. Our project will leverage genetic techniques (eDNA metabarcoding) to improve estimates of mussel diversity in Michigan rivers. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and USGS. The techniques developed here can be used to conduct research that will inform mussel conservation strategies in the future.
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Historical and contemporary genetic diversity of coregonus species from Lake Michigan
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September 2020
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Cisco are an important component of the Great Lakes food web and are a prime target for restoration and reintroduction efforts. Here, we will use a recently developed genomic tool to investigate historic structure of cisco in Lake Michigan. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Great Lakes Science Center and UW-Stevens Point. The results will provide important baseline data that can be used to develop management and restoration strategies for cisco.
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Cisco are an important component of the Great Lakes food web and are a prime target for restoration and reintroduction efforts. Here, we will use a recently developed genomic tool to investigate historic structure of cisco in Lake Michigan. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Great Lakes Science Center and UW-Stevens Point. The results will provide important baseline data that can be used to develop management and restoration strategies for cisco.
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Developing a DNA-based tool to estimate the number of salmon consumed by piscivores in the Sacramento Delta
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September 2020
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Predation is a major source of mortality for salmonids out-migrating from the Sacramento River. Here, we are using a newly developed tool (DNA mixtures) to estimate the number of salmon that are consumed by piscivores as they exit the river. This project is a collaboration between USGS offices in Wisconsin and California. The results will be used to better estimate predation, which will inform salmon management in the Sacramento River.
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Predation is a major source of mortality for salmonids out-migrating from the Sacramento River. Here, we are using a newly developed tool (DNA mixtures) to estimate the number of salmon that are consumed by piscivores as they exit the river. This project is a collaboration between USGS offices in Wisconsin and California. The results will be used to better estimate predation, which will inform salmon management in the Sacramento River.
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Development of a genetic marker panel for Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon Idella) to better understand reproducing populations in Lake Erie tributaries
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June 2020
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Grass carp have spread to Lake Erie, but knowledge of their spawning biology and the number of individuals that have colonized is lacking. The goal of this project is to develop genetic tools (a GTseq panel) that can be used to conduct parentage analysis of grass carp. The project is a collaboration between USGS and UW-Stevens Point. The panel will be used to analyze grass carp eggs to determine parental contributions which will inform management of grass carp in Lake Erie.
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Grass carp have spread to Lake Erie, but knowledge of their spawning biology and the number of individuals that have colonized is lacking. The goal of this project is to develop genetic tools (a GTseq panel) that can be used to conduct parentage analysis of grass carp. The project is a collaboration between USGS and UW-Stevens Point. The panel will be used to analyze grass carp eggs to determine parental contributions which will inform management of grass carp in Lake Erie.
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Combining genetics, otolith microchemistry, and vital rate estimation to inform restoration and management of fish populations in the UMRS
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December 2021
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Understanding demographic and population structure is important for informing management, but little research has been conducted on this topic in the Mississippi River. This project will use three techniques, genetics, otolith microchemistry, and age/growth estimation to understand structure in multiple species within the Upper Mississippi River. The project is a collaboration between USGS, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and multiple universities including Southern Illinois. The data from this will be vital for developing new management strategies for this in this region.
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Understanding demographic and population structure is important for informing management, but little research has been conducted on this topic in the Mississippi River. This project will use three techniques, genetics, otolith microchemistry, and age/growth estimation to understand structure in multiple species within the Upper Mississippi River. The project is a collaboration between USGS, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and multiple universities including Southern Illinois. The data from this will be vital for developing new management strategies for this in this region.
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Using genomics to delineate stock structure and create a standardized genetic resource for Great Lakes walleye
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December 2020
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Walleye support important commercial and recreational fisheries in the Great Lakes region, especially in Lake Erie. Our project will use genomic tools to help define stock boundaries. We will also develop a low cost genetic screen to assign walleye caught in mixed-stock fisheries to their stock of origin. This project is a collaboration between multiple agencies and universities including the Ohio DNR, U.S. Geological Survey, and Ohio State University. This research will be used to design new management strategies with the goal of protecting each stock of walleye and preserving the important portfolio of population diversity in this species.
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Walleye support important commercial and recreational fisheries in the Great Lakes region, especially in Lake Erie. Our project will use genomic tools to help define stock boundaries. We will also develop a low cost genetic screen to assign walleye caught in mixed-stock fisheries to their stock of origin. This project is a collaboration between multiple agencies and universities including the Ohio DNR, U.S. Geological Survey, and Ohio State University. This research will be used to design new management strategies with the goal of protecting each stock of walleye and preserving the important portfolio of population diversity in this species.
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Nearshore Ecosystem Glacier Bay
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December 2024
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Synthesizing many different sources of information and data that have been collected in Glacier Bay National Park and connect to our ongoing sea otter spatio-temporal population models to identify knowledge gaps in our understanding of the nearshore food web.
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Problem Statement: Glacier Bay National Park contains one of the world's largest protected tidewater glacier ecosystems. A variety of complex and dynamic relationships among species in Glacier Bay exist and are critical to conservation and management. Why this Research Matters: We are combing multiple sources of data that have been collected in Glacier Bay for decades to better understand the ecological processes in near shore communities of the park. Collaboration/Partners:This project involves a collaboration among partners at the National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and Colorado State University. Research that Informs Decisions: A strong theme of our research is combine existing scientific information about the near shore food web in Glacier Bay with various disparate data sources to identify knowledge gaps that will help guide future monitoring and protocol in the park.
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Evaluating striped bass exploitation in the Arkansas River basin
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September 2023
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Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) is an economically important sportfish that often congregates in tailwater habitats, where they are potentially vulnerable to overharvest. The project is a collaboration of researchers from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma State university, and the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. This study will evaluate the current population demographics, exploitation rate, and movement patterns of Striped Bass from tailwater habitats of the Lower Illinois and Canadian Rivers and the mainstem Arkansas River to determine the potential for growth overfishing of tailwater fisheries. A delayed hooking mortality study will also be conducted to evaluate the mortality rate of fish that are captured but not harvested to allow better predictions of the effectiveness of restrictive bag limits. The above data will be evaluated with a population harvest model to determine the optimum harvest regulations for sustaining quality fishing in this fishery.
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Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) is an economically important sportfish that often congregates in tailwater habitats, where they are potentially vulnerable to overharvest. The project is a collaboration of researchers from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma State university, and the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. This study will evaluate the current population demographics, exploitation rate, and movement patterns of Striped Bass from tailwater habitats of the Lower Illinois and Canadian Rivers and the mainstem Arkansas River to determine the potential for growth overfishing of tailwater fisheries. A delayed hooking mortality study will also be conducted to evaluate the mortality rate of fish that are captured but not harvested to allow better predictions of the effectiveness of restrictive bag limits. The above data will be evaluated with a population harvest model to determine the optimum harvest regulations for sustaining quality fishing in this fishery.
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Determining crayfish invasion potential across the landscape
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December 2023
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Crayfish is a globally diverse group of invertebrates and one of the most important taxa in North American streams. Many crayfishes are identified as species of concern due to anthropogenic alteration, narrow distributions, and interactions with invasive crayfish. An estimated 48% of North American crayfish are at risk of extinction and widespread stream changes may result from loss of crayfish species despite their important role in stream structure and function, including a primary diet item of Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu). The project is a collaboration between the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Oklahoma Cooperative Research Unit. We will compile existing crayfish data, determine the hierarchical structure of habitats associated with crayfishes, determine crayfish demographics, and determine factors related to the spread of non-native crayfishes within the Ozark Highlands ecoregion. These data are valuable for developing strategies for removal in possible locations, monitoring vectors if necessary, and developing important linkages between key prey and sportfish populations.
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Crayfish is a globally diverse group of invertebrates and one of the most important taxa in North American streams. Many crayfishes are identified as species of concern due to anthropogenic alteration, narrow distributions, and interactions with invasive crayfish. An estimated 48% of North American crayfish are at risk of extinction and widespread stream changes may result from loss of crayfish species despite their important role in stream structure and function, including a primary diet item of Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu). The project is a collaboration between the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Oklahoma Cooperative Research Unit. We will compile existing crayfish data, determine the hierarchical structure of habitats associated with crayfishes, determine crayfish demographics, and determine factors related to the spread of non-native crayfishes within the Ozark Highlands ecoregion. These data are valuable for developing strategies for removal in possible locations, monitoring vectors if necessary, and developing important linkages between key prey and sportfish populations.
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Using genomics to improve stock structure resolution and assess recruitment dynamics of Lake Whitefish in Lake Michigan
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December 2020
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Developing a high-throughput marker panel for lake sturgeon to standardize analyses across the Great Lakes
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December 2020
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Lake sturgeon are a culturally and ecologically valuable fish in the Great Lakes region that have experienced significant population declines over the last century. Our project will develop a new genetic tool for sturgeon that will facilitate parentage analysis and stock identification. This will allow researchers to answer important questions about sturgeon distributions and reproductive biology that will help to inform management. This project is a collaboration with multiple geneticists from the University of Laval, Michigan State University, and West Virginia University. The panel will provide important data that will be used to inform decisions related to sturgeon management and conservation.
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Lake sturgeon are a culturally and ecologically valuable fish in the Great Lakes region that have experienced significant population declines over the last century. Our project will develop a new genetic tool for sturgeon that will facilitate parentage analysis and stock identification. This will allow researchers to answer important questions about sturgeon distributions and reproductive biology that will help to inform management. This project is a collaboration with multiple geneticists from the University of Laval, Michigan State University, and West Virginia University. The panel will provide important data that will be used to inform decisions related to sturgeon management and conservation.
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Using genomics to improve stock structure resolution and assess recruitment dynamics of Lake Whitefish in Lake Michigan
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August 2021
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Whitefish support one of the largest commercial fisheries in the Great Lakes but are experiencing population declines in a number of areas. Our project will use genomic tools to help define stock boundaries. We will also develop a low cost genetic screen to assign whitefish caught in mixed-stock fisheries to their stock of origin. This project is a collaboration between a number of state and tribal agencies including the Wisconsin and Michigan DNRs and the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians and Sioux Tribe. This research will be used to design new management strategies with the goal of protecting each stock of whitefish and preserving the important portfolio of population diversity in this species.
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Whitefish support one of the largest commercial fisheries in the Great Lakes but are experiencing population declines in a number of areas. Our project will use genomic tools to help define stock boundaries. We will also develop a low cost genetic screen to assign whitefish caught in mixed-stock fisheries to their stock of origin. This project is a collaboration between a number of state and tribal agencies including the Wisconsin and Michigan DNRs and the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians and Sioux Tribe. This research will be used to design new management strategies with the goal of protecting each stock of whitefish and preserving the important portfolio of population diversity in this species.
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An interdisciplinary approach to building data literacy in wildlife survey technologies
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August 2021
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Successful conservation planning is reliant on accurate information about species numbers and distributions and a workforce trained to use the best available science and technologies to gather those data. Our project’s overarching goal is to build interdisciplinary data literacy by combining emerging remote sensing and data analysis technologies into user-friendly tools for examining the real-world problem of population assessment of Maine’s difficult-to-survey nesting seabirds that are facing threats in their coastal habitats that are critical to their persistence. We use Gulf of Maine colonial nesting birds as our focal species to develop survey, image collection and processing, and data analysis methods and technologies that are transferable to other taxa and survey goals. We are partnering with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to compare nesting seabird data collected during plane-, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)-, and ground-based surveys to examine effects of platform, sensors (type, spatial, temporal resolution), timing, and deployment approaches on species’ detectability, counts, and behaviors. Our surveys will generate large datasets that traditionally require significant time for interpretation by observers. Automation of this interpretation and counting process potentially can increase precision, accuracy, and affordability of these surveys; therefore, we will use artificial intelligence and machine learning to develop detection algorithms to process the imagery we collect as well as selected archived imagery. Finally, we will create toolkits that include instructions for best practices of combining UASs, traditional survey methods, and automated analysis for conducting population assessments and a user interface that can be accessed by professionals and citizen scientists in applications requiring coastal wildlife monitoring.
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Successful conservation planning is reliant on accurate information about species numbers and distributions and a workforce trained to use the best available science and technologies to gather those data. Our project’s overarching goal is to build interdisciplinary data literacy by combining emerging remote sensing and data analysis technologies into user-friendly tools for examining the real-world problem of population assessment of Maine’s difficult-to-survey nesting seabirds that are facing threats in their coastal habitats that are critical to their persistence. We use Gulf of Maine colonial nesting birds as our focal species to develop survey, image collection and processing, and data analysis methods and technologies that are transferable to other taxa and survey goals. We are partnering with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to compare nesting seabird data collected during plane-, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)-, and ground-based surveys to examine effects of platform, sensors (type, spatial, temporal resolution), timing, and deployment approaches on species’ detectability, counts, and behaviors. Our surveys will generate large datasets that traditionally require significant time for interpretation by observers. Automation of this interpretation and counting process potentially can increase precision, accuracy, and affordability of these surveys; therefore, we are working with students and faculty in UMaine Computer and Information Science to develop artificial intelligence and machine learning detection algorithms to process the imagery. Finally, we are creating toolkits that include instructions for best practices of combining UASs, traditional survey methods, and automated analysis for conducting population assessments and a user interface that can be accessed by professionals and citizen scientists in applications requiring coastal wildlife monitoring.
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Determining spawning locations of Green Bay walleyes
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June 2021
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Walleyes are native species that are both ecologically and economically important to the Lower Green Bay-Fox River (LGB-FR) ecosystem. Management of walleyes in Green Bay is complicated because walleyes spawn in many locations within Green Bay and its tributaries, but the importance of these different locations or regions to the overall population and fishery have not been determined. Specifically, walleyes spawning in the Fox River and southern Green Bay may contribute a substantial proportion of the fish to the overall population. Our primary objective is to determine if the walleye population in Green Bay is largely comprised (≥ 90%) of fish spawning in the Fox, Oconto, Peshtigo, and Menominee rivers or, if fish spawning in other locations within southern or northern Green Bay are important components. Additionally, we want to determine if walleyes spawning in Wisconsin waters contribute to the walleye population in Michigan waters, as the population as a whole is jointly managed by Wisconsin and Michigan DNR. Determining the extent to which walleyes spawn within certain tributaries or open-water habitats will help DNR biologists determine where habitat protection is needed to maintain spawning stocks and where habitat improvement and restoration might be used to increase abundance of some stocks. Our work may also help identify spawning habitats that were not previously known to biologists. Understanding walleye behavior and movement within Green Bay is also critical in determining whether current WDNR sampling of adult walleyes in these four tributaries provides useful estimates of abundance that can be used in determining predator-prey ratios within the LGB-FR ecosystem, as AOC delisting targets include recommended predator-prey ratios between 1:10 and 1:20. If some walleyes spawn outside of these four rivers, then current sampling may not provide accurate estimates of walleye abundance needed for determining predator-prey ratios.
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Management of walleyes in Green Bay is complicated because walleyes spawn in many locations within Green Bay and its tributaries, but the importance of these different locations or regions to the overall population and fishery have not been determined.Understanding spatiotemporal dynamics of walleye stock contributions in Green Bay is needed to help WDNR biologists develop spatially relevant management strategies. Specifically, information gained from this study will be used to guide monitoring and restoration efforts, identify when and where changes to harvest regulations may be warranted to protect fish in and around spawning locations, and potentially guide treaty negotiations and spatial allocation of harvest in Wisconsin water if a commercial fishery is considered in the future.The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Hammond Bay Biological Station, and research scientists with the Great Lakes Acoustic Telemetry Observation System.The most important measure of success will be when resource agencies use our results to develop spatially relevant management strategies. Our findings will provide a spatial context for monitoring and restoration efforts, identify when and where changes to harvest regulations may be warranted to protect fish in and around spawning areas, and potentially guide treaty negotiations and spatial allocation of harvest in Wisconsin water if a commercial fishery is considered in the future.
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Strategies for reducing the vulnerability of grassland birds to climate change within the Central Flyway
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January 2022
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The management and conservation of grassland birds often focuses on habitat protection and restoration, but there is growing recognition that grassland birds are sensitive to climate variability such as drought, heat waves, and flooding. A synthesis of climate change vulnerability for grassland birds is needed in the Central Flyway to identify information gaps and management strategies useful for developing climate adaptation plans for grassland birds and their habitats. The project is a collaboration of managers and researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the USFWS Habitat and Population Evaluation Team, and State, Federal, and NGO natural resource managers in the Central Flyway. A report documenting adaptation strategies and information gaps needed for implementing those strategies will be developed to inform managers in the Central Flyway.
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The management and conservation of grassland birds often focuses on habitat protection and restoration, but there is growing recognition that grassland birds are sensitive to climate variability such as drought, heat waves, and flooding. A synthesis of climate change vulnerability for grassland birds is needed in the Central Flyway to identify information gaps and management strategies useful for developing climate adaptation plans for grassland birds and their habitats. The project is a collaboration of managers and researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the USFWS Habitat and Population Evaluation Team, and State, Federal, and NGO natural resource managers in the Central Flyway. A report documenting adaptation strategies and information gaps needed for implementing those strategies will be developed to inform managers in the Central Flyway.
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Ecology of breeding canvasbacks in southwestern Manitoba
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August 2021
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This project involves an evaluation of canvasback breeding ecology in southwestern Manitoba, Canada. Study blocks are searched for overwater nesting waterfowl nests and monitored for fate, with half of the blocks receiving predator removal and the other half untrapped.
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Depredation is the most common cause of nest failure in waterfowl; however, nearly all studies on the topic have focused on upland nesting ducks. Several species of diving ducks nest overwater and cause-specific nest failure of these species is less understood. Managers that wish to increase nest survival and, hence, diving duck populations lack information to make decisions or understand best practices. Thus, this project endeavors to compare nest survival of Canvasbacks and other overwater-nesting species between areas where predators have been lethally removed and those where no removal has taken place. This project is supported by the Delta Waterfowl Foundation with field work in Manitoba, Canada and in collaboration with researchers at the University of Minnesota and Louisiana State University. Results of this work will allow managers to understand if predator removal is effective at increasing survival of overwater nests, as well as understand the various factors influencing nest survival. In particular, the role of redhead parasitism on canvasback nests is of particular interest.
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Western Gulf Coast Population of Mottled Ducks Banding Needs Assessment
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September 2023
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The mottled duck (<i>Anas fulvigula</i>) is a relatively sedentary hunted waterfowl species dependent on coastal marsh and other habitats along the Gulf Coast for its entire life cycle, and therefore especially subject to development and habitat loss along the Gulf Coast. Various monitoring programs are in place to assess the status of this species, and inform harvest and habitat management decisions. A banding needs assessment is needed to evaluate the experimental banding done since the 1990’s, to design an operational banding program that accounts for harvest rates, survival rates, and movements among states, and integrates with the other monitoring programs for this population. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Regions 2 and 9, Division of Migratory Birds and Refuges; Texas Parks and Wildlife; and the Louisiana Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. The banding data, along with abundance surveys and harvest surveys, will be integrated in a population model to inform future monitoring and mottled duck management decisions.
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The mottled duck (<i>Anas fulvigula</i>) is a relatively sedentary hunted waterfowl species dependent on coastal marsh and other habitats along the Gulf Coast for its entire life cycle, and therefore especially subject to development and habitat loss along the Gulf Coast. Various monitoring programs are in place to assess the status of this species, and inform harvest and habitat management decisions. A banding needs assessment is needed to evaluate the experimental banding done since the 1990’s, to design an operational banding program that accounts for harvest rates, survival rates, and movements among states, and integrates with the other monitoring programs for this population. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Regions 2 and 9, Division of Migratory Birds and Refuges; Texas Parks and Wildlife; and the Louisiana Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. The banding data, along with abundance surveys and harvest surveys, will be integrated in a population model to inform future monitoring and mottled duck management decisions.
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Movements and overwinter survival of juvenile Red Knots in Southeast US: Information needs for recovery planning
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December 2025
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Much of the focus of Red Knot research and conservation over the past twenty years has largely focused on just a few sites along the Atlantic flyway, primarily in the mid-Atlantic region. We currently do not fully know the distribution of juvenile Red Knots (approx. first 22 months after hatch). Without knowing where juvenile Red Knots occur, we could be missing key threats to this group such as habitat loss or degradation or human disturbance that need to be addressed. The primary goal of this project is to develop the information needed to make good conservation and management decisions on the juvenile life stage of Red Knots that will significantly contribute to the de-listing of the species. Specifically, we aim to identify the main area(s) where juvenile Red Knots occur during their first two years of life, how long they survive, if they recruit into the adult population, to achieve a better understanding of the potential threats where they occur, and to develop management recommendations to improve the conditions they face.
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Much of the focus of Red Knot research and conservation over the past twenty years has largely focused on just a few sites along the Atlantic flyway, primarily in the mid-Atlantic region. We currently do not fully know the distribution of juvenile Red Knots (approx. first 22 months after hatch). Without knowing where juvenile Red Knots occur, we could be missing key threats to this group such as habitat loss or degradation or human disturbance that need to be addressed. The primary goal of this project is to develop the information needed to make good conservation and management decisions on the juvenile life stage of Red Knots that will significantly contribute to the de-listing of the species. Specifically, we aim to identify the main area(s) where juvenile Red Knots occur during their first two years of life, how long they survive, if they recruit into the adult population, to achieve a better understanding of the potential threats where they occur, and to develop management recommendations to improve the conditions they face. Partners for this study include USFWS, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
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Colonial nesting wading bird tracking and habitat use assessment
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December 2025
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This study may inform and enhance future restoration planning for key colonial nesting wading bird species along the Alabama coast that were injured by the DWH oil spill. Overall research objectives include determining daily and seasonal movements, home range size, and habitat use by several species of colonial-nesting wading birds (tricolored herons, little blue herons, and possibly white ibis) in Mobile Bay, Mississippi Sound, and Perdido Bay, Alabama. The goals of this proposed project are to better understand the extent to which declines in colonial nesting wading bird populations result from habitat limitation versus other potential population-limiting factors, and in turn, which restoration approaches and techniques are most appropriate to effectively target and restore wading bird populations.
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This study may inform and enhance future restoration planning for key colonial nesting wading bird species along the Alabama coast that were injured by the DWH oil spill. Overall research objectives include determining daily and seasonal movements, home range size, and habitat use by several species of colonial-nesting wading birds (tricolored herons, little blue herons, and possibly white ibis) in Mobile Bay, Mississippi Sound, and Perdido Bay, Alabama. Partners include USFWS and Alabama DCNR. The goals of this proposed project are to better understand the extent to which declines in colonial nesting wading bird populations result from habitat limitation versus other potential population-limiting factors, and in turn, which restoration approaches and techniques are most appropriate to effectively target and restore wading bird populations.
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Estimating detection and occupancy coefficients for the Pacific Islands coral reef fish species
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October 2020
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Data-limited stock assessment models are used to determine the status of the coral reef fish species in the western Pacific. Estimates of standing stock biomass are based on an expansion of the species biomass density with known hard bottom substrate from 0-30m depth from underwater visual census surveys. The expansion to generate estimates of standing stock biomass includes implicit assumptions of uniform distribution and perfect detection. These assumptions are rarely met as variations in fish behavior, areas surveyed with varying fishing pressure, habitat type, diver survey experience affect the ability to detect species and individuals and have repercussions to the population estimators. Therefore, quantifying the detectability and occupancy coefficients of each coral reef fish species can refine the standing stock biomass estimates and reduce bias. The overall aim of this project is to analyze the National Marine Fisheries Service Coral Reef Ecosystem Program Reef Fish Dataset to estimate detection and occupancy coefficients for species listed in the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s Fishery Ecosystem Plans to refine the standing stock biomass estimates used in stock assessment.
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Data-limited stock assessment models are used to determine the status of the coral reef fish species in the western Pacific. Estimates of standing stock biomass are based on an expansion of the species biomass density with known hard bottom substrate from 0-30m depth from underwater visual census surveys. The expansion to generate estimates of standing stock biomass includes implicit assumptions of uniform distribution and perfect detection. These assumptions are rarely met as variations in fish behavior, areas surveyed with varying fishing pressure, habitat type, diver survey experience affect the ability to detect species and individuals and have repercussions to the population estimators. Therefore, quantifying the detectability and occupancy coefficients of each coral reef fish species can refine the standing stock biomass estimates and reduce bias. The overall aim of this project is to analyze the National Marine Fisheries Service Coral Reef Ecosystem Program Reef Fish Dataset to estimate detection and occupancy coefficients for species listed in the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s Fishery Ecosystem Plans to refine the standing stock biomass estimates used in stock assessment.
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Assessing fish habitat and population dynamics of fisheries resources at Kaloko Fishpond
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September 2021
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Throughout Hawaiʻi, fishponds are considered by their local communities as important cultural touchstones, a source of local, sustainably produced food, and an important component to the development of community-based management for nearshore fisheries. Within Kaloko Honokōhau National Historic Park (KAHO) the restoration of Kaloko Fishpond for traditional aquaculture management is an immediate goal of both the National Park Service (NPS) and an eager, dedicated community group. However, existing data on the demographics and condition of the fish populations within the pond, and the fish-habitat quality are poor to non-existent. Furthermore, the combination of gaps in traditional knowledge and Hawaiʻi’s significantly altered environmental conditions have made initiating sustainable fishpond management based on the traditional methods established prior to European contact challenging. Therefore, an understanding of the ecology of Kaloko Fishpond, particularly as it pertains to the population dynamics of its fish species, is critical to adapting traditional pond management practices to respond to already altered and continually changing environmental conditions. Grounding these practices in defensible science and traditional knowledge is necessary to move forward with the restoration and traditional management of Kaloko Fishpond.
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Throughout Hawaiʻi, fishponds are considered by their local communities as important cultural touchstones, a source of local, sustainably produced food, and an important component to the development of community-based management for nearshore fisheries. Within Kaloko Honokōhau National Historic Park (KAHO) the restoration of Kaloko Fishpond for traditional aquaculture management is an immediate goal of both the National Park Service (NPS) and an eager, dedicated community group. However, existing data on the demographics and condition of the fish populations within the pond, and the fish-habitat quality are poor to non-existent. Furthermore, the combination of gaps in traditional knowledge and Hawaiʻi’s significantly altered environmental conditions have made initiating sustainable fishpond management based on the traditional methods established prior to European contact challenging. Therefore, an understanding of the ecology of Kaloko Fishpond, particularly as it pertains to the population dynamics of its fish species, is critical to adapting traditional pond management practices to respond to already altered and continually changing environmental conditions. Grounding these practices in defensible science and traditional knowledge is necessary to move forward with the restoration and traditional management of Kaloko Fishpond.
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Contributions of hatchery fish to tailwater trout fisheries
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December 2022
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State management agencies highly invest in hatcheries and stocking to improve fisheries. We are evaluating how stocked versus wild produced trout contribute to tailwater fisheries in Tennessee.
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Tailwater trout fisheries, below dams, are popular with anglers in Tennessee. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service raise fish in state and federal hatcheries to enhance fisheries. The contribution of hatchery versus wild fish to the fishery will be evaluated to inform hatchery management and stocking practices. For this project, we are marking all stocked fish to understand how many hatchery fish recruit to the fishery. An extensive mark-recapture sampling will indicate stocking success and individual marks using PIT tags will provide information on growth after stocking.
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Red-headed woodpecker: indicators of oak savanna health
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June 2021
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The red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) is the flagship species of the oak savanna ecosystem. It plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy oak savanna by creating habitat for other species in live and dead trees. Historically, red-headed woodpeckers were common across the Midwest, but populations have experienced dramatic regional declines estimated at 67% since 1970. The situation in Minnesota is even grimmer: since 1967, this species has experienced an average annual decline of 6%, representing a cumulative loss of nearly 95% of the population. Although the rate at which red-headed woodpeckers are declining has slowed since 1990, populations in Minnesota do not appear to have stabilized. Our goals are to address population declines in a charismatic species of great conservation concern, to assess the outcomes of ongoing management and conservation efforts in an endangered ecosystem, and to develop a unified management plan for restoring oak savanna for red-headed woodpeckers and other oak habitat specialist species in Minnesota and throughout the Midwest.
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The red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) is the flagship species of the oak savanna ecosystem. Red-headed woodpeckers are considered ecosystem engineers and a keystone species, and their presence may have far-reaching effects on species richness and ecosystem health. Historically, red-headed woodpeckers were common across the Midwest, but populations have experienced dramatic regional declines estimated at 67% since 1970. We are seeking to (1) Identify oak savanna habitat characteristics and adult condition and behaviors associated with successful production of young, the factors related to whether and where individuals migrate, and the consequences of migratory status on productivity and survival and (2) Develop a long-term management plan for restoring oak savanna to support red-headed woodpeckers and other oak-savanna habitat specialists in Minnesota and the Midwest. Project partners include the University of Minnesota Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, the University of Toledo, and the Minneapolis Chapter of the Audubon Society. Results of this research will help inform management of oak savanna ecosystems and provide insight into factors that influence population ecology of red-headed woodpeckers and the rare ecosystems in which they function.
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Minnesota trumpeter swan migration ecology and conservation
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June 2024
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Trumpeter swans (Cygnus buccinator) have high intrinsic and economic value in Minnesota as a protected wildlife species. MN citizens enthusiastically invested in the restoration of trumpeter swans through the check off donation and other funding sources to the MN Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) Nongame Program since the mid-1980s. The Interior Population of trumpeter swans (of which MN swans comprise ~63%) has increased dramatically since they were re-established in the 1960s and 1970s and both population size and distribution have expanded significantly in Minnesota since the MNDNR Alaska-egg project began in 1986. The original MN reintroduction goal of 15 breeding pairs and the revised interim goal of 500 individuals by 2001 have been greatly exceeded, with a current estimate of nearly 17,000 swans (an average annual finite rate of increase of ~1.20 since 2000). Better understanding of trumpeter swan ecology will be extremely useful in developing future management strategies for this growing population.
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The Interior Population of trumpeter swans (Cygnus buccinator) was re-established through reintroduction efforts beginning in the late 1960s. Since that time, the population has exceeded reintroduction goals and now numbers more than 25,000 individuals with an estimated growth rate in Minnesota of circa 1.20 (i.e., a doubling time of ca. 5 years). As this population moves from rare to abundant across much of the Upper Midwest, a lack of information regarding basic ecology hinders planning for long-term management. In this project, we are marking Interior Population trumpeter swans with GPS-GSM transmitters to (1) Evaluate year-round swan movements, (2) Determine whether and where trumpeter swans make molt migrations, (3) Evaluate year-round habitat use and selection patterns of trumpeter swans, and (4) Evaluate survival rates of trumpeter swans, if sample sizes are adequate and fates (i.e., mortality events) can be determined. In addition, we are evaluating the current genetic structure of this population, and assessing environmental lead exposure. Partners include the University of Minnesota, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Canadian Wildlife Service, Manitoba Conservation, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Wisconsin DNR, the Michigan DNR, the Iowa DNR, the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, and the Trumpeter Swan Society. Information resulting from this study will help guide future trumpeter swan management across the western Great Lakes region.
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Comparison of age and growth parameters of Flathead Catfish in invasive and native populations: A meta-analysis with implications for invasive species management in Pennsylvania
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January 2020
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Flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) are a long-live apex predator native to the Mississippi, Mobile and Rio Grande drainages, and the Laurentian Great Lakes region. These fish have been introduced into most of the East Coast and areas of the Western US. Introduced Flathead Catfish populations often have detrimental effects on native fauna. In the Atlantic Slope portions of Pennsylvania the status of flathead catfish has not been adequately documented. Several large to medium-sized river systems in Pennsylvania have yet to be surveyed so the residency status of flathead catfish in those systems remains unknown. The primary objective of the project will be to determine flathead catfish distribution, and estimate abundance and population characteristics for both native and introduced populations in Pennsylvania. Much of the focus of the analysis will include age and growth analysis and modeling to put the current population status in the introduced range in a larger regional context for management purposes moving forward. Several other Atlantic Slope drainage have encountered similar invasions in recent decades so comparison with Pennsylvania populations with those will help to predict what to expect moving forward with existing populations as well as in areas where they have not yet invaded.
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Flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) are a long-live apex predator native to the Mississippi, Mobile and Rio Grande drainages, and the Laurentian Great Lakes region. These fish have been introduced into most of the East Coast and areas of the Western US. Introduced Flathead Catfish populations often have detrimental effects on native fauna. In the Atlantic Slope portions of Pennsylvania the status of flathead catfish has not been adequately documented. Several large to medium-sized river systems in Pennsylvania have yet to be surveyed so the residency status of flathead catfish in those systems remains unknown. The primary objective of the project will be to determine flathead catfish distribution, and estimate abundance and population characteristics for both native and introduced populations in Pennsylvania. Much of the focus of the analysis will include age and growth analysis and modeling to put the current population status in the introduced range in a larger regional context for management purposes moving forward. Several other Atlantic Slope drainage have encountered similar invasions in recent decades so comparison with Pennsylvania populations with those will help to predict what to expect moving forward with existing populations as well as in areas where they have not yet invaded.
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Effects of commercial harvest on freshwater turtle populations
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December 2021
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Most turtle species are long-lived, mature at advanced ages, and have slow reproduction. These life history traits make their populations especially vulnerable to even modest levels of adult mortality. Despite this, commercial harvest of aquatic turtles in Arkansas has historically been unregulated and from 2004 to 2017, approximately 1.3 million wild aquatic turtles were commercially harvested, of which, 95% were taken in the Mississippi Delta ecoregion. Turtles are sold to meet global demand for use as food, pets, and curatives in folk medicine. At present, 10 species of aquatic turtles can be legally harvested with no daily or annual bag limits, no size class restrictions, and no specified harvest season(s). The Arkansas Unit, with support from the Arkansas Fish and Game Commission, is leading research to investigate the effects of commercial harvest on turtle populations and demography across the Delta ecoregion. Using a combination of population modeling and field research, the Arkansas Unit, leader by graduate student Andrhea Massey, is attempting to quantify the impact of harvest, assess the current population levels of turtles in the Delta, and explore potential management options to ensure the long-term sustainability of freshwater turtles in Arkansas. Results from this study will be integral in developing effective state regulations to ensure the long-term viability of freshwater turtle populations in Arkansas.
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Most turtle species are long-lived, mature at advanced ages, and have slow reproduction. These life history traits make their populations especially vulnerable to even modest levels of adult mortality. Despite this, commercial harvest of aquatic turtles in Arkansas has historically been unregulated and from 2004 to 2017, approximately 1.3 million wild aquatic turtles were commercially harvested, of which, 95% were taken in the Mississippi Delta ecoregion. Turtles are sold to meet global demand for use as food, pets, and curatives in folk medicine. At present, 10 species of aquatic turtles can be legally harvested with no daily or annual bag limits, no size class restrictions, and no specified harvest season(s). The Arkansas Unit, with support from the Arkansas Fish and Game Commission, is leading research to investigate the effects of commercial harvest on turtle populations and demography across the Delta ecoregion. Using a combination of population modeling and field research, the Arkansas Unit, leader by graduate student Andrhea Massey, is attempting to quantify the impact of harvest, assess the current population levels of turtles in the Delta, and explore potential management options to ensure the long-term sustainability of freshwater turtles in Arkansas. Results from this study will be integral in developing effective state regulations to ensure the long-term viability of freshwater turtle populations in Arkansas.
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Assessing abundance of centrarchids and juvenile Yellow Perch in northern Wisconsin lakes with different Walleye recruitment histories
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December 2021
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Walleye recruitment has declined in many northern Wisconsin lakes that historically supported natural recruitment. Previous research has shown a recruitment bottleneck is occurring for age-0 walleye at or before mid-July. While declines in walleye recruitment are likely related to climate-induced changes in lake environments, the specific causes of this bottleneck remain unknown. As walleye recruitment has declined, adult largemouth bass abundance increased in many lakes. However, a previous study demonstrated that largemouth bass rarely preyed upon walleye in these lakes, although diet overlap for small bluegill and yellow perch was observed. Possibly, increased abundance of adult largemouth bass also indicates that abundance of all centrarchids has increased, but standard sampling gears used by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) do not effectively sample fish < 100 mm total length (TL), yet these fish likely comprise a significant portion of the fish biomass in many lakes. These small fish are more likely to interact with larval walleye through predation or competition for zooplankton resources. Yellow perch are also an important component of most northern Wisconsin fish communities, yet little information on perch population trends is available because targeted sampling for this species is not conducted. Specifically, data needed for indexing trends in yellow perch recruitment are not available. The objectives of this project are to determine if:<br>1) sampling precision, efficiency, and length frequency distributions of centrarchids and yellow perch varies among multiple sampling gears that might be used to target fish < 100 mm TL; <br>2) a qualitative index based on visual assessment during electrofishing accurately reflects overall abundance of centrarchids < 100 mm TL; <br>3) catches of age-0 fish in selected sampling gears are highly correlated with catch of age-1 fish the following year (i.e., age-0 catch provides a useful indicator of age-1 year-class strength); <br>4) current relative abundance estimates for centrarchids and juvenile yellow perch are related to walleye recruitment history (defined as declining or sustained recruitment); <br>5) previous estimates of centrarchid relative abundance in select Wisconsin lakes are associated with walleye recruitment history.<br>Sampling for objectives 1-4 will occur during August 2019 and 2020 on 11 of the 13 lakes that were used to identify the timing of the walleye recruitment bottleneck and will include lakes exhibiting declining walleye recruitment and lakes that have sustained walleye recruitment. Sampling methods that will be assessed include mini-fyke nets, clover leaf traps, standard boat electrofishing, and electrofishing from a boat using a using a hand-held probe similar to a backpack electrofishing unit. For boat electrofishing we will use standard catch-per-effort as an index of relative abundance of small centrarchids, but we also assess the validity of a qualitative approach that will be based on observations of small centrarchids by netters (i.e., the confetti index). Micromesh gill nets will also be used to assess juvenile yellow perch abundance in both years. To assess objective 3, we will correlate catch of age-0 fish in 2019 and 2020 with catch of corresponding catch of age-1 fish in 2020 and 2021; sampling in 2021 will be completed by Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit staff. <br> Using our sampling data and data collected by the WDNR we will develop a composite index of centrarchid abundance for each lake and will determine if lakes with different walleye recruitment histories differ in terms of various metrics of centrarchid abundance (age-0, age-1, juvenile, adult, composite) and juvenile yellow perch abundance. We will also use mini-fyke net and spring electrofishing data collected from a sample of Wisconsin lakes in the late 1990s and early 2000s to assess whether centrarchid abundance at that time was related to subsequent walleye recruitment history.
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Walleye recruitment has declined in many northern Wisconsin lakes that historically supported natural recruitment. Declines in recruitment may be related to increased abundance of small centrarchid fishes, but current standardized sampling does not sample these small fish effectively. Walleyes are an important ecological component in many lakes in Wisconsin, where they are one of the most sought-after fishes by anglers and provide an important tribal subsistence fishery. Identifying potential causes for walleye recruitment declines may help in developing management strategies to mitigate these declines. This project is a collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and helps to address management concerns of the Great Lakes and Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission who share management responsibilities for walleye fisheries in much of northern Wisconsin.This research will be used to determine if lakes with different walleye recruitment histories differ in terms of various metrics of centrarchid abundance and juvenile yellow perch abundance. This information may lead to changes in management strategies that may help mitigate declines in walleye recruitment.
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A Comprehensive Framework for Monitoring and Adaptively Managing Deer Harvest in North Dakota
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June 2022
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Mule deer and white-tailed deer are popular game animals that provide outdoor recreation and organic venison for many families. State agencies are tasked with managing populations to ensure that the annual harvest is sustainable. Harvest decisions are informed by accurate estimates of abundance. Traditional methods for estimating abundance are expensive and risky to human life. As a potential alternative that is cheaper and low risk, we are developing a removal model that incorporates observations of deer hunter harvest and effort data into a capture-recapture modeling framework to permit the estimation of abundance for deer in North Dakota. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and North Dakota Game and Fish Department. The results will help our collaborators set optimal/responsible harvest regulations.
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Mule deer and white-tailed deer are popular game animals that provide outdoor recreation and organic venison for many families. State agencies are tasked with managing populations to ensure that the annual harvest is sustainable. Harvest decisions are informed by accurate estimates of abundance. Traditional methods for estimating abundance are expensive and risky to human life. As a potential alternative that is cheaper and low risk, we are developing a removal model that incorporates observations of deer hunter harvest and effort data into a capture-recapture modeling framework to permit the estimation of abundance for deer in North Dakota. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and North Dakota Game and Fish Department. The results will help our collaborators set optimal/responsible harvest regulations.
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Rainwater Basin Joint Venture Science
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July 2026
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The mission of the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture is to build and facilitate partnerships that work to advance habitat conservation for millions of migratory birds using strategies based on sound science in Nebraska’s mixed-grass prairie region. The Management Board of the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture is committed to implementing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Strategic Habitat Conservation framework. This science-based model requires a commitment of resources to develop a strong biological foundation for delivering conservation planning and designing research and monitoring efforts. In partial fulfillment of this commitment, a Science Coordinator position and a GIS Specialist position are housed at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Dana Varner served as the Science Coordinator from October 2014 through November 2022, and Greg Brinkman began serving as the GIS Specialist in January 2022. Both positions work with the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture science team to develop models and decision support tools that help identify areas where conservation is most likely to benefit migratory birds and other wildlife.<br><br>Dana helped monitor and evaluate the success of ongoing and past habitat conservation projects, collaborating with researchers from various federal and state agencies and non-governmental conservation organizations. Dana recently wrapped up six years of data collection for a survey of waterfowl using Rainwater Basin playas during spring migration. Since leaving the Cooperative Research Unit, Dana took a position at Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. where she continues to assist in the analysis of the Rainwater Basin spring waterfowl migration data. Results of this study will be used to help guide conservation delivery in this critical stopover region.<br><br>Greg focuses on providing additional GIS capacity and support to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission in conjunction with the goals of the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture. Greg has been working on creating statewide abundance-and-occurrence models for Greater Prairie-chickens and Sharp-tailed Grouse. These models are based on a long-term data collection effort led by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. These models will contribute to better targeting of management for prairie grouse.<br><br> Both Greg and Dana have been collaborating with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and University of Nebraska researchers to build a decision support tool that can be used by partners to identify priority landscapes based on customized criteria that can include seasonal waterfowl population abundance, upland and wetland habitats, and ecosystems goods and services.
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The Rainwater Basins is a critical wetland complex, providing habitat for millions of migratory waterfowl each year. Several management and research agencies work in the Basins. This project is a partnership between NECFWRU, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, and creates a position for a science coordinator and a position for a GIS specialist. The GIS specialist adds capacity for research and monitoring. The coordinator enhances communication among these three principals with a focus towards better management of the Basins.
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Estimating population size and demographic parameters for Rio Grande Sucker and Rio Grande Chub at Baca National Wildlife Refuge
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July 2024
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The Baca National Wildlife Refuge is home to one of only two aboriginal populations of Rio Grande sucker (<i>Catostomus plebeius</i>) and Rio Grande chub (<i>Gila pandora</i>) in the state of Colorado, the conservation of which is part of their Comprehensive Conservation Plan. These fish have been PIT tagged and re-detected by capture and remote antennas for the last few years, as part of a program to improve fish passage on the refuge. An evaluation and analysis of these data for population size and vital rates is needed to assess the status of these native fish and their response to passage improvements. Training is also needed to increase capacity for demographic analyses within the USFWS. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Region 6, including the Colorado Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, Refuge Inventory and Monitoring, and the Baca NWR. Results from the analysis will be used to inform future fish passage management decisions, and the design of future monitoring for these populations.
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The Baca National Wildlife Refuge is home to one of only two aboriginal populations of Rio Grande sucker (<i>Catostomus plebeius</i>) and Rio Grande chub (<i>Gila pandora</i>) in the state of Colorado, the conservation of which is part of their Comprehensive Conservation Plan. These fish have been PIT tagged and re-detected by capture and remote antennas for the last few years, as part of a program to improve fish passage on the refuge. An evaluation and analysis of these data for population size and vital rates is needed to assess the status of these native fish and their response to passage improvements. Training is also needed to increase capacity for demographic analyses within the USFWS. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Region 6, including the Colorado Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, Refuge Inventory and Monitoring, and the Baca NWR. Results from the analysis will be used to inform future fish passage management decisions, and the design of future monitoring for these populations.
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Research and development of a predictive model for Ceratonova shasta waterborne parasites in support of Klamath River water management decisions and the Klamath Basin Stream Salmonid Simulator (S3 Model)
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September 2023
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Develop a model to predict the weekly concentration of C. Shasta waterborne parasites in the Klamath River.
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<i>Ceratonova shasta</i> is a parasite endemic to the Klamath River basin that has been linked to population declines in native salmonids. High densities of waterborne spores of the parasite are known to cause increasing infection and mortality risk for juvenile salmonids. A recently constructed population dynamics model for Klamath River salmonids, the Stream Salmonid Simulator (S3 model), includes a sub-model to simulate <i>C. shasta</i> disease and mortality risk for outmigrating juveniles in response to potential management alternatives. This sub-model uses inputs of spore density, however, spores vary spatially and temporally within years, and vary over several orders of magnitude among years. Through the development of the spore model, associations between peaks in spore density and the prevalence of infection in hatchery-origin juveniles were found. Developing models that are able to better estimate mortality risk for juvenile salmonids will provide a means to incorporate these models into the S3 model. This then provides an adaptive management tool for managers to understand how different management decisions (e.g. flow) might affect the population. The project is a collaboration of researchers between the USGS and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Juvenile rearing distribution of threatened coho salmon at habitat restoration sites on the Hoopa reservation
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August 2022
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A study to examine when and how Coho Salmon are utilizing creeks on the Hoopa tribal reservation using eDNA and snorkel surveys.
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As Coho Salmon are thought to be at very low abundance in the study streams, relying only on visual observation and in-hand capture of Coho Salmon is likely to underestimate the extent of their distribution. Therefore, project sampling efforts will combine standard visual surveys (via snorkeling) with environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling (via water samples analyzed for presence of Coho Salmon DNA). This multi-method approach will also provide insight into the potential for eDNA surveys to evaluate small-scale patterns in Coho Salmon distribution associated with restoration activities. The Hoopa Tribe recently made substantial investments in habitat restoration and improvement projects to aid in Coho Salmon recovery in streams on tribal land. Results of this project will provide information necessary to assess Coho Salmon use of restored and unrestored sites to guide future restoration efforts. This project is a collaboration between the Hoopa tribe, USGS, and Humboldt State University.
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Bat Conservation and Recovery in Nebraska and Wyoming
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January 2023
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There are mounting concerns for North American bats due to continuing and emerging threats from disease, habitat loss, fragmentation, and wind-energy development. Although these threats are likely to increase in severity, there is an opportunity to improve our knowledge of bat occurrence and habitat use, to learn how landscape changes affect local bat populations, and to establish regional monitoring that can inform local and national resource management decisions. This is especially true across Nebraska, which encapsulates edges of several bat species’ ranges.<br><br>We implemented the North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat) in Nebraska to survey statewide bat species distributions and activity. Thirty-five monitoring areas were established across the state to sample with bat acoustic detectors each year, comprising about 120 sites, and involving about 100 landowners. Much of these data were collected by volunteers (citizen scientists); we were excited by our successes in building an extensive and reliable citizen science network for bat monitoring.<br><br> We documented 12 bat species during our monitoring efforts, including some that have experienced dramatic population declines in other parts of the country from the invasive fungal disease that causes white-nose syndrome. Some species we found statewide, whereas we detected other species only in certain areas of Nebraska. Overall bat activity has been generally greatest in eastern parts of the state, and least in central and southwestern parts of the state, perhaps an effect of fewer available tree roosts. Future sampling efforts could be used to gather evidence of activity changes and range expansions by these bat species.
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There are mounting concerns for North American bats due to continuing and emerging threats from disease, habitat loss, fragmentation and wind turbines. In anticipation that threats are likely to increase in severity, there is an opportunity to improve the resiliency of summer habitat, to learn how changes affect local bat populations, and to establish regional monitoring that will Inform local decisions and national actions. This project is a collaboration of researchers with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and state and federal natural resource managers throughout the Midwest USA. This project will result in more strategic bat conservation across Wyoming and Nebraska by monitoring bat populations and by providing decision makers with decision-support tools and a conservation plan. Ultimately, managing fish, wildlife and their habitats for the enjoyment of current and future generations is the underlying foundation of this project.
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Monitoring black bear populations
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May 2022
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Black bears occur in a variety of habitats throughout Idaho, are a popular game species, and potentially a major predator of ungulate neonates. Currently, black bear populations are monitored using harvest data, but we do not have a good understanding of how harvest effort affects population estimates nor is current monitoring replicable. To improve inference regarding population health/growth, we propose a study to establish a link between recruitment and habitat productivity for black bears in Idaho. We will use marked bears (satellite collars) and cameras to estimate recruitment and possibly density from mark-resight or time/space to event models. Additionally, we will explore habitat use of marked bears to provide further inference for our abundance estimates. This project is a collaboration between USGS and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Results will provide managers with a cost effective, replicable way to estimate bear population size and inform management decisions.
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Black bears occur in a variety of habitats throughout Idaho, are a popular game species, and potentially a major predator of ungulate neonates. Currently, black bear populations are monitored using harvest data, but we do not have a good understanding of how harvest effort affects population estimates nor is current monitoring replicable. To improve inference regarding population health/growth, we propose a study to establish a link between recruitment and habitat productivity for black bears in Idaho. We will use marked bears (satellite collars) and cameras to estimate recruitment and possibly density from mark-resight or time/space to event models. Additionally, we will explore habitat use of marked bears to provide further inference for our abundance estimates. This project is a collaboration between USGS and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Results will provide managers with a cost effective, replicable way to estimate bear population size and inform management decisions.
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Determining the vulnerability of wolves to harvest
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May 2025
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Much of the available science regarding how hunting affects gray wolf populations is from the core of the wolf’s range in Canada and Alaska, where populations are contiguous, robust, and wolves are quite numerous. We know less about how hunting and trapping might affect wolves in smaller populations such as those found in the Rockies. This project is a collaboration between USGS, The University of Idaho, The University of Montana, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Insights into how human-caused mortality affects wolf pack structure and long-term demography are critical to understanding the potential impacts of humans on gray wolves and their population management.
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Much of the available science regarding how hunting affects gray wolf populations is from the core of the wolf’s range in Canada and Alaska, where populations are contiguous, robust, and wolves are quite numerous. We know less about how hunting and trapping might affect wolves in smaller populations such as those found in the Rockies. This project is a collaboration between USGS, The University of Idaho, The University of Montana, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Insights into how human-caused mortality affects wolf pack structure and long-term demography are critical to understanding the potential impacts of humans on gray wolves and their population management.
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Angler behavior in response to management actions on Nebraska reservoirs -- Part 3
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December 2024
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Recreational angling, a billion–dollar industry, is the most influential factor structuring fish populations in inland systems. Given its importance and the reliance in North America on sportspersons to fund conservation activities (i.e., the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation), natural resource agencies invest substantial resources to manage angler-fish interactions to ensure long-term sustainability. Arguably, most of our current understanding and management efforts of recreational fisheries are directed toward larger fisheries in rural environments. These waterbodies are highly visible resources and often attract many anglers from long distances. However, we know less about anglers in urban environments and their behaviors locally at smaller waterbodies. It is important for us to understand angler behavior in metropolitan areas because the landscape is becoming more urbanized. We anticipate that urban fisheries function differently than their rural counterparts.<br><br>Project goals 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. The project currently has eight study components.<br><br>1. Omaha Angler Survey. Anglers were interviewed April through October on-site at Prairie Queen, Schwer, Halleck, and Standing Bear during 2019, at Benson, Flanagan, Fontenelle, and Walnut Creek during 2021, at Zorinsky, Prairie View, and Lawrence Youngman during 2022, and at Flannagan and Cunningham during 2023. These interviews are intended to add to statewide angler survey datasets that are valuable for assessing changes in angler participation, catch, and harvest. These extended datasets allow for relational assessments of changes in angling participation while considering environmental conditions and management actions on large spatiotemporal scales.<br><br>2. Omaha Angler Effort. Anglers were counted at 22 public waterbodies in the Omaha area from February 2019 through January 2020. In addition, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission continued angler counts at 10 of the waterbodies from April 2020 through October 2020. Angler effort was highly variable with most angler effort occurring in west Omaha. Larger waterbodies typically receive the most fishing effort. Most anglers access waterbodies from the bank rather than from a boat. Half of the waterbodies surveyed receive more than 20,000 hours of angling effort; four of these waterbodies receive more than 60,000 hours, which is comparable to many large, rural fisheries in the state. Towl and Halleck receive the most angler effort per unit of area, with approximately 7,500 angler hours per acre. Angler effort generally peaked from May through July and remained low during winter months, perhaps because of poor ice conditions.<br><br>3. Omaha Recreation Survey. Recreational anglers express a variety of behaviors and specializations, making angling forecasting and management difficult. During February-March 2020, we surveyed—in collaboration with the University of Nebraska’s Bureau of Sociological Research—a subset of Omaha residents that purchased a fishing license during 2019. We used mail-surveys (email and pre-paid envelopes) to quantify demographics, behaviors, and visitation rates to Omaha metropolitan waterbodies (and other prominent Nebraska waterbodies) during 2019. Behavioral differences are evident across the Omaha area. We used these surveys to also identify sociodemographic variables that might be used to predict days spent on recreational fishing, and to identify recreational activities complementary to fishing. Participation in recreational fishing does not differ across the Omaha area, yet participation in other recreational activities (e.g., fitness and woodworking) does differ among anglers across the Omaha area. This knowledge is useful to managers, as it provides valuable insights on current angler activities and could help predict future angler activity based on demographic characteristics and landscape changes (i.e., urbanization) across a region.<br><br>4. Understanding Variation of Recreational Angler Effort. Waterbody size (i.e., surface area) accounted for 60% of the variance in angler effort across 73 Nebraska waterbodies during 2009-2019. The relationship between the size of a resource and the amount of use the respective resource receives can be utilized by natural resource managers to produce broad-scale estimations of system use, guide the allocation of management resources according to expected system use, predict how changes in system size may affect the amount of use, and highlight how different user groups may interact with systems of various sizes. For instance, utilizing the waterbody size-angler effort relationship allows us to predict that anglers exert over 4,750,000 hours of effort annually on public waterbodies in Nebraska. The relationship between waterbody size and angler effort also differs based on how anglers access the waterbody (i.e., via the bank or a boat). Boat-angler effort increases at a higher rate as waterbody size increases compared to bank-angler effort.<br><br>5. Recreational Use of Valentine National Wildlife Refuge. Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is an important social-ecological system that provides a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors. Even so, we have little understanding of the types and frequency of activities that occur on the refuge and the sociodemographic characteristics of visitors. We used 789 completed surveys (from 2,251 distributed windshield surveys; 35% response rate) to understand participation and potentials for social conflicts and ecological impacts of hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching (including touring, hiking, photography, and environmental education) groups. The fishing group was the predominate group (78%) on the refuge from July 2017 to July 2018. Social and ecological intensities varied across lake types (e.g., fishing vs. non-fishing) and seasons, highlighting intense-impact areas and periods on the refuge. Accounting for the diverse recreational activities and social and ecological intensities will allow managers of Valentine National Wildlife Refuge and other social-ecological systems the ability to concomitantly preserve ecological resources, prioritize conservation efforts, and minimize visitor conflicts.<br><br>6. Lake McConaughy Angler Survey. Lake McConaughy is an important fishery in western Nebraska. We interviewed anglers on-site during daytime hours during April-October 2022 and during nighttime hours during April-May 2022 and 2023. These interviews were in response to public concerns surrounding potential overharvest of walleye during the springtime walleye spawn, especially large individuals that are economically and ecologically important in the walleye population. The purpose of these surveys was to document the relative amounts of walleye harvested during these two periods and to document the demographics of anglers for these two periods. Catch rates of walleye for walleye-seeking anglers during April 2022 were 0.5 walleye/hour fishing during nighttime and 0.2 walleye/hour fishing during daytime.<br><br>7. Ogallala. Lake Ogallala (and its associated canal and rive) provides a unique trout fishery in western Nebraska. However, this fishery has limited resiliency toward invasions by the common carp that is established in the upstream water supply (i.e., Lake McConaughy). We surveyed anglers during 2023 to gather baseline data for use in future evaluations of management actions designed to reduce the biomass of the common carp population in Lake Ogallala.<br><br>8. Economic valuation of recreational fishing. Economic values of individual fisheries are important pieces of information, especially for prioritizing management actions and allocating limited resources. We teamed up with Dr. Max Melstrom, an economics professor at Loyola University Chicago, to develop a model to assign economic values for public reservoirs throughout Nebraska.
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Recreational fishing is the most influential factor structuring fish populations, especially in inland systems with intensive fishing pressure. Even so, inland fishery biologists rarely incorporate spatial and temporal patterns into management strategies, possibly because little is understood about angler decisions to participate in the sport. 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.
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Development and testing of low-cost GPS collar systems for livestock using commercial off-the-shelf parts
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September 2021
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Development and testing of low-cost GPS collar systems for livestock using commercial off-the-shelf parts
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Development and testing of low-cost GPS collar systems for livestock using commercial off-the-shelf parts
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Integrating satellite and field measures for improved grazingland management at ranch scales
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September 2021
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Monitoring of forage availability, utilization, and residual biomass is the primary basis for making livestock management decisions in grazingland systems. Knowing the distribution of grazing across landscapes helps assess the impacts of livestock on wildlife populations. However, field measures of livestock impacts are often unreliable at the ranch scale due to heterogeneous patterns of vegetation and grazing. New technologies can improve field measures and provide new perspectives on grazing impacts at landscape scales. We are assessing grazing impacts at ranch scales that integrates plot-based field utilization measurements with livestock GPS collar data and remotely-sensed measures of grazing intensity. We are also evaluating and improving existing field methods for estimating utilization and residual biomass, and pairing field observations with livestock GPS-collar data to validate maps of biomass change based on remote sensing as an index of grazing intensity. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, University of Idaho, NRCS, The Nature Conservancy, and ranchers. The resulting estimates of grazing intensity across pastures will improve our understanding of livestock impacts on Greater Sage-grouse populations. The results of this project will be built into the RangeSat online tool (https://rangesat.nkn.uidaho.edu/) to analyze and visualize forage availability and grazing intensity.
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Monitoring of forage availability, utilization, and residual biomass is the primary basis for making livestock management decisions in grazingland systems. Knowing the distribution of grazing across landscapes helps assess the impacts of livestock on wildlife populations. However, field measures of livestock impacts are often unreliable at the ranch scale due to heterogeneous patterns of vegetation and grazing. New technologies can improve field measures and provide new perspectives on grazing impacts at landscape scales. We are assessing grazing impacts at ranch scales that integrates plot-based field utilization measurements with livestock GPS collar data and remotely-sensed measures of grazing intensity. We are also evaluating and improving existing field methods for estimating utilization and residual biomass, and pairing field observations with livestock GPS-collar data to validate maps of biomass change based on remote sensing as an index of grazing intensity. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, University of Idaho, NRCS, The Nature Conservancy, and ranchers. The resulting estimates of grazing intensity across pastures will improve our understanding of livestock impacts on Greater Sage-grouse populations. The results of this project will be built into the RangeSat online tool (https://rangesat.nkn.uidaho.edu/) to analyze and visualize forage availability and grazing intensity.
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Transmission of Bacterial Kidney Disease in CO Greenback Cutthroat Trout
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June 2022
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Since 2015, several state fish hatcheries in Colorado have had positive detections of <i>Renibacterium salmoninarum</i>, the causative agent for bacterial kidney disease (BKD) in salmonids. Since there is little known about the pathophysiology of inland trout, management efforts have been implemented at many hatcheries to reduce the transfer of this bacterium to offspring during spawning seasons. One management strategy is the removal of all fish once <i>R. salmoninarum</i> has been detected. However, it is unclear if depopulation of positive fish is necessary to eliminate the bacterium and, in many instances, critical and sometimes irreplaceable broodstocks are lost. The Colorado native greenback cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii stomias</i>)<i> </i>is one species of concern because depopulation may endanger populations of critical broodstocks. We are proposing to assess the bacterial load of <i>R. salmoninarum</i> within parents and evaluate the vertical transmission to progeny and to assist in developing non-lethal management strategies. We also propose to evaluate the consequences of keeping infected broodstock in a hatchery and the potential for horizontal transmission to other fish within the facility.
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Since 2015, several state fish hatcheries in Colorado have had positive detections of <i>Renibacterium salmoninarum</i>, the causative agent for bacterial kidney disease (BKD) in salmonids. The Colorado native greenback cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii stomias</i>)<i> </i>is one species of concern because depopulation due to disease may endanger populations of critical broodstocks. We are assessing the bacterial load of <i>R. salmoninarum</i> within parents and evaluate the vertical transmission to progeny and to assist in developing non-lethal management strategies. We also propose to evaluate the consequences of keeping infected broodstock in a hatchery and the potential for horizontal transmission to other fish within the facility.This research is being done in collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.The results will directly inform management decisions at hatchery facilities in Colorado and can be used at a national scale if needed.
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Rocky Mountain Elk Recruitment & Habitat
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March 2022
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The Rocky Mountain Elk (<i>Cervus elaphus</i>) is an iconic species, with a high recreational value to hunters, photographers, artists, and other wildlife enthusiasts. Although recruitment in elk is naturally variable, over the last 10 years recruitment has declined in some populations within Colorado, due to unknown causes. An assessment is needed on the timing of the loss of calves between parturition and the following winter, and identification of the cause(s), including predators, habitat quality, and anthropogenic factors. This project is a collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Results from this study will be used to inform Colorado Parks and Wildlife management decisions for mitigating this decline.
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The Rocky Mountain Elk (<i>Cervus elaphus</i>) is an iconic species, with a high recreational value to hunters, photographers, artists, and other wildlife enthusiasts. Although recruitment in elk is naturally variable, over the last 10 years recruitment has declined in some populations within Colorado, due to unknown causes. An assessment is needed on the timing of the loss of calves between parturition and the following winter, and identification of the cause(s), including predators, habitat quality, and anthropogenic factors. This project is a collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Results from this study will be used to inform Colorado Parks and Wildlife management decisions for mitigating this decline.
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Biotic and abiotic factors influencing population dynamics of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout and Utah Chubs in Henrys Lake, Idaho
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December 2021
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Henrys Lake is a shallow eutrophic reservoir located in eastern Idaho near Yellowstone National Park that has long supported a renowned trophy salmonid fishery for Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (YCT) Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri. Although the fishery remains popular, several concerning trends have been observed in the last decade. In particular, catch rates and body condition of YCT have declined notably in recent surveys and other recent work suggests concerning changes in growth, mortality, and size structure. Collectively, these observations imply that abiotic and(or) biotic characteristics of Henrys Lake are becoming less favorable for YCT.
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Henrys Lake is a shallow lake in SE Idaho that has long supported a renowned trophy salmonid fishery for Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (YCT). Although the fishery remains popular, a number of concerning trends have been observed in the YCT population (e.g., reduced body condition and growth). We are working with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to identify abiotic (e.g., water temperature) and biotic (e.g., invasive Utah Chub) factors related to YCT population structure and dynamics. Results of this research will be used to identify options and actions associated with management of YCT and UTC in the system.
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Catch-and-release mortality in Idaho steelhead fisheries
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December 2021
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Steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss is one of the most ecologically and economically important species in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Idaho. Steelhead fisheries in Idaho currently focus on hatchery fish that are reared and released to mitigate for the negative effects of the hydrosystem. Because hatchery fish use the same waters as wild fish, which are protected under the Endangered Species Act, Idaho’s fisheries are permitted and managed such that “impact rates” on wild steelhead populations are not exceeded.
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Steelhead is one of the most ecologically and economically important species in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Idaho. Because hatchery fish use the same waters as wild fish, which are protected under the Endangered Species Act, Idaho’s fisheries are permitted and managed such that “impact rates” on wild steelhead populations are not exceeded. We are partnering with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to estimate the rate that wild fish are encountered in the fishery and catch-and-release mortality of steelhead. Results of this research will be used to refine estimation techniques and provide managers with critical information for managing both wild and hatchery steelhead in the region.
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Production of wild Bonneville Cutthroat Trout in Bear Lake: evaluation of a harvest fishery
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December 2021
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Bear Lake is an oligotrophic, dimictic lake located in southeast Idaho and northeast Utah. The system supports popular fisheries for Bonneville Cutthroat Trout (BCT) Oncorhynchus clarkii utah and introduced Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush. This project is focused on providing a better understanding of the ecology of BCT in the system with a specific focus on evaluating different scenarios for managing the BCT fishery.
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Bear Lake is an oligotrophic, dimictic lake located in southeast Idaho and northeast Utah. The system supports popular fisheries for Bonneville Cutthroat Trout (BCT). We are working with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to better understand how the BCT population is functioning in the system. Results of this work will provide insight on movement dynamics and habitat associations of BCT in tributary streams. We will also be developing population models that can be used to evaluate different management options for the BCT fishery in Bear Lake.
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Comparison of standard and eDNA methods for estimating Chinook Salmon smolt abundance in the Klamath River (CA)
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April 2020
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The objective of this study is to compare standard and eDNA-based estimates of weekly and season totals of Chinook Salmon at the Kinsman site, Klamath River. The project will:
(1) Evaluate specificity and sensitivity of existing Chinook Salmon qPCR assays and if necessary design Chinook-specific qPCR assays.
(2) Generate biweekly estimates of Chinook Salmon eDNA concentration using qPCR at the Kinsman site.
(3) Evaluate the Chinook Salmon eDNA plume emanating from Iron Gate Hatchery (IGH) during periods of high, medium, and low flow. At each flow level water samples will be collected at IGH and progressively downstream at 10 km intervals until the Kinsman site is reached. These data will provide insights regarding the extent to which IGH eDNA output may bias estimates of natural-orgin smolt outmigrant abundance at the Kinsman site.
(4) Statistical assessment of the relationship between the weekly eDNA concentrations and Chinook Salmon smolt abundance estimated using standard methods. Our study will leverage existing smolt abundance estimates in the Klamath River at Kinsman where weekly and season Chinook Salmon estimates have been generated since the early 1990s. The data from standard monitoring will provide a foundation for comparison of the eDNA-based estimates.
Use of eDNA approaches for determining smolt abundance during seaward migration has at least three distinct advantages in comparison to standard monitoring. First, eDNA approaches are non-invasive in the sense that they do not involve direct handling and/or tagging of Chinook Salmon smolts or cause delays in their downstream migration. Second, eDNA approaches are less likely to be constrained by high water flows and debris that can result in flawed sets and/or make it dangerous for staff to implement field survey methods. Third, eDNA-based methods may provide a less expensive alternative for salmon abundance monitoring than standard methods.
This study will provide eDNA-based estimates of weekly smolt abundance of Chinook Salmon within the mainstem of the Klamath River, but it could also serve as a foundation and justification for applying the eDNA methods in other areas within the Klamath-Trinity Basin and across the entire Pacific northwest where similar approaches are applied for salmon. Further, if the approaches developed herein are proven effective for monitoring Chinook Salmon, they could be easily expanded for monitoring of other commercially, recreationally, and tribally important species, such as Coho Salmon, steelhead, green sturgeon, and Pacific lamprey. Also, the same water samples collected for determination of salmon abundance could also be used for disease monitoring in the mainstem Klamath River, which is currently evaluated, in part, using environmental DNA analysis (Hallett and Bartholomew 2006).
If successful, our project will generate eDNA-based estimates of Chinook Salmon smolt abundance that could be used to supplement or potentially replace standard methods in the future. Our project results should be of interest to two distinct groups of scientists. First, federal, state and tribal resource management and conservation groups should receive benefits from our anticipated project results: empirical information concerning the abundance of Chinook Salmon smolts using a non-invasive tool that is potentially less expensive than standard methods. Second, molecular ecologists should be interested in our project results, especially our application of eDNA monitoring for determination of aquatic species abundance during migration.
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The objective of this study is to compare standard and eDNA-based estimates of weekly and season totals of Chinook Salmon at the Kinsman site, Klamath River. The project will:
(1) Evaluate specificity and sensitivity of existing Chinook Salmon qPCR assays and if necessary design Chinook-specific qPCR assays.
(2) Generate biweekly estimates of Chinook Salmon eDNA concentration using qPCR at the Kinsman site.
(3) Evaluate the Chinook Salmon eDNA plume emanating from Iron Gate Hatchery (IGH) during periods of high, medium, and low flow. At each flow level water samples will be collected at IGH and progressively downstream at 10 km intervals until the Kinsman site is reached. These data will provide insights regarding the extent to which IGH eDNA output may bias estimates of natural-orgin smolt outmigrant abundance at the Kinsman site.
(4) Statistical assessment of the relationship between the weekly eDNA concentrations and Chinook Salmon smolt abundance estimated using standard methods. Our study will leverage existing smolt abundance estimates in the Klamath River at Kinsman where weekly and season Chinook Salmon estimates have been generated since the early 1990s. The data from standard monitoring will provide a foundation for comparison of the eDNA-based estimates.
Use of eDNA approaches for determining smolt abundance during seaward migration has at least three distinct advantages in comparison to standard monitoring. First, eDNA approaches are non-invasive in the sense that they do not involve direct handling and/or tagging of Chinook Salmon smolts or cause delays in their downstream migration. Second, eDNA approaches are less likely to be constrained by high water flows and debris that can result in flawed sets and/or make it dangerous for staff to implement field survey methods. Third, eDNA-based methods may provide a less expensive alternative for salmon abundance monitoring than standard methods.
This study will provide eDNA-based estimates of weekly smolt abundance of Chinook Salmon within the mainstem of the Klamath River, but it could also serve as a foundation and justification for applying the eDNA methods in other areas within the Klamath-Trinity Basin and across the entire Pacific northwest where similar approaches are applied for salmon. Further, if the approaches developed herein are proven effective for monitoring Chinook Salmon, they could be easily expanded for monitoring of other commercially, recreationally, and tribally important species, such as Coho Salmon, steelhead, green sturgeon, and Pacific lamprey. Also, the same water samples collected for determination of salmon abundance could also be used for disease monitoring in the mainstem Klamath River, which is currently evaluated, in part, using environmental DNA analysis (Hallett and Bartholomew 2006).
If successful, our project will generate eDNA-based estimates of Chinook Salmon smolt abundance that could be used to supplement or potentially replace standard methods in the future. Our project results should be of interest to two distinct groups of scientists. First, federal, state and tribal resource management and conservation groups should receive benefits from our anticipated project results: empirical information concerning the abundance of Chinook Salmon smolts using a non-invasive tool that is potentially less expensive than standard methods. Second, molecular ecologists should be interested in our project results, especially our application of eDNA monitoring for determination of aquatic species abundance during migration.
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Elk demography, movements and habitat selection in the Mexican Wolf Recovery Area in Arizona and New Mexico
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June 2025
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Elk population declines have been observed following wolf reintroduction or recolonization events. These declines were attributed to the combined effects of hunter harvest, predation and interactions with stochastic climatic events resulting lowered adult survival and recruitment. In addition, changes in the predator community composition has led to other non-lethal effects with the potential to influence elk demographic rates. Baseline data on elk survival rates, cause-specific mortality and habitat selection is limited for periods prior to the reintroduction of Mexican wolves in New Mexico and Arizona (e.g., Ballard et al. 2000). Consequently it is unknown whether Mexican wolves are reducing elk population growth or if wolf predation is compensatory, additive, or partially compensatory due to a lack of appropriate data. The lack of data impedes the development of the most informed management plans for elk in the Mexican wolf recovery area. Therefore the goal of this study is to assess variability in survival, cause-specific mortality, movements and habitat selection of elk across the Mexican wolf recovery area in Arizona and New Mexico. Our specific objectives are to: 1) estimate seasonal and annual cause-specific mortality rates for elk neonates and adult female elk; 2) estimate seasonal and annual survival rates for neonates and adult female elk; 3) estimate seasonal kill rates and prey composition of Mexican wolves; 4) assess effects of wolf activity on seasonal habitat selection and movements of elk; and 5) model the likely population trajectories of elk populations subjected to varying cause-specific mortality rates from predators (e.g., Mexican wolves, black bears, mountain lions, coyotes) and other causes of mortality (e.g., harvest, illegal harvest, vehicle collision). This study is a collaboration between the New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Arizona Game and Fish Department, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Elk population declines have been observed following wolf reintroduction or recolonization events. These declines were attributed to the combined effects of hunter harvest, predation and interactions with stochastic climatic events resulting lowered adult survival and recruitment. In addition, changes in the predator community composition has led to other non-lethal effects with the potential to influence elk demographic rates. Baseline data on elk survival rates, cause-specific mortality and habitat selection is limited for periods prior to the reintroduction of Mexican wolves in New Mexico and Arizona (e.g., Ballard et al. 2000). Consequently it is unknown whether Mexican wolves are reducing elk population growth or if wolf predation is compensatory, additive, or partially compensatory due to a lack of appropriate data. The lack of data impedes the development of the most informed management plans for elk in the Mexican wolf recovery area. Therefore the goal of this study is to assess variability in survival, cause-specific mortality, movements and habitat selection of elk across the Mexican wolf recovery area in Arizona and New Mexico. Our specific objectives are to: 1) estimate seasonal and annual cause-specific mortality rates for elk neonates and adult female elk; 2) estimate seasonal and annual survival rates for neonates and adult female elk; 3) estimate seasonal kill rates and prey composition of Mexican wolves; 4) assess effects of wolf activity on seasonal habitat selection and movements of elk; and 5) model the likely population trajectories of elk populations subjected to varying cause-specific mortality rates from predators (e.g., Mexican wolves, black bears, mountain lions, coyotes) and other causes of mortality (e.g., harvest, illegal harvest, vehicle collision). This study is a collaboration between the New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Arizona Game and Fish Department, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Spring and fall stopover food resources and land use patterns for RMP Sandhill Cranes in the San Luis Valley, CO
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December 2023
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The Rocky Mountain population (RMP) of greater sandhill cranes (<i>Antigone canadensis tabida</i>) and a portion of the Mid-Continent Population (MCP) of cranes use the San Luis Valley (SLV) of Colorado as an important migrational stopover area each spring and fall. Declines in water availability for roosts, and in important food sources such as barley, could have negative impacts on these populations. An assessment of available roost habitat and grain, the use of these habitats by cranes, and the carrying capacity of the SLV for cranes is needed to assess the future of these populations and inform refuge management decisions. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Regions 6 and 2, the Intermountain West Joint Venture, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Colorado Open Lands. Results from the analyses will be used to build a decision model to assist Monte Vista NWR in making water and grain management decisions.
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The Rocky Mountain population (RMP) of greater sandhill cranes (<i>Antigone canadensis tabida</i>) and a portion of the Mid-Continent Population (MCP) of cranes use the San Luis Valley (SLV) of Colorado as an important migrational stopover area each spring and fall. Declines in water availability for roosts, and in important food sources such as barley, could have negative impacts on these populations. An assessment of available roost habitat and grain, the use of these habitats by cranes, and the carrying capacity of the SLV for cranes is needed to assess the future of these populations and inform refuge management decisions. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Regions 6 and 2, the Intermountain West Joint Venture, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Colorado Open Lands. Results from the analyses will be used to build a decision model to assist Monte Vista NWR in making water and grain management decisions.
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BLM & BoR: Utah Understanding the Dynamics of Beaver Re-Introduction for Passive Desert River.
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December 2025
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American beavers (<i>Castor canadensis</i>) are absent from or in low abundance in many river systems due to historic and current anthropogenic activity. Reintroduction of beavers, sometimes coupled with the addition of structural features (<i>e.g.</i> beaver dam analogs), to restore degraded systems is becoming more popular, though outcomes are variable and standardized best practices are lacking, especially in desert rivers. Beavers can serve as a cost-effective, natural restoration tool due to their dam-building behavior, promoting heterogeneity and drought-resiliency in rivers, and translocating nuisance beavers to restoration areas offers an alternative to lethal removal of problem beavers. Evaluating the efficacy of translocated beavers is imperative to improving beaver-assisted restoration techniques. This project is a collaboration of numerous institutions and agencies, including USGS Utah CRU, Utah State University, USDA National Wildlife Research Center, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. The project will help to understand the complexities of translocation and its effect on vital rates, space use, and activity patterns of wildlife, which in turn will inform best practices for establishment of dam-building beavers in desert river restoration areas.
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American beavers (<i>Castor canadensis</i>) are absent from or in low abundance in many river systems due to historic and current anthropogenic activity. Reintroduction of beavers, sometimes coupled with the addition of structural features (<i>e.g.</i> beaver dam analogs), to restore degraded systems is becoming more popular, though outcomes are variable and standardized best practices are lacking, especially in desert rivers. Beavers can serve as a cost-effective, natural restoration tool due to their dam-building behavior, promoting heterogeneity and drought-resiliency in rivers, and translocating nuisance beavers to restoration areas offers an alternative to lethal removal of problem beavers. Evaluating the efficacy of translocated beavers is imperative to improving beaver-assisted restoration techniques. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS Utah CRU, Utah State University, USDA National Wildlife Research Center, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. The project will help to understand the complexities of translocation and its effect on vital rates, space use, and activity patterns of wildlife, which in turn will inform best practices for establishment of dam-building beavers in desert river restoration areas.
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Life history, habitat use, and genetic uniqueness of the longnose darter Percina nasuta (S1) in Missouri
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June 2020
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Longnose Darters Percina nasuta (S1, State Endangered) are one of the rarest fish in Missouri and were petitioned for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act with a preliminary finding scheduled for federal FY2020. Little is known about this species in Missouri or how isolated populations in the state may relate to populations in other parts of the species’ range. Consider the entry under Habits and Life History for the Longnose Darter in The Fishes of Missouri which simply states “Spawning has been observed in pool raceways in the upper White River, Arkansas in mid-May. Nothing else has been reported of its natural history.” This lack of information, especially from Missouri, inhibits the ability of state and federal agencies to make informed and defensible management and policy decisions. These decisions include state and federal conservation status listings, management of national forest lands by the USFS, suggestions for BMPs related to Natural Heritage reviews of projects, implementation and priority of on-the ground stream management practices, and identification of and potential response to threats. A better understanding of Longnose Darter ecology and relationships between Missouri populations and those found elsewhere will play a key role in the upcoming federal Species Status Assessment that evaluates resiliency, redundancy, and representation of the species and ultimately will assist with recovery efforts such as captive breeding and reintroduction.
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Longnose Darters Percina nasuta (S1, State Endangered) are one of the rarest fish in Missouri and were petitioned for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act with a preliminary finding scheduled for federal FY2020. Little is known about this species in Missouri or how isolated populations in the state may relate to populations in other parts of the species’ range. Consider the entry under Habits and Life History for the Longnose Darter in The Fishes of Missouri which simply states “Spawning has been observed in pool raceways in the upper White River, Arkansas in mid-May. Nothing else has been reported of its natural history.” This lack of information, especially from Missouri, inhibits the ability of state and federal agencies to make informed and defensible management and policy decisions. These decisions include state and federal conservation status listings, management of national forest lands by the USFS, suggestions for BMPs related to Natural Heritage reviews of projects, implementation and priority of on-the ground stream management practices, and identification of and potential response to threats. A better understanding of Longnose Darter ecology and relationships between Missouri populations and those found elsewhere will play a key role in the upcoming federal Species Status Assessment that evaluates resiliency, redundancy, and representation of the species and ultimately will assist with recovery efforts such as captive breeding and reintroduction.
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Validation and transferability of fudnamental niche models of mussel communities and assessment of risks to mussel populations in Ozark River drainages.
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June 2020
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We propose to transfer fundamental niche models of mussel concentrations (i.e., reaches of rivers with features that allow establishment of dense concentrations of multiple species of native unionid mussels) that have been developed in the Meramec River drainage to two contrasting Ozark Plateau river systems, the Gasconade and Little Black Rivers, and determine baseline occupancy of these areas for model validation. This is part of a long-term program to develop a comprehensive monitoring framework for freshwater mussels for Missouri that maximizes probability of species detection and distributional changes in mussel species while minimizing costs and man-hours dedicated to monitoring purposes. We have identified hydrogeomorphic characteristics that allow establishment of mussel beds; we now wish to test these models in the Gasconade River and Little Black River systems.
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We propose to transfer fundamental niche models of mussel concentrations (i.e., reaches of rivers with features that allow establishment of dense concentrations of multiple species of native unionid mussels) that have been developed in the Meramec River drainage to two contrasting Ozark Plateau river systems, the Gasconade and Little Black Rivers, and determine baseline occupancy of these areas for model validation. This is part of a long-term program to develop a comprehensive monitoring framework for freshwater mussels for Missouri that maximizes probability of species detection and distributional changes in mussel species while minimizing costs and man-hours dedicated to monitoring purposes. We have identified hydrogeomorphic characteristics that allow establishment of mussel beds; we now wish to test these models in the Gasconade River and Little Black River systems.
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Tracking Atlantic and Caribbean Seabirds
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December 2024
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The Caribbean and Bahamas support ~ 25 species of breeding seabirds. Despite the regions importance to seabird conservation and diversity, seabirds there have been very understudied particularly with respect to migratory connectivity throughout the Atlantic. Our goal has been to steadily increase baseline data on the spatial ecology of seabirds in the region by partnering with local NGOs to build local capacity.<br><br>To date, we have collected tracking data from several species of pelagic seabirds in Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, The Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, St Eustatius and Tobago in collaboration with federal agencies, and local Universities and NGOs. One particular focus of our research in the region has been to expand research and baseline data on the endangered Black-capped Petrel. The species is endemic to the region, nesting at only a few sites on Hispaniola. Considered globally endangered, the species is under review for listing by the US FWS. We are conducting research on movement ecology, diet, and reproductive ecology with local partners and to date have conducted the only tracking efforts for this species.
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Many species of seabirds breeding in the Caribbean occupy waters off the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the US during some portion of the annual cycle. As marine spatial planning becomes a pressing issue in the region, data are needed to enhance our understanding of the seabird community in the South Atlantic Bight and the Gulf of Mexico. Although current ship-based and aerial surveys are the standard methods used to measure abundance and distribution of birds at sea, each is a population-based survey that provides information without regard to individual variability or colony of origin. We are deploying tracking devices to measure movement patterns of seabirds in the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and western north Atlantic. We are collaborating with the US FWS and also with local NGOs and Universities throughout the Caribbean. Data from individual tracking efforts will allow us to assess variability in movements and use patterns, fidelity to specific marine locations, and the relationship between marine use areas and breeding locations and population trends at the breeding grounds.
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Development of Long-term acoustic monitoring program and projected species distribution under future scenarios in the US Caribbean.
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September 2021
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Landuse patterns and projected global warming represent two major drivers that induce population declines and range contractions of many resident avian and amphibian species in Puerto Rico. This project will create species distribution maps for bird and anuran species that are critically endangered, vulnerable or data deficient and will use future climate scenarios to determine how their distribution may change in the future. Present protected areas will not suffice<b> </b>to safeguard species of great conservation need under climate change; therefore, decision makers should consider establishing larger protected areas, buffer zones, and connectivity between protected areas. This work provides State and Federal conservation agencies with a blueprint to frame habitat conservation strategies. The project is a collaboration with researchers from the University of Puerto Rico (Rio Piedras), Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center, and biologists of the Science Applications and Caribbean Field Office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Landuse patterns and projected global warming represent two major drivers that induce population declines and range contractions of many resident avian and amphibian species in Puerto Rico. This project will create species distribution maps for bird and anuran species that are critically endangered, vulnerable or data deficient and will use future climate scenarios to determine how their distribution may change in the future. Present protected areas will not suffice<b> </b>to safeguard species of great conservation need under climate change; therefore, decision makers should consider establishing larger protected areas, buffer zones, and connectivity between protected areas. This work provides State and Federal conservation agencies with a blueprint to frame habitat conservation strategies. The project is a collaboration with researchers from the University of Puerto Rico (Rio Piedras), Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center, and biologists of the Science Applications and Caribbean Field Office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Characterizing Uncertainty in Changing Precipitation Regimes for Ecological and Hydrological Applicaitons in the Southeast and the Caribbean US.
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August 2021
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Changing precipitation regimes, such as changes to rainfall intensity or prolonged drought, threaten both the natural and built environment. Changes in local to regional precipitation regimes is a result of complex interactions within the climate system, and to better understand how these climate system processes change in a warmer climate requires special attention to regionally relevant atmospheric processes. Climate change simulations are typically at spatial scales (>100-km), and it is well known that climate models are unable to resolve important precipitation processes at these coarser resolutions, especially with respect to precipitation extremes. This research uses high-resolution regional climate models at relevant spatial scales to better characterize, quantify, and understand changing precipitation processes as the climate warms. The research uses a co-production framework where stakeholders inform the design of the high-resolution climate model experiments while creating data relevant to the needs of ecological and hydrological applications within the Southeast and Caribbean US. The current focus is to provide high-resolution climate model data and perform relevant analysis informed by scientists and stakeholders concerned with species conservation and hydrologic design. This project is a joint effort of researchers within USGS and the US EPA with additional stakeholders interested in project outcomes including the US Fish and Wildlife Services, USFS, Federal Highway Administration, and the NC Department of Transportation.
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Changing precipitation regimes, such as changes to rainfall intensity or prolonged drought, threaten both the natural and built environment. Changes in local to regional precipitation regimes is a result of complex interactions within the climate system, and to better understand how these climate system processes change in a warmer climate requires special attention to regionally relevant atmospheric processes. Climate change simulations are typically at spatial scales (>100-km), and it is well known that climate models are unable to resolve important precipitation processes at these coarser resolutions, especially with respect to precipitation extremes. This research uses high-resolution regional climate models at relevant spatial scales to better characterize, quantify, and understand changing precipitation processes as the climate warms. The research uses a co-production framework where stakeholders inform the design of the high-resolution climate model experiments while creating data relevant to the needs of ecological and hydrological applications within the Southeast and Caribbean US. The current focus is to provide high-resolution climate model data and perform relevant analysis informed by scientists and stakeholders concerned with species conservation and hydrologic design. This project is a joint effort of researchers within USGS and the US EPA with additional stakeholders interested in project outcomes including the US Fish and Wildlife Services, USFS, Federal Highway Administration, and the NC Department of Transportation.
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Impacts of Global Change on Biotic Resistance, Resilience, and Ecosystem Services in Caribbean Fish Assemblages, Fisheries, and Aquatic Ecosystems
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August 2023
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Extreme events not only affect people but can have detrimental impacts on natural resources, such as fish and freshwater habitat. Impacts of extreme events, like hurricanes, tornadoes, and extreme flooding, have immediate consequences, but also have the ability to alter habitat and animals far in the future by providing opportunities for exotic species to colonize new areas. Some fish communities in streams, rivers, and lakes may have the natural ability to resist the long-term impacts of extreme weather events. In this project, researchers will investigate the ability of Caribbean fish assemblages in Puerto Rico, which have both economic and cultural importance, to resist the impacts of extreme weather events. This information would allow natural resource managers on the island to develop appropriate responses to these events when managing fisheries resource. Furthermore, the project scientists will determine how changes in freshwater fish over time to hurricanes and other extreme weather events will impact the services (e.g., recreational and subsistence fishing practices) the fish will provide in the future. This work will not only deliver important information to fisheries managers and the community of Puerto Rico but could also be used by managers in other island systems.
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Ecological disturbance and its impacts on organisms and ecosystems is a longstanding concept in ecology. Understanding and planning for the effects of disturbances, such as extreme weather events, on natural resources may help managers respond to the impacts of extreme events more effectively. The diversity of freshwater fish species in Puerto Rico may provide natural biotic resistance and resilience to colonization by nonnative species following disturbances; however this has not yet been studied in Caribbean island freshwater ecosystems. Puerto Rico provides an ideal study location to test this hypothesis in Caribbean fish assemblages and apply the results to other similar closed freshwater island systems. We propose to determine changes in stream and river fish assemblages over time at multiple temporal scales (e.g., seasonal, annual, decadal), examine fish assemblages and fisheries dynamics in relation to biotic resistance from exotic species invasions while relating changes to landscape (e.g., dams and reservoirs) and climate influences, project changes in fish assemblages and their ecosystem services in the future, and determine the impacts on the community and stakeholders. Through regular communication, written reports, peer-reviewed publications, and other tailored communication products, we will transfer our results to regional stakeholders to help guide strategic planning efforts. Climate change is predicted to increase the number of extreme events globally, and having a clearer understanding of the impacts of such events on natural resources will help managers develop efficient adaptation strategies and allocate resources appropriately. This work will be a collaboration among the North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, North Carolina State University, USGS National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center, and the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources
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Fishery Population and Habitat Assessment in Puerto Rico Streams: Project F-50.8
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October 2023
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We are compiling and synthesizing the most relevant information on the freshwater and diadromous fishes of Puerto Rico and publishing it in a comprehensive book. Information on the life history, distribution, identification, biology, ecology, conservation, and management of Puerto Rico fishes is to be included. A primary source of this information is the research findings from research conducted by the NC Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit on fishery populations and habitats in streams and rivers. These research findings will be supplemented by previous research and investigations published in the primary literature, and various agency reports on the relevant species and habitats will also be included.
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We are compiling and synthesizing the most relevant information on the freshwater and diadromous fishes of Puerto Rico and publishing it in a comprehensive book. Information on the life history, distribution, identification, biology, ecology, conservation, and management of Puerto Rico fishes is to be included. A primary source of this information is the research findings from research conducted by the NC Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit on fishery populations and habitats in streams and rivers. These research findings will be supplemented by previous research and investigations published in the primary literature, and various agency reports on the relevant species and habitats will also be included.
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Evaluation of the impact of artificial lighting on sea turtle hatchling orientation.
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December 2020
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Light pollution that associates with human development disorients sea turtle hatchlings. Although the light management to reduce artificial lighting is underway, the quantified spatial data on hatchling orientation accuracies and measurements to show the progress of the management efforts are limited. The present project provides information on the threats of artificial lighting that can be directly reduced in the North Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The partners of the study include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and multiple counties in the state of Florida. The project produces the models that predict hatchling orientation accuracies using light intensity data that can be easily collected by the stakeholders.
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Light pollution that associates with human development disorients sea turtle hatchlings. Although the light management to reduce artificial lighting is underway, the quantified spatial data on hatchling orientation accuracies and measurements to show the progress of the management efforts are limited. The present project provides information on the threats of artificial lighting that can be directly reduced in the North Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The partners of the study include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and multiple counties in the state of Florida. The project produces the models that predict hatchling orientation accuracies using light intensity data that can be easily collected by the stakeholders.
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Nutritional ecology and husbandry of Dermatemys mawii
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August 2020
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Dermatemys mawii is a critically endangered fresh-water turtle endemic to Central America. Captive breeding programs for wild release have been identified as an important component of conservation efforts for D. mawii, but relatively little is known about their biology and ecology. Research is needed that will inform captive and wild management. Only a few scientific studies have been conducted that focus on the unique biology and ecology of D. mawii.
This project is collaborating with the Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education and the Turtle Survival Alliance. Knowledge gained from this study will address the long-term conservation goals by informing husbandry practices, captive breeding protocols, and wild management of D. mawii. In broader terms, this study will contribute to our understanding of life-history strategies of herbivorous reptiles.
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Dermatemys mawii is a critically endangered fresh-water turtle endemic to Central America. Captive breeding programs for wild release have been identified as an important component of conservation efforts for D. mawii, but relatively little is known about their biology and ecology. Research is needed that will inform captive and wild management. Only a few scientific studies have been conducted that focus on the unique biology and ecology of D. mawii.
This project is collaborating with the Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education and the Turtle Survival Alliance. Knowledge gained from this study will address the long-term conservation goals by informing husbandry practices, captive breeding protocols, and wild management of D. mawii. In broader terms, this study will contribute to our understanding of life-history strategies of herbivorous reptiles.
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Green turtle spatial distribution, abundance and habitat models in the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico.
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August 2021
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Understanding the distribution and habitat requirements of threatened species is one of the keys to managing their recovery. Threatened juvenile green turtles (Chelonia mydas) recruit to shallow lagoons, bays and estuaries in Florida, yet, in many areas, we lack key information about their distribution, abundance and specific habitat requirements. A number of indicators suggest green turtles are recovering in the North Atlantic after centuries of human exploitation. However, the nearshore habitats they depend upon are rapidly changing through human-induced regime shifts and climate change. The Sea Turtle Conservancy, one of the world's oldest and most respected sea turtle NGOs, is collaborating with the University of Florida and the Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit to study green turtles in the northeast Gulf of Mexico. The main goals of this research are to develop a habitat model that predicts green turtle abundance and understand their health, diet and movement patterns in the region. This work will inform federal and state wildlife managers on the important link between juvenile green turtles and their habitat in one of the largest remaining seagrass beds in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Understanding the distribution and habitat requirements of threatened species is one of the keys to managing their recovery. Threatened juvenile green turtles (Chelonia mydas) recruit to shallow lagoons, bays and estuaries in Florida, yet, in many areas, we lack key information about their distribution, abundance and specific habitat requirements. A number of indicators suggest green turtles are recovering in the North Atlantic after centuries of human exploitation. However, the nearshore habitats they depend upon are rapidly changing through human-induced regime shifts and climate change. The Sea Turtle Conservancy, one of the world's oldest and most respected sea turtle NGOs, is collaborating with the University of Florida and the Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit to study green turtles in the northeast Gulf of Mexico. The main goals of this research are to develop a habitat model that predicts green turtle abundance and understand their health, diet and movement patterns in the region. This work will inform federal and state wildlife managers on the important link between juvenile green turtles and their habitat in one of the largest remaining seagrass beds in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Head-Starting as a Recovery Strategy for the Desert Tortoise
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December 2021
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The Mojave Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) population, classified as Threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, is in decline and in need of active management for population recovery. The rearing of neonate tortoises until they are more likely to survive (head-starting) is one strategy for population augmentation. Although head-starting has intuitive appeal as a conservation strategy, the strategy is expensive, and its success depends on how soon and how successfully head-started animals reproduce in the wild compared to wild-reared animals. While the husbandry phase of captive tortoises is well understood, the function and performance of head-started tortoises once released in the wild have not been evaluated. This research is conducted in collaboration with the University of Georgia’s Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of California-Davis, and National Park Service. This research will be used by conservation agencies and their partners to weigh trade-offs between the costs of head-starting against the expected benefit of head-starting to enhance tortoise population growth and persistence.
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The Mojave Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) population, classified as Threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, is in decline and in need of active management for population recovery. The rearing of neonate tortoises until they are more likely to survive (head-starting) is one strategy for population augmentation. Although head-starting has intuitive appeal as a conservation strategy, the strategy is expensive, and its success depends on how soon and how successfully head-started animals reproduce in the wild compared to wild-reared animals. While the husbandry phase of captive tortoises is well understood, the function and performance of head-started tortoises once released in the wild have not been evaluated. This research is conducted in collaboration with the University of Georgia’s Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of California-Davis, and National Park Service. This research will be used by conservation agencies and their partners to weigh trade-offs between the costs of head-starting against the expected benefit of head-starting to enhance tortoise population growth and persistence.
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Completing a Double-Loop Learning Cycle in the Native Prairie Adaptive Management System
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December 2019
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Under the Native Prairie Adaptive Management (NPAM) program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, land managers in the National Wildlife Refuge System in Regions 3 and 6 receive annual habitat management guidance for the goal of restoring prairies to desired composition levels of native grasses and forbs. While this operational adaptive management program has successfully provided guidance through nine decision cycles, longstanding concern about the use of expert-elicited quantities in the predictive models has not abated among the managers and the developers of the program, and the concern has prompted a comprehensive “double-loop” evaluation of the framework elements. This research will produce models for decision guidance that conform more closely with the system responses observed to date, leading to better management performance. Examples of operational adaptive management systems are rare, and examples of double-loop learning are rarer still, so this research will provide a durable and transferable demonstration of this concept. This research is conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the University of Georgia, and USGS. The models supporting the decision framework were employed in time for the August 2019 decision cycle. Management recommendations provided to cooperators at that time reflected the improved decision guidance.
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Under the Native Prairie Adaptive Management (NPAM) program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, land managers in the National Wildlife Refuge System in Regions 3 and 6 receive annual habitat management guidance for the goal of restoring prairies to desired composition levels of native grasses and forbs. While this operational adaptive management program has successfully provided guidance through nine decision cycles, longstanding concern about the use of expert-elicited quantities in the predictive models has not abated among the managers and the developers of the program, and the concern has prompted a comprehensive “double-loop” evaluation of the framework elements. This research will produce models for decision guidance that conform more closely with the system responses observed to date, leading to better management performance. Examples of operational adaptive management systems are rare, and examples of double-loop learning are rarer still, so this research will provide a durable and transferable demonstration of this concept. This research is conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the University of Georgia, and USGS. The models supporting the decision framework were employed in time for the August 2019 decision cycle. Management recommendations provided to cooperators at that time reflected the improved decision guidance.
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Influence of land use and flow regime on habitat and fish assemblage structure at multiple spatial scales
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May 2020
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Flow regime and land use can be overarching factors influencing stream ecosystems. Flow regime can act as the master hydrologic variable in streams and land use and cover can influence geomorphology and hydrology. Surprisingly, the influence of these two factors on stream assemblage structure are rarely examined together. We examined the influence of flow regime and land use/cover on stream fish and crayfish assemblage structure and body condition of select species. Results of this study will be used to improve management of stream ecosystems focused on strategies related to landscape and local-scale habitat management.
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Flow regime and land use can be overarching factors influencing stream ecosystems. Flow regime can act as the master hydrologic variable in streams and land use and cover can influence geomorphology and hydrology. Surprisingly, the influence of these two factors on stream assemblage structure are rarely examined together. We examined the influence of flow regime and land use/cover on stream fish and crayfish assemblage structure and body condition of select species. Results of this study will be used to improve management of stream ecosystems focused on strategies related to landscape and local-scale habitat management.
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Biological responses of Ozark stream communities to compounded stressors: The convergence of drought, nutrient pollution, and novel predation
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May 2020
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Drought, nutrient pollution and apex predation have diverse effects on stream community structure and function. While research has examined how these stressors shape stream communities individually, we know relatively little about if, and how, these stressors interact to influence stream systems. We performed a set of mesocosm experiments and constructed a mathematical model that explore the compounded effects of drought, nutrient pollution and increased apex predation on a subset of Ozark stream community fauna. We found that each of the individual stressors impacts several aspects of stream community structure and functioning, and that stressors can interact in both additive and antagonistic ways. However, these interactions are context dependent, and can vary depending on geographic and temporal scale as well as trophic position. Results of this study can further our knowledge of multi-stressor systems, and be used to inform best management strategies that mitigate effects of multiple stressors on stream communities.
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Drought, nutrient pollution and apex predation have diverse effects on stream community structure and function. While research has examined how these stressors shape stream communities individually, we know relatively little about if, and how, these stressors interact to influence stream systems. We performed a set of mesocosm experiments and constructed a mathematical model that explore the compounded effects of drought, nutrient pollution and increased apex predation on a subset of Ozark stream community fauna. We found that each of the individual stressors impacts several aspects of stream community structure and functioning, and that stressors can interact in both additive and antagonistic ways. However, these interactions are context dependent, and can vary depending on geographic and temporal scale as well as trophic position. Results of this study can further our knowledge of multi-stressor systems, and be used to inform best management strategies that mitigate effects of multiple stressors on stream communities.
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Flow-ecology relationships and environmental flows assessmen...
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March 2020
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Providing adequate water quantity and quality in streams and rivers is a pressing issue worldwide. Determining appropriate environmental flows in streams is critical for defining and designing landscapes capable of sustaining natural resources at desired levels. This project develops the second phase in a multi-year study, involving many partners (state and federal agencies and NGO’s) and a series of steps towards the goal of producing the scientific basis for environmental flow standards within the Ozark-Ouachita Interior Highlands and the West Gulf Coastal Plains. Important products of this work will be regional flow-ecology relationships that will form the scientific framework for setting environmental flow standards and understanding impacts of land use and climate change. These flow-ecology relationships will help determine environmental flow needs in the Ozark-Ouachita Interior Highlands and the West Gulf Coastal Plains and will provide the basis for conservation of numerous aquatic species of greatest conservation need.
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Providing adequate water quantity and quality in streams and rivers is a pressing issue worldwide. Determining appropriate environmental flows in streams is critical for defining and designing landscapes capable of sustaining natural resources at desired levels. This project develops the second phase in a multi-year study, involving many partners (state and federal agencies and NGO’s) and a series of steps towards the goal of producing the scientific basis for environmental flow standards within the Ozark-Ouachita Interior Highlands and the West Gulf Coastal Plains. Important products of this work will be regional flow-ecology relationships that will form the scientific framework for setting environmental flow standards and understanding impacts of land use and climate change. These flow-ecology relationships will help determine environmental flow needs in the Ozark-Ouachita Interior Highlands and the West Gulf Coastal Plains and will provide the basis for conservation of numerous aquatic species of greatest conservation need.
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Development of a structured decision-making framework to guide translocation of imperiled aquatic species in the Roanoke and Dan river basins
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October 2020
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Translocation of wild or propagated animals is a potential tactic for mitigating extinction risks for several imperiled species in the Roanoke and Dan river basins (RDRB). Biologists must weigh the risks associated with a suite of linked decisions when considering translocation as a recovery tool. These decisions could be made more quickly, objectively, and transparently if based on criteria that were previously agreed-upon by species experts and pre-approved by management agencies. Project outcomes will include optimized translocation strategies for four focal species, as well as an interactive decision-support tool that can be used to weigh risks and predict likely outcomes of selected translocation scenarios for many other aquatic species. The project is a collaboration among USGS, Georgia Southern University, and Virginia Tech.<br>OBJECTIVES:<br>(1) convene stakeholders to identify conservation goals, objectives, actions, and performance measures,<br>so success can be measured under alternative actions;<br>(2) synthesize stakeholder input and best available data regarding relationships between potential actions<br>and performance measures;<br>(3) develop demographic models to forecast conservation outcomes under alternative actions;<br>(4) use the models to recommend optimal strategies for meeting species-specific conservation objectives.
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Translocation of wild or propagated animals is a potential tactic for mitigating extinction risks for several imperiled species in the Roanoke and Dan river basins (RDRB). Biologists must weigh the risks associated with a suite of linked decisions when considering translocation as a recovery tool. These decisions could be made more quickly, objectively, and transparently if based on criteria that were previously agreed-upon by species experts and pre-approved by management agencies. Project outcomes will include optimized translocation strategies for four focal species, as well as an interactive decision-support tool that can be used to weigh risks and predict likely outcomes of selected translocation scenarios for many other aquatic species. The project is a collaboration among USGS, Georgia Southern University, and Virginia Tech.OBJECTIVES:(1) convene stakeholders to identify conservation goals, objectives, actions, and performance measures,so success can be measured under alternative actions;(2) synthesize stakeholder input and best available data regarding relationships between potential actionsand performance measures;(3) develop demographic models to forecast conservation outcomes under alternative actions;(4) use the models to recommend optimal strategies for meeting species-specific conservation objectives.
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Assessment of the dynamics and biotic impacts of fine sediment to assist conservation of stream fishes in the Dan and Roanoke river basins
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November 2020
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Adverse effects of excess fine sediment on the water quality and ecosystem services provided by streams are pervasive. Analytical methods to identify a) which species are sensitive to silt, b) key sources and fates of silt, c) effects of silt-loading on benthic habitat condition (BHC), and d) effects of BHC on distribution and abundance of silt-sensitive fishes would help managers prioritize actions to best enhance recovery of silt-sensitive fishes. This project integrates spatially explicit analyses of relations among a) sediment sources and fates across upland, riparian, and instream components of watersheds, b) BHC, and c) the distribution/abundance of benthic stream fishes. This project will help managers decide where, how much, and what kinds of riparian and floodplain management are most likely to protect and enhance recovery of silt-sensitive fishes. The project is a collaboration among USGS, Plymouth State University, and Virginia Tech, including scientists with expertise in spatial analysis, fish ecology, and sediment dynamics.<br>OBJECTIVES:<br>1) quantify sediment erosion, transport, and deposition potential,<br>2) evaluate the ability of analytical alternatives to predict benthic habitat condition (BHC),<br>3) test a traits-based model for predicting species’ silt sensitivity,<br>4) quantify species occupancy/density and BHC,<br>5) test relationships among species occupancy/density, BHC, and a suite of sediment metrics.
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Adverse effects of excess fine sediment on the water quality and ecosystem services provided by streams are pervasive. Analytical methods to identify a) which species are sensitive to silt, b) key sources and fates of silt, c) effects of silt-loading on benthic habitat condition (BHC), and d) effects of BHC on distribution and abundance of silt-sensitive fishes would help managers prioritize actions to best enhance recovery of silt-sensitive fishes. This project integrates spatially explicit analyses of relations among a) sediment sources and fates across upland, riparian, and instream components of watersheds, b) BHC, and c) the distribution/abundance of benthic stream fishes. This project will help managers decide where, how much, and what kinds of riparian and floodplain management are most likely to protect and enhance recovery of silt-sensitive fishes. The project is a collaboration among USGS, Plymouth State University, and Virginia Tech, including scientists with expertise in spatial analysis, fish ecology, and sediment dynamics.OBJECTIVES:1) quantify sediment erosion, transport, and deposition potential,2) evaluate the ability of analytical alternatives to predict benthic habitat condition (BHC),3) test a traits-based model for predicting species’ silt sensitivity,4) quantify species occupancy/density and BHC,5) test relationships among species occupancy/density, BHC, and a suite of sediment metrics.
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Identifying Sources of Lake Sturgeon Recruitment in the Lake Winnebago System with an Assessment of Reproductive Success in Relation to Size and Sex
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June 2021
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The Lake Winnebago System (LWS) in east-central Wisconsin supports one of the largest lake sturgeon populations in the world. Lake sturgeon spawn in many locations within the LWS, and many fish make extensive spawning migrations into the Fox and Wolf Rivers and their tributaries. The contribution of different spawning locations to the overall lake sturgeon population is unknown at this time and this information is critical in developing management strategies. Specifically, identifying the contribution of different spawning locations to spearing harvest would allow managers to determine if this harvest differentially affects certain spawning groups or “stocks”. Furthermore, little is known about the relative number of recruits that are produced at different spawning locations and this information could help guide efforts to increase recruitment at some locations through habitat improvement. Additionally, whether adult characteristics such as size and sex affect reproductive success remains unknown. This information could have important implications for harvest management, if the probability of producing offspring varies among fish of different sizes. Our objectives are to determine if: 1) otolith microchemistry can be used to identify larval and juvenile lake sturgeon hatching at different locations within the LWS (e.g., Fox vs. Wolf rivers, tributary vs. main river); 2) if differences in chemical signatures are consistent between otoliths and fin rays; 3) abundance of larval sturgeon varies among spawning locations; 4) if contribution to spearing harvest varies among spawning locations; and 5) probability of producing offspring varies in relation to size and sex of adult fish captured at individual spawning locations.
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Lake sturgeon spawn in many locations within the Lake Winnebago System, and many fish make extensive spawning migrations into the Fox and Wolf Rivers and their tributaries. The contribution of different spawning locations to the overall lake sturgeon population is unknown at this time and this information is critical in developing management strategies. Identifying the contribution of different spawning locations to spearing harvest would allow managers to determine if this harvest differentially affects certain spawning groups or “stocks”. Furthermore, little is known about the relative number of recruits that are produced at different spawning locations and this information could help guide efforts to increase recruitment at some locations through habitat improvement.This project is a collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.This information could have important implications for harvest management, if the probability of producing offspring varies among fish of different sizes.
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Farm Bill conservation practice (BMP) efficacy in mitigating livestock impacts in the Copper Creek watershed
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February 2020
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This project complements ongoing BMP analysis in the Copper Creek drainage (CCD) to assess the collective outcomes of conservation work by several agencies. The project focuses on developing spatially explicit models to explain and predict how watershed features, including BMPs, interact to influence upland sediment dynamics and instream benthic habitat conditions. This work will inform conservation planning for hellbender, fishes, and mussels by providing baseline data, validating protocols for water quality monitoring, and helping to prioritize implementation of future BMPs to benefit imperiled aquatic species. The project is a collaboration among USGS, USFWS, NRCS, and Virginia Tech.<br>OBJECTIVES:<br>1) Summarize available water quality data;<br>2) Complete our geomorphology dataset on channel topography;<br>3) Identify optimal locations for BMP implementation;<br>4) Test scenarios of BMP investment.<br><br>Our research focused on developing spatially explicit models to explain and predict how watershed processes and features, including agricultural BMPs, interact to determine instream benthic habitats that support at-risk aquatic biota in CCW. This required compiling baseline data on watershed processes and habitat conditions in the CCW, and developing BMP scenario analyses that linked upland management action to instream habitat outcomes. Results from this research can inform protocols for water quality monitoring planned to begin in 2021, can inform NRCS-WLFW on strategic planning and outcome assessment needs for aquatic partnerships, and have identified implementation approaches and metrics to use in CCW and other aquatic conservation partnership efforts across the region and country. We highlight four primary findings from our research:<br>The most cost-effective BMP scenario varied between the two target habitat metrics (relative bed stability and % embeddedness).<br>Benefits to benthic habitats could occur even at low adoption rates (i.e., ‘high’ adoption not required).<br>Scenarios focused only on cattle exclusion fences provided little to no benefit to stream habitats.<br>This investigation started to establish Copper Creek baselines for metrics to be used to set targets/goals for instream habitat improvement.
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The aquatic habitats in the Copper Creek drainage (CCD) host 11 federally protected fishes and mussels but are severely impacted by fine sediments, likely resulting from intensive cattle-pasturing in riparian zones. State and federal agencies commonly promote and implement BMPs (e.g., afforestation and cattle-exclusion fences) to protect and restore riparian zones to aid recovery of imperiled aquatic species, but the efficacy of such BMPs is largely undocumented in the region. To aid in filling this knowledge gap, we used model- and field-based studies to establish links between watershed-scale sediment dynamics and instream habitat conditions relevant to priority aquatic species. We then assessed efficacy of selected BMP implementation scenarios with respect to outcomes for benthic habitat quality. Our partners included Natural Resources Conservation Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Virginia Tech, and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Our findings suggest benefits to benthic habitats can occur even at low adoption rates of BMPs such as afforestation and cattle-exclusion fences. This work will inform conservation planning for at-risk aquatic species by providing baseline data, validating protocols for water quality monitoring, helping to prioritize implementation of future BMPs, and helping to set targets for instream habitat improvement.
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Food Web Interactions Among Walleye, Lake Whitefish, and Yellow Perch in Green Bay, Lake Michigan
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January 2020
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The overall goal of our project is to provide fisheries managers and stakeholders with critical information regarding potential interactions among lake whitefish, walleyes, and yellow perch in Green Bay so that management decisions can be made with a better understanding of the potential implications for all three fisheries and prey resources. We also hope to engage user groups in the research process, by working with them to collect fish needed for analyses, representing a significant opportunity for face-to-face outreach. Our specific objectives are to determine if: 1) lake whitefish and yellow perch represent important prey for walleyes in Green Bay (≥ 20% of diets by weight); 2) diets of these three species vary spatially and temporally and if diet overlap among species is evident; 3) the extent of walleye predation is sufficiently high to influence recruitment potential of lake whitefish and yellow perch and 4) extent of walleye predation varies among individual stocks of lake whitefish. Our working hypotheses are: 1) lake whitefish and yellow perch will not represent important prey for walleyes, but importance will vary seasonally and by location; 2) diet overlap will be relatively limited among species, with the exception of round goby; 3) despite low occurrence in individual diets, walleye predation will be sufficiently high to affect recruitment potential of yellow perch and lake whitefish, and 4) the extent of walleye predation will vary among lake whitefish stocks and will be highest for tributary spawning stocks spawning in southern Green Bay.
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Green Bay currently supports one of the most economically-important recreational fisheries for walleye Sander vitreus in North America. Lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis and yellow perch Perca flavescens also support economically-important recreational and commercial fisheries within Green Bay. Due to substantial ecosystem changes, including water quality and invasive species, all three species have experienced a tenuous history and collapse in Green Bay with yellow perch numbers remaining at historically low levels. Our research will address the following research questions What is the status of the predator-prey balance, food web and aquatic habitat in Green Bay? Can tools and models be developed to better understand this complex food web while also engaging angling and commercial fishing stakeholders?This project is a collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Center for Limnology, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.: Our study represents an important step in a research plan that will help improve management of walleyes, lake whitefish, and yellow perch in Green Bay. Again, the goal of our research is to provide DNR fishery managers in Wisconsin and Michigan information on interactions among these three economically-important species. A better understanding of these interactions is needed to guide management decisions, because changes in population status of one species will likely affect fisheries for all three species.
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Development of a landscape model to predict reach-level sources of Roanoke logperch larvae in the upper Roanoke River system
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January 2020
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More complete knowledge of larval habitat associations and spatiotemporal patterns of emergence and dispersal regarding Roanoke Logperch (RLP) would help managers identify areas and periods crucial to recruitment, potentially making recovery actions more effective. The proposed work builds on a) previous work in the upper Roanoke River system (URR) showing that RLP larvae can be effectively sampled, then accurately identified; and b) a multi-scale model of habitat suitability based on occurrences of adult RLP. This project will provide new knowledge about early life-history of RLP and which habitats and periods are crucial for the species’ recruitment. The project is a collaboration among USGS, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and Virginia Tech.<br>OBJECTIVES: <br>1) Quantify reach-specific physical features correlated with production of RLP larvae; <br>2) Develop a spatially explicit model to predict which URR reaches are likely larval sources for RLP; <br>3) Characterize spatiotemporal patterns of emergence and development for RLP larvae; <br>4) Summarize linkages among water temperature, river discharge, day length, and emergence of RLP larvae.
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More complete knowledge of larval habitat associations and spatiotemporal patterns of emergence and dispersal regarding Roanoke Logperch (RLP) would help managers identify areas and periods crucial to recruitment, potentially making recovery actions more effective. The proposed work builds on a) previous work in the upper Roanoke River system (URR) showing that RLP larvae can be effectively sampled, then accurately identified; and b) a multi-scale model of habitat suitability based on occurrences of adult RLP. This project will provide new knowledge about early life-history of RLP and which habitats and periods are crucial for the species’ recruitment. The project is a collaboration among USGS, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and Virginia Tech.OBJECTIVES: 1) Quantify reach-specific physical features correlated with production of RLP larvae; 2) Develop a spatially explicit model to predict which URR reaches are likely larval sources for RLP; 3) Characterize spatiotemporal patterns of emergence and development for RLP larvae; 4) Summarize linkages among water temperature, river discharge, day length, and emergence of RLP larvae.
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The Red Desert to Hoback Mule Deer Migration
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December 2026
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Although migration is the most profitable foraging strategy in numerous systems, many migratory populations contain individuals that do not migrate – a phenomenon known as partial migration. Three different migratory strategies have been observed in a mule deer herd wintering in Wyoming's Red Desert. These include long-distance migrants that travel 150 miles to the Hoback Basin for the summer (the longest recorded mule deer migration, named the Red Desert to Hoback migration), medium-distance migrants that migrate nearly 70 miles to the southern Wind River Range for the summer, and short-distance migrants that either migrate less than 30 miles north for the summer or live year-round in the Red Desert. Although these different types of migration have been observed for several years, little is known about the costs or benefits associated with each migratory strategy and how varying environmental conditions (i.e., annual precipitation, mean temperature) or landscape changes (i.e., fire, fencing) may affect each strategy or how a diversity of migratory tactics benefits the productivity of the overall herd. The primary objective of our research is to compare the costs and benefits of each migratory strategy (long, medium, short-distance migration). This study is being conducted as a collaborative project among the Wyoming Unit, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Bureau of Land Management. Evaluating different migratory tactics in the Sublette Mule Deer Herd is an important step in understanding factors maintaining variability in migration behavior and will aid in future conservation and management efforts.
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Although migration is the most profitable foraging strategy in numerous systems, many migratory populations contain individuals that do not migrate – a phenomenon known as partial migration. Three different migratory strategies have been observed in a mule deer herd wintering in Wyoming's Red Desert. These include long-distance migrants that travel 150 miles to the Hoback Basin for the summer (the longest recorded mule deer migration, named the Red Desert to Hoback migration), medium-distance migrants that migrate nearly 70 miles to the southern Wind River Range for the summer, and short-distance migrants that either migrate less than 30 miles north for the summer or live year-round in the Red Desert. Although these different types of migration have been observed for several years, little is known about the costs or benefits associated with each migratory strategy and how varying environmental conditions (i.e., annual precipitation, mean temperature) or landscape changes (i.e., fire, fencing) may affect each strategy or how a diversity of migratory tactics benefits the productivity of the overall herd. The primary objective of our research is to compare the costs and benefits of each migratory strategy (long, medium, short-distance migration). This study is being conducted as a collaborative project among the Wyoming Unit, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Bureau of Land Management. Evaluating different migratory tactics in the Sublette Mule Deer Herd is an important step in understanding factors maintaining variability in migration behavior and will aid in future conservation and management efforts.
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Pronghorn Movement along the I-80 Barrier
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December 2023
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Movement barriers challenge the ability of species to make long-distance movements such as migrations. Along southern Wyoming, pronghorn (<i>Antilocapra americana</i>) migrations are severed by Interstate-80 (I-80), a nearly impermeable barrier to movement. The ecological consequences of this movement barrier has garnered interest in wildlife crossing structures to ameliorate this barrier effect to pronghorn and other wildlife. Our research utilizes a novel application of connectivity models to identify potential movement corridors across the I-80 barrier. This study is a collaborative effort with Wyoming Game & Fish Department and the Wyoming Department of Transportation. Analytical techniques will be used to model pronghorn movements across I-80 and to identify the locations that best facilitate movement, which we predict will be the optimal locations for a wildlife crossing structure. Our methods will have applied value both to managers in southern Wyoming, and in other systems where there is interest in how to restore movement across nearly impermeable barriers similar to I-80.
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Movement barriers challenge the ability of species to make long-distance movements such as migrations. Along southern Wyoming, pronghorn (<i>Antilocapra americana</i>) migrations are severed by Interstate-80 (I-80), a nearly impermeable barrier to movement. The ecological consequences of this movement barrier has garnered interest in wildlife crossing structures to ameliorate this barrier effect to pronghorn and other wildlife. Our research utilizes a novel application of connectivity models to identify potential movement corridors across the I-80 barrier. This study is a collaborative effort with Wyoming Game & Fish Department and the Wyoming Department of Transportation. Analytical techniques will be used to model pronghorn movements across I-80 and to identify the locations that best facilitate movement, which we predict will be the optimal locations for a wildlife crossing structure. Our methods will have applied value both to managers in southern Wyoming, and in other systems where there is interest in how to restore movement across nearly impermeable barriers similar to I-80.
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DWR: Developing Distribution Models for Select Wildlife Species in Utah
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June 2021
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We propose a structured approach to updating SDMs for select Utah wildlife species centered on a process that initially relies on extant information in construction of distributional map products. No primary data collection is envisioned at this time.
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Arguably, the most fundamental need for effective land and wildlife management is for managers to know the location – whether actual or potential - of the things they intend to manage. Species distribution models (SDMs) exist for most of Utah's wildlife species. However, these models are almost 30 years old, having resulted from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) being one the first national collaborators to implement the Gap Analysis Program (GAP) in 1989. The need for credible, usable species distributions is the largest of 12 assessed data gaps in Utah’s Wildlife Action Plan (WAP), affecting 82 species or well over half of all those in the WAP. The first-year cost ($25,000) would be borne by DWR and some its partners, while we envision that collaborators and other partners will cover future costs.
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Development of an eDNA protocol for detecting candy, variegate, and Kanawha darters
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December 2019
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Three species of saddle darters (Etheostoma variatum group) occur in Virginia. All are rare and difficult to sample because of their preference for fast riffle habitat. Better understanding of the distribution of saddle darter populations would inform management planning and enhance cost-effectiveness of management actions. Future surveying efforts for saddle darters would benefit from tools that help identify streams with high probabilities of occupancy, as well as from sampling methodologies that are rapid, non-invasive, cost-effective, and exhibit high detection probability. The project is a collaboration among USGS, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, and Virginia Tech.<br>OBJECTIVES: <br>1. Develop a set of eDNA markers and protocols that selectively amplify DNA of the Etheostoma variatum group within ambient water samples,<br>2. Use field studies to develop a preliminary estimate of the detectability of Etheostoma eDNA in streams where they occur, and<br>3. Make recommendations on the use of eDNA techniques in subsequent studies of Etheostoma species in Virginia.
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Three species of saddle darters (Etheostoma variatum group) occur in Virginia. All are rare and difficult to sample because of their preference for fast riffle habitat. Better understanding of the distribution of saddle darter populations would inform management planning and enhance cost-effectiveness of management actions. Future surveying efforts for saddle darters would benefit from tools that help identify streams with high probabilities of occupancy, as well as from sampling methodologies that are rapid, non-invasive, cost-effective, and exhibit high detection probability. The project is a collaboration among USGS, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, and Virginia Tech.OBJECTIVES: 1. Develop a set of eDNA markers and protocols that selectively amplify DNA of the Etheostoma variatum group within ambient water samples,2. Use field studies to develop a preliminary estimate of the detectability of Etheostoma eDNA in streams where they occur, and3. Make recommendations on the use of eDNA techniques in subsequent studies of Etheostoma species in Virginia.
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BLM & BoR: Innovative and Adaptive Desert River Restoration
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June 2022
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Important tributaries to the UCR have been impacted by hydrological alterations, habitat fragmentation, and non-native woody riparian vegetation establishment. In the lower river areas, spring snowmelt floods have declined in magnitude and duration due to water capture in the upper portion of the basin. <br>The overall objective and mission of this proposed restoration and monitoring project is to guide conservation and recovery efforts targeted to imperiled and endemic fish species and riparian corridors in desert tributaries of the upper Colorado River Basin. This project represents ongoing efforts initiated on the San Rafael in 2006 and is part of an effective partnership between the BLM, Utah State University, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) and the Bureau of Reclamation (BoR). This partnership is dedicated to science-driven and innovative desert river restoration. Our project has direct benefits to natural resource management and invasive species prevention.
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Important tributaries to the UCR have been impacted by hydrological alterations, habitat fragmentation, and non-native woody riparian vegetation establishment. In the lower river areas, spring snowmelt floods have declined in magnitude and duration due to water capture in the upper portion of the basin. The overall objective and mission of this proposed restoration and monitoring project is to guide conservation and recovery efforts targeted to imperiled and endemic fish species and riparian corridors in desert tributaries of the upper Colorado River Basin. This project represents ongoing efforts initiated on the San Rafael in 2006 and is part of an effective partnership between the BLM, Utah State University, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) and the Bureau of Reclamation (BoR). This partnership is dedicated to science-driven and innovative desert river restoration. Our project has direct benefits to natural resource management and invasive species prevention.
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Technical Assistance to Georgia DNR for Nongame Bird Monitoring and Research
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September 2021
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The Wildlife Conservation Section of Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, which has management authority for a diversity of animal and plant species within Georgia, needs (1) reliable population estimates of nesting Florida Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis pratensis) in Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and (2) reliable inferences on demographic parameters of Henslow’s Sparrow (Ammodramus henslowii). This work will provide survey design enhancements and analytical models to meet these needs. These two species are of conservation concern to the state, and Georgia DNR already invests heavily in monitoring and obtaining demographic data on them. Georgia DNR is an important cooperator with USGS, and this work addresses its concerns that its efforts could be better aligned with its objectives of understanding these populations. This work is being done in collaboration with Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the University of Georgia. The production of reliable biological information for these two species will help the state of Georgia better target their resources towards actions that conserve these species.
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The Wildlife Conservation Section of Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, which has management authority for a diversity of animal and plant species within Georgia, needs (1) reliable population estimates of nesting Florida Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis pratensis) in Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and (2) reliable inferences on demographic parameters of Henslow’s Sparrow (Ammodramus henslowii). This work will provide survey design enhancements and analytical models to meet these needs. These two species are of conservation concern to the state, and Georgia DNR already invests heavily in monitoring and obtaining demographic data on them. Georgia DNR is an important cooperator with USGS, and this work addresses its concerns that its efforts could be better aligned with its objectives of understanding these populations. This work is being done in collaboration with Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the University of Georgia. The production of reliable biological information for these two species will help the state of Georgia better target their resources towards actions that conserve these species.
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Human Dimensions of Wildlife Research Associate
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June 2021
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The Minnesota DNR Wildlife has a high demand for research related to stakeholder and public attitudes and behaviors related to management programs, issues, and policy preferences. This project provides funding for a research associate and operating funds to address to key issues related to wildlife management in Minnesota such as Chronic Wasting Disease Management.
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The Minnesota DNR Wildlife has a high demand for research related to stakeholder and public attitudes and behaviors related to management programs, issues, and policy preferences. Such social science is seen as essential by the Minnesota DNR to assist in making critical planning and management decisions. Two issues of primary concern are Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Wolf Management Planning. This project provides funding for a research associate and operating funds to address assist the Minnesota DNR in developing long-term strategies for addressing the threat of Chronic Wasting Disease to both deer populations in Minnesota and to hunter participation. In addition, this project will assist the Minnesota DNR in developing a revised management plan for wolves in Minnesota as management responsibility for the species has devolved to the state. This information is critical to Minnesota DNR decision making concerning disease management and population management policies. The social science information will be integrated with ecological information to ensure competent decisions that are broadly supported by the Minnesota public.
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Potential for conservation lands in Middle Mississippi River
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September 2021
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Large river floodplains provide a multitude of important, and frequently at odds, ecosystem services. Furthermore, tools that address the spatiotemporal patterns of inundation are needed to improve large river floodplain management. We developed a model of 200 river miles of the Middle Mississippi River that generates a spatial database that collapses 85 years of daily river hydrodynamics and hydroclimatic variability into seasonality, duration, frequency, and magnitude of floodplain inundation under existing land use conditions. These results will be used to predict the effects of the removing flood protection levees on floodplain inundation patterns and will help the US Fish and Wildlife Service and other partners to develop floodplain management scenarios that provide ecosystems services while balancing other needs such as flood control.
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Large river floodplains provide a multitude of important, and frequently at odds, ecosystem services. Furthermore, tools that address the spatiotemporal patterns of inundation are needed to improve large river floodplain management. We developed a model of 200 river miles of the Middle Mississippi River that generates a spatial database that collapses 85 years of daily river hydrodynamics and hydroclimatic variability into seasonality, duration, frequency, and magnitude of floodplain inundation under existing land use conditions. These results will be used to predict the effects of the removing flood protection levees on floodplain inundation patterns and will help the US Fish and Wildlife Service and other partners to develop floodplain management scenarios that provide ecosystems services while balancing other needs such as flood control.
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Habitat use and distribution of gravel spawning fishes
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June 2020
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Declines in substrate downstream of dams is a major concern for fishes that require certain size gravel and cobble to spawn. This project determined the habitat characteristics of spawning Hornyhead Chubs, and the habitat characteristics associated with fish communities within riffles and runs in the East Fork Black River, Missouri. Hornyhead Chub preferred depths of 0.20 m to 0.35 m, velocities of 0.10 m/s to 0.30 m/s, wetted widths of 7 m to 10 m, the presence of velocity shelters, and increased amounts of small substrate. In addition, smaller substrate size were the most important habitat characteristic for increased diversity in the overall fish community and fishes commonly found with Hornyhead Chub. Riffle-run habitats were deprived of substrate sizes between 8 mm to 32 mm and this will guide the Missouri Department of Conservation is substrate augmentation efforts to help conserve native fish below dams.
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Declines in substrate downstream of dams is a major concern for fishes that require certain size gravel and cobble to spawn. This project determined the habitat characteristics of spawning Hornyhead Chubs, and the habitat characteristics associated with fish communities within riffles and runs in the East Fork Black River, Missouri. Hornyhead Chub preferred depths of 0.20 m to 0.35 m, velocities of 0.10 m/s to 0.30 m/s, wetted widths of 7 m to 10 m, the presence of velocity shelters, and increased amounts of small substrate. In addition, smaller substrate size were the most important habitat characteristic for increased diversity in the overall fish community and fishes commonly found with Hornyhead Chub. Riffle-run habitats were deprived of substrate sizes between 8 mm to 32 mm and this will guide the Missouri Department of Conservation is substrate augmentation efforts to help conserve native fish below dams.
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Habitat selection and dispersal of Lake Sturgeon in Missouri tributaries
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June 2021
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Several states have instituted reintroduction programs for Lake Sturgeon. However, biologists lack an understanding of their migrations in southern rivers. Therefore, we partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation to determine movement and identify the flow and temperature metrics influencing migrations of 100 Lake Sturgeon in the hydrologically altered Osage and the free-flowing Gasconade rivers. Distinct thermal regimes affected timing in each river with spring migrations beginning 17 days earlier and ending 29 days earlier on average in the Gasconade than the Osage. Spring upstream migrations were positively associated with daily discharge at warmer temperatures in the Osage and 1-day flow rise at cooler temperatures in the Gasconade. This research will be used by the Missouri Department of Conservation to predict movement of Lake Sturgeon in other tributaries and help to locate other river habitats to be conserved.
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Several states have instituted reintroduction programs for Lake Sturgeon. However, biologists lack an understanding of their migrations in southern rivers. Therefore, we partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation to determine movement and identify the flow and temperature metrics influencing migrations of 100 Lake Sturgeon in the hydrologically altered Osage and the free-flowing Gasconade rivers. Distinct thermal regimes affected timing in each river with spring migrations beginning 17 days earlier and ending 29 days earlier on average in the Gasconade than the Osage. Spring upstream migrations were positively associated with daily discharge at warmer temperatures in the Osage and 1-day flow rise at cooler temperatures in the Gasconade. This research will be used by the Missouri Department of Conservation to predict movement of Lake Sturgeon in other tributaries and help to locate other river habitats to be conserved.
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Evaluation of Striped Bass stocking in Bull Shoals Lake
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June 2023
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Striped Bass are an important sportfish in Missouri and a goal of reservoir stocking programs is to create a unique angling opportunity to catch a trophy fish. However, there is concern among fishery managers and anglers that stocked striped bass may compete with or prey upon other sport fishes like crappie and bass. This project will use telemetry to evaluate dispersal and habitat use of stocked Striped Bass and stable isotope analysis to document striped bass food habits and diet overlap with other sport fishes. An improved understanding of diet and habitat overlap between striped bass and other reservoir sport fishes will be used by the Missouri Department of Conservation to develop stocking strategies for Striped Bass in Bull Shoals Lake and other reservoirs throughout the state.
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Striped Bass are an important sportfish in Missouri and a goal of reservoir stocking programs is to create a unique angling opportunity to catch a trophy fish. However, there is concern among fishery managers and anglers that stocked striped bass may compete with or prey upon other sport fishes like crappie and bass. This project will use telemetry to evaluate dispersal and habitat use of stocked Striped Bass and stable isotope analysis to document striped bass food habits and diet overlap with other sport fishes. An improved understanding of diet and habitat overlap between striped bass and other reservoir sport fishes will be used by the Missouri Department of Conservation to develop stocking strategies for Striped Bass in Bull Shoals Lake and other reservoirs throughout the state.
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Forestry BMP for Sensitive Aquatic Species Southeastern US
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August 2021
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In the Southeastern United States, forestry is a major land use and an important component to the economy. Monitoring by state agencies has confirmed that generally, forestry Best Management Practices (BMP) are implemented at high rates (82% - 99%), but implementation varies by locale and BMP type. The distribution of aquatic at-risk species and their degree of imperilment also vary across the southern landscape. Some BMPs are effective in the protection of water quality, but information on the degree to which BMPs might support conservation of at-risk aquatic species is lacking. This information gap is especially acute in the southeastern US with its high degree of endemism and levels of imperilment for several species. Filling this critical information gap will provide a better understanding of the effectiveness of BMPs for protecting sensitive aquatic species and their habitat and will help to inform conservation measures.
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During FY18, we conducted activities to clarify which Best Management Practices (BMP) are of interest to both forest managers and aquatic biologists and documented with sufficient spatial and temporal resolution to be useful in the modelling of aquatic species response. We have identified individuals within the forestry and aquatic conservation committees who will serve on an advisory board for the project. We have identified appropriate data sources and are in the process of quality assurance on a variety of point datasets of fish presence derived from museum and collection records.In our initial discussions with these groups, Foresters have focused on activities to minimize the acute impact of harvest (e.g., sediment management zones) or forest roads (e.g., appropriate crossing designs). While stream biologists acknowledge the importance of these primarily sediment-focused measures, they also indicate that they sometimes consider other aspects of timber management, including rotation schedule, thinning, and fire suppression, to be BMPs due to their ability to affect water yield. Work to date on the project has been preparatory, and the modeling to evaluate which BMPs are offer conservation benefits to imperiled aquatic species in the region will continue in earnest in FY19.
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OA 90: Avian Community Response to Brush Control on the Welder Wildlife Refuge: Phase II
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December 2020
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Grassland obligate birds are experiencing widespread population declines across North America. Despite widespread prairie restoration efforts, little evaluation has been made as to the success of coastal prairie restoration in terms of avian community structure.<br><br>The coastal prairie of the Texas coast have experienced extensive brushland encroachment and prairie loss. Efforts to restore coastal prairie grasslands and the natural avian communities has been overlooked.<br><br>We are partnering with the Welder Wildlife Foundation to address this issue.<br><br>Our data will provide insights as to the success of different brush control methods to restore prairie, whether or not natural avian communities can be restored, and if so, what the lag periods for avian community restoration may be.
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Grassland obligate birds are experiencing widespread population declines across North America. Despite widespread prairie restoration efforts, little evaluation has been made as to the success of coastal prairie restoration in terms of avian community structure.The coastal prairie of the Texas coast have experienced extensive brushland encroachment and prairie loss. Efforts to restore coastal prairie grasslands and the natural avian communities has been overlooked.We are partnering with the Welder Wildlife Foundation to address this issue.Our data will provide insights as to the success of different brush control methods to restore prairie, whether or not natural avian communities can be restored, and if so, what the lag periods for avian community restoration may be.
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Assessing attitudes and impacts to society associated with the use of nontoxic ammunition for hunting on National Wildlife Refuges
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December 2019
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Despite extensive scientific evidence of the detrimental effect of spent lead ammunition on wildlife and potential for human exposure, reducing the use of lead-based ammunition for hunting activities can be a controversial and contentious issue. Through the implementation of mail-back surveys and group interviews, this project aims to understand hunters’ perceptions towards a voluntary transition to non-lead ammunition use for hunting white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) on targeted National Wildlife Refuges in the Northeast U.S. Specifically, this project aims to identify the practical barriers associated with a voluntary transition to non-lead ammunition use and what factors would influence hunters to switch. Assessment of the practical barriers to transitioning to non-lead ammunition will allow the National Wildlife Refuge System to direct targeted outreach and education strategies to achieve behavioral change in hunter ammunition choice.
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Since the 1960s, the recognition of the negative effect of lead on humans and wildlife has resulted in regulations to reduce both human exposure and the amount of lead introduced into the environment. Federal restrictions on lead-based ammunition for waterfowl hunting were implemented in 1991. Since then restrictions on lead-based ammunition use have expanded in some states, however, lead is still a primary component of ammunition used for non-waterfowl hunting in the U.S. The continued use of lead-based ammunition for hunting white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), in particular, facilitates completed pathways to lead exposure for hunters, their family members, and for non-target species that scavenge the gut piles and carcasses of deer left in the field. Voluntary approaches to reducing lead-based ammunition use have been shown to garner increased support from hunters and have been recognized as a viable option for mitigating the impacts of lead from hunting activities. In collaboration with the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, USGS, and the USFWS, we have conducted mail-back surveys and group interviews with hunters at targeted National Wildlife Refuges in the Northeast U.S. This project aims to identify the practical barriers associated with a voluntary transition to non-lead as perceived by hunters, and what factors would influence hunters to switch to non-lead alternatives. Identifying the barriers and influences to non-lead use will help the National Wildlife Refuge System direct more targeted outreach and education strategies in order to better achieve behavioral change in regard to hunter ammunition choice.
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Evaluating the use of redd counts in monitoring Snake River Cutthroat in Snake River tributaries
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June 2022
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Redd counts are a commonly used management tool for monitoring spawning salmonid population status and trends. The validity of redd count data as an index of population size is based on two key assumptions: 1. redd counts are representative of actual redd numbers and 2. redd counts reflect population status. These may not always be met, especially when there is substantial red superimposition, leading to biased redd counts. In conjunction with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are evaluating the relationships between redd count data and spawning populations, spawning success, and fry emergence in spring creeks in the Upper Snake River drainage. The results of this project will allow managers to better interpret what redd counts can tell us with respect to population status (spawner numbers, fry production). This will allow for recommendations on how to most effectively conduct redd counts moving forward.
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Redd counts are a commonly used management tool for monitoring spawning salmonid population status and trends. The validity of redd count data as an index of population size is based on two key assumptions: 1. redd counts are representative of actual redd numbers and 2. redd counts reflect population status. These may not always be met, especially when there is substantial red superimposition, leading to biased redd counts. In conjunction with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are evaluating the relationships between redd count data and spawning populations, spawning success, and fry emergence in spring creeks in the Upper Snake River drainage. The results of this project will allow managers to better interpret what redd counts can tell us with respect to population status (spawner numbers, fry production). This will allow for recommendations on how to most effectively conduct redd counts moving forward.
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Distribution, habitat use, and evaluation of potential reintroduction sites for Finescale Dace in Wyoming
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June 2021
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Aquatic systems that support fish populations in the Great Plains region of North America are endangered due to an extensive disturbance history that includes land use change, hydrologic alteration, and proliferation of non-native taxa within watersheds. Finescale Dace are a Great Plains fish with a highly limited and fragmented distribution in Wyoming. The recent finding of Northern Pike in one of their core sites puts this population at increased risk for extirpation. A better understanding of ecologically limiting factors that may influence the persistence of rare or threatened taxa can be used to inform conservation and management strategies aimed at preservation of regional biodiversity. In collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are evaluating the current status of Finescale Dace in Wyoming. Given the limited distribution of Finescale Dace and the threats from Northern Pike and habitat degradation, additional populations need to be established to ensure their persistence in Wyoming. This research will guide the identification of potential reintroduction sites within their historic range.
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Aquatic systems that support fish populations in the Great Plains region of North America are endangered due to an extensive disturbance history that includes land use change, hydrologic alteration, and proliferation of non-native taxa within watersheds. Finescale Dace are a Great Plains fish with a highly limited and fragmented distribution in Wyoming. The recent finding of Northern Pike in one of their core sites puts this population at increased risk for extirpation. A better understanding of ecologically limiting factors that may influence the persistence of rare or threatened taxa can be used to inform conservation and management strategies aimed at preservation of regional biodiversity. In collaboration with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are evaluating the current status of Finescale Dace in Wyoming. Given the limited distribution of Finescale Dace and the threats from Northern Pike and habitat degradation, additional populations need to be established to ensure their persistence in Wyoming. This research will guide the identification of potential reintroduction sites within their historic range.
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Spatiotemporal pattern of hybridization with walleye and genetic divergence in sauger life histories in the Bighorn River sauger population
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December 2019
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Sauger (Sander canadensis) are listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Wyoming due to habitat fragmentation, competition with non-native fish, and potential loss of genetic integrity due to coexistence and hybridization with walleye (Sander vitreus). These species hybridize in locations where they are sympatric, and experimental crosses have confirmed viability of hybrid offspring. There is a need to understand hybridization and the degree of threat it poses to native sauger populations. In conjunction with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are determining the extent of hybridization and describing the genetic structure of sauger. This project will provide essential information for management and conservation of sauger in the Bighorn River system by identifying frequency and extent of hybridization. Characterizing genetic divergence among life histories will also help to prioritize conservation actions if hybridization is detected in one or more of the life history forms of sauger.
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Sauger (Sander canadensis) are listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Wyoming due to habitat fragmentation, competition with non-native fish, and potential loss of genetic integrity due to coexistence and hybridization with walleye (Sander vitreus). These species hybridize in locations where they are sympatric, and experimental crosses have confirmed viability of hybrid offspring. There is a need to understand hybridization and the degree of threat it poses to native sauger populations. In conjunction with Wyoming Game and Fish Department we are determining the extent of hybridization and describing the genetic structure of sauger. This project will provide essential information for management and conservation of sauger in the Bighorn River system by identifying frequency and extent of hybridization. Characterizing genetic divergence among life histories will also help to prioritize conservation actions if hybridization is detected in one or more of the life history forms of sauger.
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TPW 40: Assessing Distribution and Occupancy Patterns of Riparian Avifauna in the Trans Pecos Region of Texas
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August 2021
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Riparian areas in the Chihuahuan Desert Ecoregion are identified as a priority for conservation in the Trans Pecos region of Texas. Desert riparian systems are distinct narrow drainages that provide (or have the potential to provide) conditions for vegetation and wildlife species dependent on permanent or ephemeral surface and subsurface water. Southwest riparian zones create nesting and foraging habitat for an estimated 166 bird species also support an estimated 10.6 times more migratory birds compared to the surrounding upland desert. Among these are species of conservation concern, such as the federally threatened western yellow-billed cuckoos (<i>Coccyzus americanus occidentalis</i>) and the state threatened common black-hawk (<i>Buteogallus anthracinus</i>), gray hawk (<i>Buteo plagiatus</i>), and zone-tailed hawk (<i>Buteo albonotatus</i>). It is also an objective of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to work toward the recovery of threatened, endangered, and high-priority species associated with riparian systems. However, little quantitative data are available for riparian obligate birds in the region. In 2018 we initiated a study to 1) assess the distribution, site occupancy, and community structure of avifauna among different riparian systems of the Trans Pecos region, and 2) to estimate nesting abundance and productivity of three state threatened raptor species. We anticipate our results will provide Texas Parks and Wildlife Department with data to make informed decisions for identification of priority areas for conservation and restoration, and assessment of status of species of concern.
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Riparian areas in the Chihuahuan Desert Ecoregion are identified as a priority for conservation in the Trans Pecos region of Texas. Among these are species of conservation concern, such as the federally threatened western yellow-billed cuckoos (<i>Coccyzus americanus occidentalis</i>) and the state threatened common black-hawk (<i>Buteogallus anthracinus</i>), gray hawk (<i>Buteo plagiatus</i>), and zone-tailed hawk (<i>Buteo albonotatus</i>). It is also an objective of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to work toward the recovery of threatened, endangered, and high-priority species associated with riparian systems. However, little quantitative data are available for riparian obligate birds in the region. In 2018 we partnered with Texas Parks and Wildlife to 1) assess the distribution, site occupancy, and community structure of avifauna among different riparian systems of the Trans Pecos region, and 2) to estimate nesting abundance and productivity of three state threatened raptor species. We anticipate our results will provide Texas Parks and Wildlife Department with data to make informed decisions for identification of priority areas for conservation and restoration, and assessment of status of species of concern.
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Research and Monitoring of Wyoming Toad Reintroductions: Linking Survival, Behavior and Genetics to Inform Species Recovery
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June 2023
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The Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) is one of the most endangered amphibians in North America, which rapidly declined in the 1970s due to unknown causes. A small population at Mortenson Lake National Wildlife Refuge sustained by captive-release is now one of the only known, non-captive populations of Wyoming toads. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently improved captive facilities to allow regular release of adult Wyoming toads into the wild in order to foster increased reproduction and survival. This resulted in notable increases in reproduction, as evidenced by regular wild breeding, but changes in survival are questionable because the released animals are being observed less frequently than expected. We are collaborating with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to track the fate of Wyoming toads at reintroduction sites across the Laramie basin to assess the interaction among individual survival, behavior (e.g., habitat selection, hibernacula selection), genetics, and disease, with the specific goal of identifying how these linkages can be used to facilitate recovery of the species. Data collected will provide valuable information for the reintroduction and recovery of the Wyoming toad. This information will be used to inform release strategies, monitoring and potential captive breeding.
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The Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) is one of the most endangered amphibians in North America, which rapidly declined in the 1970s due to unknown causes. A small population at Mortenson Lake National Wildlife Refuge sustained by captive-release is now one of the only known, non-captive populations of Wyoming toads. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently improved captive facilities to allow regular release of adult Wyoming toads into the wild in order to foster increased reproduction and survival. This resulted in notable increases in reproduction, as evidenced by regular wild breeding, but changes in survival are questionable because the released animals are being observed less frequently than expected. We are collaborating with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to track the fate of Wyoming toads at reintroduction sites across the Laramie basin to assess the interaction among individual survival, behavior (e.g., habitat selection, hibernacula selection), genetics, and disease, with the specific goal of identifying how these linkages can be used to facilitate recovery of the species. Data collected will provide valuable information for the reintroduction and recovery of the Wyoming toad. This information will be used to inform release strategies, monitoring and potential captive breeding.
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Great gray owl habitat selection and home range characteristics during the breeding and post-fledging periods
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June 2023
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The Great Gray Owl is a species of conservation concern in Wyoming, and associated with older-aged, boreal forest habitats which are affected by wildfire, disease and beetle outbreaks, drought, climate change, logging and development. Very little is known, however, about Great Gray Owl habitat requirements and territory size during the nesting and post-fledging periods. The primary project partners are the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Teton Raptor Center, with cooperation from the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. Information generated from the study will significantly enhance the state's ability to address the unknown aspects of the species' biology, update the species’ account in the State Wildlife Action Plan, and provide insight for the implementation of future monitoring efforts and management strategies.
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The Great Gray Owl is a species of conservation concern in Wyoming, and associated with older-aged, boreal forest habitats which are affected by wildfire, disease and beetle outbreaks, drought, climate change, logging and development. Very little is known, however, about Great Gray Owl habitat requirements and territory size during the nesting and post-fledging periods. The primary project partners are the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Teton Raptor Center, with cooperation from the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. Information generated from the study will significantly enhance the state's ability to address the unknown aspects of the species' biology, update the species’ account in the State Wildlife Action Plan, and provide insight for the implementation of future monitoring efforts and management strategies.
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Survival of boreal toads across multiple life stages in relation to habitat, grazing, disease, and climate
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December 2021
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The boreal toad (Anaxyrus boreas) was once widespread and common, but has suffered substantial population declines in the Rocky Mountain region. As a result, the boreal toad is a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (NSS1, Tier 1) in Wyoming. Factors believed to be contributing to boreal toad decline include disease, habitat loss and alteration, pollution, and changing weather. The overall project objective is to develop a better understanding of boreal toad survival at multiple life stages in relation to habitat, grazing management practices, disease, and climatic variables. Project partners include the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the U.S. Forest Service. Results will clarify risks to the population sustainability of boreal toads in Wyoming and beyond, and the specific mechanisms underlying survival across life stages.
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The boreal toad (Anaxyrus boreas) was once widespread and common, but has suffered substantial population declines in the Rocky Mountain region. As a result, the boreal toad is a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (NSS1, Tier 1) in Wyoming. Factors believed to be contributing to boreal toad decline include disease, habitat loss and alteration, pollution, and changing weather. The overall project objective is to develop a better understanding of boreal toad survival at multiple life stages in relation to habitat, grazing management practices, disease, and climatic variables. Project partners include the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the U.S. Forest Service. Results will clarify risks to the population sustainability of boreal toads in Wyoming and beyond, and the specific mechanisms underlying survival across life stages.
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Decadal abundance trends of avian SGCN in Wyoming's natural gas fields
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June 2021
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Sagebrush-obligate songbird species continue to demonstrate considerable range-wide population declines (e.g., 4% and 1.2% per year for Brewer’s Sparrows and Sage Thrashers, respectively since 2000 according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey). The year 2018 marked the 10-year anniversary of avian point-count surveys conducted at 160 points spanning a gradient of energy development within the Jonah and Pinedale Anticline natural gas fields in western Wyoming. Particularly within the Jonah field, the 2008 and 2009 surveys revealed decreases in the abundance of two sagebrush-obligates (Brewer’s Sparrow and Sagebrush Sparrow) with increasing well densities; whether such trends in abundance remain, or have stabilized or worsened, however, is unknown. The current project is repeating the 2008-2009 surveys to address these informational gaps. The primary project partner is the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Results will inform status assessments for sensitive bird species inhabiting the sagebrush steppe in Wyoming and beyond.
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Sagebrush-obligate songbird species continue to demonstrate considerable range-wide population declines (e.g., 4% and 1.2% per year for Brewer’s Sparrows and Sage Thrashers, respectively since 2000 according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey). The year 2018 marked the 10-year anniversary of avian point-count surveys conducted at 160 points spanning a gradient of energy development within the Jonah and Pinedale Anticline natural gas fields in western Wyoming. Particularly within the Jonah field, the 2008 and 2009 surveys revealed decreases in the abundance of two sagebrush-obligates (Brewer’s Sparrow and Sagebrush Sparrow) with increasing well densities; whether such trends in abundance remain, or have stabilized or worsened, however, is unknown. The current project is repeating the 2008-2009 surveys to address these informational gaps. The primary project partner is the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Results will inform status assessments for sensitive bird species inhabiting the sagebrush steppe in Wyoming and beyond.
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Natural-Ecological and Socio-Political Factors Influencing Urban Forest Management in Massachusetts
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December 2019
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From wildlife habitat, to carbon sequestration, urban forests supply an array of ecosystem benefits to over 90% of Massachusetts’ residents, who live and work in an urban setting. Urban trees, however, face a multitude of challenges from limited growing space, to invasive pests. To gain further understanding into emergent urban forest management issues, we conducted 50 qualitative research interviews with municipal tree wardens, from 2014-2016. Forest health emerged as an important theme, as interviewees (n=49) indicated that they routinely monitor for pests of urban trees. A significant number of interviewees (n=13) also indicated that they interact with urban tree committees. We will explore the potential for planting low-maintenance conifers, like Chinese hemlock, as part of an overarching urban forest health management and diversification strategy that incorporates host plant resistant species. We will also explore the characteristics and needs of urban tree committee volunteers.
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With estimated losses of 36 million trees per year, urban tree canopy (UTC) cover continues a downward trend, nationwide. UTC cover losses are believed to result from a variety of factors including development, maintenance practices, and pests. Conservative estimates of national UTC cover benefits equate to $100 million per year, relative to carbon sequestration, pollution removal, reduced energy and reduced power plant emissions. These, and other ecosystem services, are enjoyed by large numbers of citizens living and working in urban settings, including an estimated 90% of Massachusetts’ residents. To gain further understanding into emergent urban forest management issues in Massachusetts, we conducted qualitative research interviews with community-based urban forestry decision-makers, known as municipal tree wardens. This project involves collaboration between the US Forest Service, US Geological Survey, MA Department of Conservation and Recreation, University of Massachusetts Center for Agriculture Food and the Environment, and the UMass Department of Environmental Conservation. Interviewees indicated they routinely interact with volunteer organizations, including urban tree committees, and routinely monitor for pests of urban trees. Results will inform further UMass urban forestry integrated research and extension initiatives.
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The Ecological Value of Spruce Plantations in Massachusetts
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December 2019
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The planting of exotic Norway spruce plantations to supplement native forest stock has been common practice throughout the north-eastern United states over the past century. These plantations, however, were frequently created without much consideration to the effect they would impose on local wildlife diversity. Recent shifts in conservation priorities towards increasing and supporting biodiversity have raised new questions to the role exotic plantations will have moving forward. More specifically, it is widely unknown if the habitat provided by plantations can support an adequate level of biodiversity. This study aims to examine the comparative ecological value of spruce plantations to surrounding native forest stands in Massachusetts, using birds as indicators of biodiversity. In addition to using avian occupancy and abundance, we will weight relative species values by incorporating Partners in Flight Conservation scores to provide a more objective estimate of overall ecological importance. This project is being conducted in partnership between the University of Massachusetts Amherst, USGS Massachusetts Cooperative Research Unit, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and U. S. Forest Service. Through this research, we hope to better inform land managers on how Norway spruce plantations are contributing to their conservation goals.
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The planting of exotic Norway spruce plantations to supplement native forest stock has been common practice throughout the north-eastern United states over the past century. These plantations, however, were frequently created without much consideration to the effect they would impose on local wildlife diversity. Recent shifts in conservation priorities towards increasing and supporting biodiversity have raised new questions to the role exotic plantations will have moving forward. More specifically, it is widely unknown if the habitat provided by plantations can support an adequate level of biodiversity. This study aims to examine the comparative ecological value of spruce plantations to surrounding native forest stands in Massachusetts, using birds as indicators of biodiversity. In addition to using avian occupancy and abundance, we will weight relative species values by incorporating Partners in Flight Conservation scores to provide a more objective estimate of overall ecological importance. This project is being conducted in partnership between the University of Massachusetts Amherst, USGS Massachusetts Cooperative Research Unit, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and U. S. Forest Service. Through this research, we hope to better inform land managers on how Norway spruce plantations are contributing to their conservation goals.
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Assessing Hunter Values, Expectations, and Satisfaction Regarding Controlled White-Tailed Deer Hunts in Suburban Eastern Massachusetts
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December 2019
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White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are particularly abundant in portions of eastern Massachusetts where high densities have resulted in ecological degradation from over-browsing as well as increased human-deer conflicts. These negative impacts necessitate the importance of addressing deer overabundance. Regulated hunting is a widely accepted deer management strategy used to effectively reduce and maintain deer densities, although its use in suburban landscapes may be challenged by the limited long-term participation of hunters. Presumably, continued hunter participation is driven largely by participants’ satisfaction with their hunting experience and highly controlled hunts in suburbia may restrict participants in ways that minimize satisfaction. Without a dependable suburban hunting constituency, successful reduction of deer populations will be challenging. A better understanding of suburban hunters’ expectations, preferences, and limitations is of great importance if effective deer management programs are to be implemented. Our research effort is a collaboration between the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and the U.S. Geological Survey Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Results of this study will give wildlife managers more insight when guiding communities through the development of management programs that focus on recruiting and retaining devoted hunters willing to considerably lower deer densities over time.
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White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are abundant throughout Massachusetts, particularly in eastern portions of the state where suburban landscapes provide high quality habitat. Ecological degradation from over-browsing and increased human-deer conflicts result in a need to address overabundant deer populations. Regulated hunting is a widely accepted deer management strategy used to effectively reduce and maintain deer densities, although its use in suburban landscapes presents challenges. Of particular concern is the long-term participation of devoted hunters. Presumably, continued hunter participation is driven largely by participants’ satisfaction with their hunting experience. Highly controlled hunts may restrict participants in ways that minimize satisfaction. Without a dependable suburban hunting constituency, successful reduction of deer populations may be impeded. A better understanding of suburban hunters’ expectations, preferences, and limitations is of great importance if effective deer management programs are to be implemented. This research effort is a collaboration between the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and the U.S. Geological Survey Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Results of this study will assist wildlife managers in better understanding what motivates hunters to participate in controlled deer hunts so that communities may be guided through developing more successful, lasting deer management programs. If community members, town representatives, and state wildlife authorities communicate clearly to make realistic, science-based decisions, effective suburban deer management programs using regulated hunting may be attainable in eastern Massachusetts.
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Estimating Black Bear Density, Abundance, and Source-Sink Dynamics in Massachusetts
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June 2022
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In the 1970s, black bears (Ursus americanus) existed as a small and isolated population in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. Since then, the black bear population has grown in number and expanded eastward across the state. However, current black bear density estimates in different parts of the state are lacking, as are population estimates. This information is required for informed and successful management of this important game species across the state. We are conducting a capture-recapture survey for black bears using hair snares and molecular techniques to estimate density and abundance and understand how density and abundance changes with different land cover types and levels of human influence. We are also quantifying black bear population sources and sinks to determine areas of population growth and decline. Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Amherst College, and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation are project collaborators. Results from this research will provide information on black bear population dynamics and allow us to estimate the population size of bears across the state. This information will be used in developing a comprehensive management plan for black bears in Massachusetts.
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In the 1970s, black bears (Ursus americanus) existed as a small and isolated population in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. Since then, the black bear population has grown in number and expanded eastward across the state. However, current black bear density estimates in different parts of the state are lacking, as are population estimates. This information is required for informed and successful management of this important game species across the state. We are conducting a capture-recapture survey for black bears using hair snares and molecular techniques to estimate density and abundance and understand how density and abundance changes with different land cover types and levels of human influence. We are also quantifying black bear population sources and sinks to determine areas of population growth and decline. Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Amherst College, and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation are project collaborators. Results from this research will provide information on black bear population dynamics and allow us to estimate the population size of bears across the state. This information will be used in developing a comprehensive management plan for black bears in Massachusetts.
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Modeling Black Bear Habitat Use, Movement, and Connectivity in Massachusetts
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December 2019
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The black bear (Ursus americanus) population in Massachusetts has been growing in number and expanding into human dominated areas due to conservative management and increasing availability of human food resources. Quantifying seasonal black bear habitat use and movement in relation to land cover in natural and human-dominated areas is necessary for understanding black bear behavior and creating effective black bear management programs. Estimates of connectivity are also required to identify important movement corridors, direct wildlife-road mitigation efforts, and predict black bear movements into currently unoccupied areas of the state. Our analyses are based on GPS telemetry collar data from over 47 bears that has been collected since 2009 by our Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife collaborators. Other collaborators on the project include the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Results will be used to inform management of bears and bear habitat in both natural and human-dominated areas of the state.
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The black bear (Ursus americanus) population in Massachusetts has been growing in number and expanding into human dominated areas due to conservative management and increasing availability of human food resources. Quantifying seasonal black bear habitat use and movement in relation to land cover in natural and human-dominated areas is necessary for understanding black bear behavior and creating effective black bear management programs. Estimates of connectivity are also required to identify important movement corridors, direct wildlife-road mitigation efforts, and predict black bear movements into currently unoccupied areas of the state. Our analyses are based on GPS telemetry collar data from over 47 bears that has been collected since 2009 by our Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife collaborators. Other collaborators on the project include the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Results will be used to inform management of bears and bear habitat in both natural and human-dominated areas of the state.
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Massachusetts Residents' Attitudes Toward Black Bears and Black Bear Management
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December 2019
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The black bear (Ursus americanus) population in Massachusetts is growing in size and expanding in range, and bears are becoming increasingly more common in suburban areas of the state. As the Massachusetts’ black bear population increases and expands, it continues to push into areas where the general public is largely inexperienced with bears. A statewide survey, conducted in collaboration with Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) and Responsive Management, Inc., will be used to assess Massachusetts residents' attitudes toward black bear and black bear management. Results of this study will provide a more detailed understanding of Massachusetts’ residents’ opinions on the bear population, experience with bears, and opinions on black bear management options. These results will be used by MassWildilfe to make informed management decisions regarding black bears and will help MassWildlife gain a better understanding of the current challenges facing black bear management in the third most densely populated state in the country.
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The black bear (Ursus americanus) population in Massachusetts is growing in size and expanding in range, and bears are becoming increasingly more common in suburban areas of the state. As the Massachusetts’ black bear population increases and expands, it continues to push into areas where the general public is largely inexperienced with bears. A statewide human dimensions study of Massachusetts residents' attitudes toward black bear and black bear management will help the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) better understand the current challenges facing black bear management in the third most densely populated state in the country. This research is being conducted in collaboration with MassWildlife and Responsive Management, Inc. Results of this study will provide a more detailed understanding of Massachusetts residents’ opinions on the bear population, experience with bears, and opinions on black bear management options. These results will further examine how those opinions change with geography and demographic characteristics and will be used by MassWildilfe to make informed management decisions regarding black bears.
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National Science Foundation Research Traineeship (NRT) Program
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September 2022
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This National Science Foundation Research Traineeship (NRT) award to the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, establishes a new graduate training program that focuses upon understanding the resilience of agricultural systems. Nebraska hosts one of the world’s most productive and efficient agricultural systems, the Platte River Basin. Like most agricultural systems characterized by high productivity and efficiency, its resilience to change is unknown. This training program builds upon strengths at the University of Nebraska, and joins the disciplines of agronomy, natural resources, computer sciences and engineering with policy studies, to enhance the resilience of agricultural landscapes to global – and local – change. Interdisciplinary training for Master’s and Ph.D. students will enhance the type of team-building needed to address today’s food, energy, and water problems, and trainees will engage with external partners from the agricultural industry, from state and federal government, and NGO’s that have an interest and stake in maintaining productive agricultural systems. The traineeship program anticipates preparing ~50 trainees (25 Ph.D. and 25 Master’s), including 23 funded trainees (9 Ph.D., 14 Master’s), with a focus on hands-on experiences between the university and its industry and agency partners. Trainees will focus on key aspects of agricultural resilience specific to their interests, while receiving broad training in resilience theory as applied to working agricultural landscapes. This training will help develop a workforce and agricultural industry better capable of managing future demands on food, energy, and water systems. Currently the program is supporting ten students.
This NRT program will focus on understanding resilience in water-stressed and energy-demanding agricultural landscapes and will utilize resilience and panarchy theory, adaptive management, novel sensing technologies and modeling, and policy interventions. Such training is rare in graduate programs in the United States, but is required to prepare the next generation of natural resource scientists, producers, managers, engineers, and policymakers to better respond to the challenges created by increasing demands for diminishing and interconnected resources and the need to maintain and build resilience in stressed watersheds. The University of Nebraska is recognized as a global leader in water and agricultural sciences; this NRT will explicitly integrate these disciplines. This NRT will train students in interdisciplinary science at the nexus of theory and application, and the intersection of sometimes completing, sometimes complementary endpoints of food, water, and energy – and ecosystem services – sustainability. In addition, this NRT will serve as the innovative foundation for a permanent interdisciplinary graduate program that will create a novel education program in the resilience of agro-ecosystems and ensure students, academic programs, local-to-federal agencies, and the private sector engage in building and preserving natural and agricultural ecosystems to meet local-to-global demands of water (in quantity and quality), clean energy, food, and ecosystem services. Moreover, this NRT will develop cross-disciplinary training for multidisciplinary cohorts of graduate students focused on the complex and intertwined ecological, technical, and societal systems involved in managing resilient water resources in the 21st century, in complex landscape managed for agricultural production. Further, the program will help develop innovative tools for data collection, analytics, and synthesis for decision support, management, and restoration of water-stressed agricultural systems within local-to international contexts. The program is designed to encourage the development and implementation of bold, new potentially transformative models for STEM graduate education training. The Traineeship Track is dedicated to effective training of STEM graduate students in high priority interdisciplinary research areas, through comprehensive traineeship models that are innovative, evidence-based, and aligned with changing workforce and research needs.
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Understanding the components of resilience in landscapes is critical given the rapid speed of landuse and other global changes. Understanding the factors of resilience will allow for the management of landscapes such that they can absorb disturbance with out changing "state". This project is funded by the US National Science Foundation and includes collaboration of many state and federal agencies, including the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Nature Conservancy. The project focuses on training of students, and will enable the creation of a multi-disciplinary work force informed by current theory and best management practices.
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Managing Red Cedar Invasions of Nebraska Grasslands -Part II
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December 2020
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Juniper expansion is an important issue, especially in the Great Plains, because ecosystem service provisioning is altered when grasslands are invaded by juniper. However, an assessment of the impacts juniper invasion has on ecosystem service provisioning is lacking. A central aim of this thesis research is to synthesize the impacts of juniper invasion on grassland ecosystem services.
This synthesis will then be contrasted against:
- How Nebraskan’s value ecosystem services
- How other invasive species in grasslands alter ecosystem service provisioning
- How natural resource professionals perceive the impact of juniper invasion relative to other invasive species
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Red cedar is an invasive species that degrades grassland habitat and reduces rangeland productivity. Red cedar is responsible for an ongoing biome-level regime shift across the Great Plains. This project is a collaboration with agronomists and with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Products will focus on methods to reduce cedar spread, minimize its impacts, and better restore degraded habitats.
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Managing Red Cedar Invasion of Nebraska Grasslands- Part I
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January 2021
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Eastern Redcedar is the most rapidly expanding woody plant species in the Great Plains and is now recognized as the number one threat to Nebraska’s rangelands by the Nebraska Conservation Roundtable. The impacts of redcedar invasion in grasslands are wide-ranging, including reducing grassland bird diversity and abundance, decreasing livestock production by 75%, reducing small mammal and insect diversity, and costing Nebraska Public Schools over $2,440,000 from 2006-2016. The objective of this grant is to assess the vulnerability of Nebraska’s grasslands to redcedar invasion, and develop predictive tools that enhance the potential to implement landscape interventions that (1) prevent the spread of redcedar trees or (2) restore degraded wildlife habitat following transformation to a redcedar-dominated state.
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Red cedar is an invasive species that degrades grassland habitat and reduces rangeland productivity. Red cedar is responsible for an ongoing biome-level regime shift across the Great Plains. This project is a collaboration with agronomists and with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Products will focus on methods to reduce cedar spread, minimize its impacts, and better restore degraded habitats.
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Generation Novelty in Complex Systems
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December 2019
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Novelty and innovation are essential attributes for the continued success of ecological, social and other complex systems, both natural and anthropogenic. Without them, dynamic, adaptive change in response to disturbance is not possible. Novelty and innovation are required to keep existing complex systems resilient and adaptable, and to create new structures and interactions following catastrophic ecological or social failures. The importance of novelty is recognized in the management and business world, but is less explicitly recognized and appreciated in the scientific world.
Without innovation and novelty, systems may become stagnant. Having a constant source of innovation and novelty is clearly important for systems, both following transformations and during their normal dynamics. However, novelty may be a destructive force as well. Invasive species, for example, can alter basic process and structure in ecosystems and be a source for decline or collapse. Cellular mutations can have obviously destructive consequences upon individuals and lineages—cancer is a prime example. Thus, innovation and novelty can be a double-edged sword. In ecosystems, for example, novelty in the form of new species has been a cause of major extinctions, but is also the prime source for recovery.
To explore the causes and consequences of the generation of novelty and innovation for humans, for social systems and for ecological systems, we will convene a small diverse group of researchers from diverse disciplines, with a variety of approaches and backgrounds, where we believe a deliberate focus on the concept of novelty could be fruitful. Our overall intent is to identify commonalities across disciplines. What attributes of a system are necessary if novelty is to arise? What might be the consequences, both positive and negative, of systems structured to permit novelty and innovation?
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The conditions for the emergence of novelty in complex systems are poorly understood. Better understanding will help us better cope with a variety of phenomena, both good and bad (such as invasions and extinctions). This project brings together researchers from the Resilience Alliance with McDonnell Foundation funded researchers in the areas of complex systems, brain cancer and mind-behavior interactions. A book or special journal feature will result from the workshop that will be supported by this project.
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Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Program
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December 2022
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The Nebraska Invasive Species Program has facilitated development and implementation of a Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Program. Goals are to:<br>1. decrease the risk of introductions of aquatic invasive species in Nebraska through a watercraft inspection and decontamination program;<br>2. increase public awareness of aquatic invasive species through an integrated outreach and education program; and<br>3. increase local and regional collaborations for prevention and management of aquatic invasive species through directed and coordinated communications.<br><br>Boater surveys, watercraft inspections and outreach activities have been conducted since 2011 to increase public awareness of aquatic invasive species and promote prevention actions among watercraft users. In addition, the Coordinator served on regional aquatic invasive species panels to coordinate prevention and management efforts across state lines, delivered webinars to various audiences, provided over 15,000 outreach materials to partners, and collected water samples to assistance the U.S. Geological Survey eDNA pilot study on zebra mussel detection. Advertisements were ran in Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s guides and other printed publications, and on two billboards. Two (one stationary at Lewis and Clark Lake and one trailered) CD3 waterless watercraft cleaning station were purchased; we monitor use of both units through an online platform.
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Aquatic invasive species pose serious ecological and economic threats. Mitigating - and preventing - those threats is important for natural resource management and for managing other aspects of aquatic systems - such as riverine power plants. This project, with the Nebraska Game and Park Commission and numerous other collaborators, informs the public regarding aquatic invasives and helps coordinate management activities in Nebraska.
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Monitoring, Mapping and Risk Assessment and Management of Invasive Species in Nebraska - Part I
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December 2019
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Funding was provided through a federal-aid grant from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to:<br><br>1. Provide outreach to and facilitate communication among stakeholders regarding biological invasions, coordinate the Nebraska Invasive Species Council, and assist with any additional legislation regarding invasive species as needed;<br><br>2. Develop management tools including an invasive species adaptive management plan, a risk analysis for high-risk invasive species in Nebraska, a multi-agency prevention protocol for preventing the spread of invasive species (terrestrial and aquatic), and identification of invasive species introduction pathways.
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Invasive species are a threat to both species and to beneficial ecosystem services. As the kind and type of invasive species means they fall under a large number of management entities, coordination across these entities is important. This project is a collaboration among all the entities with an interface with invasive species in the state of Nebraska, state and federal. Outputs include risk analyses, management recommendations, and information sharing across partners.
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Leveraging partial identity information to advance noninvasive genetic, remote camera, and bioacoustics sampling of animal populations and improve conservation decision making
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March 2020
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Over the past two decades, new technologies have affected the way we study and understand animal populations. New, noninvasive methods for monitoring wildlife species such as genetic data from hair or scat samples, remote cameras, and bioacoustic monitoring, have allowed researchers to collect more abundant data than was previously possible. However, to estimate population parameters relevant to conservation decisions such as population density and growth rates, individuals must be individually identifiable which is only possible for small subset of species for which individual identities are easily determined such as the flank patterns of tigers seen in photographs or species that yield high quality DNA samples. The vast majority of noninvasive applications do not always provide an unambiguous determination of individual identity.
Estimation methods that incorporate partial identity information have only recently been developed and have not been extended to accommodate most types of partial identity problems that arise with noninvasive sampling. Further, the importance of the spatial location where a noninvasive sample is collected in determining individual identity has only recently been recognized and this information greatly improves the utility of noninvasive methods and introduces new, more efficient, study design options. The key idea of what we termed “spatial partial identity” is that because animal populations are spatially structured, the location where a noninvasive sample was collected contains information about its individual identity.
This research will generalize and adapt the spatial partial identity model to accommodate three other types of noninvasive sampling methods— genetic material from scat or hair samples, remote camera studies of species with more ambiguous natural marks (e.g. pumas), and bioacoustics surveys—with the principal goal of extending the utility of noninvasive methods for improving conservation decisions to a wider range of threatened species.
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Over the past two decades, new technologies have affected the way we study and understand animal populations. New, noninvasive methods for monitoring wildlife species such as genetic data from hair or scat samples, remote cameras, and bioacoustic monitoring, have allowed researchers to collect more abundant data than was previously possible. However, to estimate population parameters relevant to conservation decisions such as population density and growth rates, individuals must be individually identifiable which is only possible for small subset of species for which individual identities are easily determined such as the flank patterns of tigers seen in photographs or species that yield high quality DNA samples. The vast majority of noninvasive applications do not always provide an unambiguous determination of individual identity.
Estimation methods that incorporate partial identity information have only recently been developed and have not been extended to accommodate most types of partial identity problems that arise with noninvasive sampling. Further, the importance of the spatial location where a noninvasive sample is collected in determining individual identity has only recently been recognized and this information greatly improves the utility of noninvasive methods and introduces new, more efficient, study design options. The key idea of what we termed “spatial partial identity” is that because animal populations are spatially structured, the location where a noninvasive sample was collected contains information about its individual identity.
This research will generalize and adapt the spatial partial identity model to accommodate three other types of noninvasive sampling methods— genetic material from scat or hair samples, remote camera studies of species with more ambiguous natural marks (e.g. pumas), and bioacoustics surveys—with the principal goal of extending the utility of noninvasive methods for improving conservation decisions to a wider range of threatened species.
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Wildlife Monitoring in the U.S. National Parks with Cell Phones
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September 2023
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The purpose of this pilot research effort is to incorporate adaptive management methodologies into the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore's Resource Stewardship Strategy (RSS). The primary focus is on monitoring wildlife species that vocalize, including birds and amphibians. This effort is intended to ensure that management actions taken to restore the wetlands and savannas at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore are effective. This critical research will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and approaches such as machine learning to recognize species. The use of cell phones to collect and transmit acoustic data and imagery automatically is novel and has potential to significantly benefit science, the local community, and recreational and educational opportunities.
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The purpose of this pilot research effort is to test a protocol for incorporating wildlife monitoring and analysis into the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore's Resource Stewardship Strategy (RSS). The Indiana Dunes is a model of active restoration of wetlands and savannas. Monitoring in real time can provide feedback on whether management activities have been successful in achieving the Lakeshore's management objectives. The project is a collaboration of researchers at the Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the U.S. National Park Service. This pilot study will place the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore's Resource Stewardship Strategy (RSS) into an adaptive management framework, which will facilitate management decisions in the future.
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YY-Male Brook Trout as an Eradication Tool of Wild Brook Trout Populations in New Mexico
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June 2022
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Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), native to northeastern North America, share some of the same resource requirements as other salmonids that inhabit cold high elevation streams. The species has invaded the western U.S. and is extirpating native fishes, especially when in sympatry with native trout. In New Mexico, native Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout (RGCT; Oncorhynchus clarkii virginalis) has experienced a decline due to loss of habitat and competition from non-native trout. Viable removal options for non-native trout are currently limited to chemical piscicides and manual removal. Piscicides are effective but costly and non-species specific. Manual removal can be species specific, but with a low success rate. In light of these management needs, recent development of the Trojan male (hereafter, referred to as MYY, a male fish with two Y chromosomes) Brook Trout offers a species specific and cost-effective method of eradicating invasive Brook Trout. MYY can only produce male offspring and will theoretically drive the wild Brook Trout population to 100% males and eventual eradication.<br>The goal of the proposed work will be to shift sex ratios of selected populations of wild Brook Trout toward all male fish and eventual extirpation. These populations of Brook Trout are of interest because they coexist with populations of RGCT, which are of conservation value due to low introgression and protection on public and private lands. In addition, the trout populations inhabit relatively short distances of stream (1-7 km) with few tributaries and barriers to prevent recurring invasion of wild Brook Trout. Beginning in 2018, we introduced fingerling MYY Brook Trout and have conducted seasonal surveys to characterize survival and growth of the MYY Brook Trout. We are working closely with our State cooperator (New Mexico Department of Game and Fish), a private entity (Turner Enterprises), and the Santa Fe National Forest to assess the utility of using MYY as an effective and cost-effective management tool for future conservation efforts of native fishes.
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Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) are native to northeastern North America and share some of the same resource requirements as other salmonids that inhabit cold high elevation streams. The fish has invaded the western U.S. and is extirpating native fishes. In New Mexico, native Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout (RGCT; Oncorhynchus clarkia virginalis) is experiencing a decline due to loss of habitat and competition from non-native trout. Viable removal options for non-native trout are limited to chemical piscicide and manual removal. While piscicide is effective, it eliminates all living organisms and manual removal has a low success rate. In light of these management needs, recent development of the "Trojan male" (hereafter, referred to as MYY, male fish with two Y chromosomes) Brook Trout offers a species specific and cost-effective method of eradicating invasive Brook Trout. MYY can only produce male offspring and will theoretically drive the wild Brook Trout population to 100% males and eventual eradication.The project will shift sex ratios of selected populations of wild Brook Trout toward all male fish and eventual extirpation. These populations of Brook Trout are of interest because they coexist with populations of RGCT, which are of conservation value. We are working closely with our State cooperator (New Mexico Department of Game and Fish), a private entity (Turner Enterprises), and the Santa Fe National Forest to assess the utility of using all male fish populations as non-lethal and efficient management tools for future conservation efforts of native fishes.
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Ecology of Canada geese in urban area of Iowa
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September 2021
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STUDY NEED:
Temperate breeding Canada geese (Branta canadensis maximus) were extirpated from Iowa in the early twentieth century until the Iowa Conservation Commission initiated a reintroduction program in 1964 (Bishop and Howing 1972). Iowa’s Canada goose population has gone from near zero to April population estimates that occasionally exceed 100,000 (Jones and Hancock 2014). At the same time Iowans perception of Canada geese has evolved from an uncommon and charismatic bird to a widespread species that is occasionally viewed as a nuisance. In recent years the estimated harvest of Canada geese in Iowa has exceeded that of mallards, an indication of the resilience and significance of this population (Raftovich et al 2017). It is critical that our monitoring and management keep pace with the changes this population is experiencing.
An unexpected behavior of Canada geese post-reintroduction has been their exploitation of urban and suburban environments (urban and suburban environments will be defined as those within municipal city limits, hereafter referred to as “urban areas”). Canada geese were initially re-introduced in rural marshes and were thought of as a wary bird requiring abundant wetland habitat, specifically cattail marshes. However, Canada geese have successfully exploited urban areas in Iowa and throughout North America (Balkom 2010 and Beston et al. 2014). Conflicts with Canada geese traditionally occurred in rural areas, specifically on emerging agricultural crops. Beginning in 2012 this pattern reversed and the majority of nuisance complaints regarding Canada geese now occur in urban areas (Bunger 2016).
The abundance of Canada geese in urban areas is resulting in novel problems that traditional management actions may not adequately address. The primary management action to control Canada goose populations has traditionally been recreational harvest (Iverson 2013). However, hunting is often limited in urban areas due to safety concerns and local ordinances. This may provide an opportunity for rapid population growth while at the same time geese become acclimated to humans due to their close proximity and artificial feeding by well-meaning citizens. This can result in a large goose population within city limits which may attract migrating geese thereby exacerbating the perceived size of the goose population. In these situations conflicts such as aggressive behavior by geese, fecal deposition, property damage, and vehicle collisions increase. Actions to mitigate conflicts can be controversial with varied opinions amongst stakeholders. In order to adequately develop management actions wildlife agencies require information on the ecology of Canada geese in urban areas. This information is generally lacking as the majority of research on Canada geese has occurred in rural areas.
STUDY OBJECTIVES:
Objective 1. Evaluate the movement of Canada geese captured in urban areas. Compare to the movement of geese captured in rural locations where the goose hunting season is closed. Determine the susceptibility of Canada geese captured in urban areas to hunting during the Special September Canada Goose season and the conventional Canada goose hunting season.
Objective 2. Estimate annual harvest and survival rates for Canada geese captured in urban areas. Evaluate a three age-class model to estimate harvest and survival rates of Canada geese in Iowa. Where possible incorporate both live recaptures and dead recoveries to improve statistical precision and accuracy.
STUDY EXPECTED RESULTS OR BENEFITS:
The primary benefit of this research will be an increased understanding of Canada geese in urban areas of Iowa. This will allow the Iowa DNR to develop management actions that will mitigate conflict caused by Canada geese in this novel environment. The DNR is striving to find a balance between managing a valuable wildlife resource and mitigating conflict. The results of this project will allow for an update and re-evaluation of Iowa DNR’s Canada Goose Management Plan (Jones and Hancock 2014). This project closely aligns with the first strategic goal identified in the Wildlife Research Section’s Strategic Plan “Iowa will have viable wildlife populations that are compatible with modern landscapes” (Iowa DNR 2016). Results will also be applicable to other states and provinces of the Mississippi Flyway, many of which are experiencing similar conflicts.
Specifically, the results of this project will answer questions regarding the movement of Canada geese in urban environments such as: Do geese captured in urban areas ever leave urban areas? Is there seasonal variation in the movement of urban geese? This project will also answer questions regarding the population dynamics of urban geese, such as a comparison of harvest and survival rates of urban geese and the statewide population.
Finally, this project will assess whether recreational harvest is an adequate tool to control urban populations or whether other, more direct management actions are warranted. The Iowa DNR currently allocates 9 of the 107 days available to hunt Canada geese to 3 zones surrounding urban areas during a Special September Canada Goose season. This season is intended to target nuisance geese in urban areas. However, the harvest and impact of this season on the population dynamics of geese in urban areas is unknown. The results of this project will allow the Iowa DNR to evaluate this season as a management tool to control Canada geese in urban areas.
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Iowa’s Canada goose population has gone from near zero to April population estimates that occasionally exceed 100,000. At the same time Iowans perception of Canada geese has evolved from an uncommon and charismatic bird to a widespread species that is occasionally viewed as a nuisance. In recent years the estimated harvest of Canada geese in Iowa has exceeded that of mallards, an indication of the resilience and significance of this population. We are partnering with Iowa Department of Natural Resources to determine movements of urban geese to determine their susceptibility to hunting and to estimate annual harvest and survival rates of Canada geese captured in urban areas. It is critical that our monitoring and management keep pace with the changes this population is experiencing.
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Evaluating Restored Mussel Population Genetics and Survivorship
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May 2020
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This project is focused on conservation of mussel Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN). Reintroducing mussel SGCN where the cause of extirpation has been reduced or eliminated will disperse risks to these species from locally catastrophic events, and increase species and river biota resilience to climate change. In Iowa 43 of the known 55 species are considered SGCN, while in Minnesota 30 of 52 known species are considered SGCN. Establishing viable mussel populations is the long-term goal of this work. A key assumption linking the actions of this project to that long-term goal is that mussels that are released at reintroduction sites will survive and grow to reproductive age. This can take 3-6 years depending on each species life history traits. Because the grant period only covers a portion of that timeframe, proportion of surviving mussels at release sites will serve as an interim indicator of progress toward the long-term goal.
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This project is focused on conservation of mussel Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN). Reintroducing mussel SGCN where the cause of extirpation has been reduced or eliminated will disperse risks to these species from locally catastrophic events, and increase species and river biota resilience to climate change. In Iowa 43 of the known 55 species are considered SGCN, while in Minnesota 30 of 52 known species are considered SGCN. Establishing viable mussel populations is the long-term goal of this work. A key assumption linking the actions of this project to that long-term goal is that mussels that are released at reintroduction sites will survive and grow to reproductive age. This can take 3-6 years depending on each species life history traits. Because the grant period only covers a portion of that timeframe, proportion of surviving mussels at release sites will serve as an interim indicator of progress toward the long-term goal.
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Spawning Potential Ratio Assessment and Sensitivity Analysis Utilizing Estimates of Age at Maturity and Fecundity for Yelloweye Rockfish in Prince William Sound, Alaska
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December 2020
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Yelloweye Rockfish (Sebastes ruberrimus) are a highly-valued catch in recreational and commercial fisheries throughout Alaska and make up an important portion of the subsistence harvest in communities along the Gulf of Alaska. However, no management or assessment strategies exist for Yelloweye Rockfish in Prince William Sound, and to date no abundance estimates have been made. In this study, we intend to create a framework or threshold for harvest that can be applied to the management of Yelloweye Rockfish in Prince William Sound. This project is a collaboration between the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The recreational harvest of Yelloweye Rockfish in Prince William Sound has been increasing for over 15 years. This harvest coupled with commercial removals could result in harvest level that is already exceeding a sustainable level. The project is directed towards the conservation of this specific species in a particular region where it has economic and cultural importance.
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Yelloweye Rockfish (Sebastes ruberrimus) are a highly-valued catch in recreational and commercial fisheries throughout Alaska and make up an important portion of the subsistence harvest in communities along the Gulf of Alaska. However, no management or assessment strategies exist for Yelloweye Rockfish in Prince William Sound, and to date no abundance estimates have been made. In this study, we intend to create a framework or threshold for harvest that can be applied to the management of Yelloweye Rockfish in Prince William Sound. This project is a collaboration between the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The recreational harvest of Yelloweye Rockfish in Prince William Sound has been increasing for over 15 years. This harvest coupled with commercial removals could result in harvest level that is already exceeding a sustainable level. The project is directed towards the conservation of this specific species in a particular region where it has economic and cultural importance.
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Juvenile Chinook Salmon Movement, Overwinter Survival, and Outmigration Timing in the Chena River, Alaska
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May 2021
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Since 2001, Chinook Salmon returning to the Yukon River drainage have been designated as a stock of concern by the Alaska Board of Fisheries, and the Chena River supports one of the largest spawning stocks in the Alaskan portion of the Yukon River drainage. The Chena River juvenile Chinook Salmon study will provide a method to estimate the outmigration timing and magnitude of smolt production from several rearing areas on a highly utilized stock. These estimates will lead to a mark-recapture study design that generates accurate and precise estimates of smolt abundance and marine survival that can improve the stock assessment models that are used to establish sustainable escapement goals. This study is a collaboration between the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Alaska Department of Fish and Game. This sampling design will generate accurate and precise estimates of timing into and out of the rearing areas as well as relative overwinter survival. These improved models will aid managers when making decisions about the Yukon River’s important subsistence, commercial, and sport fisheries. The project will also identify and characterize important fall rearing areas for juvenile Chinook Salmon. All components of this study are identified by the Yukon River Panel as information needs/actions. In addition, the ADF&G Chinook Salmon Initiative has identified juvenile Chinook Salmon information as an information gap for the Yukon River and the Chena River is one of the largest contributors to this stock.
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Since 2001, Chinook Salmon returning to the Yukon River drainage have been designated as a stock of concern by the Alaska Board of Fisheries, and the Chena River supports one of the largest spawning stocks in the Alaskan portion of the Yukon River drainage. The Chena River juvenile Chinook Salmon study will provide a method to estimate the outmigration timing and magnitude of smolt production from several rearing areas on a highly utilized stock. These estimates will lead to a mark-recapture study design that generates accurate and precise estimates of smolt abundance and marine survival that can improve the stock assessment models that are used to establish sustainable escapement goals. This study is a collaboration between the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Alaska Department of Fish and Game. This sampling design will generate accurate and precise estimates of timing into and out of the rearing areas as well as relative overwinter survival. These improved models will aid managers when making decisions about the Yukon River’s important subsistence, commercial, and sport fisheries. The project will also identify and characterize important fall rearing areas for juvenile Chinook Salmon. All components of this study are identified by the Yukon River Panel as information needs/actions. In addition, the ADF&G Chinook Salmon Initiative has identified juvenile Chinook Salmon information as an information gap for the Yukon River and the Chena River is one of the largest contributors to this stock.
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Assessing the Resilience of Southeast Alaskan Salmon to Shifting Temperature and Discharge Regimes Using a Life-Cycle Perspective Coupled with Community-Based Monitoring
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December 2021
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Salmon that spawn and rear in southeast Alaska (SEAK) forest streams are critically important to the region’s economic vitality and cultural identity. Environmental changes that compromise the ability of these streams to support salmon could have dramatic consequences for the region. In particular, there is concern that climate change could undermine the capacity of SEAK streams to support productive fisheries via alterations to water temperature and flow regimes via impacts on multiple freshwater life stages. Although life-cycle models that track salmon growth and survival across life stages have been developed for many at-risk populations throughout the southern range of salmon there have been limited efforts to expand this approach northward to Alaska. This project is a collaboration among the University of Alaska Fairbanks, U.S. Forest Service, and the Southeast Alaska Watershed Coalition. Results of our life cycle modeling for pink, chum, and coho salmon will increase the shared body of knowledge of Alaska watershed ecosystems and enhance community resilience. By presenting user-friendly versions of life-cycle models and model results to southeast Alaska community members and project partners, the project will enhance communities’ capacity to prepare for and adapt to environmental change by: 1) sharing knowledge of which systems are likely at-risk to help communities decide whether and how to mitigate and/or adapt to changes to local salmon resources; 2) training communities to use and adapt the life cycle models themselves, while continuing to serve as a resource for communities using the models; and 3) supporting community adaptation planning efforts via a climate scenarios planning session.
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Salmon that spawn and rear in southeast Alaska (SEAK) forest streams are critically important to the region’s economic vitality and cultural identity. Environmental changes that compromise the ability of these streams to support salmon could have dramatic consequences for the region. In particular, there is concern that climate change could undermine the capacity of SEAK streams to support productive fisheries via alterations to water temperature and flow regimes via impacts on multiple freshwater life stages. Although life-cycle models that track salmon growth and survival across life stages have been developed for many at-risk populations throughout the southern range of salmon there have been limited efforts to expand this approach northward to Alaska. This project is a collaboration among the University of Alaska Fairbanks, U.S. Forest Service, and the Southeast Alaska Watershed Coalition. Results of our life cycle modeling for pink, chum, and coho salmon will increase the shared body of knowledge of Alaska watershed ecosystems and enhance community resilience. By presenting user-friendly versions of life-cycle models and model results to southeast Alaska community members and project partners, the project will enhance communities’ capacity to prepare for and adapt to environmental change by: 1) sharing knowledge of which systems are likely at-risk to help communities decide whether and how to mitigate and/or adapt to changes to local salmon resources; 2) training communities to use and adapt the life cycle models themselves, while continuing to serve as a resource for communities using the models; and 3) supporting community adaptation planning efforts via a climate scenarios planning session.
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Boreal Aquatic Ecosystem Vulnerability to Fire and Climate Change
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May 2022
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Fire is the dominant ecological disturbance process in boreal forests and is natural and widespread. However, fire frequency, size and severity are increasing in Alaska owing to climate warming. Interactions among fire, climate, permafrost, vegetation and hydrologic and watershed processes are poorly understood, yet critical for conservation and management of boreal aquatic habitats in a changing environment. Our research will address this challenge on and around DoD lands in interior Alaska by combining a detailed field experiment and measurements with an integrated suite of spatially- and temporally-explicit climate, terrestrial, and aquatic habitat models to better our understanding of the effects of fire and climate change on aquatic communities in interior Alaska boreal ecosystems. Collaborators include the University of Alaska Fairbanks, USGS, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of Defense, and the Alaska Fire Science Consortium. The two primary goals of this project are to, 1) quantify fire effects on watershed- and local-scale aquatic habitats and the response of aquatic organisms on and adjacent to DoD lands in interior Alaska, and 2) integrate models that predict climate, fire, vegetation, hydrologic, and thermal dynamics to assess aquatic habitat and population vulnerability under a changing climate on and adjacent to DoD lands in interior Alaska. We will incorporate results from both objectives using a structured decision making (SDM) approach to define management objectives, decision options, management scenarios, and conduct cost-benefit analyses. The final product will be a web-based decision support tool developed to inform decision making.
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Fire is the dominant ecological disturbance process in boreal forests and is natural and widespread. However, fire frequency, size and severity are increasing in Alaska owing to climate warming. Interactions among fire, climate, permafrost, vegetation and hydrologic and watershed processes are poorly understood, yet critical for conservation and management of boreal aquatic habitats in a changing environment. Our research will address this challenge on and around DoD lands in interior Alaska by combining a detailed field experiment and measurements with an integrated suite of spatially- and temporally-explicit climate, terrestrial, and aquatic habitat models to better our understanding of the effects of fire and climate change on aquatic communities in interior Alaska boreal ecosystems. Collaborators include the University of Alaska Fairbanks, USGS, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of Defense, and the Alaska Fire Science Consortium. The two primary goals of this project are to, 1) quantify fire effects on watershed- and local-scale aquatic habitats and the response of aquatic organisms on and adjacent to DoD lands in interior Alaska, and 2) integrate models that predict climate, fire, vegetation, hydrologic, and thermal dynamics to assess aquatic habitat and population vulnerability under a changing climate on and adjacent to DoD lands in interior Alaska. We will incorporate results from both objectives using a structured decision making (SDM) approach to define management objectives, decision options, management scenarios, and conduct cost-benefit analyses. The final product will be a web-based decision support tool developed to inform decision making.
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Genetic and landscape level threat assessments and status review of the Candy Darter (Etheostoma osburni)
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August 2020
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The Candy Darter, an endemic fish of the New River drainage of Virginia and West Virginia, has experienced range reduction and introgressive hybridization with the introduced Variegate Darter. The Candy Darter was listed as an endangered species in November 2018. This study is documenting the extent of introgressive hybridization, and the existing threat of extinction for this species. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). Our results will have direct management and conservation implications for the Candy Darter. Results from the proposed study will provide (1) current data on the introgressive hybridization issue, (2) data on genetic diversity and population genetic structure, (3) a review and compilation of published and unpublished literature on the ecology of the species, and on range reduction based on historic and recent data, and (4) a landscape level threat assessment for the historic and current range of the Candy Darter using GIS-based methods.
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The Candy Darter, an endemic fish of the New River drainage of Virginia and West Virginia, has experienced range reduction and introgressive hybridization with the introduced Variegate Darter. The Candy Darter was listed as an endangered species in November 2018. This study is documenting the extent of introgressive hybridization, and the existing threat of extinction for this species. The project is a collaborative effort of the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). Our results will have direct management and conservation implications for the Candy Darter. Results from the proposed study will provide (1) current data on the introgressive hybridization issue, (2) data on genetic diversity and population genetic structure, (3) a review and compilation of published and unpublished literature on the ecology of the species, and on range reduction based on historic and recent data, and (4) a landscape level threat assessment for the historic and current range of the Candy Darter using GIS-based methods.
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Post-stocking survival of Rainbow Trout in Black Hills Reservoirs
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June 2021
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Harvest rate of stocked Rainbow Trout in small lakes and reservoirs (<40 acres) of the Black Hills, South Dakota is often well-below management objectives. To improve the cost/benefit of South Dakota's Rainbow Trout stocking program, a better understanding is needed of factors affecting survival of post-stocked trout. This project, in collaboration with South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, & Parks, is evaluating the influence of stocking density, food availability, water quality and catch-and-release fishing on survival of stocked Rainbow Trout in the Black Hills. The goal of the study is to make recommendations that enhance South Dakota’s put-and-take trout stocking program.
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Harvest rate of stocked Rainbow Trout in small lakes and reservoirs of the Black Hills, South Dakota is often well-below management objectives. Low harvest of put-and-take fisheries raises concerns about the costs (trout production) and benefits (angler use) of the Rainbow Trout stocking program. To improve the cost/benefit of the Rainbow Trout stocking program, a better understanding is needed of factors affecting survival of post-stocked trout. Toward this end, this project, in collaboration with South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks is evaluating the influence of stocking density, food availability, water quality and catch-and-release fishing on survival of stocked Rainbow Trout in the Black Hills. To better understand the reasons for poor return rates to anglers, the goals of this study are to make recommendations that enhance South Dakota’s put-and-take trout stocking program.
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Phenology and survival of migrating American eel
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December 2021
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Eels exhibit a complex, catadromous life history, migrating to the Sargasso Sea as large “silver” eels to spawn and die. Their progeny are carried by ocean currents as willow leaf–shaped leptocephalus larvae, metamorphosing into “glass” eels as they enter into river systems whereupon they initiate feeding and become “yellow” eels. Yellow eels take up residence in areas from the estuary to up river sites and grow. <br><br>This growth phase can last up to 25 years (Velez-Espino and Koops 2009) before undergoing a second transformation, including color change, to a downstream-migrating silver eel. Historically the American eel was the target species of a lucrative fishery (Baldwin et al. 1979), however this fishery has collapsed over the last few decades (Casselman 2003; MacGregor et al. 2008) and eels are in decline worldwide (Mathers and Stewart, 2009). Such declines are troubling as eels play an integral role in maintaining biotic integrity in fish communities (Meixler 2011). As such, eel conservation has become a high priority of both fishery managers and conservationists in many freshwater ecosystems.<br><br>One well documented source of mortality for silver eels is through hydroelectric facilities encountered during downstream migration (e.g. Carr and Whoriskey, 2008). Tagging studies have demonstrated that a majority of eels pass through turbines at hydroelectric facilities rather than using surface oriented bypass facilities (Brown et al., 2009). As a result, mortality from turbines at hydroelectric facilities can be significant (McCleave 2001, Durif et al. 2003) and serious injuries are observed in those that survive (Kiraly, University of Maine, unpublished data; Figure 1). Such a high loss of sexually mature adults can result in a substantial, negative impact on eel population dynamics. Decreasing mortality at dams is therefore an important conservation goal. Shutting down turbines during migration might satisfy conservation goals, but at an operational cost. Therefore the minimizing of such actions to mitigate eel loss is important to make the action financially feasible. <br>There is at present a rich body of literature on the timing of silver eel migration. The movement of eels occurs during a relatively short period in the fall, usually associated with episodes of high precipitation and high flow events (Durif and Elie 2008, Haro et al 2002, Haro 2003). In addition, eels tend to migrate at night and lunar phase is an important correlate of downstream migration. Despite numerous studies, there have been relatively few attempts to synthesize the existing information into a comprehensive model to predict eel migration (e.g. Haro et al., 2002; De Leo et al. 2009). Efforts that would allow sensitivity analysis of turbine shut down to conservation and financial objectives appear absent. Such a model could serve as a useful tool to managers to inform management and conservation decisions as to hydropower facility operation. <br><br>The proposed work will use field data to inform a predictive Bayesian forecasting modeling framework (e.g. Moravie et al. 2006) as to both timing of migration and behavior and survival at dams. Bayesian forecasting has proven to be an effective way to use available information and summarize the probability of future scenarios. As such, they have become an important tool in ecological management (Fabre et al. 2006, Moravie et al. 2006). In addition, Bayesian forecasting models are adaptable such that they can be updated as new information becomes available.
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In North America, American eels (<i>Anguilla rostrata</i>) were the focus of commercial fisheries in the 1970s–1980s but have since been listed as a depleted stock in the United States and have measures of protection in Canada. One significant source of eel mortality occurs during the downstream migration of silver eels through the turbines at hydroelectric facilities. We are working with NOAA, USFWS, TNC and NSF to study catch data of downstream migrating silver phase American eel collected by commercial fishermen in Maine . The proposed work will use field data to inform a predictive model of both timing of migration and behavior and survival at dams. Such information can be used to strategically apply mitigation efforts at dams to minimize mortality.
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Changed in patterns of estuarine use by diadromous fishes such as American shad and American Eel
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December 2019
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Since the early 20th century, passage by American shad past Veazie Dam (rkm 48) was biologically trivial. Spawning habitat for the population was restricted to the tidal estuary. Dam removals (Veazie and Great Works; rkm 60), and upstream fish passage modifications at other dams, are anticipated to reconnect American shad to most of their historic freshwater habitat upstream of Milford Dam (rkm 62). To assess how this change in access may influence estuarine use, we sampled both adult and juvenile shad. Adults were sampled in 2013-7 (cohorts restricted to the estuary; n= 540). Juveniles (n=220) were collected from the estuary (April to September), from 2011-4 (restricted to the estuary) and 2015-7 (connected to freshwater habitat). Otoliths were taken from all fish for age analysis; scales from adults were taken to assess spawning history. Adults were dominated by older age classes (4–8 yr) with a high incidence of repeat spawning. Otolith microchemistry (Sr and Ba) suggests that many juveniles were reared in elevated salinities, often moving into freshwater prior to fall migration. The general pattern of salinity use by juveniles has remained qualitatively unchanged post dam removal, likely reflective of low upstream recruitment.
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Spawning habitat for American shad in the Penobscot River was restricted to the tidal estuary prior to two dam removal. To assess how this change in access may influence estuarine use through otolith micro-chemistry to identify patterns of salinity use.
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Energetic impacts of passage delays in migrating adult Atlantic salmon
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June 2021
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Returns of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) have declined since the 1800s and remain low. Extensive restoration efforts have included recent dam removals in the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers. The current adult passage performance criteria at Milford Dam (Penobscot) includes 95% passage within 48 hours of approach. This threshold has not been met and adults have been delayed for weeks. In the Kennebec system, passage solutions and criteria will be negotiated in the near future for four dams. It is likely that the rationale for the 48h passage criteria will be reassessed, and challenged if proposed. The current state of knowledge with respect to metabolic costs and fitness outcomes for delayed Atlantic salmon is not robust and there currently exists no clear quantification of risk associated with delay. We propose to characterize specific energetic costs of delays to upstream migrating adult salmon using bioenergetics modeling. This work will be informed by i) field assessments of water temperatures, ii) energetic assessment of adults, and iii) the thermal experience of adults. In the end we hope to compare the range of thermal experiences of these fish during their spawning migration, and quantify the theoretical risks of delays at dams that subject these fish to warmer temperatures. This work is central to ensuring effective passage to and from spawning habitat, a key objective for recovery of this federally endangered species. It is particularly relevant as the Gulf of Maine DPS of Atlantic salmon is currently NOAA’s Species in the Spotlight and the State of Maine Strategic Plan for the Restoration of Diadromous Fishes to the Penobscot River lists “improving fish passage” as a central objective for recovery.
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Atlantic salmon runs in the Penobscot and Kennebec Rivers of Maine are federally endangered and remain low. Inefficient fishways at dams continue to slow and prevent upstream migrations to spawning habitat; delays of weeks to months are common. These delays expose fish to elevated water temperatures, resulting in increased metabolic demand. These energetic costs have not been quantified, nor have fitness outcomes been characterized, but energy loss may influence gonadal development, spawning performance and probability of surviving to spawn again. We are working with NOAA nad Maine Department of Marine Resources to better understand this risk. We propose to characterize specific energetic costs of delays to upstream migrating adult salmon using bioenergetics modeling. This work will be informed by i) field assessments of water temperatures, ii) energetic assessment of adults, and iii) the thermal experience of adults. These results will inform dam passage criteria standards for these fish.
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Understanding decision-making behavior regarding fish passage and management in New England.
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December 2019
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Decision-making regarding dams in New England stands at a crossroad. Over 52 dams in Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island will require FERC relicensing in the next decade, many are approaching their design life, and, as evidenced by the groundswell of support for the watershed-scale Penobscot River Restoration project in Maine, preferences for dams and ecosystem services are changing. However, despite increased momentum for change and renewed calls to consider a broader range of options including removal, dams remain a symbol of cultural identity, economic prosperity, and technological innovation; they represent a source for clean energy and an opportunity for recreation. Reconciling these competing demands is difficult and decisions are often fraught with intense controversy as stakeholders face uncertainties related to different management options. Placed squarely at the center of the contentious debate is numerous federal and state resource and regulatory agencies charged with the difficult task of balancing ecological, economic, and social tradeoffs related to dam relicensing decisions. <br>Numerous federal and state agencies assert jurisdiction over dam projects, and a confusing array of laws and policies inform dam relicensing, removal, retrofit, and on-going operations. As key stakeholders in the process, however, agencies have the unique opportunity to serve as “agents of change.” Through interagency coordination and engagement with stakeholders including private landowners, non-governmental organizations, municipal governments, and industry, agencies have the capacity to mobilize action at the basin-wide scale using a range of regulatory and non-regulatory tools. Conceptual “blueprints” for basin-scale hydropower development have been introduced (e.g., NOAA’s Basin-Scale Opportunity Assessment Initiative), and existing regulatory tools (e.g., compensatory mitigation under the Clean Water Act) and planning programs (e.g., Partners for Fish and Wildlife) can potentially be targeted to inform decision-making. To date, these decision frameworks and “hooks” have proven more difficult to implement in practice. Instead agency actions tend to be case-specific and reactive in response to individual projects and events rather than proactive, considering alternative actions and consequences before issues reach a boiling point. Research and engagement targeted at understanding agency actions and perspectives including knowledge gaps and challenges faced in the relicensing process is urgently needed to inform more proactive basin-scale decision-making at this critical juncture in dam decision-making.
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Over 52 dams in Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island will require FERC relicensing in the next decade, many are approaching their design life, and preferences for dams and ecosystem services are changing. Research and engagement targeted at understanding agency actions and perspectives including knowledge gaps and challenges faced in the relicensing process is urgently needed to inform more proactive basin-scale decision-making at this critical juncture in dam decision-making.
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Optimizing strategies to hydraulically plant Atlantic salmon eggs based on fry dispersal patterns
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December 2021
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The Gulf of Maine Distinct Population Segment of Atlantic salmon has suffered from habitat loss and exploitation over the last century. Hatchery supplementation has unquestionably prevented the extirpation of the species over the last decades. Stocking older life history stages minimizes early life history mortality, but does so at a cost of limiting exposure to a natural freshwater environment. Egg planting is a process by which fertilized eggs from the hatchery are injected into the gravel in the fall replicates the natural spawning process in streams and provides a natural experience which can be important for adaptation. This methodology has been used experimentally within the region, but significant uncertainties exist in developing the effective implementation of this method at a greater scale. Specifically, the habitat dependent distribution of juveniles after emergence from the gravel would provide information necessary to apply the technique to meet conservation hatchery goals with respect to fall parr densities. We propose to characterize the dispersal pattern of egg planted Atlantic salmon as a function of habitat and use these data to construct a GIS based tool to inform stocking. This work, if successful, can help to optimize the application of egg planting at a management level.
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Hatchery supplementation has unquestionably prevented the extirpation of Atlantic salmon over the last decades. However, the Gulf of Main DPS of Atlantic salmon is listed as endangered under the ESA. We propose to characterize the dispersal pattern of egg planted Atlantic salmon as a function of habitat and use these data to construct a GIS based tool to inform stocking. To do so we are collaborating with USFWS, NOAA, Maine Department of Marine Resources and the Penobscot Indian Nation. This work, if successful, can help to optimize the application of egg planting at a management level.
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Integrated abundance and movement models for marine mammals
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March 2021
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Capture-recapture and telemetry methods are frequently used to evaluate marine mammal density, habitat use, and movement, providing important information on sustainable harvest, the effects of a warming environment, and spatial and temporal overlap with commercial fisheries. In general, capture-recapture methods provide population-level demographic parameters, while telemetry methods provide individual level information on habitat use, movement, and behavior. Although the two approaches share information on population dynamics, the resulting data are generally analyzed separately, which can lead to inefficient estimators and substantial bias. We propose development of a framework for integrating spatial capture–recapture (SCR) and telemetry data to simultaneously estimate density, habitat use, and movement of marine mammals. Integrated SCR telemetry models have the potential to (1) address shortcomings of traditional capture-recapture methods; (2) allow estimation of abundance, density, movement, dispersal, and habitat selection using all available data; and (3) be applied across a variety of study designs used for marine mammal monitoring. We propose to develop SCR-telemetry models using capture-recapture and telemetry data for polar bears in the Chukchi Sea during the period 2008 – 2016. We also propose to use simulation methods to evaluate the performance of SCR-telemetry models and provide monitoring design recommendations of broad applicability to polar bears and other marine mammals. Improved monitoring methods are critical to obtaining accurate information on polar bear abundance and distribution, which is needed for management and conservation under national laws and international agreements, and SCR-telemetry methods show great promise for providing that information. More broadly, SCR-telemetry models provide researchers and managers with a framework to integrate multiple data types – including data from<br>emerging technologies (e.g., satellite tags, acoustic sampling, autonomous drones) – to improve the accuracy and efficiency of marine mammal monitoring programs across the Arctic.
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There is an increasing need to identify population- and individual-level responses to rapid physical and biological changes in Arctic marine ecosystems. For Arctic marine mammals that range over large areas, reliable and efficient methods to estimate movement and demographic parameters are vital to evaluating ecosystem-level changes, population status, and subsistence harvest, and minimizing conflicts with humans and resource development. Advanced statistical models that accommodate the particular challenges of studying wide-ranging marine mammals are needed. This project is a collaboration between researchers at the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the US Geological Survey Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the University of Washington Applied Physics Laboratory. The goal of the work is to provide recommendations to management agencies such as the US Fish and Wildlife Service regarding data collection and analysis methods to improve knowledge of marine mammal, particularly polar bear, demography.
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Evaluating the status and distributions of bats in WNS-free areas using standardized acoustic monitoring data from the North American Bat Monitoring Program (RWO118)
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August 2023
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White-nose syndrome has decimated hibernating bat populations across North America since it emerged 10 years ago in New York. The North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat) was established to assess the true ecological impacts of these unprecedented declines, providing standardized monitoring protocols and a continental-scale collaborative framework to evaluate the status and distributions of bat species. After four years of conducting the survey an assessment to date of species distribution and changes therein, and distribution of results to partners, is needed. Furthermore, an assessment of the monitoring design and sampling methods is also needed, to inform the survey moving forward. The project is a collaboration among the USGS-COCFWRU, the USGS Fort Collins Science Center, the USGS Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, the USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Science Center, the NPS Upper Columbia Basin Network, and numerous partners throughout the range of the NABat monitoring program. Maps of distribution and status of bat populations to date will provide a baseline for comparison with further encroachment by white-nose syndrome and other threats. Evaluation of the survey methods and data will inform refinement of the NABat monitoring program, to make it more efficient and robust, leading to publication of the State of North America’s Bats report in 2021.
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White-nose syndrome has decimated hibernating bat populations across North America since it emerged 10 years ago in New York. The North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat) was established to assess the true ecological impacts of these unprecedented declines, providing standardized monitoring protocols and a continental-scale collaborative framework to evaluate the status and distributions of bat species. After four years of conducting the survey an assessment to date of species distribution and changes therein, and distribution of results to partners, is needed. Furthermore, an assessment of the monitoring design and sampling methods is also needed, to inform the survey moving forward. The project is a collaboration among the USGS-COCFWRU, the USGS Fort Collins Science Center, the USGS Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, the USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Science Center, the NPS Upper Columbia Basin Network, and numerous partners throughout the range of the NABat monitoring program. Maps of distribution and status of bat populations to date will provide a baseline for comparison with further encroachment by white-nose syndrome and other threats. Evaluation of the survey methods and data will inform refinement of the NABat monitoring program, to make it more efficient and robust, leading to publication of the State of North America’s Bats report in 2021.
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Restoration tools for Oregon silverspot butterfly
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September 2020
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USFWS plans to reestablish populations of the severely endangered Oregon silverspot butterfly on two National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) in Oregon and Washington. Maintaining suitable habitat for Oregon silverspot is challenging. Oregon silverspot larvae need high densities of their host plant, early blue violet to develop into adult butterflies and the violets are an early successional species that is outcompeted by invasive plants. The project goal is to support refuge managers in deciding whether two selective herbicides should be used to maintain native prairie in the presence of Oregon silverspot. As part of the project, laboratory research will be conducted, and a management model will be developed to inform managers of the impacts of treatment with herbicides on Oregon silverspot viability.
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The severely endangered Oregon silverspot butterfly is slated for reintroduction on two National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) in Oregon and Washington, but maintaining suitable habitat for the Oregon silverspot post-reintroduction is challenging. Oregon silverspot larvae need high densities of their host plant, early blue violet, to develop into adult butterflies, and the violets are an early successional species that is outcompeted by invasive plants. The goal of this project is to support refuge managers in deciding whether two selective herbicides should be used to maintain native prairie in the presence of Oregon silverspot. This project is a collaboration between the Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Washington State University, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. As part of the project, laboratory research will be conducted, and a management model will be developed to inform managers of the impacts of treatment with herbicides on Oregon silverspot viability.
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Evaluating avian use of cover crop fields in the Corn Belt
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July 2021
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Fall-seeded cover crops are an emerging technology in the upper Midwest, intended to improve soil health, crop yields, and reduce erosion. Wildlife benefits may also be realized from the planting of cover crops, but because a row crop is planted and harvested, often during the avian nesting season, the impact on wildlife, and avifauna in particular is largely unknown. In this study, we will evaluate breeding bird use and, to a smaller extent, nest survival of grassland nesting songbirds in cover crops in Iowa.
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Fall-seeded cover crops are a re-emerging technology in the upper Midwest, intended to improve soil health, crop yields, and reduce erosion. Wildlife benefits may also be realized from the planting of cover crops, but because a row crop is planted and harvested, often during the avian nesting season, the impact on wildlife, and avifauna in particular is largely unknown. In this study, we will evaluate breeding bird use and, to a smaller extent, nest survival of grassland nesting songbirds in cover crops in Iowa. The work is funded by the Natural Resource Conservation Service and is being conducted with a complementary study through Iowa State University. Results from this work will provide managers with critical information about the avifaunal benefits - or detriments - of incentivizing fall-seeded cover crops. Should this practice end up being an ecological trap for birds, managers can focus on complementary programs to offset cover cropping, which has clear soil health and water quality implications.
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Ecology of post-breeding mallards in North and South Dakota
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December 2020
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Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) are one of the most heavily-studied waterfowl species, yet sparse research investigated their ecology during the post-fledging period, prior to fall migration. The behavior and physiology of young mallards during this time may be unique as they learn to fly and navigate, exploit new forage and wetland types, develop settling and social cues, molt, avoid predators, changes social status and bonds, and anticipate migration. Indeed, these life-history events differ considerably from those of adult mallards, suggesting there may be important differences in movement patterns and habitat requirements between adults and juveniles. Past waterfowl studies of movement ecology faced technical limitations due to transmitter size, strength and range of tracking equipment, and cost. However, the advent of new satellite technology, reduced transmitter size and cost, and increased battery life now allows investigation of avian movements over larger spatial and temporal extents. Survival of juvenile mallards during the autumn is also an integral component of recruitment to the breeding population, and the ability to these new technologies, specific to hatch year mallards during this sensitive time,, will provide critical information to inform management decisions in North and South Dakota.
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Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) are one of the most heavily-studied waterfowl species, yet sparse research investigated their ecology during the post-fledging period, prior to fall migration. The behavior and physiology of young mallards during this time may be unique as they learn to fly and navigate, exploit new forage and wetland types, develop settling and social cues, molt, avoid predators, changes social status and bonds, and anticipate migration. Indeed, these life-history events differ considerably from those of adult mallards, suggesting there may be important differences in movement patterns and habitat requirements between adults and juveniles. Past waterfowl studies of movement ecology faced technical limitations due to transmitter size, strength and range of tracking equipment, and cost. However, the advent of new satellite technology, reduced transmitter size and cost, and increased battery life now allows investigation of avian movements over larger spatial and temporal extents. This project intends to use the recent technology of GPS/GSM implantable transmitters to address these questions in mallards. The work is conducted through South Dakota State University, is supported by Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act funds administered through North Dakota Game and Fish and the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks, and in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey's Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. Because survival of juvenile mallards during the autumn is an integral component of recruitment to the breeding population, understanding the ecology of hatch-year mallards during this sensitive time will provide critical information to inform management decisions, such as habitat acquisition and harvest regulation, in North and South Dakota.
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Predator Cascade and Nest Success: Changes in Foraging Patterns as a Function of Grassland Patch Dynamics and Vegetation Composition
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June 2021
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Predator-prey interactions influence vital rates and predation is a major cause of nest failure of ground-nesting birds (e.g., waterfowl). With continued grassland loss associated with conversion to row crop agriculture, and changing predator communities (e.g., declines in red fox, active coyote control), understanding how habitat dynamics influence predator-prey interactions and nest success of ground-nesting birds will improve development of comprehensive management recommendations for remaining grasslands, restoration or reclamation efforts, and for active management programs that wish to modify grassland regimes or predator communities themselves to improve nesting habitat and nest survival.
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Predator-prey interactions influence vital rates and predation is a major cause of nest failure of ground-nesting birds (i.e., ring-necked pheasants, waterfowl). Predator movements are influenced by patch dynamics and spatial configuration of patches on the landscape; understanding the ecology of predation and predator movements is critical to explain predator-prey interactions, habitat use (spatial and temporal), and foraging of nest predators. Movements also are influenced by vegetation composition and structural heterogeneity of vegetation and abiotic habitat components. Grassland patch dynamics can influence nest success of ground-nesting birds. Larger blocks of grassland have been associated with increased nest success of waterfowl, whereas multiple patches of intermediate-sized grassland within agricultural landscapes were associated with low nest success, most likely from predation. Finally, variation in the composition of the predator community can influence nest survival and influence nest-site selection. Identifying habitat characteristics associated with high reproduction and survival of grassland-nesting birds is an important research priority, particularly with respect to the “predator context”. This research is being conducted through South Dakota State University and is supported by a grant from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act Fund (Pittman-Robertson) administered through the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks. With continued grassland loss associated with conversion to row crop agriculture, and changing predator communities (e.g., declines in red fox, active coyote control), understanding how habitat dynamics influence predator-prey interactions and nest success of ground-nesting birds will improve development of comprehensive management recommendations for remaining grasslands, restoration or reclamation efforts, and for active management programs that wish to modify grassland regimes or predator communities themselves to improve nesting habitat and nest survival.
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Flow-ecology relationships of Red River stream fishes
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December 2020
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Changes in weather patterns and anthropogenic disturbance have severely altered stream ecosystems. Consequently, stream fishes are declining at an alarming rate due in part to changes to flow regimes. Despite improved theoretical perspectives and analytical advancements, stream fish flow-ecology relationships remain poorly understood. This project is a collaboration among multiple U.S. Geological Survey Water Science Centers and the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit to provide tools to stakeholders needed to allow stakeholders to develop policies that balance human water-use needs with the ecological integrity of aquatic ecosystems. We are using modeled streamflow data and assemblage-level surveys from 1980-2016 to examine flow-ecology relationships of Red River stream fishes. In addition to providing important ecological information, the model will be used to predict future Red River stream fish distributions under different climate change and groundwater pumping scenarios. The resulting models from the ecological portion of the project will contribute to the development of conservation and management strategies and water-use policies in the south-central United States.
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Changes in weather patterns and anthropogenic disturbance have severely altered stream ecosystems. Consequently, stream fishes are declining at an alarming rate due in part to changes to flow regimes. Despite improved theoretical perspectives and analytical advancements, stream fish flow-ecology relationships remain poorly understood. This project is a collaboration among multiple U.S. Geological Survey Water Science Centers and the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit to provide tools to stakeholders needed to allow stakeholders to develop policies that balance human water-use needs with the ecological integrity of aquatic ecosystems. We are using modeled streamflow data and assemblage-level surveys from 1980-2016 to examine flow-ecology relationships of Red River stream fishes. In addition to providing important ecological information, the model will be used to predict future Red River stream fish distributions under different climate change and groundwater pumping scenarios. The resulting models from the ecological portion of the project will contribute to the development of conservation and management strategies and water-use policies in the south-central United States.
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Evaluating sustainable water availability in drought prone watersheds of southeast Oklahoma
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March 2020
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A better understanding of how drought and fragmentation of watersheds interact to structure aquatic communities, alter the vulnerability of species to local extirpation, and determine the trajectory of recovery from disturbance is needed to inform proactive conservation and management actions. This project is a collaboration between the Chickasaw Nation, Aquastrategies, and the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Our objective is to examine the effects of previous droughts on fish populations. We will compile fisheries data sets that have been temporally replicated within the Red River Basin. Hydrologic regime will be characterized to develop statistical relationships among fish traits, species, and indicators of drought. Our results will show which traits are most susceptible to drought, and which spatial locations have been most problematic for recovery following drought. The resulting model will be useful to developing water-management strategies in the basin that support both vulnerable fish populations and human needs.
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A better understanding of how drought and fragmentation of watersheds interact to structure aquatic communities, alter the vulnerability of species to local extirpation, and determine the trajectory of recovery from disturbance is needed to inform proactive conservation and management actions. This project is a collaboration between the Chickasaw Nation, Aquastrategies, and the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Our objective is to examine the effects of previous droughts on fish populations. We will compile fisheries data sets that have been temporally replicated within the Red River Basin. Hydrologic regime will be characterized to develop statistical relationships among fish traits, species, and indicators of drought. Our results will show which traits are most susceptible to drought, and which spatial locations have been most problematic for recovery following drought. The resulting model will be useful to developing water-management strategies in the basin that support both vulnerable fish populations and human needs.
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Development of eDNA metabarcoding methods to identify invasive species and examine community structure
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June 2020
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Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance has potential to make traditional fishery surveys and detection of invasive fishes more efficient and economical, but the development and standardization of this tool has been inefficient due to focusing on individual species. UMESC has more than 25 years of fish survey data collected from the Mississippi River as part of the Long-Term Resource Monitoring (LTRM) program, while the University of Wisconsin-Madison has been recording fish capture data from several lakes Wisconsin as part of their North Temperate Lakes Long-Term Ecological Research (NTL-LTER) program since 1981. Using the survey data and a comprehensive life-history database for fishes captured in the Upper Midwest, we will evaluate the utility of different eDNA sampling techniques with present and past catch data and identify which life-history traits correlate with eDNA detection. The resultant model will be incorporated into an electronic interface that natural resource managers and scientists can access to determine if eDNA is the right tool and, if so, what method should be used.
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Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance has potential to make traditional fishery surveys and detection of invasive fishes more efficient and economical, but the development and standardization of this tool has been inefficient due to focusing on individual species.
A more efficient and economical tool, environmental DNA (eDNA) shows great promise as a new monitoring tool to help inform resource managers. However, current eDNA methods are being developed on a species by species basis, which is costly and extremely inefficient.
The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the U.S.G.S. Upper Midwest Environmental Science Center and the UW-Madison Center for Limnology.
This project will develop a tool that resource managers can use to assist in decision making and more efficiently manage invasive fishes at the regional and national scales. Cost effective management of aquatic invasive species is dependent upon early detection and traditional techniques are costly and laborious.
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Fire refugia in late-successional forests: Predicting habitat persistence to support land management in an era of rapid global change
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June 2021
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Recent stand-replacing wildfires in late-successional and old-growth and the threat of increasing wildfire extent and severity predicted under climate change for the US Pacific Northwest (PNW), have increased land manager interest in fire refugia in late-successional and old-growth (LSOG) forests. Forest fire refugia (i.e., places that remain unburned or experience minimal tree mortality compared to surrounding areas) - are key components of contemporary burn mosaics, and can provide vital habitat for threatened and endangered species, including northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet and red tree voles. However, conservation practitioners lack information on which locations are protected from, versus vulnerable to, high-severity, stand-replacing fire. Contemporary refugia have been identified as priority locations for biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation strategies at both regional and national scales. However, little is known about the predictability of LSOG forest fire refugia in the PNW.The overall goal of this project is to work with land managers to produce maps of the probability of contemporary fire refugia and stand-replacing fire in LSOG forests based on topography, fuels, fire weather, and climate. Leveraging the skills and expertise of a collaborative research team from OSU, USDA FS-PNW, USGS-FRESC, and USGS-CRU, we will model, map, and share information essential for the conservation of LSOG forest ecosystems in the PNW. These maps and associated products will provide timely information about the likely persistence and loss of LSOG forests under current and future climate conditions.
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Recent stand-replacing wildfires in late-successional and old-growth and the threat of increasing wildfire extent and severity predicted under climate change for the US Pacific Northwest (PNW), have increased land manager interest in fire refugia in late-successional and old-growth (LSOG) forests. Forest fire refugia (i.e., places that remain unburned or experience minimal tree mortality compared to surrounding areas) - are key components of contemporary burn mosaics, and can provide vital habitat for threatened and endangered species, including northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet and red tree voles. However, conservation practitioners lack information on which locations are protected from, versus vulnerable to, high-severity, stand-replacing fire. Contemporary refugia have been identified as priority locations for biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation strategies at both regional and national scales. However, little is known about the predictability of LSOG forest fire refugia in the PNW. The overall goal of this project is to work with land managers to produce maps of the probability of contemporary fire refugia and stand-replacing fire in LSOG forests based on topography, fuels, fire weather, and climate. Leveraging the skills and expertise of a collaborative research team from OSU, USDA FS-PNW, USGS-FRESC, and USGS-CRU, we will model, map, and share information essential for the conservation of LSOG forest ecosystems in the PNW. These maps and associated products will provide timely information about the likely persistence and loss of LSOG forests under current and future climate conditions.
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Greater Sage Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) Response to Habitat Restoration Efforts in the Devils Garden Plateau of Northern California and Southern Oregon
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March 2023
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Range-wide declines in greater sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) have been attributed to habitat alteration and fragmentation. Once abundant throughout the Devils Garden Plateau of southern Oregon and northern California, sage-grouse have declined significantly and there is a strong correlation between decreased sage-grouse abundance and the loss or fragmentation of sagebrush in the region due to juniper encroachment. Landscape-scale modeling has shown that juniper encroachment negatively impacts sage-grouse, and recent research has positively linked sage-grouse demographics to juniper removal activities. In 2005, the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex (KBNWRC) in collaboration with ranchers, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), Bureau of Lan Management (BLM), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and United States Forest Service (USFS) initiated a sagebrush restoration effort and grouse translocation program to augment sage-grouse numbers, and prevent extirpation of the Devils Garden population on the Clear Lake NWR. Anecdotal accounts suggest birds are seasonally moving throughout restored areas; however, these earlier monitoring efforts were conducted opportunistically and without targeted objectives, resulting in limited quantitative data. In collaboration with USFWS and OSU, this current project will attempt to fill knowledge gaps regarding dispersal ecology, seasonal movement patterns and demographics relative to landscape distribution of seasonal habitat, and habitat condition (structure, hydrology) for sage-grouse in this area. Strategic and successful habitat restoration in Devils Garden is contingent on collecting this information to address management objectives for meeting seasonal habitat requirements of grouse while promoting landscape connectivity and broader ecosystem benefits including hydrologic efficiencies and habitat resiliency.
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Range-wide declines in greater sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) have been attributed to habitat alteration and fragmentation. Once abundant throughout the Devils Garden Plateau of southern Oregon and northern California, sage-grouse have declined significantly and there is a strong correlation between decreased sage-grouse abundance and the loss or fragmentation of sagebrush in the region due to juniper encroachment. Landscape-scale modeling has shown that juniper encroachment negatively impacts sage-grouse, and recent research has positively linked sage-grouse demographics to juniper removal activities. In 2005, the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex (KBNWRC) in collaboration with ranchers, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), Bureau of Lan Management (BLM), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and United States Forest Service (USFS) initiated a sagebrush restoration effort and grouse translocation program to augment sage-grouse numbers, and prevent extirpation of the Devils Garden population on the Clear Lake NWR. Anecdotal accounts suggest birds are seasonally moving throughout restored areas; however, these earlier monitoring efforts were conducted opportunistically and without targeted objectives, resulting in limited quantitative data. In collaboration with USFWS and OSU, this current project will attempt to fill knowledge gaps regarding dispersal ecology, seasonal movement patterns and demographics relative to landscape distribution of seasonal habitat, and habitat condition (structure, hydrology) for sage-grouse in this area. Strategic and successful habitat restoration in Devils Garden is contingent on collecting this information to address management objectives for meeting seasonal habitat requirements of grouse while promoting landscape connectivity and broader ecosystem benefits including hydrologic efficiencies and habitat resiliency.
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Genetic assessment of Boardman River fish populations prior to dam removal
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August 2020
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Fragmentation caused by dams can fundamentally alter population structure and genetic diversity of fish species that once had access to a continuous river system. Providing fish passage has potential to remedy these impacts, but few studies have directly quantified the effectiveness of fish passage for restoring genetic connectivity and increasing genetic diversity. The FishPass project on the Boardman River represents a unique opportunity to investigate this topic. Fish populations above the Union Street Dam have been isolated from Traverse Bay since the dam’s construction in 1867. The FishPass project will restore connectivity between the Boardman River and Traverse Bay, allowing species such as walleye, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, white sucker, and rock bass to access the upper reaches of the river. Collecting baseline genetic data from these species as well as eDNA water samples from sites above and below the dam will allow us to determine the genetic impact of fish passage on fish populations above the dam and investigate distribution patterns of species that are being passed. We hypothesize that decreases in genetic differentiation between populations above and below the dam and increases in genetic diversity of above dam populations will be detectable 5-10 years after fish passage has been initiated. However, it is likely that these effects will vary substantially by species due to differences in life history. We also hypothesize that eDNA will represent a useful tool for monitoring species diversity and distribution patterns.
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Fish populations above the Union Street Dam on the Boardman River have been isolated from Traverse Bay since the dam’s construction in 1867, but fish passage will soon be implemented on the river.
Collecting baseline genetic data from fish species as well as eDNA water samples from sites above and below the dam will allow us to determine the genetic impact of fish passage on fish populations above the dam and investigate distribution patterns of species that are being passed.
This research is part of the FishPass project, a collaborative effort involving multiple state and federal agencies including the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Geological Survey, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Our research will help determine the impacts of fish passage on genetic structure and species diversity and will be used to inform fish passage strategies at the Union Street Dam and beyond.
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Using genomic tools to investigate adaptive diversity in great lakes cisco
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December 2019
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The overall goal of the proposed research is to develop a genetic management plan for Great Lakes cisco that will include definition of conservation units based on neutral and adaptive differentiation as well as identification of suitable broodstock sources and stocking locations. Cisco restoration will likely represent a multidecadal effort with many successes and setbacks, similar to restoration of lake trout in the Great Lakes. It is vitally important to guide this restoration effort using the best data available to increase the probability of success while preventing irreparable damage to the genetic integrity of extant populations. The genetic management plan that we are proposing to create will provide an important guide for management agencies and will help to ensure that the adaptive diversity found within the vast array of cisco species and forms is maintained.
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Cisco are an important forage fish species in the Great Lakes that have experienced significant population declines due to various factors such as changes in lake productivity and introductions of invasive species. Recently, resource management agencies have prioritized cisco restoration and are anxious to take action.
Cisco species vary in a number of morphological characteristics, but it is unclear whether this variation corresponds to heritable genetic differences. Understanding the landscape of adaptive variation in cisco will help to inform future management and restoration efforts.
This project is a collaboration between the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, USGS Great Lakes Science Center, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Little Traverse Band of Odawa Indians, and Laval University.
The genetic data obtained here will be combined with the genetic linkage map that we are developing to improve our understanding of adaptive genetic differentiation in cisco across the Great Lakes. These data will help resource managers prioritize populations for conservation and choose broodstock for restoration efforts.
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Barred owls in the Pacific Northwest: using an experimental removal project to understand predator-prey interactions of a non-native raptor.
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March 2023
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The barred owl (Strix varia) is a medium-sized forest owl native to eastern North America (Mazur and James 2000). Starting in the late 1800’s, the barred owl began expanding its geographic range north and west, and their newly expanded range now completely overlaps that of the federally threatened northern spotted owl. Strong evidence indicates that competition with invading barred owls is causing rapid declines in populations of spotted owls, and that in some portions of the Pacific Northwest, barred owls now occur at much greater densities relative to spotted owls. However, little research exists on the overall impacts of this newly established apex predator on other forest species (besides spotted owls) and food-web dynamics. In collaboration with USGS-FRESC and USFWS, this project will take advantage of the experimental design associated with an on-going barred owl removal experiment to evaluate the impact this novel avian predator is having on the food web in the PNW. Understanding the impact of barred owls on the food web is critical for spotted owls and other native species, particularly as barred owl densities reach carrying capacity in the PNW.
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The barred owl (Strix varia) is a medium-sized forest owl native to eastern North America (Mazur and James 2000). Starting in the late 1800’s, the barred owl began expanding its geographic range north and west, and their newly expanded range now completely overlaps that of the federally threatened northern spotted owl. Strong evidence indicates that competition with invading barred owls is causing rapid declines in populations of spotted owls, and that in some portions of the Pacific Northwest, barred owls now occur at much greater densities relative to spotted owls. However, little research exists on the overall impacts of this newly established apex predator on other forest species and general food-web dynamics. In collaboration with USGS-FRESC and USFWS, this project will take advantage of the experimental design associated with an on-going barred owl removal experiment to evaluate the impact this novel avian predator is having on the food web in the PNW. Understanding the impact of barred owls on the food web is critical for spotted owls and other native species, particularly as barred owl densities begin to reach carrying capacity.
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Temperature and Winter Duration Requirements for Reproductive Success in Johnny Darter, Etheostoma nigrum (Percidae), in the South Platte River Basin, Colorado
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June 2021
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Water temperature is a critical ecological variable and changes in water temperature and its seasonal timing may influence biological processes in aquatic ectotherms. Historically, the South Platte River Basin naturally experienced a wide range of seasonal temperatures However, urbanization and development of Waste Water Treatment Plants have contributed to warmer and more consistent water temperatures throughout the year, particularly in winter months. Less variation in seasonal temperatures could have adverse effects on native fishes that previously relied on temperature fluctuations for important biological processes, such as reproduction. Assessing the thermal requirements of warm water fishes will provide valuable information towards establishing protective winter water temperature standards in effluent-dominated streams.
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Historically, the South Platte River Basin naturally experienced a wide range of seasonal temperatures However, urbanization and development of Waste Water Treatment Plants have contributed to warmer and more consistent water temperatures throughout the year, particularly in winter months. Less variation in seasonal temperatures could have adverse effects on native fishes that previously relied on temperature fluctuations for important biological processes, such as reproduction. The project is being conducted with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado Department of Public Health and the environment, and several municipal Waste Water Treatment Plants. Assessing the thermal requirements of warm water fishes will provide valuable information towards establishing protective winter water temperature standards in effluent-dominated streams.
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Response of Greater Prairie-Chickens to Natural and Anthropogenic Disturbance on Fort Riley
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December 2021
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Greater prairie-chicken response to disturbance created by military activities.
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Investigation of greater prairie-chickens on Fort Riley in response to military activities using GPS radio tags.
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The Maine Geospatial Institute--A statewide collaboration for workforce development, education, and research to facilitate economic growth
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December 2021
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The Maine Geospatial Institute is a statewide collaborative of the seven University of Maine System (UMS) campuses developed to support economic growth, workforce development, education and research in geospatial technologies used in transportation, municipal and county government, environmental services, resource management, and utilities. Maine has a significant geospatial technology sector, and training students to understand and use these technologies will prepare them for diverse careers. We also are committed to taking this workforce development out of the campus and classroom and into the surrounding communities through K-12 and continuing education opportunities and workshops and clinics to increase literacy in spatial science. Our efforts are concentrated in three areas: Education and Research; Information, Technology Transfer and Infrastructure; and Community Outreach. The MGI will link the education and research sector to industry, facilitating technology transfer, project collaboration, and research and development partnerships. The MGI is a collaboration of the seven campuses of the University of Maine System, with partnerships to be developed with state and federal agencies, industries, municipalities, and other universities in Maine.
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The Maine Geospatial Institute is a statewide collaborative of the seven University of Maine System (UMS) campuses developed to support economic growth, workforce development, education and research in geospatial technologies used in transportation, municipal and county government, environmental services, resource management, and utilities. Maine has a significant geospatial technology sector, and training students to understand and use these technologies will prepare them for diverse careers. We also are committed to taking this workforce development out of the campus and classroom and into the surrounding communities through K-12 and continuing education opportunities and workshops and clinics to increase literacy in spatial science. Our efforts are concentrated in three areas: Education and Research; Information, Technology Transfer and Infrastructure; and Community Outreach. The MGI is linking the education and research sector to industry, facilitating technology transfer, project collaboration, and research and development partnerships. The MGI is a collaboration of the seven campuses of the University of Maine System, with partnerships to be developed with state and federal agencies, industries, municipalities, and other universities in Maine.
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Assessing the spawning movement and habitat needs of riverine Neosho smallmouth bass
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December 2019
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Limited information is available about the movements of riverine Smallmouth Bass (SMB) in landscapes with prevalent river-reservoir interfaces. This is especially problematic for the Neosho subspecies of SMB given the distribution covers an interwoven landscape of rivers and reservoirs. Our research focuses on the movement and habitat use of the Neosho SMB with an emphasis on the reproductive and juvenile development periods. We are using radio telemetry to quantify movements and habitat use of adult and juvenile SMB in streams that vary in size, hydrology, and proximity to impoundments in the Ozark Highlands. We are conducting snorkel surveys on a diverse subset of stream reaches throughout the range of the Neosho SMB to understand the multi-scale habitat features and environmental conditions that influence SMB nest and age-0 SMB densities in Ozark streams. Lastly, we are quantifying days since hatch of young-of-year SMB via otoliths to determine the environmental relationships among hydrologic factors, hatch date, and daily growth. This project is funded by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. Project results will identify areas across the landscape that contribute substantially to reproduction and recruitment. Identifying the environmental conditions that support high yield will aid decision-based protective regulations or enhancements if desired by the management agencies.
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Limited information is available about the movements of riverine Smallmouth Bass (SMB) in landscapes with prevalent river-reservoir interfaces. This is especially problematic for the Neosho subspecies of SMB given the distribution covers an interwoven landscape of rivers and reservoirs. Our research focuses on the movement and habitat use of the Neosho SMB with an emphasis on the reproductive and juvenile development periods. We are using radio telemetry to quantify movements and habitat use of adult and juvenile SMB in streams that vary in size, hydrology, and proximity to impoundments in the Ozark Highlands. We are conducting snorkel surveys on a diverse subset of stream reaches throughout the range of the Neosho SMB to understand the multi-scale habitat features and environmental conditions that influence SMB nest and age-0 SMB densities in Ozark streams. Lastly, we are quantifying days since hatch of young-of-year SMB via otoliths to determine the environmental relationships among hydrologic factors, hatch date, and daily growth. This project is funded by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. Project results will identify areas across the landscape that contribute substantially to reproduction and recruitment. Identifying the environmental conditions that support high yield will aid decision-based protective regulations or enhancements if desired by the management agencies.
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Assessing the distribution and habitat needs of the least darter and sympatric species of the Ozark Highlands and Arbuckle Mountain ecoregions
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September 2020
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Isolated populations may benefit from different conservation and management activities. The Least Darter is a species of conservation concern that has two isolated populations occupying portions of the Arbuckle Mountain and Ozark Highlands ecoregions. Our study objective is to determine what environmental factors are related to Least Darter occupancy, while accounting for detection. Our general approach is to assess different environmental factors at multiple spatial scales to determine the relationships among microhabitats, reaches, and stream segments and occurrence of Least Darter and sympatric species. The major benefits will be identification of likely populations that can be used as the foundation for a targeted monitoring program, and 2) it will help identify stream segments that likely contain spring locations. We will also use fiber optics to map thermal patches at a fine scale, within two stream segments, and show how Least Darter distribute themselves in response to fine-scale habitat features (i.e., temperature, depth, velocity). This project is funded by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
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Isolated populations may benefit from different conservation and management activities. The Least Darter is a species of conservation concern that has two isolated populations occupying portions of the Arbuckle Mountain and Ozark Highlands ecoregions. Our study objective is to determine what environmental factors are related to Least Darter occupancy, while accounting for detection. Our general approach is to assess different environmental factors at multiple spatial scales to determine the relationships among microhabitats, reaches, and stream segments and occurrence of Least Darter and sympatric species. The major benefits will be identification of likely populations that can be used as the foundation for a targeted monitoring program, and 2) it will help identify stream segments that likely contain spring locations. We will also use fiber optics to map thermal patches at a fine scale, within two stream segments, and show how Least Darter distribute themselves in response to fine-scale habitat features (i.e., temperature, depth, velocity). This project is funded by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
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Movement and flow-recruitment relationships of Prairie Chubs: an endemic Great Plains cyprinid
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June 2021
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The Prairie Chub is classified as a pelagic broadcast-spawning cyprinid based on phylogenetic relationships and shared morphological characteristics with other Macrhybopsis spp. Great Plains pelagic-spawning cyprinid populations have undergone substantial population and range declines due to their sensitivity to anthropogenic changes to the natural flow regime. Currently, there is a paucity of information regarding Prairie Chub biology and life history; thus, little is known about specific factors (i.e., discharge magnitudes) that promote successful recruitment in the upper Red River basin. The purpose of this project is to improve the conservation and management of Prairie Chub and other pelagic broadcast minnows including members of the Macrhybopsis complex. We will assess movement at several locations to determine the relationship with recruitment. We will also evaluate the importance of flow regime metrics and relationships between hydrology and recruitment. This project was funded by the Oklahoma Department of Conservation and is a collaborative effort by the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (Brewer) and Texas A&M University (co-PI, Perkin). This research will provide a useful ecological metric for informing future water management decisions that will help conserve populations of pelagic broadcast-spawning cyprinids in the upper Red River basin.
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The Prairie Chub is classified as a pelagic broadcast-spawning cyprinid based on phylogenetic relationships and shared morphological characteristics with other Macrhybopsis spp. Great Plains pelagic-spawning cyprinid populations have undergone substantial population and range declines due to their sensitivity to anthropogenic changes to the natural flow regime. Currently, there is a paucity of information regarding Prairie Chub biology and life history; thus, little is known about specific factors (i.e., discharge magnitudes) that promote successful recruitment in the upper Red River basin. The purpose of this project is to improve the conservation and management of Prairie Chub and other pelagic broadcast minnows including members of the Macrhybopsis complex. We will assess movement at several locations to determine the relationship with recruitment. We will also evaluate the importance of flow regime metrics and relationships between hydrology and recruitment. This project was funded by the Oklahoma Department of Conservation and is a collaborative effort by the Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (Brewer) and Texas A&M University (co-PI, Perkin). This research will provide a useful ecological metric for informing future water management decisions that will help conserve populations of pelagic broadcast-spawning cyprinids in the upper Red River basin.
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Effects of sucker gigging on riverine fish populations
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June 2023
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Sucker gigging is a cultural method of fish harvest throughout the Ozarks. Harvest during sucker gigging tournaments can be substantial (e.g., > 1,200 fish harvested in a weekend). Little is known about the effect of these fishing activities, but life-history characteristics of suckers (relatively long-lived and highly migratory) suggest these tournaments have the potential to affect fish communities over a large distance from the tournament locations . This study will evaluate the effects of sucker harvest on population dynamics in Spavinaw Creek and determine the harvest level at which overfishing would occur. This information is necessary to evaluate the possible need for harvest regulations on this cultural fishery to ensure sustainability of the fishery and ecosystem integrity.
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Sucker gigging is a cultural method of fish harvest throughout the Ozarks. Harvest during sucker gigging tournaments can be substantial (e.g., > 1,200 fish harvested in a weekend). Little is known about the effect of these fishing activities, but life-history characteristics of suckers (relatively long-lived and highly migratory) suggest these tournaments have the potential to affect fish communities over a large distance from the tournament locations . This study will evaluate the effects of sucker harvest on population dynamics in Spavinaw Creek and determine the harvest level at which overfishing would occur. This information is necessary to evaluate the possible need for harvest regulations on this cultural fishery to ensure sustainability of the fishery and ecosystem integrity.
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Assessing the effects of Stocked Rainbow Trout on Native Fishes
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August 2021
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Rainbow Trout are native only to the western United States but are stocked widely throughout the country to increase fishing opportunities for anglers. Competitive interactions have been shown to be condition specific (e.g., water temperature) and thus, may only occur seasonally or under certain environmental conditions. Understanding these differences is beneficial if there is interest in identifying conditions where stocking may be problematic for native fishes. Our research will determine how native fishes respond to the presence of trout via resource use and growth in both field and controlled laboratory settings. This project is a collaborative effort involving both the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. These data will provide information useful to agencies making future decisions about trout stocking in riverine systems.
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Rainbow Trout are native only to the western United States but are stocked widely throughout the country to increase fishing opportunities for anglers. Competitive interactions have been shown to be condition specific (e.g., water temperature) and thus, may only occur seasonally or under certain environmental conditions. Understanding these differences is beneficial if there is interest in identifying conditions where stocking may be problematic for native fishes. Our research will determine how native fishes respond to the presence of trout via resource use and growth in both field and controlled laboratory settings. This project is a collaborative effort involving both the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. These data will provide information useful to agencies making future decisions about trout stocking in riverine systems.
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Development of predictive models for identifying priority Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Coastal North America migratory stopover areas used by Monarch Butterflies (Danaus plexippus plexippus).
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December 2020
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The annual migration of monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus plexippus) to breeding areas that span from southern Canada across the United States, and back to over-wintering habitat in central Mexico has been designated as a threatened “phenomenon” by the IUCN in 1983 in recognition of the importance of coordinated habitat conservation across North America. Although the need for monarch butterfly conservation action has been recognized through development of cooperative agreements among Canada, the United States, and Mexico to conserve and restore habitat in these recently documented migratory pathways, threats to the species’ persistence continue. There also are critical knowledge gaps preventing effective conservation planning, such as information about types and distribution of stopover habitat used by monarchs during coastal migration. Information about persistence of nectaring and roosting habitat with changing climate also is a critical need for migration stopover habitat management and conservation. This project is a collaboration of the US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the University of Maine, and Tennessee State University. We are developing spatially-explicit predictions of Monarch Butterfly coastal stopover habitat based on identification of important environmental characteristics (including habitat and climate variables), and using these stopover habitat predictions to inform conservation or restoration of these areas for migrating Monarchs and other pollinators. We will evaluate long-term vulnerability of the predicted stopover areas and their use by migrating Monarchs in response to projected climatic and habitat changes. Study results will be distributed in a variety of formats appropriate for use by land managers as well as citizen groups (including information sheets, maps, and an interactive mapping tool) and provide information about land management actions for conservation and enhancement of nectaring and roosting habitat for migrating Monarch Butterflies and insect pollinator populations.
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The annual migration of monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus plexippus) to breeding areas that span from southern Canada across the United States, and back to over-wintering habitat in central Mexico has been designated as a threatened “phenomenon” by the IUCN in 1983 in recognition of the importance of coordinated habitat conservation across North America. Although the need for monarch butterfly conservation action has been recognized through development of cooperative agreements among Canada, the United States, and Mexico to conserve and restore habitat in these recently documented migratory pathways, threats to the species’ persistence continue. There also are critical knowledge gaps preventing effective conservation planning, such as information about types and distribution of stopover habitat used by monarchs during coastal migration. Information about persistence of nectaring and roosting habitat with changing climate also is a critical need for migration stopover habitat management and conservation. This project is a collaboration of the US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the University of Maine, and Tennessee State University. We are developing spatially-explicit predictions of Monarch Butterfly coastal stopover habitat based on identification of important environmental characteristics (including habitat and climate variables), and using these stopover habitat predictions to inform conservation or restoration of these areas for migrating Monarchs and other pollinators. We will evaluate long-term vulnerability of the predicted stopover areas and their use by migrating Monarchs in response to projected climatic and habitat changes. Study results will be distributed in a variety of formats appropriate for use by land managers as well as citizen groups (including information sheets, maps, and an interactive mapping tool) and provide information about land management actions for conservation and enhancement of nectaring and roosting habitat for migrating Monarch Butterflies and insect pollinator populations.
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Identification, characterization, and threat assessment of groundwater dependent ecosystems in the northeastern United States with an integrated GIS- and field survey-based approach
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September 2023
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Groundwater is an important source of freshwater for human populations worldwide, and management of this resource typically is focused on ensuring quality and quantity for human use. Many aquatic systems receive groundwater as a portion of base water flow, and in some systems (e.g., springs, seepages, subterranean streams, fens, vernal pools) the connection with groundwater is significant and important to the system’s integrity and persistence. Groundwater management decisions for human use often do not consider ecological effects of those actions on groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDEs), which rely on groundwater to maintain ecological function. This disconnect between management and ecological needs potentially results in damage to these resources that have repercussions for both GDEs and human populations that rely on them. This is a collaboration of the US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the University of Maine, and Tennessee State University. Our research is proposed in stages, initially applying spatial analysis tools to identify areas likely to contain GDEs, followed by field-based assessment of selected areas predicted to contain high quality GDEs or GDE clusters, to better understand their landscape context and watershed-level threats, characterize hydrologic conditions, and describe the species they support. Products will include an assessment of threats to areas predicted to contain GDEs, a user guide for deploying continuous hydrological monitoring equipment, and resources for evaluating GDE presence in areas predicted to contain these systems.
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Groundwater is an important source of freshwater for human populations worldwide, and management of this resource typically is focused on ensuring quality and quantity for human use. Many aquatic systems receive groundwater as a portion of base water flow, and in some systems (e.g., springs, seepages, subterranean streams, fens, vernal pools) the connection with groundwater is significant and important to the system’s integrity and persistence. Groundwater management decisions for human use often do not consider ecological effects of those actions on groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDEs), which rely on groundwater to maintain ecological function. This disconnect between management and ecological needs potentially results in damage to these resources that have repercussions for both GDEs and human populations that rely on them. This is a collaboration of the US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the University of Maine, and Tennessee State University. Our research is proposed in stages, initially applying spatial analysis tools to identify areas likely to contain GDEs, followed by field-based assessment of selected areas predicted to contain high quality GDEs or GDE clusters, to better understand their landscape context and watershed-level threats, characterize hydrologic conditions, and describe the species they support. Products will include an assessment of threats to areas predicted to contain GDEs, a user guide for deploying continuous hydrological monitoring equipment, and resources for evaluating GDE presence in areas predicted to contain these systems.
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Laying the groundwork for science-based management of colonial waterbirds
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December 2021
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Colonial nesting seabirds and long-legged wading birds (inclusively waterbirds) of the eastern United States span geographic boundaries and jurisdictions of conservation agencies in 19 states, as well as adjacent provinces in maritime Canada. Despite many management concerns for colonial nesting waterbirds, broad, coordinated annual surveys similar to those for waterfowl, American Woodcock, and Sandhill Crane are not conducted, and colonial seabirds were singled out explicitly as poorly sampled by creators of the Breeding Bird Survey. There continues to be no centralized repository of information about each state’s survey plans, no universally accepted standardized survey and data recording protocols, no active and centralized data storage location or data sharing agreements, no general plan to examine species’ population trends with the new and archived data, and no plan for disseminating these findings. Additionally, there has been no pre-survey guidance to ensure that the gathered data will meet requirements for species’ assessments, particularly those listed as species of greatest conservation need, state endangered or threatened, or with potential for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. The goal of our project is to increase our knowledge about current limitations in survey and monitoring, and associated data storage needs for colonial waterbirds in the Atlantic and Gulf Coast, and to better understand distributions, population trends, and threats to these species in this area. In addition, the project aims to resurrect and improve the Colonial Waterbirds Database (CWBD) for improving data archiving and accessibility for informing species conservation and management across the area. This project is a collaboration of the US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the University of Maine. We will evaluate contents of the USGS-managed CWBD database and update it with data collected within the eastern US since the database became inactive, display species trends for select focal species graphically within the revised CWBD user interface, and evaluate trends and conservation goals of the species with a sufficient data archive.
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Colonial nesting seabirds and long-legged wading birds (inclusively waterbirds) of the eastern United States span geographic boundaries and jurisdictions of conservation agencies in 19 states, as well as adjacent provinces in maritime Canada. Despite many management concerns for colonial nesting waterbirds, broad, coordinated annual surveys similar to those for waterfowl, American Woodcock, and Sandhill Crane are not conducted, and colonial seabirds were singled out explicitly as poorly sampled by creators of the Breeding Bird Survey. There continues to be no centralized repository of information about each state’s survey plans, no universally accepted standardized survey and data recording protocols, no active and centralized data storage location or data sharing agreements, no general plan to examine species’ population trends with the new and archived data, and no plan for disseminating these findings. Additionally, there has been no pre-survey guidance to ensure that the gathered data will meet requirements for species’ assessments, particularly those listed as species of greatest conservation need, state endangered or threatened, or with potential for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. The goal of our project is to increase our knowledge about current limitations in survey and monitoring, and associated data storage needs for colonial waterbirds in the Atlantic and Gulf Coast, and to better understand distributions, population trends, and threats to these species in this area. In addition, the project aims to resurrect and improve the Colonial Waterbirds Database (CWBD) for improving data archiving and accessibility for informing species conservation and management across the area. This project is a collaboration of the US Geological Survey Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the University of Maine. We will evaluate contents of the USGS-managed CWBD database and update it with data collected within the eastern US since the database became inactive, display species trends for select focal species graphically within the revised CWBD user interface, and evaluate trends and conservation goals of the species with a sufficient data archive.
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Literature review and meta-analysis of rights-of-way management for native insect pollinators with focus on application in Maine and the northeastern U.S.
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April 2021
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Recent declines in managed, non-native bees have heightened general awareness of the importance of the pollination services of native bees, butterflies, and other insects. Prescriptions of land management for pollinators is complicated by the diversity of Agency management objectives, the biology of focal pollinator species and communities, the composition and structure of specific habitats available for management, and the varied effects of landscape context on outcomes of habitat manipulation. Location of land managed for pollinator conservation can affect pollinator community composition, and both habitat composition and pattern surrounding the focal area can affect pollinator use of the managed landscape. Road and powerline rights-of-way (ROW) are managed lands that comprise a relatively small portion of the northeastern landscape overall, however, they potentially have a disproportionate effect on pollinator communities as they may simultaneously fragment, connect, create, enhance, or compromise pollinator habitat. Whether ROWs serve as pollinator population sources or sinks likely is confounded by landscape context. Although knowledge of the role of roadside and powerline ROWs in pollinator conservation is rapidly growing, most research has been more focused on understanding effects of habitat type and less focused on landscape context and pattern effects on pollinator abundance and diversity. Additionally, the increasingly abundant literature examining relationships between pollinator occurrence, abundance, and diversity in managed and non-managed landscapes provides diverse information to help guide habitat management for pollinators. This project is a collaboration of the Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Maine, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Maine Department of Transportation. Our systematic review, conducted as a meta-analysis, of patterns and variability reported in the published science on pollinators and land management, with a focus on roadsides and ROWs, will inform pollinator conservation in the northeastern U.S. broadly, and provide a comprehensive baseline for guiding currentROW management recommendations and hypotheses for future research.
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Recent declines in managed, non-native bees have heightened general awareness of the importance of the pollination services of native bees, butterflies, and other insects. Prescriptions of land management for pollinators is complicated by the diversity of Agency management objectives, the biology of focal pollinator species and communities, the composition and structure of specific habitats available for management, and the varied effects of landscape context on outcomes of habitat manipulation. Location of land managed for pollinator conservation can affect pollinator community composition, and both habitat composition and pattern surrounding the focal area can affect pollinator use of the managed landscape. Road and powerline rights-of-way (ROW) are managed lands that comprise a relatively small portion of the northeastern landscape overall, however, they potentially have a disproportionate effect on pollinator communities as they may simultaneously fragment, connect, create, enhance, or compromise pollinator habitat. Whether ROWs serve as pollinator population sources or sinks likely is confounded by landscape context. Although knowledge of the role of roadside and powerline ROWs in pollinator conservation is rapidly growing, most research has been more focused on understanding effects of habitat type and less focused on landscape context and pattern effects on pollinator abundance and diversity. Additionally, the increasingly abundant literature examining relationships between pollinator occurrence, abundance, and diversity in managed and non-managed landscapes provides diverse information to help guide habitat management for pollinators. This project is a collaboration of the Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Maine, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Maine Department of Transportation. Our systematic review, conducted as a meta-analysis, of patterns and variability reported in the published science on pollinators and land management, with a focus on roadsides and ROWs, will inform pollinator conservation in the northeastern U.S. broadly, and provide a comprehensive baseline for guiding currentROW management recommendations and hypotheses for future research.
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Assess the recovery of westslope cutthroat trout and Arctic ...
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June 2021
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Native populations of Westslope Cutthroat Trout (WCT) and Arctic Grayling in Yellowstone National Park were reduced or eliminated through competition, predation, and hybridization with nonnative fishes that were historically stocked by managers, ostensibly to enhance sportfishing. National Park Service fisheries managers carried out conservation actions aimed at restoring WCT and Arctic Grayling populations in two watersheds in Yellowstone National Park, including East Fork Specimen Creek in the Gallatin River drainage and Grayling Creek in the Madison River drainage. Conservation actions included 1) building barriers impassable to upstream fish movement to isolate watersheds; 2) applying rotenone, a lethal fish toxicant, to eliminate all fish from the watersheds above the barriers; and 3) reintroducing native fish to the isolated watersheds.
NPS fisheries managers plan to continue restoration efforts of WCT and Arctic Grayling in additional park watersheds, but first want to understand how past conservation efforts performed to guide future restoration actions. Moreover, similar management actions are being conducted or contemplated worldwide. Therefore, the goal of this research project is to assess the recovery and status of the reintroduced populations of WCT and Arctic Grayling in East Fork Specimen and Grayling creeks. Our specific objectives are to 1) assess population abundance, size structure, condition, individual growth, and reproductive success of WCT and Arctic Grayling; 2) determine the spatial distributions of restored WCT and Arctic Grayling in relation to the reintroduction sites; 3) determine how population size structure and condition of recovering WCT in East Fork Specimen Creek compare to those of the hybridized WCT population they replaced; and 4) estimate the genetic population structure of recovering WCT relative to the contributions of the various WCT donor sources (Last Chance, Geode, and Muskrat creeks, and Sun Ranch Hatchery). Attainment of these objectives will provide fisheries managers with information needed to better manage such populations and to guide future restoration efforts elsewhere.
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Native populations of Westslope Cutthroat Trout (WCT)and Arctic Grayling in Yellowstone National Park were reduced or eliminated through competition, predation, and hybridization with nonnative fishes that were historically stocked by managers, ostensibly to enhance sportfishing. National Park Service fisheries managers carried out conservation actions aimed at restoring WCT and Arctic Grayling populations in two watersheds in Yellowstone National Park, including East Fork Specimen Creek in the Gallatin River drainage and Grayling Creek in the Madison River drainage. NPS fisheries managers plan to continue restoration efforts of WCT and Arctic Grayling in additional park watersheds, but first want to understand how past conservation efforts performed to guide future restoration actions. Moreover, similar management actions are being conducted or contemplated worldwide. Therefore, the goal of this research project is to assess the recovery and status of the reintroduced populations of WCT and Arctic Grayling in East Fork Specimen and Grayling creeks. We are working with Yellowstone National Park biologists on this study. Attainment of these objectives will provide fisheries managers with information needed to better manage such populations and to guide future restoration efforts elsewhere.
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Habitat use and survival of Columbian Black-tailed deer in Western Oregon
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June 2022
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Black-tailed deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus columnbianus</i>) populations and hunter harvest trends have declined in Oregon since 1994. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is concerned with this decline and has identified current knowledge gaps regarding black-tailed deer ecology in Oregon that are necessary to facilitate ODFW’s management of this species. To address these knowledge gaps, ODFW initiated a large-scale, long-term black-tailed deer research project in the fall of 2011 that included the attachment of VHF and GPS radio-collars to adult deer. In collaboration with a Unit graduate student, these radio telemetry data will be used by the student to generate seasonal resource selection functions and estimate seasonal and annual survival rates of black-tailed deer relative to habitat use. Information on habitat selection and it's effect on key vital rates like adults survival would fill a primary knowledge gap for black-tailed deer in Oregon that will facilitate effective management by ODFW.
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Black-tailed deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus columnbianus</i>) populations and hunter harvest trends have declined in Oregon since 1994. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is concerned with this decline and has identified current knowledge gaps regarding black-tailed deer ecology in Oregon that are necessary to facilitate ODFW’s management of this species. To address these knowledge gaps, ODFW initiated a large-scale, long-term black-tailed deer research project in the fall of 2011 that included the attachment of GPS radio-collars to adult female deer. In collaboration with a Unit graduate student, these radio telemetry data will be used by the student to generate seasonal resource selection functions and estimate seasonal and annual survival rates of black-tailed deer relative to habitat use. Information on habitat selection and it's effect on key vital rates like adults survival would fill a primary knowledge gap for black-tailed deer in Oregon that will facilitate effective management by ODFW.
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Bull Trout Emigration Study
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December 2021
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Currently, we have a limited and potentially biased understanding of when juvenile Bull Trout emigrate from the Montana adfluvial streams. This understanding is limited to inferences based on the literature (i.e., what has been documented in other systems), preliminary information from direct tributaries to Lake Pend Oreille, and the timing of fish captured in traps in the Montana adfluvial streams. The literature suggests that juvenile Bull Trout emigration timing can be variable, potentially system specific, and potentially influenced by numerous factors. Of particular interest, numerous adfluvial Bull Trout populations exhibit a large spring emigration associated with the freshet and peak flows. The closest and most well-documented evidence for this comes from Trestle Creek which is a direct tributary to Lake Pend Oreille. Downs et al. (2006) documented substantial spring emigration events in Trestle Creek that have never been observed in the Montana adfluvial streams; albeit, the spring events were predominated by age-0 emigrants which purportedly have survival rates approaching zero. Further information is currently being collected in both Trestle Creek and another direct tributary to Lake Pend Oreille, Granite Creek, using passive integrated transponder (PIT) tagged fish and PIT arrays. Preliminary evidence from these two streams suggests there are not meaningful spring emigration events and that nearly all juvenile fish emigrate during the fall and winter (Ken Bouwens, Idaho Fish and Game, personal communication).
Understanding whether or not there is a spring emigration has numerous management implications. First, if it is learned that there is a meaningful spring emigration, efforts could be directed toward learning and increasing capture efficiency during this time of year. Conversely, if there is not a meaningful spring emigration from the Montana adfluvial streams, trap and transport operations could be discontinued during all times of the year except the fall. Under this scenario, the time and money saved would be available to do more prudent activities in the interest of increasing connectivity and otherwise enhancing the adfluvial Bull Trout populations. Developing this understanding will also give managers the information they need to develop design criteria for future traps (e.g., do traps need to be capable of effectively fishing through the spring freshet, or only through flashy fall rain events). This has implications in terms of both cost, and the footprint of future traps. Thus, the objectives of this study are to evaluate capture efficiency of tributary traps in Graves Creek and East Fork Bull River.
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Currently, we have a limited and potentially biased understanding of when juvenile Bull Trout emigrate from the Montana adfluvial streams. This understanding is limited to inferences based on the literature (i.e., what has been documented in other systems), preliminary information from direct tributaries to Lake Pend Oreille, and the timing of fish captured in traps in the Montana adfluvial streams. Understanding whether or not there is a spring emigration has numerous management implications. First, if it is learned that there is a meaningful spring emigration, efforts could be directed toward learning and increasing capture efficiency during this time of year. Conversely, if there is not a meaningful spring emigration from the Montana adfluvial streams, trap and transport operations could be discontinued during all times of the year except the fall. Under this scenario, the time and money saved would be available to do more prudent activities in the interest of increasing connectivity and otherwise enhancing the adfluvial Bull Trout populations. Developing this understanding will also give managers the information they need to develop design criteria for future traps (e.g., do traps need to be capable of effectively fishing through the spring freshet, or only through flashy fall rain events). This has implications in terms of both cost, and the footprint of future traps. Thus, the objectives of this study are to evaluate capture efficiency of tributary traps in Graves Creek and East Fork Bull River.
Partners are Avista Corporation
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Quantifying spawning locations and habitat use by adult lake trout in Swan Lake, Montana
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October 2022
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Novel experimental approaches to suppressing lake trout have focused on the early-life stages because lake trout spawning behavior and the physiology of lake trout embryos provide an opportunity for embryo suppression with limited bycatch. Spawning lake trout congregate on rocky shoals broadcasting gametes over angular clean cobble substrate (Binder et al. 2014), and demonstrate spawning site fidelity (Esteve et al. 2008). Lake trout embryos are non-motile and have undeveloped physiological systems with a limited ability to acclimate to environmental perturbations (Pörtner and Farrell 2008; Helvik et al. 2009). Increasing mortality beyond gillnetting and in lieu of gillnetting (the most preferred option) is probably feasible because of the vulnerability of lake trout embryos. For example, the placement of lake trout carcasses on spawning areas after lake trout have spawned resulted in > 95% mortality, when carcasses remained on the site (Thomas 2017). Currently, scientists with the National Park Service and the US Geological Survey, Montana Cooperative Fishery Research Unit are evaluating the efficacy of carcass analogs (pellets made from rainbow trout carcasses and pellets made from plant material) and the results are promising.
Much of the consternation in continuing the lake trout suppression effort in Swan Lake is related to cost and associated bycatch of bull trout in a gillnetting approach. Use of novel approaches such as those being evaluated in Yellowstone Lake may provide a tool for use in Swan Lake. However, for these methods to be effective, the exact locations of lake trout spawning sites need to be determined. There is some uncertainty in the spawning locations given that Steed et al. (see Rosenthal et al. 2016) found different 'primary' spawning locations than those defined by Cox (2010). The differences observed may be related to the gillnetting program disrupting lake trout spawning behavior. Thus, the goal of this project is to describe lake trout spawning locations and habitat associated with those areas when gillnetting suppression is not operational. The results from this project will provide locations for embryo suppression if that is deemed feasible in Swan Lake.
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Novel experimental approaches to suppressing lake trout have focused on the early-life stages because lake trout spawning behavior and the physiology of lake trout embryos provide an opportunity for embryo suppression with limited bycatch. Increasing mortality beyond gillnetting and in lieu of gillnetting (the most preferred option) is probably feasible because of the vulnerability of lake trout embryos. Much of the consternation in continuing the lake trout suppression effort in Swan Lake is related to cost and associated bycatch of bull trout in a gillnetting approach. Use of novel approaches such as those being evaluated in Yellowstone Lake may provide a tool for use in Swan Lake. However, for these methods to be effective, the exact locations of lake trout spawning sites need to be determined. Thus, the goal of this project is to describe lake trout spawning locations and habitat associated with those areas when gillnetting suppression is not operational. The results from this project will provide locations for embryo suppression if that is deemed feasible in Swan Lake.
Partners are US Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
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Spawning readiness, spawning location(s), and habitat use of pallid sturgeon in the Missouri River above Fort Peck Reservoir, Montana
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June 2020
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This project will estimate spawning readiness of hatchery-reared and wild pallid sturgeon, identify spawning location(s), and habitat characteristics at spawning location(s). This information is central to the management of pallid sturgeon in the upper Missouri River given the current understanding of drift distance, anoxic conditions in transition zone above Ft. Peck Reservoir (Guy et al. 2015), and the high occurrence of atresia in pallid sturgeon as identified in a recent study. A better understanding of the factors outlined above will provide useful information for water-level management in the river and downstream reservoir.
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This project will estimate spawning readiness of hatchery-reared and wild pallid sturgeon, identify spawning location(s), and habitat characteristics at spawning location(s). This information is central to the management of pallid sturgeon in the upper Missouri River given the current understanding of drift distance, anoxic conditions in transition zone above Ft. Peck Reservoir, and the high occurrence of atresia in pallid sturgeon as identified in a recent study. A better understanding of the factors outlined above will provide useful information for water-level management in the river and downstream reservoir.
Partners are Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
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Wetland management impacts to Pecos sunflower (Helianthus paradoxus), Wrightâ¿¿s marsh thistle (Cirsium wrightii) and Leoncita false-foxglove (Agalinis calycina).
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June 2021
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Pecos sunflower (Helianthus paradoxus; endangered), Wright’s marsh thistle (Cirsium wrightii; Species of Concern; candidate species), and Leoncita false foxglove (Agalinis calycina; Species of Concern) are rare species that are found on Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge. A greater understanding of seed germination and establishment requirements could allow for moist-soil management strategies that could increase the populations of all 3 species. In this study, we will conduct laboratory and field experiments to identify the effects of soil moisture and salinity on germination and establishment of these species. In addition, we will evaluate energy availability for waterfowl for moist soil units managed for these rare plant species.
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Pecos sunflower (Helianthus paradoxus; endangered), Wright’s marsh thistle (Cirsium wrightii; Species of Concern; candidate species), and Leoncita false foxglove (Agalinis calycina; Species of Concern) are rare species that are found on Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge. A greater understanding of seed germination and establishment requirements could allow for moist-soil management strategies that could increase the populations of all 3 species. In this study, we will conduct laboratory and field experiments to identify the effects of soil moisture and salinity on germination and establishment of these species. In addition, we will evaluate energy availability for waterfowl for moist soil units managed for these rare plant species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge are collaborators on this project. We will identify critical parameters for germination and establishment of these species and develop experimental moist-soil management regimes to enhance rare plant populations.
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Managing Louisiana's Coastal Wetlands For Sustainability in the Face of Sea Level Rise
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November 2020
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Marshes maintain elevation when accretion rates exceed decomposition and subsidence processes. Marsh management practices, such as drawdowns and fire, can accelerate decomposition of organic soils and lead to elevation loss. In this study, we will determine long-term accretion rates in managed and unmanaged coastal marshes in southwestern Louisiana. Companion and future studies will quantify the specific effects of selected marsh management practices on accretion and decomposition rates. Our goal is to identify long-term marsh management approaches that allow or accelerate marsh vertical accretion while also providing desired wildlife benefits.
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Management of coastal marshes for wetland wildlife is a common practice along the Gulf and Atlantic Coasts. Marsh management practices, such as drawdowns and fire, can, however, accelerate decomposition rates of organic soils and lead to loss of elevation and marsh conversion to open water. These same practices, however, can also accelerate plant production and potentially lead to elevation gain through increased long-term accretion rates. In this study, we will quantify the long-term accretion rate of managed and unmanaged marshes. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries funded the study and their scientists/wetland managers are active participants; Dr. Andy Nyman of LSU School of Renewable Natural Resources is a co-PI. Companion and future studies will quantify the specific effects of selected marsh management practices on annual accretion and decomposition rates. Ultimately, this research will identify long-term marsh management approaches that allow for, or accelerate, marsh vertical accretion while also providing desired wildlife benefits.
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Dwarf Wedgemussel Propagation and Restoration in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern US
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May 2022
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The dwarf wedgemussel (DWM), Alasmidonta heterodon, is a small, freshwater mussel historically known from at least 15 Atlantic slope drainages from New Brunswick, Canada to North Carolina; however, population declines throughout its range resulted in Federal listing of the species in 1990. The decline of DWM in areas previously thought to have the most viable and largest populations leads to significant concerns about the long-term viability of the species. <br><br>The overall goal of this project is to conduct research to inform and guide recovery of DWM through propagation and reintroduction. This project builds upon recent US Fish & Wildlife Service efforts to evaluate DWM habitat and establish a propagation facility for imperiled mussel populations. There are 3 objectives:<br>1) Develop propagation and culture techniques that optimize survival, growth, and production of mussels at the Cronin Aquatic Resource Center<br>2) Assess potential locations for restoring DWM populations based on mussel densities, population genetics, host fish densities, and mussel habitat and water quality requirements <br>3) Evaluate genetic structure of DWM populations and management actions for restoring DWM to preserve genetic diversity<br>These data will be used to identify management units, develop broodstock genetic guidelines, develop criteria and a decision tree to select ideal locations for reintroduction and augmentation, and ultimately inform recovery and management decisions of this species.
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The dwarf wedgemussel (DWM), Alasmidonta heterodon, is a small, freshwater mussel historically known from at least 15 Atlantic slope drainages from New Brunswick, Canada to North Carolina; however, population declines throughout its range resulted in Federal listing of the species in 1990. The decline of DWM in areas previously thought to have the most viable and largest populations leads to significant concerns about the long-term viability of the species. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the USGS Leetown Science Center, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. We will develop in vitro propagation techniques, conduct laboratory experiments to assess different culture methods, compile data on DWM populations and habitat requirements, collect and synthesize data on host fish populations, and assess population genetics. These data will be used to identify management units, develop broodstock genetic guidelines, develop criteria and a decision tree to select ideal locations for reintroduction and augmentation, and ultimately inform recovery and management decisions of this species.
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Restoring Aquatic Habitats through Dam Removal
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June 2023
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There are thousands of small dams in Massachusetts that fragment and impair nearly every stream and river throughout the state, altering fish passage, flow, sediment, and nutrient movement, and making these ecosystems less resilient to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. To date, nearly 60 dams have been removed in the state, yet only a fraction of these streams have been monitored to assess water quality, habitat, and biotic responses to dam removal. Information on the benefits of dam removal, including the watershed and long-term impacts of these changes, are critical for the public to understand expectations following dam removal and to gain support for future dam removals. We also need a better understanding of ecological changes following dam removal in order to better answer questions from local, regional, and national regulatory community that impact our ability to advance projects. Over the last three years, extensive pre-removal data has been collected on temperature, dissolved oxygen, and macroinvertebrates at 12 dam removal sites across Massachusetts through a partnership with researchers at the University of Massachusetts (UMass) and the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (MDER). These data showed that most sites had significant warming downstream of dams, highlighting the potential for extensive consequences of dams on biota, particularly coldwater fishes. However, the magnitude and extent of effects of dams are highly variable across sites and raise additional questions. Here, we propose to continue sampling these 12 sites plus 3 additional coldwater streams to quantify water quality, macroinvertebrate, and fish responses to dam removal. We will use the extensive fish database for Massachusetts and collaborate with UMass, MDER, and the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) to add additional sites for a broader assessment of fish responses. The results will be used to model the collective ecological benefits of dam removal statewide and will be synthesized into outreach materials highlighting these benefits to promote future dam removal toward increasing the quality and resilience of stream ecosystems.
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There are thousands of small dams in Massachusetts that fragment and impair nearly every stream and river throughout the state, altering fish passage, flow, sediment, and nutrient movement, and making these ecosystems less resilient to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. To date, nearly 60 dams have been removed in the state, yet only a fraction of these streams have been monitored to assess water quality, habitat, and biotic responses to dam removal. Information on the benefits of dam removal, including the watershed and long-term impacts of these changes, are critical for the public to understand expectations following dam removal and to gain support for future dam removals. We also need a better understanding of ecological changes following dam removal in order to better answer questions from local, regional, and national regulatory community that impact our ability to advance projects. This project is a collaborative between the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, the U.S. Geological Survey's Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the USDA Forest Service, Trout Unlimited, and the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. The assessment of the responses of water quality, macroinvertebrates, and fishes to dam removal will be used to model the collective ecological benefits of dam removal statewide. Deliverables include outreach materials highlighting these benefits to promote future dam removal toward increasing the quality and resilience of stream ecosystems.
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Biological Evaluation of Federally Funded Erosion Control Measures in Mississippi Streams
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July 2021
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Soil Erosion is a major contributor to degradation of valuable farmland in the Southeastern United States. In addition to the agricultural losses, eroded sediments and the associated agricultural additives are one of the largest sources of nonpoint pollution in southern watersheds. Starting in 1936, Congress authorized various projects to control soil erosion; two of the longest running were conducted in Northern Mississippi: the Yazoo Little Tallahatchie Flood Prevention Project 1945-1985 and the Delta Headwaters Project, formerly known as the Demonstration of Erosion Control 1984- Present. Through the implementation of these two projects, many methods of erosion control were constructed and tested for effectiveness which led to a significant reduction in suspended sediments in area streams. This project will evaluate various methods of erosion control based on their effects on the biotic community to demonstrate any changes these structures may have provided to the native ecosystem. The impact of the proposed project is considerable because it will test if structures designed for one purpose, i.e. controlling erosion and lowering suspended sediment load, can provide environmental benefits, such as creating stable habitat for the biotic community.
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Soil Erosion is a major contributor to degradation of valuable farmland in the Southeastern United States. In addition to the agricultural losses, eroded sediments and the associated agricultural additives are one of the largest sources of nonpoint pollution in southern watersheds. Starting in 1936, Congress authorized various projects to control soil erosion; two of the longest running were conducted in Northern Mississippi: the Yazoo Little Tallahatchie Flood Prevention Project 1945-1985 and the Delta Headwaters Project, formerly known as the Demonstration of Erosion Control 1984- Present. Through the implementation of these two projects, many methods of erosion control were constructed and tested for effectiveness which led to a significant reduction in suspended sediments in area streams. This project will evaluate various methods of erosion control based on their effects on the biotic community to demonstrate any changes these structures may have provided to the native ecosystem. The impact of the proposed project is considerable because it will test if structures designed for one purpose, i.e. controlling erosion and lowering suspended sediment load, can provide environmental benefits, such as creating stable habitat for the biotic community.
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Demography of Black-footed and Laysan Albatross: Kilaua Point & Tern Island Populations
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June 2022
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The black-footed (Phoebastria nigripes; BFAL) and Laysan (Phoebastria immutabilis; LAAL) albatrosses are long-lived seabirds of conservation concern to the USFWS, and a petition to list the BFAL under the Endangered Species Act has recently been submitted to USFWS. Furthermore, over 65% of the world population of these albatross species nest on remote low island refuges in the Pacific, and in smaller numbers in the main Hawaiian Islands. Relatively little is known about the life history, survival, and breeding frequency of Northern Hemisphere albatross species, and in how this compares between the low islands of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and the main Hawaiian Islands. Such information is important, given the variety of threats that these species face (e.g., fishery bycatch, plastics ingestions, contaminants, loss of breeding habitat due to sea level rise). The project is a collaboration among the USGS-COCFWRU, the USFWS Region 1 Migratory Bird and Habitat and Inventory and Monitoring programs, the Marine National Monuments of the Pacific, and the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. A model for annual survival and breeding probability for albatross will be developed for Kilauea Point NWR and Tern Island, allowing these processes to be connected with threats such as overlap with long-line fishing and other environmental factors. A vetted banding database will be provided for future analyses and recommendations for future monitoring intensity will also be provided to Refuge personnel.
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The black-footed (Phoebastria nigripes; BFAL) and Laysan (Phoebastria immutabilis; LAAL) albatrosses are long-lived seabirds of conservation concern to the USFWS, and a petition to list the BFAL under the Endangered Species Act has recently been submitted to USFWS. Furthermore, over 65% of the world population of these albatross species nest on remote low island refuges in the Pacific, and in smaller numbers in the main Hawaiian Islands. Relatively little is known about the life history, survival, and breeding frequency of Northern Hemisphere albatross species, and in how this compares between the low islands of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and the main Hawaiian Islands. Such information is important, given the variety of threats that these species face (e.g., fishery bycatch, plastics ingestions, contaminants, loss of breeding habitat due to sea level rise). The project is a collaboration among the USGS-COCFWRU, the USFWS Region 1 Migratory Bird and Habitat and Inventory and Monitoring programs, the Marine National Monuments of the Pacific, and the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. A model for annual survival and breeding probability for albatross will be developed for Kilauea Point NWR and Tern Island, allowing these processes to be connected with threats such as overlap with long-line fishing and other environmental factors. A vetted banding database will be provided for future analyses and recommendations for future monitoring intensity will also be provided to Refuge personnel.
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Impacts of translocation on a cooperatively breeding bird in Ocala National Forest
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June 2020
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Translocation has been considered as a conservation tool to increase the population numbers of Florida scrub-jays, especially in areas that have been recently restored, and where small, isolated populations reside and are unlikely to increase naturally through dispersal. The majority of translocation research has focused on the success at recipient sites, while the impacts associated with the donor population have not been monitored. Ocala National Forest is home to the largest remaining population of Florida scrub-jays and is currently the donor site for translocations. As the goal of any translocation is to have a positive impact on the species population, it is imperative that the costs to the donor population are minimized to the greatest extent possible. This study intends to focus on the impacts that translocation could place on the donor population through monitoring of nesting success and productivity. During two field seasons, a subset of helpers will be removed from groups for translocation. Nests will be monitored within three categories of family groups: (1) no helpers, (2) helpers, (3) helpers removed. Data will be collected on productivity, nest success, weight of nestlings, time spent provisioning, and breeder persistence. Monitoring nests in groups with and without helpers will increase the understanding of how this cooperative breeder benefits from the presence of non-breeding individuals. If data show evidence that helpers do not increase productivity or nest success, then future translocations can focus on removing helpers as opposed to entire family groups.
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Translocation has been considered as a conservation tool to increase the population numbers of Florida scrub-jays, especially in areas that have been recently restored, and where small, isolated populations reside and are unlikely to increase naturally through dispersal. The majority of translocation research has focused on the success at recipient sites, while the impacts associated with the donor population have not been monitored. Ocala National Forest is home to the largest remaining population of Florida scrub-jays and is currently the donor site for translocations. As the goal of any translocation is to have a positive impact on the species population, it is imperative that the costs to the donor population are minimized to the greatest extent possible. This study intends to focus on the impacts that translocation could place on the donor population through monitoring of nesting success and productivity, and is a collaboration with state, federal, and university scientists and wildlife managers. Data will be collected on productivity, nest success, weight of nestlings, time spent provisioning, and breeder persistence. Monitoring nests in groups with and without helpers will increase the understanding of how this cooperative breeder benefits from the presence of non-breeding individuals. If data show evidence that helpers do not increase productivity or nest success, then future translocations can focus on removing helpers as opposed to entire family groups.
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Overwintering survival of shorebirds on Florida's Panhandle
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December 2020
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The beaches and coastal bayside wetlands along Florida’s panhandle are important to migrant and resident shorebirds, including species of conservation concern including Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus) and Red Knots (Calidris canutus). Human disturbance and development, dredged and hardened inlets, and sea level rise have impacted much of the natural beach habitat in this region. Systematic surveys for non-breeding shorebirds have taken place either biweekly or monthly for the past 3-5 years. The objectives of this study are to use existing data and collect additional field data to:<br>(1) summarize/analyze regional data on non-breeding shorebirds using public lands along Florida’s Panhandle region, and (2) where data on banded birds permits, determine overwintering survival of select species (e.g. Piping Plover, Red Knot) at targeted sites along NW Florida beaches. This work will inform managers of potential areas that may need additional protection or alternative management to enhance survival of migrating and overwintering shorebirds.
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The beaches and coastal bayside wetlands along Florida’s panhandle are important to migrant and resident shorebirds, including species of conservation concern including Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus) and Red Knots (Calidris canutus). Human disturbance and development, dredged and hardened inlets, and sea level rise have impacted much of the natural beach habitat in this region. Systematic surveys for non-breeding shorebirds have taken place either biweekly or monthly for the past 3-5 years. This work is collaborative between the USFWS, Audubon, and the University of Florida. The objectives of this study are to use existing data and collect additional field data to: (1) summarize/analyze regional data on non-breeding shorebirds using public lands along Florida’s Panhandle region, and (2) where data on banded birds permits, determine overwintering survival of select species (e.g. Piping Plover, Red Knot) at targeted sites along NW Florida beaches. This work will inform managers of potential areas that may need additional protection or alternative management to enhance survival of migrating and overwintering shorebirds.
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Habitat Suitability Development for Fishes of the Middle Verde River
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September 2023
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Streams of the southwestern United States contain some of the most unique and endangered fish species on the planet (Minckley and Deacon 1991). Conserving these species requires knowledge of what physical and biological conditions enable them to live, even thrive, at a particular location. This knowledge is necessary to manage riparian areas, to inform fish stocking decisions, and to protect in-stream flow rights. Once habitat needs are known, these conditions can be maintained in an area or replicated in other areas to encourage the presence of the desired species and manage against conditions that favor undesirable species. <br>Research has been conducted on defining what physical habitat, i.e. habitat suitability criteria (HSC), is suitable for various Arizona fishes (e.g., Ivanyi 1989; Rinne 1989; Rinne 1991; Rinne 1992; Neary et al. 1996; Paroz et al. 2006; Rinne and Miller 2006; Bonar et al. 2010); however, most of this work has focused on the relationship of fish presence with flow, depth and substrate habitat. Less is known about the relationship of other factors, such as overhead cover, instream cover, riparian vegetation, channel morphology, and water temperature to desert fish species presence. Furthermore, fish habitat use can vary among streams. It has long been known that fish can partition themselves in different habitats, depending on the other species present (Werner et al. 1977). Therefore, examining how preferred habitat varies with the presence of other species gives a clearer answer as to how fish distribution is shaped under a variety of conditions.
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The goal of this project is to identify specific physical and biological habitat needs of select fish species that will allow for improved habitat management, provide information to aid in protection of in-stream flows, and contribute to recovery of endangered and sensitive native fish species. The focus of this project is to collect information on habitat usage of fishes in the Wild and Scenic section of the middle Verde River. This information will be combined with that from a co-occurring project on habitat suitability criteria being conducted across several Arizona rivers and streams in the development of river specific and generalized habitat suitability criteria. Partners include the USFS.
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Managing for long term sustainability of seafood production from bottomtendered wild capture fisheries: evaluating tradeoffs between spatial closures versus gear modification
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January 2022
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Approximately 20% of global seafood derives from trawl based commercial fisheries. While efficient, these gears have potential to contact and impact benthic ecosystems. In this collaboration spanning USGS, Cornell, Alaska Pacific University, and fishing stakeholders, we are developing seascape scale habitat impact models to support commercial fisheries gear management. The models can be used to evaluate potential gear modifications or spatial closures to reduce habitat impacts from fishing gear, providing a decision support tool to accompany fisheries policy at State, Federal, and global scales. Results from this project address a priority information need identified by the US Fishery Management Council, and modeling results are informing fisheries management options to conserve benthic ecosystems globally. As of 2019, our model had been adopted as a decision support tool by the North Pacific U.S. Federal Fisheries Council, and our model is currently under development for use by the New England Fishery Management Council.
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Approximately 20% of global seafood derives from trawl based commercial fisheries. While efficient, these gears have potential to contact and impact benthic ecosystems. In this collaboration spanning USGS, Cornell, Alaska Pacific University, and fishing stakeholders, we are developing seascape scale habitat impact models to support commercial fisheries gear management. The models can be used to evaluate potential gear modifications or spatial closures to reduce habitat impacts from fishing gear, providing a decision support tool to accompany fisheries policy at State, Federal, and global scales. Results from this project address a priority information need identified by the US Fishery Management Council, and modeling results are informing fisheries management options to conserve benthic ecosystems globally. As of 2019, our model had been adopted as a decision support tool by the North Pacific U.S. Federal Fisheries Council, and our model is currently under development for use by the New England Fishery Management Council.
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What role to invasive round goby have in the contaminant cycle?
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June 2021
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Round goby were first introduced into the Great Lakes from the Ponto-Caspian region in the mid 1990s. In the decades that have followed, this invasive species has spread throughout all 5 Great Lakes and is now moving inland through connected waterways. Round goby prey upon invasive Dreissenid mussels, and themselves are prey items taken by most game fish in temperate North America. In this collaboration working across NY State Department of Conservaiton, NY Sea Grant, the Finger Lakes Institute, SUNY ESF, and Cornell, we are investigating whether round goby invasions change the mercury fish contaminant cycle. Results from this work will inform fisheries managers about whether fish consumption advisories may need to be updated upon round goby invasions. This project is also providing an important educational opportunity as well, serving as the basis for a graduate seminar at Cornell University on fish bioenergetics monitoring, contributing to training of the next generation of fisheries ecologists.
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Round goby were first introduced into the Great Lakes from the Ponto-Caspian region in the mid 1990s. In the decades that have followed, this invasive species has spread throughout all 5 Great Lakes and is now moving inland through connected waterways. Round goby prey upon invasive Dreissenid mussels, and themselves are prey items taken by most game fish in temperate North America. In this collaboration working across NY State Department of Conservaiton, NY Sea Grant, the Finger Lakes Institute, SUNY ESF, and Cornell, we are investigating whether round goby invasions change the mercury fish contaminant cycle. Results from this work will inform fisheries managers about whether fish consumption advisories may need to be updated upon round goby invasions. This project is also providing an important educational opportunity as well, serving as the basis for a graduate seminar at Cornell University on fish bioenergetics monitoring, contributing to training of the next generation of fisheries ecologists.
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Lake Ontario salmonid management risk assessment: refinement of predator-prey models
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December 2022
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Lake Ontario supports a thriving Chinook Salmon fishery. Sustainable management of this resource requires maintaining a balance between predator numbers and the primary Chinook Salmon prey item, alewife. In this collaborative project spanning NY State, U.S. Federal, and Canadian partners, we are developing state of the art stock assessment tools to inform management decisions for Lake Ontario Chinook Salmon management. By combining stock assessments for predators (Chinook Salmon) and prey (alewife), we hope to develop a decision support tool that can lead to robust ecosystem level management decisions for fisheries in Lake Ontario and the Great Lakes more broadly.
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Lake Ontario supports a thriving Chinook Salmon fishery. Sustainable management of this resource requires maintaining a balance between predator numbers and the primary Chinook Salmon prey item, alewife. In this collaborative project spanning NY State, U.S. Federal, and Canadian partners, we are developing state of the art stock assessment tools to inform management decisions for Lake Ontario Chinook Salmon management. By combining stock assessments for predators (Chinook Salmon) and prey (alewife), we hope to develop a decision support tool that can lead to robust ecosystem level management decisions for fisheries in Lake Ontario and the Great Lakes more broadly.
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Quantifying coregonid habitat-use across space and time to inform assessment and restoration
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June 2022
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Coregonines once dominated the Lake Ontario fish communities, yet historical overharvest, invasive species introductions, and changing lake conditions have collapsed many native fish stocks in the Great Lakes. Presently, interest is burgeoning on restoring native Coregonine populations to increase Great Lakes ecosystem resilience. In this collaboration with the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation, USGS Great Lakes Science Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Cornell, we are assessing early life stage ecology of Cisco to facilitate native restoration in the Great Lakes. Information from this project will inform fish community restoration efforts and contribute to stabilizing fishery resources throughout the Great Lakes basin.
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Coregonines once dominated the Lake Ontario fish communities, yet historical overharvest, invasive species introductions, and changing lake conditions have collapsed many native fish stocks in the Great Lakes. Presently, interest is burgeoning on restoring native Coregonine populations to increase Great Lakes ecosystem resilience. In this collaboration with the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation, USGS Great Lakes Science Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Cornell, we are assessing early life stage ecology of Cisco to facilitate native restoration in the Great Lakes. Information from this project will inform fish community restoration efforts and contribute to stabilizing fishery resources throughout the Great Lakes basin.
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Bobcat population dynamics on Cumberland Island National Seashore
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December 2020
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Bobcats were reintroduced to Cumberland Island National Seashore in 1988-1989 to restore a native predator. The reintroduction of bobcats has reduced the deer population and allowed natural regeneration of live oaks and other plant species. Although bobcats bobcat populations are secure throughout their range, most felid species are threatened or endangered. The population on Cumberland Island can be considered equivalent to an endangered population (<30 individuals) because natural immigration is extremely rare. We are studying the population dynamics and monitoring the genetic status of bobcats on the island to better understand when this population undergoes genetic bottlenecks and whether conservation actions are warranted to ensure the sustainability of the population on the island.<br><br>This research is supported by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the National Park Service.
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Bobcats were reintroduced to Cumberland Island National Seashore in 1988-1989 to restore a native predator. The reintroduction of bobcats has reduced the deer population and allowed natural regeneration of live oaks and other plant species. Although bobcats bobcat populations are secure throughout their range, most felid species are threatened or endangered. The population on Cumberland Island can be considered equivalent to an endangered population (<30 individuals) because natural immigration is extremely rare. We are studying the population dynamics and monitoring the genetic status of bobcats on the island to better understand when this population undergoes genetic bottlenecks and whether conservation actions are warranted to ensure the sustainability of the population on the island.This research is supported by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the National Park Service.
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Fawn survival and predator abundance in Pennsylvania
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June 2020
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Predation is the primary cause of white-tailed deer fawn mortality and is of concern to the hunting public. In this study we monitored survival and cause-specific mortality of fawns and the distribution and abundance of predators (black bear, coyote, and bobcat). The project was funded by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and conducted in collaboration with the USGS Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit.
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Predation is the primary cause of white-tailed deer fawn mortality and is of concern to the hunting public. In this study we monitored survival and cause-specific mortality of fawns and the distribution and abundance of predators (black bear, coyote, and bobcat). The project was funded by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and conducted in collaboration with the USGS Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit.
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Woody Plants on the Move
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September 2021
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Problem statement: Massive data sets have been collected over the past several decades on plant communities throughout Alaskan National Parks. We will develop and apply new spatially-explicit statistical models to assimilate these data and improve our understanding the ecology and wildlife habitat in the region. <br><br>Why this research matters: This project leverages a huge field plot dataset collected over the past decade to learn the maximum amount that we can about the status and possible future trends in woody plant communities of northern Alaska that govern the distribution, character and quality of wildlife habitat across the eight very large national park units that comprise the Central Alaska and Arctic Networks of parks. <br><br>Partners: We collaborate on this project with the National Park Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. <br><br>Research that informs decisions: Our work will provide statistically valid knowledge about the quality and quantity of wildlife habitat over these large naturally regulated landscapes to improve management and wildlife conservation efforts now and in the future.
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Problem statement:
Massive data sets have been collected over the past several decades on plant communities throughout Alaskan National Parks. We will develop and apply new spatially-explicit statistical models to assimilate these data and improve our understanding the ecology and wildlife habitat in the region.
Why this research matters:
This project leverages a huge field plot dataset collected over the past decade to learn the maximum amount that we can about the status and possible future trends in woody plant communities of northern Alaska that govern the distribution, character and quality of wildlife habitat across the eight very large national park units that comprise the Central Alaska and Arctic Networks of parks.
Partners:
We collaborate on this project with the National Park Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Research that informs decisions:
Our work will provide statistically valid knowledge about the quality and quantity of wildlife habitat over these large naturally regulated landscapes to improve management and wildlife conservation efforts now and in the future.
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An Integrated Approach to Using YY Technology and Mechanical Control Methods for Invasive Fish Control
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August 2025
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Nonnative fishes have substantial impacts on native fishes through competition and predation. Targeted removal of the most harmful nuisance species has always been elusive. However, advancing technology shows promise in manipulating the sex of fishes using hormones to produce all-male progeny with a YY chromosome complement (i.e., supermales) that will spawn with existing nuisance fishes and over time, reduce, and even eliminate their populations. While supermales have been developed for several different species, efforts to develop supermales of some of the most damaging invasive fishes in the southwestern United States have not been established. We are examining feasibility of producing supermales (Trojan sex carriers – YY) of a common, short-lived invasive nonnative species to the southwestern United States, the Red Shiner Cyprinella lutrensis. Further, we are examining feasibility initial steps of production of supermales of a common long-lived invasive nonnative species to the southwestern United States, such as Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus or Green Sunfish Lepomis cyanellus, to be selected in collaboration with sponsors. We will also model the feasibility of integrated control of red shiner, channel catfish and green sunfish and other nonnative species as time permits using both mechanical removal to reduce the population first and then stocking different rates of supermales to the population. A dissertation and publications will results from this project. A Ph.D. student started on this project January, 2018.
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Nonnative fishes have substantial impacts on native fishes through competition and predation. Targeted removal of the most harmful nuisance species has always been elusive. However, advancing technology shows promise in manipulating the sex of fishes using hormones to produce all-male progeny with a YY chromosome complement (i.e., supermales) that will spawn with existing nuisance fishes and over time, reduce, and even eliminate their populations. While supermales have been developed for several different species, efforts to develop supermales of some of the most damaging invasive fishes in the southwestern United States have not been established. We are examining feasibility of producing supermales (Trojan sex carriers – YY) of a common, short-lived invasive nonnative species to the southwestern United States, the Red Shiner Cyprinella lutrensis. Further, we are examining feasibility initial steps of production of supermales of a common long-lived invasive nonnative species to the southwestern United States, such as Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus or Green Sunfish Lepomis cyanellus, to be selected in collaboration with sponsors. We will also model the feasibility of integrated control of red shiner, channel catfish and green sunfish and other nonnative species as time permits using both mechanical removal to reduce the population first and then stocking different rates of supermales to the population. A dissertation and publications will results from this project. A Ph.D. student started on this project January, 2018. This project is being supported by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
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Black bass angler harvest and opinions in relation to stream size, access, and fish diversity
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June 2020
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Understanding the diversity of anglers’ perception and valuation of fishing in Oklahoma streams is important by ODWC biologists for management. How anglers value the quality and experience of fishing at Illinois river and how they compare it with other tributaries of Lake Tenkiller (Baron Fork, and Caney Creek) may help in understanding and managing the expectations of anglers in these and similar-sized streams in the Ozark region of Oklahoma. Questions such as the value of river trips, total welfare loss if streams were inaccessible, and attitudes and preferences of anglers in maintaining high-quality fishing experience would provide invaluable information to fishery managers and help develop sound management strategy for ODWC. Survey-based valuations such as choice modelling coupled with creel surveys would allow researchers to fully evaluate the black bass fisheries in these systems.
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Understanding the diversity of anglers’ perception and valuation of fishing in Oklahoma streams is important by ODWC biologists for management. How anglers value the quality and experience of fishing at Illinois river and how they compare it with other tributaries of Lake Tenkiller (Baron Fork, and Caney Creek) may help in understanding and managing the expectations of anglers in these and similar-sized streams in the Ozark region of Oklahoma. Questions such as the value of river trips, total welfare loss if streams were inaccessible, and attitudes and preferences of anglers in maintaining high-quality fishing experience would provide invaluable information to fishery managers and help develop sound management strategy for ODWC. Survey-based valuations such as choice modelling coupled with creel surveys are being used to allow managers to fully evaluate the black bass fisheries in these systems.
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Determining factors associated with paddlefish restoration success in reservoirs
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June 2021
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This project will use side-scan sonar to quantify the proportional availability of suitable spawning substrate in major rivers of reservoirs where paddlefish are self-sustaining (Keystone and Oologah), not self-sustaining (Kaw and Texoma), and recently restored (Eufaula) or planned to be restored (Tenkiller). Additionally, this project will characterize the zooplankton communities at these rivers and reservoirs in relation to paddlefish needs at juvenile and adult life stages.
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Paddlefish has been the focus of several restoration efforts in Oklahoma. This species supports several high profile fisheries in the state. Working with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation biologists, this project will use side-scan sonar to quantify the proportional availability of suitable spawning substrate in major rivers of reservoirs where paddlefish are self-sustaining (Keystone and Oologah), not self-sustaining (Kaw and Texoma), and recently restored (Eufaula) or planned to be restored (Tenkiller). Additionally, this project will characterize the zooplankton communities at these rivers and reservoirs in relation to paddlefish needs at juvenile and adult life stages. This study will aid identification of factors affecting restoration success of paddlefish in reservoirs.
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Assessing Distribution of Yaqui Catfish in the Rio Yaqui Drainage, US-Mexico
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December 2021
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Yaqui Catfish is a federally-threatened species, extirpated from in its native range in the wild in the US, and threatened in the remainder of its range in the Yaqui, Mayo, and Fuerte river basins of Mexico. The Rio Yaqui drainage basin is the largest of the three basins and is the only shared basin between the two countries where Yaqui Catfish occur. A major threat to Yaqui Catfish is hybridization with non-native Ictalurid species, particularly Channel Catfish , that have been stocked. Using existing data and surveys of eDNA samples, occurrences of Yaqui Catfish and non-native Channel Catfish will be overlaid on GIS coverages of hydrology, physiography, and land-use available from US and Mexico sources and modeled for relationships using occupancy models.
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Yaqui Catfish is a federally-threatened species, extirpated from in its native range in the wild in the US, and threatened in the remainder of its range in the Yaqui, Mayo, and Fuerte river basins of Mexico. The Rio Yaqui drainage basin is the largest of the three basins and is the only shared basin between the two countries where Yaqui Catfish occur. A major threat to Yaqui Catfish is hybridization with non-native Ictalurid species, particularly Channel Catfish , that have been stocked. We are working with US Fish and Wildlife Service, Southwest Region, using existing data and surveys of eDNA samples to model distribution of Yaqui Catfish and non-native Channel Catfish. This research will help identify factors affecting Yaqui Catfish occurrences and identify areas needed for recovery of the species.
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Tracking Coho Salmon using eDNA
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December 2019
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Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) populations in northern California are valuable ecologically and culturally and they comprise a fundamental component of redwood forest ecosystems. Coho Salmon populations within northern California have been listed as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act (NMFS, 2011). Recovery of these populations requires effective management actions that are dependent on the collection of reliable and timely survey information on Coho Salmon abundance and distribution. Further, the success of restoration efforts is contingent upon the ability to effectively measure the response of salmon populations post-restoration. In this project, we will examine the potential of using a new monitoring method to assess salmon populations, which could be used to improve population management and assess the effectiveness of restoration efforts. Our goal is to use the availability of existing fish monitoring infrastructure in Prairie Creek to compare daily measurements of abundance and biomass of out-migrating Coho Salmon with eDNA concentrations taken from water samples at the trap site.
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Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) populations in northern California are valuable ecologically and culturally and they comprise a fundamental component of redwood forest ecosystems. Coho Salmon populations within northern California have been listed as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act (NMFS, 2011). Recovery of these populations requires effective management actions that are dependent on the collection of reliable and timely survey information on Coho Salmon abundance and distribution. Further, the success of restoration efforts is contingent upon the ability to effectively measure the response of salmon populations post-restoration. In this project, we will examine the potential of using a new monitoring method to assess salmon populations, which could be used to improve population management and assess the effectiveness of restoration efforts. Our goal is to use the availability of existing fish monitoring infrastructure in Prairie Creek to compare daily measurements of abundance and biomass of out-migrating Coho Salmon with eDNA concentrations taken from water samples at the trap site.
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Managing Coastal Wetlands for Wildlife and Sustainability in the Face of Sea Level Rise
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August 2021
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Coastal wetlands are a critical resource for waterfowl, other waterbirds, alligators, furbearers and a variety of other wetland-dependent wildlife. As such, hundreds of thousands of acres and millions of dollars have been invested in coastal wildlife refuges in Louisiana and Texas. In spite of their protection by public ownership, natural and anthropogenically-induced processes are threatening the long-term viability of these systems. Natural and anthropogenically-induced subsidence, reduced sediment loads, and increased eustatic sea levels have caused substantial marsh loss in Louisiana and Texas, with increased rates of sea level rise expected in the future. The ability of marshes to keep up with sea level rise is the result of decomposition and accretion processes. Common marsh management practices, such as fire, flooding, drawdown, and herbicides, affect accretion and decomposition rates but these rates are poorly understood and rarely quantified. In this study, we will evaluate accretion and decomposition processes in selected managed units at J.D. Murphree Wildlife Management Area in Texas.
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Coastal marshes are critical habitat for a wide variety of wildlife and fisheries species. Marsh loss, however, is common along the Gulf Coast and may increase with increased rates of sea level rise. To keep up with sea level rise, marsh accretion rates (particularly below ground organic material) must exceed decomposition rates. Common marsh management practices, such as fire, flooding, and drawdowns, influence decomposition and accretion, and has led to elevations declines of several feet in many waterfowl management units. We are working with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to determine the effects of selected management practices on accretion and decomposition processes in waterfowl management units at J. D. Murphree Wildlife Management Area near Port Arthur, Texas. This research will be used to develop waterfowl management practices that benefit waterfowl but also allow marshes to adjust to increasing sea levels.
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Adaptive Monitoring and Modeling of Sea Otters
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September 2020
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Problem statement:
Data associated with reintroduced and/or invasive wildlife species are often collected, but are not typically optimal for desired inference.
So What? Why this research matters:
The ability to formally make inferences about, and forecast, spreading wildlife populations is critical for guiding future monitoring efforts and understanding the mechanisms associated with their dynamics.
Collaboration/Partners:
This project is in collaboration with scientists at the National Park Service and U.S. Geological Survey.
Research That Informs Decisions:
Formal statistical models that account for the various sources of uncertainty in monitoring populations can be developed and fit to existing data to provide forecasts that can then optimally be used to guide future decisions about monitoring efforts.
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Problem statement:
Data associated with reintroduced and/or invasive wildlife species are often collected, but are not typically optimal for desired inference.
So What? Why this research matters:
The ability to formally make inferences about, and forecast, spreading wildlife populations is critical for guiding future monitoring efforts and understanding the mechanisms associated with their dynamics.
Collaboration/Partners:
This project is in collaboration with scientists at the National Park Service and U.S. Geological Survey.
Research That Informs Decisions:
Formal statistical models that account for the various sources of uncertainty in monitoring populations can be developed and fit to existing data to provide forecasts that can then optimally be used to guide future decisions about monitoring efforts.
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Fish Population Models
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December 2021
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Monitoring of the population status and dynamics of endangered humpback chub faces challenges that the population exists in remote locations (the Colorado and Little Colorado Rivers), where capture can only occur periodically, early life stages are difficult to tag, and fish are most accessible to capture only when spawning. Recently, arrays of PIT tag readers have been installed to increase the chance of tagged chub being detected. A model that integrates PIT tag detections with traditional recapture data is needed to better understand the population size and dynamics of humpback chub, including adult survival and reproductive rates, as well as juvenile recruitment and movement from the Little Colorado River to the Colorado River. In addition, for improved future monitoring a review of the sampling design and use of recapture and remote detections is needed. This project is a collaboration of the USGS-COCFWRU, the USGS Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center, and the USFWS. The results of the model of population size and vital rates will be used to better inform proposed management actions that affect the chub. Moreover, assessment of the sampling design itself will lead to more precise models and therefore better future management decisions.
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Monitoring of the population status and dynamics of endangered humpback chub faces challenges that the population exists in remote locations (the Colorado and Little Colorado Rivers), where capture can only occur periodically, early life stages are difficult to tag, and fish are most accessible to capture only when spawning. Recently, arrays of PIT tag readers have been installed to increase the chance of tagged chub being detected. A model that integrates PIT tag detections with traditional recapture data is needed to better understand the population size and dynamics of humpback chub, including adult survival and reproductive rates, as well as juvenile recruitment and movement from the Little Colorado River to the Colorado River. In addition, for improved future monitoring a review of the sampling design and use of recapture and remote detections is needed. This project is a collaboration of the USGS-COCFWRU, the USGS Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center, and the USFWS. The results of the model of population size and vital rates will be used to better inform proposed management actions that affect the chub. Moreover, assessment of the sampling design itself will lead to more precise models and therefore better future management decisions.
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Investigating Bacterial Coldwater Disease in Salmonids
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June 2021
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Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing industries worldwide and Bacterial Coldwater Disease (BCWD), caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum (Fp), is one of the most important hatchery diseases. Outbreaks of BCWD can result in economic losses to producers of salmon and Rainbow Trout. Antibiotics are used for treatment for BCWD and concerns exist about the development of antibiotic resistance. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) developed a selection program to create a Rainbow Trout strain that was genetically resistant to BCWD (the PRR strain in Colorado’s state hatchery system). BCWD resistant fish provide another management tool to reduce loss of Rainbow Trout due to BCWD outbreaks in aquaculture. A similar approach has been used to manage Rainbow Trout in the presence of whirling disease (WD). Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) have developed WD resistant strains of Rainbow Trout that retain important wild characteristics, such as the ability to survive and breed in the wild. The state of Colorado has been using WD resistant Rainbow Trout to reestablish populations in the presence of Myxobolus cerebralis (Mc), the parasite that causes WD. Monitoring indicates that natural Rainbow Trout reproduction and recruitment are occurring. We are proposing to produce Rainbow Trout that are genetically resistant to both BCWD and WD. This would minimize the use of antibiotics to control BCWD and produce a fish capable of resisting WD. We propose to develop and evaluate a cross between Rainbow trout that are genetically resistant to BCWD and WD for managing both diseases concurrently.
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Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing industries worldwide and Bacterial Coldwater Disease (BCWD), caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum (Fp), is one of the most important hatchery diseases. Outbreaks of BCWD can result in economic losses to producers of salmon and Rainbow Trout. Antibiotics are used for treatment for BCWD and concerns exist about the development of antibiotic resistance. We are proposing to produce Rainbow Trout that are genetically resistant to both BCWD and Whirling Disease (WD). This would minimize the use of antibiotics to control BCWD and produce a fish capable of resisting WD. We are doing this research with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.Our overarching goal is to develop a Rainbow Trout that will be genetically resistant to both BCWD and WD, allowing for better survival during hatchery production. Our approach will also provide an alternative disease management option for reestablishing Rainbow Trout fisheries. Economically, this should help aquaculture by lowering costs, improving survival, and providing alternative markets for Rainbow Trout.
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Breeding Ecology of Cinnamon Teal Within the San Luis Valley, CO
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December 2019
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The USFWS Service Regulations Committee (SRC) in 2009 requested an assessment of the harvest potential of three North American teal species; one of which was the cinnamon teal. The assessment, as envisioned by the SRC, included five areas of interest one of which was a description of the population dynamics of each species (Teal Assessment Team 2013). The cinnamon teal is one of the least studied waterfowl species in North America. Reliable, accurate demographic information is needed to determine population status and responses to harvest and habitat management. Little monitoring information is available for cinnamon teal, so as a first step to evaluating recruitment, this project is focused on estimating reproductive parameters (nest survival, hen success and fidelity, and duckling survival) and how they relate to habitat variables, in a major breeding area, Monte Vista NWR in the San Luis Valley, CO. Results will proved baseline demographic data for this population of teal, and will inform refuge managers about the effects of conditions created by refuge management and water availability on cinnamon teal. This project is a collaboration among the COCFWRU, USFWS Region 6, Migratory Birds, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and the USFWS Monte Vista NWR.
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The USFWS Service Regulations Committee (SRC) in 2009 requested an assessment of the harvest potential of three North American teal species; one of which was the cinnamon teal. The assessment, as envisioned by the SRC, included five areas of interest one of which was a description of the population dynamics of each species (Teal Assessment Team 2013). The cinnamon teal is one of the least studied waterfowl species in North America, and reliable, accurate demographic information, including reproductive parameters, is needed to determine population status and responses to harvest and habitat management. This project is a collaboration with USFWS Region 6, Migratory Birds, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and the USFWS Monte Vista NWR. Results will proved baseline demographic data for this population of teal, and will inform refuge managers about the effects of conditions created by refuge management and water availability on cinnamon teal.
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Impacts of Drought on Southwestern Cutthroat Trout: Influences of Changes in Discharge and Stream Temperature on the Persistence of Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout Populations
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December 2019
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We studied the impacts of drought and invasive trout on survival and productivity on Rio Grande cutthroat trout (<i>Oncorhynchus clarkii virginalis</i>, RGCT) populations. Rio Grande cutthroat trout is the southernmost subspecies of cutthroat trout and endemic to the Rio Grande, Canadian, and Pecos River basins of Colorado and New Mexico. The subspecies is reduced to less than 11% of its historic range with most populations occupying isolated high elevation headwater streams. One of the greatest threats to its survival is the effect that low stream flow due to drought will have on this coldwater trout living at the edge of its range. Our work provides insight into the current and future threats of RGCT populations under environmental and biological pressures. We investigated the effects of stream temperature, stream flow, and food resources has on reproduction, survival, population growth, and recruitment of young into the population. We developed population models using these effects to better understand the risks to RGCT persistence. Lastly, we explored the consequences of climate on RGCT population productivity through the characterization of the prey base. We found evidence that RGCT reached maturity fastest at sites with warm stream temperatures and low densities. We did not find a strong relationship between discharge and any demographic rate, although apparent survival of mature RGCT decreased as stream temperature increased. Our study suggests plasticity in trait expression may be a life-history characteristic which can assist trailing edge populations like RGCT to persist in a changing climate.
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Rio Grande cutthroat trout (RGCT; Oncorhynchus clarkia virginalis) are the southernmost subspecies of cutthroat trout and currently occupy less than 12% of their historic range. Loss of habitat due to competition and hybridization with introduced trout and habitat alteration has restricted the remaining 122 populations to small (5.8 km median length) isolated habitat patches. A stream temperature and discharge monitoring program also identified that the majority of occupied habitat patches, while currently thermally suitable for the subspecies, have very low summer baseflows (< 1.0 cfs) which restrict fish movement and increases the risk of population extirpation due to stochastic disturbances (i.e., drought). We used otoliths and multistate capture-mark-recapture data collected along a temperature and stream drying gradient to assess life-history traits and persistence of RGCT. We found evidence that RGCT reached maturity fastest at sites with warm stream temperatures and low densities. We did not find a strong relationship between discharge and any demographic rate, although apparent survival of mature RGCT decreased as stream temperature increased. Our study suggests plasticity in trait expression may be a life-history characteristic which can assist trailing edge populations like RGCT to persist in a changing climate.
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Influence of stream temperature, intermittency, and nonnative fishes on the current and future distribution of native fishes in the Gila and Mimbres drainages
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December 2019
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Stream temperature, flow, and the presence of non-native fishes can affect the distribution of native cold- and cool-water fishes. This is especially true for native fishes that have already experienced significant contractions in their historic range. The Gila and Mimbres drainages, located in southwestern New Mexico, support a unique cold- and cool-water native fish fauna adapted to the arid stream systems in which they evolved. These fishes, however, are losing ground to non-native fishes and to loss of habitat due to intermittency from stream drying. We implemented a temperature monitoring network throughout current and historical fish distributions to assess localized temperature effects on the distribution of the native fishes. We are working with the National Forest, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, and citizen scientists to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics that air and water temperature have on these arid-land fishes for future water planning needs.
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Stream temperature, flow, and the presence of non-native fishes can affect the distribution of native cold- and cool-water fishes. This is especially true for native fishes that have already experienced significant contractions in their historic range. The Gila and Mimbres drainages, located in southwestern New Mexico, support a unique cold- and cool-water native fish fauna adapted to the arid stream systems in which they evolved. These fishes, however, are losing ground to non-native fishes and to loss of habitat due to intermittency from stream drying. We implemented a temperature monitoring network throughout current and historical fish distributions to assess localized temperature effects on the distribution of the native fishes. We are working with the National Forest, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, and citizen scientists to provide a comprehensive outlook of the dynamics that air and water temperature have on these arid-land fishes for future water planning needs.
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Resilience Landscapes: Influence of fire and forest restoration on spatial and temporal distribution of fish and invertebrate communities
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June 2020
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The Las Conchas Fire began 26 June 2011 and spread at a rate of 26,000 acres per day burning 156,593 acres until fully contained 1 August 2011. At that time, the Las Conchas fire became the largest fire in New Mexico's history. In less than one week, one-third of the Valles Caldera National Preserve (VCNP) was burned. One month after the wildfire was fully contained, a series of rains resulted in exceptionally high flows and large ash input throughout streams on the Preserve. Fish surveys following the ash-laden flood events revealed a 95% reduction in trout abundance. The severity of the fire within the catchments of these streams resulted in variable flow and elevated sediment that have affected recovery of fish assemblages and the benthic macroinvertebrate community eight years post-fire. While density of adult brown trout have increased from less than 1.0 fish/100 m2 (August 2011) to 8.0-23.8 fish /100 m2 (May 2019), fish densities remain well below pre-burn densities (51-156 fish/100 m2). Recovery of native fish populations and the macroinvertebrate community assemblage on the VCNP are listed as priority needs for the National Park Service. The research will be used by Preserve biologists to make informed management decisions of the forested watershed and riparian areas of the streams.
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IN 2011, the Las Conchas Fire became the largest wildfire in New Mexico. In less than one week, one-third of the Valles Caldera National Preserve (VCNP) was burned. The severity of the fire within the forested watershed of the streams resulted in variable flow and elevated sediment that has continued to affect recovery of fish assemblages and the benthic macroinvertebrate community eight-years post-fire. Recovery of the aquatic community on the VCNP is listed as a priority need by the National Park Service. Eight years post fire, monitoring has revealed continued suppression of the salmonid population compared to pre-fire with little to no fish recruitment in the burned areas. In addition, the aquatic benthic invertebrate community continues to experience variable diversity throughout the fire-affected streams of the VCNP, which suggests ecological recovery is ongoing eight years post-fire. The research will be used by Preserve biologists to make informed management decisions of the forested watershed and riparian areas of the streams.
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Assessment of temperate-breeding Canada goose management in Kansas
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December 2020
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Resident Canada geese are a wildlife management success story, but are exceeding societal thresholds of tolerance in many areas. Management strategies are needed to address this conflict. Accurate counts and determining effect of management strategies are important in resolving conflicts with resident Canada goose. Translocation is a potential management strategy for over abundant geese. This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, South Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism. Survey methodology is being assess to improve precision of resulting estimates. Translocation does reduce survival of resident Canada geese.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Resident Canada geese are a wildlife management success story, but are exceeding societal thresholds of tolerance in many areas. Management strategies are needed to address this conflict.<b>Why this research matters:</b>Accurate counts and determining effect of management strategies are important in resolving conflicts with resident Canada goose. Translocation is a potential management strategy for over abundant geese. <b>Partners:</b>This research is a collaborative effort among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, South Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism.<b>Research that informs decisions: </b>Survey methodology is being assess to improve precision of resulting estimates. Translocation does reduce survival of resident Canada geese.
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Survival, Movement, and Resource Selection of Male Mule Deer and White-tailed Deer in Western Kansas
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December 2022
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Declining populations of mule deer in Kansas and the Great Plains are of concern to state management agencies. The Kansas Unit with collaborators are measuring survival, home range, movements, and resource selection of male mule deer and white-tailed deer in western Kansas to determine the relative influence of white-tailed deer on mule deer ecology and population demograph.
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<b>Problem statement:</b>Mule deer have been decreasing in abundance and occupied range in Kansas for the past three decades. Increasing numbers and expanding white-tailed deer may be contributing to trends in mule deer population.<b>So What? Why this research matters:</b>Mule deer are highly prized game animals that generate considerable revenue for Kansas Parks, Wildlife, and Tourism and private landowners. <b>Collaboration/Partners:</b>The project is a collaboration of among the Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Wildlife Enterprise and Outdoor Management Program at Kansas State University, Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, Kansas Bowhunters Association, and Mule Deer Foundation.<b>Research That Informs Decisions:</b>Understanding how the presence of male white-tailed deer affect space use and movements by male mule deer will inform landscape-scale management strategies. Relating the influence of harvest on male deer survival will contribute to developing harvest strategies.
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RWO 100: Changes in Avian and Plant Community Composition and Structure Following Prescribed Thinning in Pinyon-Juniper Woodlands.
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September 2021
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Pinyon-juniper woodlands are an extensive and biologically important vegetation community across the western United States. A history of overgrazing and fire suppression has resulted in pinyon-juniper woodlands expanding beyond its historical distribution and encroaching into predominantly grassland vegetation communities. This has led to efforts to reduce pinyon-juniper as part of grassland restoration, but it also has been documented that pinyon-juniper thinning and removal reduces avian diversity and abundance. This is of concern due to pinyon-juniper having the highest diversity of birds, highest density of nesting birds, and the highest number of bird species throughout the year compared to other upland habitats in the west. Of special concern is how thinning practices may influence pinyon-juniper obligate species of concern, especially the Juniper Titmouse and the Pinyon Jay. We are working with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to address this issue in New Mexico. Specifically, we are assessing avian community structure in pinyon-juniper areas in thinned and un-thinned plots, and before and after thinning occurs, to acquire data that facilitates informed management decision analysis for landscape level management.
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Pinyon-juniper woodlands are an extensive and biologically important vegetation community across the western United States. A history of overgrazing and fire suppression has resulted in pinyon-juniper woodlands expanding beyond its historical distribution and encroaching into predominantly grassland vegetation communities. This has led to efforts to reduce pinyon-juniper as part of grassland restoration, but it also has been documented that pinyon-juniper thinning and removal reduces avian diversity and abundance. This is of concern due to pinyon-juniper having the highest diversity of birds, highest density of nesting birds, and the highest number of bird species throughout the year compared to other upland habitats in the west. Of special concern is how thinning practices may influence pinyon-juniper obligate species of concern, especially the Juniper Titmouse and the Pinyon Jay. We are working with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to address this issue in New Mexico. Specifically, we are assessing avian community structure in pinyon-juniper areas in thinned and un-thinned plots, and before and after thinning occurs, to acquire data that facilitates informed management decision analysis for landscape level management.
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Demographic status and population genetic differentiation of Candy Darter populations in Virginia
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April 2020
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Candy Darter are narrowly restricted to medium-size streams with cold-cool temperatures, high-velocity riffles, and silt-free substrates. Absences in fish surveys over the last half-century indicate that the species has declined or is extirpated from many former localities, probably due to warming water temperatures or excessive siltation.<br>Enhanced understanding of the viability and dynamics of extant populations and evaluation of biologically defensible options for translocation of individuals or augmentation of populations would inform management planning for the species, enhance cost-effectiveness of management actions, and may obviate the need to formally list the species as imperiled.<br>OBJECTIVES:<br>(1)Document spatiotemporal shifts in occupancy and suitability of riffles in Stony Creek and Cripple Creek.<br>(2)Monitor populations to estimate relative population size for use in demographic projections and assessment of population viability.<br>(3)Estimate life-history attributes such as fecundity, age-specific survival, annual recruitment, and age structure.<br>(4)Analyze molecular and life-history data to define demographic and evolutionarily significant units for the species and to estimate genetic diversity and effective population size.<br>Site occupancy remained constant throughout the study duration in both Cripple and Stony creeks. Sites outside the known distribution of Candy Darter were unoccupied throughout the study. Results of multi-season occupancy models were not interpretable, likely resulting from small sample sizes, few absences and little variation in covariate values.<br>Relative abundance was estimated using Cormack-Jolly-Seber models for mark-recapture surveys and catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) for all surveys. Capture probabilities for mark-recapture data were generally low, which resulted in low precision in abundance and survival estimates.<br>Molecular data support the view that Candy Darter populations historically occurred throughout the New River drainage, but extant populations have been demographically isolated for some time. Mitochondrial and microsatellite DNA markers revealed high levels of population differentiation and strong evidence of recent population genetic bottlenecks.<br>Molecular genetics evidence supports the interpretation that all populations of Candy Darter in Virginia might benefit from genetic augmentations. The Cripple Creek, Laurel Creek, and Stony Creek populations had similar levels of genetic diversity and demographic stability, which make them viable options as source populations.
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Candy Darter are narrowly restricted to medium-size streams with cold-cool temperatures, high-velocity riffles, and silt-free substrates. Absences in fish surveys over the last half-century indicate that the species has declined or is extirpated from many former localities, probably due to warming water temperatures or excessive siltation.Enhanced understanding of the viability and dynamics of extant populations and evaluation of biologically defensible options for translocation of individuals or augmentation of populations would inform management planning for the species, enhance cost-effectiveness of management actions, and may obviate the need to formally list the species as imperiled.OBJECTIVES:(1)Document spatiotemporal shifts in occupancy and suitability of riffles in Stony Creek and Cripple Creek.(2)Monitor populations to estimate relative population size for use in demographic projections and assessment of population viability.(3)Estimate life-history attributes such as fecundity, age-specific survival, annual recruitment, and age structure.(4)Analyze molecular and life-history data to define demographic and evolutionarily significant units for the species and to estimate genetic diversity and effective population size.Site occupancy remained constant throughout the study duration in both Cripple and Stony creeks. Sites outside the known distribution of Candy Darter were unoccupied throughout the study. Results of multi-season occupancy models were not interpretable, likely resulting from small sample sizes, few absences and little variation in covariate values.Relative abundance was estimated using Cormack-Jolly-Seber models for mark-recapture surveys and catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) for all surveys. Capture probabilities for mark-recapture data were generally low, which resulted in low precision in abundance and survival estimates.Molecular data support the view that Candy Darter populations historically occurred throughout the New River drainage, but extant populations have been demographically isolated for some time. Mitochondrial and microsatellite DNA markers revealed high levels of population differentiation and strong evidence of recent population genetic bottlenecks.Molecular genetics evidence supports the interpretation that all populations of Candy Darter in Virginia might benefit from genetic augmentations. The Cripple Creek, Laurel Creek, and Stony Creek populations had similar levels of genetic diversity and demographic stability, which make them viable options as source populations.
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RWO 67 - Habitat Modeling of Rare Plant Species in the Inter...
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June 2021
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Utah is the home of approximately 340 endemic plant taxa (Welsh 2008). Many of these are considered species of concern at both State and Federal levels, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service having responsibility for reviewing the species of concern for possible listing under the Endangered Species Act. Of special interest are identifying, mapping, and modelling known and possible locations of the species on BLM lands. The flora element of the Utah Natural Heritage Program, now housed in the Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University, will survey for plants considered for review by the Fish and Wildlife Service, along with other species where little information is available.
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Utah is the home of approximately 340 endemic plant taxa (Welsh 2008). Many of these are considered species of concern at both State and Federal levels, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service having responsibility for reviewing the species of concern for possible listing under the Endangered Species Act. Of special interest are identifying, mapping, and modelling known and possible locations of the species on BLM lands. The flora element of the Utah Natural Heritage Program, now housed in the Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University, will survey for plants considered for review by the Fish and Wildlife Service, along with other species where little information is available.
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BLM: Utah Geospatial Data Layers and Web Interface for Satellite Monitoring of Wildlife Habitat in Utah
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September 2021
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For this project, in collaboration with Utah State University, we are proposing to derive daily normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data from 2000 – 2014. NDVI is a satellite-derived metric of the reflectance of photosynthetic biomass. NDVI is available through terraPulse at daily, 500-m resolution from atmospherically corrected estimates of red and near-infrared surface reflectance from the MODerate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensors aboard the NASA Aqua and Terra satellites. Raw measurements are subject to extensive processing, in which data are masked for snow, cloud, and high aerosols and corrected for distortions produced by variation in solar angles. The second phase of the project in year one would entail developing a “proof-of-concept” web based mapping prototype to help visualize the NDVI data for the area of interest. This prototype hosted at terraPulse shall be made available to our collaborators for testing purposes.
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For this project, in collaboration with Utah State University, we are proposing to derive daily normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data from 2000 – 2014. NDVI is a satellite-derived metric of the reflectance of photosynthetic biomass. NDVI is available through terraPulse at daily, 500-m resolution from atmospherically corrected estimates of red and near-infrared surface reflectance from the MODerate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensors aboard the NASA Aqua and Terra satellites. Raw measurements are subject to extensive processing, in which data are masked for snow, cloud, and high aerosols and corrected for distortions produced by variation in solar angles. The second phase of the project in year one would entail developing a “proof-of-concept” web based mapping prototype to help visualize the NDVI data for the area of interest. This prototype hosted at terraPulse shall be made available to our collaborators for testing purposes.
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FS: Uinta-Wasatch Cache Rare Plants
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April 2020
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The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest has 35 species on its list of Threatened and Endangered, sensitive, and watch lists. Many of the locations of these species are from herbarium records and have not been revisited, and have only a written description of the location where the plants were observed. The collectors did not leave records of the areas searched without success for these species in most cases. To create effective species distribution models, accurate locations are needed. True absence locations for places visited is also needed to increase accuracy of models, and help plan new searches in places not yet surveyed.
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The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest has 35 species on its list of Threatened and Endangered, sensitive, and watch lists. Many of the locations of these species are from herbarium records and have not been revisited, and have only a written description of the location where the plants were observed. The collectors did not leave records of the areas searched without success for these species in most cases. To create effective species distribution models, accurate locations are needed. True absence locations for places visited is also needed to increase accuracy of models, and help plan new searches in places not yet surveyed.
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Maximizing the capture of lake sturgeon and other species in the fish elevator on the Menominee River
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December 2019
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The lake sturgeon is a large, iconic, long-lived fish that is important to the economy and culture of Wisconsin. However, populations of lake sturgeon have decreased drastically over the past two centuries. This is due to a suite of factors including overfishing, habitat loss and fragmentation, and water quality degradation. While dams have numerous benefits, they also have drawbacks that can negatively influence lake sturgeon. Lake sturgeon have regular migrations associated with spawning and feeding that can be up to 330 km. Dams impede the historic travel corridors and due to the physiology and benthic orientation of lake sturgeon make conventional fish passage (e.g. fish ladders) inaccessible for these fish. There are knowledge gaps in lake sturgeon passage such as: behavior during migration, passage design, implementation and development of operation windows, and improving assessment and monitoring of passage efforts. Our objectives are: 1) Increase knowledge on lake sturgeon behaviors near dams and to improve efficiency of the Menominee River fish elevator. 2) Experiment what attraction flows, seasonality, photoperiod, scents, and retention modifications we can make to the elevator to improve capture and efficiency. 3) Develop of home ranges and life history characteristics for these populations using radio telemetry.
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Populations of lake sturgeon have decreased drastically in over the past two centuries. This is due to a suite of factors including overfishing, habitat loss and fragmentation, and water quality degradation. Dams impede historic travel corridors and due to the physiology and benthic orientation of lake sturgeon make conventional fish passage (e.g. fish ladders) inaccessible for these fish.The Menominee Dam on the Menominee River, Michigan and Wisconsin, is only 3.9 km upriver from Green Bay; therefore, a fish elevator was constructed in 2014 to capture, sort, and trap-and-transfer Lake Sturgeon upstream of the two lowest dams. This is the first elevator specifically targeting Lake Sturgeon.This project is a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.Our study goals are to provide guidelines for operating the elevator that will optimize Lake Sturgeon captures and offer information on behaviors near dams that may benefit other managers considering passage.
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Evaluation of car counters and trail cameras for estimating angler effort on Wisconsin lakes
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December 2019
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Angler effort can affect the quality and long-term sustainability of fish. Angler effort is typically estimated using creel surveys, although surveys are rarely conducted on most lakes due to costs and logistics. When creel surveys are possible, small sample sizes (few interviews) may lead to large variance and poor confidence intervals associated with estimates of effort. The objective of this study was to determine if use of low-cost remote vehicle counters can be used to estimating trends in angler effort. During the spring of 2015, vehicle counters (n = 40) were buried at boat ramps throughout the state of Wisconsin. We compared vehicle counter results to boat ramp use determined from trail cameras deployed at 14 study lakes. Linear regression was used to evaluate relationships among estimates of boat ramp use (i.e., effort). Vehicle counters explained on average 77% of the variation in the number of boats using each lake. This suggests vehicle counters can be used to remotely monitor trends in angler effort on some water bodies. Vehicle counters could provide more accurate estimates of temporal trends in angler effort through continuous monitoring at many lakes compared to sporadic counts conducted during traditional creel surveys.
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Angler effort can affect both the quality and long-term sustainability of exploited fish populations. Angler effort is typically estimated using creel surveys, although surveys are rarely conducted on most lakes due to costs and logistics. When creel surveys are possible, small sample sizes (few interviews) may lead to large variance and poor confidence intervals associated with estimates of effort. Vehicle counters can be used to remotely monitor trends in angler effort on some water bodies, although the effectiveness of vehicle counters may be confounded by non-angler use and boat ramp design.This research was a collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.Vehicle counters could provide more accurate estimates of temporal trends in angler effort through continuous monitoring at many lakes compared to sporadic counts conducted during traditional creel surveys.
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Predicting abundance of adult muskellunge in northern Wisconsin
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June 2020
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Most Wisconsin muskellunge Esox masquinongy populations occur within the Ceded Territory of northern Wisconsin, where mixed fisheries consisting of a recreational hook-and-line fishery and a tribal spearing fishery occur. Safe harvest levels for each population are based on estimates of adult muskellunge abundance. Estimates of adult muskellunge abundance used to establish safe harvest levels are obtained from mark-recapture surveys that are conducted on a few lakes over a two year interval. These estimates are considered valid estimates of abundance for up to two years after the initial marking of fish. If a recent population estimate is not available for an individual lake, a linear regression model is used to predict adult abundance from lake surface area using existing population estimates from all lakes. A similar approach is used to predict abundance of walleyes, but the amount of variation in adult abundance that is explained by lake surface area is much higher for walleyes than for muskellunge. Therefore, the objective of our study is to determine if alternative models can be used to explain greater variation in the abundance of adult muskellunge within northern Wisconsin lakes than the current linear model that relies solely on lake surface area as a predictor variable.
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In the Ceded Territory of northern Wisconsin, muskellunge support important mixed fisheries consisting of a recreational hook-and-line fishery and a tribal spear fishery. Following methods developed for walleye, safe harvest levels for muskellunge populations are based on population abundance estimates that are considered valid for two years.Muskellunge typically have lower rates of recruitment and mortality than walleye and populations may be stable for periods > two years. If muskellunge populations are temporally stable, safe harvest levels may be developed from population abundance estimated conducted on a basis less frequent than every two years and resources may be allocated to other priority research and management needs.This project is a collaboration between the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and fishery managers with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.Determining the temporal stability in adult muskellunge populations may allow for more efficient fisheries management in that safe harvest levels could be developed and resources could be allocated to other research and management needs. Additionally, growth and survival information gathered in this study will be used to inform management decisions that promote the sustainability of muskellunge populations in northern Wisconsin.
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Yellow Lampmussel Restoration Initiative
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January 2020
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The Yellow Lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa; YLM) is a freshwater mussel (Unionoida) with a restricted range in Massachusetts. The species is currently only known to exist in the Connecticut River mainstem and lower sections of a few major tributaries, with one historic record from the Merrimack River. The species is protected as Endangered under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA), and prior to 2006, was thought to be extirpated from the Commonwealth. Increased surveys from 2005 through 2014 suggest that the Massachusetts population is widespread, with patches of individuals in the Connecticut River from the Connecticut state line upstream to Hadley, MA. Threats to the YLM in the Connecticut River are not fully understood, but are likely associated with hydrologic alteration and sediment distribution. Historic and current point and non-point sources of pollution may also affect the distribution and viability of these populations.<br><br>Like other native freshwater mussels, the YLM’s lifecycle includes a parasitic larval stage (glochidia), which must attach to and mature on a fish host. Yellow Lampmussels have been observed to use Striped Bass, White Perch, Yellow Perch, and Smallmouth Bass as hosts throughout their range. However, host fishes for the Massachusetts populations may be unique, and identification of region-specific host fishes may guide conservation efforts through fishery management. Laboratory propagation of freshwater mussels has also been identified in the Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan as a potential conservation measure to reintroduce mussels to historically occupied sites, or to augment populations that are currently present. The Richard Cronin Aquatic Resource Center in Sunderland, MA began research to propagate freshwater mussels in 2015, making it the first mussel propagation facility in New England.<br><br>The project aims to conduct research to inform conservation of YLM through investigations of early life history and ecology. Specifically, USFWS and UMass will:<br>1. Culture YLM juveniles using proven methods.<br>2. Investigate methods to increase growth and survival of juvenile YLM.<br>Research on Eastern Lampmussel (L. radiata), a surrogate species with similar characteristics to YLM, may be used to address the second objective in the event YLM juveniles are not available in research quantities.
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In North America 72% of freshwater mussel species are endangered, threatened, or of special concern due to factors such as habitat loss and degradation, biological invasion, and land use change. Propagation of freshwater mussels has been considered a necessary conservation strategy for population restoration where threats have been mitigated but small population sizes limit population viability. Developing and refining culture methods for target mussel species is a critical step toward population restoration. This project is a collaboration between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Our results on the effects of probiotic supplements and secondary rearing designs are critical for developing effective culture methods for the state-listed yellow lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa), and will more broadly add to the limited literature on probiotic use and secondary rearing designs in freshwater mussel culture.
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Spawning site contribution and movements of lake whitefish in northwestern Lake Michigan
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June 2021
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Lake whitefish support important commercial and recreational fisheries on Lake Michigan, with the northern third of the lake supporting the majority of harvest. Genetic analyses indicate lake whitefish harvest in northwest Lake Michigan (zones WI-1, WI-2, WFM-00 and WFM-01) represents a mixed-stock fishery largely supported (≈ 75%) by fish assigned to Big Bay de Noc (BBDN) and Green Bay genetic stocks. Previous tagging suggested the BBDN stock spawned on reefs within BBDN and were usually recovered by the fishery in Green Bay north of Chambers Island or along the lake side of the Door Peninsula. Most fish from the Green Bay stock were thought to spawn on reefs along the lake side of Door Peninsula near North and Moonlight bays (NMB) and the majority of tags were recovered along both sides of the Door Peninsula. These studies suggest lake whitefish exhibit relatively high spawning site fidelity. However, inferring general movements from tags recovered in fisheries could be biased because fishing effort is unevenly distributed in time and space. Recruitment in both NMB and BBDN areas appears to be in decline. Conversely, whitefish assigning to multiple stocks now spawn in tributaries to Green Bay (primarily the Fox and Menominee rivers) where spawning had not occurred for nearly a century and these fish are rarely recovered outside of Green Bay (≈ 1%). Furthermore, age-0 lake whitefish are being captured in greater abundance at many locations, indicating population expansion, not decline. Wisconsin DNR has proposed actions to reduce harvest in the NMB area, but commercial fishers argue that whitefish behavior has changed, BBDN and NMB stocks are not functionally discrete, and recruitment failure is not occurring in Green Bay as a whole. Use of telemetry coupled with genomics will allow us to test current understanding of stock structure, stock-specific movements, and spatial distribution relative to fishing effort. We will also determine movements of tributary spawners, which have not been described in previous work. Use of telemetry and high-reward tags will also allow us to estimate mortality rates for these stocks, which are needed for determining safe harvest levels.
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The Lake Whitefish fishery in northwestern Lake Michigan is comprised of multiple stocks and the movements of fish within those stocks is not well understood. Previous studies suggested lake whitefish show relatively high spawning site fidelity, determining whether stocks are functionally discrete remains an important question for fishery managers. Additionally, lake whitefish assigning to multiple stocks now spawn in tributaries to Green Bay (primarily the Fox and Menominee rivers) where spawning had not been observed for nearly a century; the movements of these fish are largely unknown.This project is a collaboration between multiple agencies including the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Hammond Bay Biological Station and Michigan State University. Use of acoustic telemetry coupled with genomics will allow us to test current understanding of lake whitefish stock structure and describe stock-specific movements and spatial distribution relative to fishing effort. Use of telemetry and high-reward tags will also allow us to estimate mortality rates for these stocks, which are needed for determining safe harvest levels.
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Evaluation of muskellunge habitat use and suitability in Green Bay and tributaries
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June 2021
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The Wisconsin DNR is working to restore muskellunge in the Lower Fox River and Green Bay ecosystems. Natural reproduction of muskellunge is limited, so this effort largely relies on stocking juvenile fish. Defining habitat availability and selection are the first steps in implementing habitat improvements that can effectively benefit natural reproduction. Some previous research provides initial insights regarding potential muskellunge spawning habitat, but this work did not encompass all tributaries where spawning may occur, did not address spawning site selection in relation to stocking location, and did not verify that larvae emerged at putative spawning locations. Our primary objectives are to: 1) determine the proportion of muskellunge spawning in tributaries to lower Green Bay or in Green Bay proper; 2) determine if adults return to stocking locations to spawn; 3) define habitat conditions that result in successful hatching and 4) quantify the availability of viable spawning habitat in tributaries. Our goal is to provide resource agencies with specific recommendations for future habitat projects that have the greatest potential to increase natural reproduction of muskellunge. We will provide habitat maps depicting probability of muskellunge egg deposition and/or larval production. Specifically, we will identify those areas where the probability of these events might increase with changes to habitat conditions and we will also have identified what changes in conditions need to be made. Therefore, we will be able to provide recommendations regarding both the “where” and “how” aspects of future habitat improvements. Specific recommendations might include additions of woody cover, efforts to increase aquatic plant growth, flow/wave diversion and these recommendations could vary by location. After the project is complete, we hope to work with WDNR and other partners in providing guidance and information in developing new habitat improvement projects.
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The Lower Fox River and Green Bay muskellunge population is largely supported by stocking because natural recruitment is limited, possibly due to habitat limitations. While previous work has identified potential spawning locations, it is unknown whether muskellunge hatch at these locations and habitat attributes associated with successful hatching have not been determined. Identifying habitat conditions that result in the successful production of offspring is important for developing habitat improvement projects that aim to restore critical spawning habitat. Understanding muskellunge behavior will also help develop stocking strategies that aim to increase use of restored spawning habitat. This project is a collaboration between multiple agencies including the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and many local musky fishing clubs.Our research should lead to better application of habitat improvement/restoration and stocking efforts designed to increase muskellunge abundance.
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Interannual Variation in Juvenile River Herring Productivity and Responses to Dam Removal
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August 2025
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Inter-annual variation in river herring densities presents challenges to understanding the effects of restoration on fish productivity. Many agencies are actively working to improve aquatic connectivity in coastal rivers, with the specific aim of restoring diadromous fish populations, including river herring. There are several recent and future dam removals in eastern Massachusetts that will likely benefit river herring, but there is currently no planned monitoring of freshwater productivity following dam removal. We propose to sample juvenile river herring in freshwater lakes for at least 5 years after dam removal to assess patterns of river herring recovery, while simultaneously sampling lakes with current natural runs to address the following questions:<br>(1)How do juvenile river herring densities and growth vary among years and in relation to lake specific and regional environmental conditions?<br>(2)How many years following dam removal does it take to restore juvenile river herring productivity to that of a natural run?<br>We will also continue to stock two lakes with river herring, where we know the exact number of adults entering the systems, to develop relationships between adult density and juvenile density and growth, and can control stock densities under different environmental conditions. These stocked lakes also provide opportunities to develop pedigrees and understand factors influencing reproductive success.
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River herring have been valued by human societies from the pre-colonization period onwards, but are at historical low abundance and at risk of continued declines given continued anthropogenic stressors, including climate change. River herring densities vary widely across New England watersheds, and the numbers and timing of river herring migrations also vary greatly from year to year. Several (>5) years of data is needed to begin to evaluate patterns of adult and juvenile densities among years, particularly given the delay between juvenile outmigration and their return to spawn 3-4 years later. Our results will show how densities and growth of juvenile river herring vary among years in relation to environmental conditions and will also document changes in river herring productivity following dam removal. This research is a collaboration between the USGS, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, and The Nature Conservancy. Knowledge of the link between run counts and juvenile productivity are critical to update population models, and information about year-to-year variability can help to describe uncertainty around population estimates, ultimately informing river herring management decisions. Data from dam removal sites will provide valuable new insights about annual changes in river herring densities with novel access, and can be used to develop expectations for future aquatic connectivity restoration projects.
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Population Ecology of Moose in Vermont
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June 2024
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Concern has risen in Vermont and neighboring states over the past decade regarding high mortality and low recruitment rates of resident moose populations, causing population declines. High winter tick (Dermacentor albipictus) infestations are considered to be a major cause of these trends. The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department utilizes population models to estimate regional moose numbers and determine appropriate management actions. Model inputs such as age structure, sex ratio, and mortality and recruitment rates are inputs to this model. Management of Vermont’s moose would benefit greatly from more precise estimates of these rates and a population viability assessment. This proposal is to investigate rates of moose mortality, productivity, recruitment, and genetics of moose populations over a three-year period in Wildlife Management Units E1 and E2, which collectively constitute moose management region “E”. This region contains 632 square miles of moose habitat, and hosts the highest moose densities (up to 1.75 moose/sq. mi), highest winter tick loads, and low deer densities. This project is a collaboration between the Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Vermont, and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. It builds on work done in the neighboring states of New Hampshire, Maine, and New York. The study will contribute to a broader understanding of moose population trends in the Northeast region.
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In the past decade, concern has risen in Vermont and neighboring states regarding high mortality and low recruitment rates of resident moose populations. High winter tick (Dermacentor albipictus) infestations are considered to be a major cause of these trends. The rapidly declining moose population may result in the local extinction of this iconic species from Vermont. Information is needed on age-specific survival rates, cause of mortality, and habitat selection in relation to winter tick load. This project is a collaboration between the Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Vermont, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, and the U.S. Geological Survey. The research will provide estimates of survival and reproductive rates of moose in Vermont, and identify critical habitats and gene flow. More precise estimates of mortality and recruitment rates and the factors that affect these vital rates will provide the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department information needed to help to reverse this trend.
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Understanding common loon distribution and abundance in Washington
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December 2019
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The Common Loon (Gavia immer) is a State Species of Concern in Washington. The species was once thought to be fairly common in both eastern and western Washington, but likely declined in the early decades of the 20th Century. Planning conservation efforts for the species is complicated by lack of information on the abundance and distribution of the species in Washington. <br><br>With this project, we aim to provide the State of Washington with information necessary to conduct effective, efficient, and affordable surveys for the species in the State. The project will involve 3 components: 1) understanding factors influencing site occupancy of loons in the State, based on existing State survey data as well as citizen science (eBird) data; 2) pilot testing a drone-based sampling method to determine detection probabilities as a function of effort; and 3) using information from components 1 and 2 to design a sampling strategy (including sampling methods and strata) and conduct a simulation study that will describe expected precision in occupancy estimates as a function of sampling effort and spatial coverage.
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The Common Loon is a State Species of Concern in Washington. The species was once thought to be fairly common in both eastern and western Washington, but likely declined in the early decades of the 20th Century. Planning conservation efforts for the species is complicated by lack of information on the abundance and distribution of the species in Washington. The goals of this project are to: 1) understand the factors influencing site occupancy of loons in Washington, based on existing state survey data as well as citizen science (eBird) data; and 2) design a sampling strategy and conduct a simulation study that will describe expected precision in occupancy estimates as a function of sampling effort and spatial coverage. Improved information on distribution of common loons, along with study design recommendations to improve data in future, will produce more robust information to guide status assessment and recovery of Common Loons in Washington.
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Improving conservation status of arctic grayling; assessing and increasing landscape connectivity benefits of denil fishways in the Big Hole River
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December 2019
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Recovering and improving the conservation status of Arctic Grayling populations are USFWS Region 6 priority goals. The Arctic Grayling is a species of special conservation concern, and a Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances program was established in the Big Hole River Watershed to facilitate conservation in 2006. Barriers, such as irrigation diversions, may limit the movement of Arctic Grayling; Arctic Grayling in the Big Hole Watershed move 60-80 miles throughout the year to reach spawning, refuge, and feeding habitats. Conservation actions, such as ensuring landscape connectivity, taken before a species is listed or its habitat lost can provide simpler alternatives to expensive litigation and recovery programs. Arctic Grayling are an iconic and important component of our aquatic fauna; their presence means that quality riparian habitat remains intact to support other aquatic species. The Arctic Grayling population above Great Falls, Montana, has declined significantly. Improving the conservation status of the Arctic Grayling population that resides in the Big Hole River Watershed is important to the species overall conservation status.
Hydraulic structures such as irrigation diversions are common to the river systems in Montana. They are essential for providing water diversion for agriculture but can be barriers to Arctic Grayling and other aquatic species. For over a decade, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MTFWP), USDA-Natural Resources and Conservation Service (NRCS) Montana, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), local ranchers, NGOs, and others have worked to balance agricultural needs with the conservation of native fish, rivers, and streams. This partnership is a model for how conservation and agriculture can be blended to maintain and ideally improve both.
Denil fishways have been installed in irrigation diversions throughout the Big Hole River Watershed to provide fish passage, with more fishways planned in this watershed and others. They are either included as part of the standard design and installation for new diversions or are installed as a retrofit to existing diversions. The Denils are made of steel, are 2 ft. in cross section, and are either 6 ft. or 12 ft. in length. They are typically installed into the pin and plank portion of the diversion with a total vertical drop of 1 ft.
The effectiveness of these fishways has not been assessed and design criteria remain untested. Conservation partners need to know the efficiency of fish passage for Arctic Grayling and other aquatic species and their economics and water usage. Lack of assessment limits our ability to use an adaptive management strategy that might lead to better design features; partners maybe missing opportunities for win-win conflict resolution scenarios such as developing criteria that might increase passage success and landscape connectivity while providing more economical use of water when it is scarcest.
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Hydraulic structures such as irrigation diversions are common to the river systems in arid agricultural regions but can restrict necessary fish movements. Denil fishways have been installed in irrigation diversions, and many more installations are planned, but their effectiveness has not been assessed. We are testing their effectiveness at providing Arctic grayling passage in the Big Hole River watershed and testing their design criteria. Conservation partners need to know the efficiency of fish passage for Arctic Grayling and other aquatic species and their economics and water usage. Partners are the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, USDA NRCS, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, local ranchers, and NGO’s. Assessment of Denil fishways will enhance adaptive management strategies and lead to better design features that increase passage success and landscape connectivity while providing more economical use of water when it is scarcest.
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Reproductive indices of hatchery-origin white sturgeon in the lower Columbia River, Canada
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June 2020
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Recruitment of White Sturgeon in the Transboundary Recovery Area (TRA) of the Columbia River [Hugh L. Keenleyside Dam (HLK) to Grand Coulee Dam (GCD) in WA, USA] has not occurred at a rate sufficient over the past 40 years to maintain the population going forward. Conservation aquaculture has become a critical component of recovery programs, including for White Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) in the lower Columbia River where extirpation has largely been avoided due to the success of hatchery-origin juveniles released into the wild. Survival of hatchery-origin juveniles in the upper Columbia River population has been higher than originally predicted, with more than 30,000 individuals estimated to be at large in the population (BC Hydro 2016a). Within the hatchery population, certain year classes are estimated to be in higher abundance than the existing wild population (~3,000 mature individuals), as a result of higher survival for year classes released at larger body size. Of further concern, within year class genetic diversity has been estimated to be reduced relative to the time of release from the hatchery (McLellan and Crossman unpublished data) as a result of disproportionate survival among maternal family groups. As a result of these findings, there is an urgent need to determine when the hatchery population will mature and begin contributing to natural spawning, as genetic swamping of the existing wild population is a risk given numbers of estimated annual breeders (121.5 ± 34.7 adults (mean ± SD); Jay et al. 2014).
In the wild, White Sturgeon begin maturing between the ages of 15-35 years for females and 10-12 years for males (PSMFC 1992; Billard and Lecointre 2001). When provided with conditions for maximum growth in captivity, sexual maturity can occur much earlier with males maturing as early as 3 years of age and females as early as 6 years of age (Doroshov et al. 1997) However, age at first maturity is not well documented for hatchery-origin fish in productive systems like the lower Columbia River, Canada, where growth rates are high following release into the wild and individuals are reaching a body size similar to mature adults by age 14 (BC Hydro 2016b). The hatchery population in the lower Columbia River, Canada, represents a unique opportunity to determine age and size at first maturity in hatchery-origin fish, whether the hatchery-origin fish differ in reproductive indices (Table 1) compared to wild fish, and how other variables (e.g. habitat use or environmental covariates) may influence when individuals become reproductive. This information, in combination with other ongoing monitoring, will help inform both long-term population targets and ongoing revisions to numbers of fish that are released annually from the conservation aquaculture program.
Sturgeon females and males are not sexual dimorphic (Billard and Lecointre, 2001). There are several available methods to assess sex and stage of maturity in sturgeons (Webb and Van Eenennaam 2015), though direct comparison among all methods (ultrasound, endoscopy, measurement of plasma sex steroids, and biopsy) in their efficiency and reliability in assigning sex and stage of maturity are limited. Additionally, certain methods are more invasive than others limiting what may be possible for threatened or endangered populations where permitting requirements focus only on noninvasive techniques, and the most accurate method(s) that may be applied to females to assess sex and stage of maturity may differ from those that may be applied to males. This further supports the need for comparative assessments between available methods for females and males and, given the endangered status of sturgeon species globally, is applicable beyond White Sturgeon.
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Conservation aquaculture has become a critical component of recovery programs, including for White Sturgeon in the lower Columbia River where extirpation has largely been avoided due to the success of hatchery-origin juveniles released into the wild. There is an urgent need to determine when the hatchery population will mature and begin contributing to natural spawning, as genetic swamping of the existing wild population is a risk given numbers of estimated annual breeders (121.5 ± 34.7 adults (mean ± SD)). There are several available methods to assess sex and stage of maturity in sturgeons, though direct comparison among all methods (ultrasound, endoscopy, measurement of plasma sex steroids, and biopsy) in their efficiency and reliability in assigning sex and stage of maturity are limited. This supports the need for comparative assessments between available methods for females and males and, given the endangered status of sturgeon species globally, is applicable beyond White Sturgeon. The objectives of this research are: 1) determine the accuracy of multiple tools, ultrasound, blood plasma sex steroids, endoscopy, and gonadal biopsy to assign sex and stage of maturity in hatchery-origin and wild populations, 2) determine if gametogenesis occurs homogenously across the gonadal tissue in male and female hatchery-origin White Sturgeon, and 3) determine how biological (i.e., age, sex, and size) and environmental characteristics (i.e., discharge rate and water temperature) could influence the stage of maturity in hatchery-origin White Sturgeon in the lower Columbia River, Canada
Partners are US Fish and Wildlife Service
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Effects of Imidacloprid on Soil Macrofauna within Riparian Hemlock Forests
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May 2021
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This research is designed to determine the richness and diversity of soil and benthic microinvertebrates and salamander species associated with imidacloprid treatment and to assess the risk of imidacloprid treatments. Synthesis of this information could culminate in the reassessment of hemlock woolly adelgid treatment program based on the results of this project.
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Hemlock-dominated forest creates unique micro-climates providing favorable habitats for certain animals and affecting understory plant species composition, biomass, and productivity among various hemlock stands. Hemlocks cover 11,690 acres in the parks (i.e. GARI, NERI, and BLUE), and are threatened by an exotic insect pest, hemlock woolly adelgid. Although the effectiveness of imidacloprid on hemlock woolly adelgid is well documented, the long-term effects of the insecticide on soil dwelling organisms and ecology of forest soils and water resources are poorly understood in the National Park System. This research is designed to determine the richness and diversity of soil and benthic macroinvertebrates and salamander species associated with imidacloprid treatment and to assess the risk of imidacloprid treatments. Synthesis of this information could culminate in the reassessment of hemlock woolly adelgid treatment programs based on the results of this project.
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Influence of mink predation on Brown Trout in Rapid Creek, SD
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December 2019
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Wild brown trout represent an important fishery in Rapid Creek. The catch and release section of Rapid Creek, below Pactola dam, is particularly notable among anglers and is considered a ‘Blue Ribbon’ trout fishery. Since the early 2000s, the abundance of adult brown trout has declined appreciably and remains low compared to historic estimates. Understanding the cause of this decline is important, given the importance of this catch-and-release fishery and the implications for recruitment of larger fish. Recent work has shown that predation by mink (Mustela vison) may account for significant mortality of Brown Trout in Rapid Creek. Understanding the magnitude of mink predation on Brown trout could have important implications for future management decisions in Rapid Creek. Working in collaboration with South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks and the U.S. Forest Service, the purpose of this project is to assess impacts of mink predation on trout populations in Rapid Creek, South Dakota. Data gathered in this study will provide insight into the effectiveness of management techniques such as instream habitat improvements and (or) predator block management on trout populations.
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Wild brown trout represent an important fishery in Rapid Creek, South Dakota. The catch and release section of Rapid Creek, below Pactola dam, is particularly notable among anglers and is considered a ‘Blue Ribbon’ trout fishery. Since the early 2000s, the abundance of adult brown trout has declined appreciably and remains low compared to historic estimates. Understanding the cause of this decline is important, given the importance of this catch-and-release fishery and the implications for recruitment of larger fish. Recent work has shown that predation by mink (<i>Mustela vison</i>) may account for significant mortality of Brown Trout. Understanding the magnitude of mink predation on Brown trout could have important implications for future management decisions in Rapid Creek. Working in collaboration with South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks and the U.S. Forest Service, the purpose of this project is to assess impacts of mink predation on trout populations in Rapid Creek, South Dakota. Data gathered in this study will provide insight into the effectiveness of management techniques such as instream habitat improvements and (or) predator block management on trout populations.
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Evaluation of cover crops for grassland nesting waterfowl in Eastern South Dakota
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June 2020
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With continuing grassland losses throughout the Prairie Pothole Region, alternative methods of providing nesting cover for avifauna is warranted. Fall-seeded cover crops may provide such an alternate habitat type. This study will evaluate the efficacy of such practices as a means to benefit nesting waterfowl in Eastern South Dakota.
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With continuing grassland losses throughout the Prairie Pothole Region, alternative methods of providing nesting cover for avifauna is warranted. Fall-seeded cover crops may provide such an alternate habitat type. but because a row crop is planted and harvested, often during the waterfowl nesting season, the impact on wildlife, and nesting waterfowl in particular, is largely unknown. This study will evaluate the efficacy of fall-seeded cover crops as a means to benefit nesting waterfowl in Eastern South Dakota. The work is being conducted through South Dakota State University and funded by Ducks Unlimited, Inc. through a grant originally from the Natural Resource Conservation Service. Results of this work will help managers understand if this cover crop program actually is beneficial to nesting waterfowl; if it operates as an ecological trap, managers can target their efforts at compensatory habitats or perhaps alter the timing of agricultural practices to maximize the benefits to breeding waterfowl.
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Cause of low nesting success and recruitment of Clark's and Western Grebes in Idaho
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May 2025
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Clark’s grebes are uncommon in North America and abundance has declined significantly over the past 50 years. Data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) suggest 1.6% annual declines from 1966-2013 rangewide for Clark’s and western grebes (Sauer et al. 2014). Estimates for the number of western grebes (110,000) and Clark’s grebes (20,000) in North America are based partly on peak counts reported during the National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Counts (CBC) (Kushlan et al. 2000, 2002; National Audubon Society 2004). No comprehensive surveys of nesting sites have been conducted. Because of their rarity and their continued population declines, Clark’s grebes were included on a recent list of birds in North America that are most in need of conservation action (State of the Birds Watch List; Rosenberg et al. 2014). The western grebe is a candidate species for listing as threatened or endangered in Washington, and Clark’s grebes are a species of concern in Arizona, Montana and Wyoming (Ivey and Herziger, in Ivey 2004).
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Clark’s grebes are uncommon in North America and abundance has declined significantly over the past 50 years. Data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) suggest 1.6% annual declines from 1966-2013 rangewide for Clark’s and western grebes (Sauer et al. 2014). Estimates for the number of western grebes (110,000) and Clark’s grebes (20,000) in North America are based partly on peak counts reported during the National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Counts (CBC) (Kushlan et al. 2000, 2002; National Audubon Society 2004). No comprehensive surveys of nesting sites have been conducted. Because of their rarity and their continued population declines, Clark’s grebes were included on a recent list of birds in North America that are most in need of conservation action (State of the Birds Watch List; Rosenberg et al. 2014). The western grebe is a candidate species for listing as threatened or endangered in Washington, and Clark’s grebes are a species of concern in Arizona, Montana and Wyoming (Ivey and Herziger, in Ivey 2004).
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Distribution and Ecology of the Eastern Spotted Skunk
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December 2019
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Rare throughout the Appalachians, the eastern spotted skunk is currently being surveyed for distribution, habitat use and genetic status in Virginia and West Virginia. Cooperators include Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources U.S. Forest Service, the Virginia Master Naturalist Program and Wintergreen Resort.
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Rare throughout the Appalachians, the eastern spotted skunk is currently being surveyed for distribution, habitat use and genetic status in Virginia and West Virginia. The goal of this project is ascertain status to support either a game or sensitive species designation.
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Factors affecting demography of songbirds in tropical rainforests
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March 2021
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The ecological consequences of climate change have focused on effects of temperature and ignored the effects of rain. Yet, rainfall also is changing. Lab studies have demonstrated that wetting increases thermal conductance and energy expenditure of adult and juvenile endotherms, and rain may constrain foraging (energy acquisition). Any such energy constraints may be particularly significant when parents are trying to meet the needs of growing offspring, such that rain may play a critical role in demography and adaptive trait evolution of endotherms during reproduction. This may be particularly important in tropical rainforests where rain is prevalent, thermal tolerances are narrow, and temperatures are below thermoneutral levels. In response, animals may have evolved behavioral strategies and nest structures (enclosed vs open nests) to affect exposure to rain. Studies of the effects of rainfall on energetics and behavior across diverse species and nest types are lacking
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Climate can strongly impact energy expenditure and thereby demography of songbirds through the interacting effects of rain and temperature, although impacts may differ among species related to their behaviors and nest structures. Yet, measurement of energy expenditure among coexisting species with respect to varying rain and temperature conditions is completely lacking. This project is a collaboration with Sabah Parks. This project will provide data on the differential demographic sensitivities of species to allow prioritization of species for management, and also advances conceptual understanding of why species differ in demographic sensitivity.
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Gulf of Mexico Marine Assessment Program for Protected Species
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December 2022
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Limited information is available regarding the species composition, distribution, and abundance of seabirds using the nearshore and offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. For example, to date there have been only three standardized and/or repeatable surveys for pelagic seabirds in the Gulf. The sparse data available on distribution and abundance of seabirds in the Gulf hinders both our understanding of seabird ecology and our ability to plan for or respond to data needs during oil and gas activities. Our goal is to conduct vessel-based surveys for pelagic seabirds in the northern Gulf. The research will satisfy a portion of the newly initiated Gulf of Mexico Marine Assessment Program for Protected Species (GoMMAPS). The study area includes the northern portion of the Gulf of Mexico Basin which represents the approximate location of the EEZ of the USA. This region encompasses the Western, Central, and Eastern Planning Areas of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. Vessel-based surveys will occur throughout each planning area. Beginning in 2017, we conducted surveys using NOAA vessels to assess the abundance and distribution of birds utilizing the pelagic environment. We are also developing additional components that will use telemetry to document movement patterns of seabirds from both the nearshore and pelagic environments. Collectively, these data will permit spatially-explicit modeling of seabird abundance and distribution across the Gulf and provide a critical basis for understanding and addressing potential impacting factors in the region.
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Seabirds are one of the most threatened groups of birds globally yet understudied in many regions of the US. For example, limited information is available regarding the species composition, distribution, and abundance of seabirds using the nearshore and offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This region also supports some of the highest densities of oil and gas development in marine ecosystems in the world. The sparse data available on distribution and abundance of seabirds in the Gulf combined with the extent of oil and gas activity hinders both our understanding of seabird ecology and our ability to plan for or respond to data needs during oil and gas activities. Our goal is to conduct vessel-based surveys for pelagic seabirds in the northern Gulf. Collaborators include the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, US Fish & Wildlife Service, USGS Patuxent Science Center, USGS Wetlands and Aquatic Research Center, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, Michigan State University, and private partners. We will combine seabird data with similar data collected on marine mammals and sea turtles and, collectively, these data will permit spatially-explicit modeling of abundance and distribution of marine vertebrates across the Gulf. Models will provide stakeholders with tools to predict occurrence and potential impacts with respect to marine spatial planning and future spills.
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Prairie Creek Coho Salmon Life Cycle Monitoring
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March 2020
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Project objectives are three-fold: 1) to count the number of live adult fish, redds (nests), and carcasses of Coho Salmon and other anadromous salmonids which are returning to Prairie Creek to spawn; 2) to estimate freshwater survival and outmigration timing of tagged juvenile Coho Salmon; and 3) to estimate the population sizes of outmigrating Coho Salmon and other salmonids.
Enumeration is adult salmon will be achieved by ground survey (on foot) of stream reaches by a survey crew of 2-4 people every two weeks during the spawning migrating period (mid-November through mid-March each year), as stream conditions allow. Freshwater survival and outmigration timing of juvenile Coho Salmon will be estimated using mark-recapture methods by a) sampling fish using seines each fall; b) tagging a subset of the juvenile Coho with PIT tags and releasing them at the location of capture; and c) detecting the fish at fixed in-stream antenna arrays or recapturing them in a downstream migrant trap, as the fish move downstream in the fall or during the spring outmigration period (March – June). Fish captured in the downstream migrant trap will be identified, enumerated, scanned for the presence of tags, and released.
The long-term goals of the project are to determine baseline and status/trend population information for Coho Salmon and other anadromous salmonids which can be used to identify factors limiting species recovery and to identify restoration needs in the basin. The adult counts and outmigrant smolt counts will provide estimates of fish in and fish out, that can be used to provide relative estimates of freshwater and marine survival. This information is essential to understanding whether changes in salmonid numbers are due to recovery from improvements in freshwater habitat coniditons or changes in ocean conditions. The freshwater survival and abundance and size of yearling Coho Salmon smolts emigrating from Prairie Creek can be used as the benchmark for other streams because much of Prairie Creek is in pristine condition. This project continues a 9-yr data set in Prairie Creek of adult Coho Salmon counts, and a 6-yr data set of smolt counts.
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Project objectives are three-fold: 1) to count the number of live adult fish, redds (nests), and carcasses of Coho Salmon and other anadromous salmonids which are returning to Prairie Creek to spawn; 2) to estimate freshwater survival and outmigration timing of tagged juvenile Coho Salmon; and 3) to estimate the population sizes of outmigrating Coho Salmon and other salmonids.
Enumeration is adult salmon will be achieved by ground survey (on foot) of stream reaches by a survey crew of 2-4 people every two weeks during the spawning migrating period (mid-November through mid-March each year), as stream conditions allow. Freshwater survival and outmigration timing of juvenile Coho Salmon will be estimated using mark-recapture methods by a) sampling fish using seines each fall; b) tagging a subset of the juvenile Coho with PIT tags and releasing them at the location of capture; and c) detecting the fish at fixed in-stream antenna arrays or recapturing them in a downstream migrant trap, as the fish move downstream in the fall or during the spring outmigration period (March – June). Fish captured in the downstream migrant trap will be identified, enumerated, scanned for the presence of tags, and released.
The long-term goals of the project are to determine baseline and status/trend population information for Coho Salmon and other anadromous salmonids which can be used to identify factors limiting species recovery and to identify restoration needs in the basin. The adult counts and outmigrant smolt counts will provide estimates of fish in and fish out, that can be used to provide relative estimates of freshwater and marine survival. This information is essential to understanding whether changes in salmonid numbers are due to recovery from improvements in freshwater habitat coniditons or changes in ocean conditions. The freshwater survival and abundance and size of yearling Coho Salmon smolts emigrating from Prairie Creek can be used as the benchmark for other streams because much of Prairie Creek is in pristine condition. This project continues a 9-yr data set in Prairie Creek of adult Coho Salmon counts, and a 6-yr data set of smolt counts.
Cooperating organizations are the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, National Marine Fisheries Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Redwood National and State Parks, and Humboldt State University.
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Monitoring threatened Coho Salmon populations in Humboldt Bay tributaries
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September 2020
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The objective of this project is to provide annual juvenile and adult abundance estimates for the Coho salmon population in Freshwater Creek, which is includes in the threatened Southern Oregon Northern California Coho Salmon ESU.
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This project will incorporate juvenile tagging and detection efforts in streams adjacent to Freshwater Creek, California to characterize dispersal among tributaries and use these parameters, in combination with estimates of population synchrony across basins from the time series of escapement data, to evaluate potential metapopulation dynamics of Humboldt Bay tributaries. In addition, the expanded tagging and detection efforts will allow us to compare the life history diversity that we have characterized in Freshwater Creek across basins that differ in habitat and restoration status.
This project is a cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Humboldt Fish Action Council, Humboldt State University, Pacific Coast Fish Wildlife Wetland Restoration Association, Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission, Redwood Community Action Agency, and U.S. Geological Survey.
Continuing the long-term monitoring of adult abundance in these populations is essential for status and trends assessment of regional salmon stocks. As habitat restoration and enhancement projects proceed in the Humboldt Bay watershed ongoing monitoring will provide insight into the response of Coho Salmon populations to these conservation efforts.
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Monitoring Chinook Salmon in Redwood Creek to assess the impacts of a modified estuary
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June 2020
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The project will provide funds to continue monitoring adult and juvenile salmonids in Redwood Creek, California to provide sufficient data to build a life cycle model for the Chinook Salmon population. The objectives of this project are to: 1. Enumerate total numbers of Chinook returning to spawn in the Redwood Creek basin using DIDSON sonar; 2. conduct spawning ground surveys in Redwood Creek above Prairie Creek to estimate total numbers of redds which are constructed; and 3. install and operate a rotary screw trap in Redwood Creek to monitor the abundance and condition of juvenile salmonids outmigrating from Redwood Creek. Monitoring data will be used to parameterize a life-cycle model to assess the impact of restoration efforts and climate change on the abundance of the Chinook Salmon population in Redwood Creek.
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Effective fisheries management relies on understanding how populations respond to habitat modifications resulting from environmental changes and restoration efforts. Pacific Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) rely on both freshwater and marine habitats during different phases of their life history; thus, it is necessary to monitor both adult and smolt abundances to differentiate how conditions in these different habitats influence demographic rates (i.e., survival). If monitoring data is collected over a sufficiently long time series, encompassing a range of environmental and biological conditions, it is possible to develop a robust life cycle model that can be used to discern the impact of restoration efforts and estimate the resiliency of a population to stressors, such as increased temperatures due to climate change or decreased flow due to drought.
This is a collaborative effort which includes the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Geological Survey and Humboldt State University.
Using data from the project we developed a life-cycle model that incorporated various environmental (e.g., temperature, flow) covariates to estimate freshwater and marine survival of Chinook Salmon and evaluated the impact of restoration actions on Chinook Salmon populations. Results from this model suggest there is a minimal contribution of estuary-rearing juveniles to the spawning adult population and point out current limitations associated with rearing in the Redwood Creek estuary.
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Impacts of CWD on white-tailed deer populations in Wisconsin
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June 2022
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Chronic wasting disease (CWD) was discovered in Wisconsin white-tailed deer harvested in fall 2001 and CWD prevalence has increased in all sex and age classes and increased in spatial extent ever since. It is uncertain what impact CWD is currently having on deer populations and what impact it may have as prevalence increases. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. A robust modeling framework will be developed to understand spatiotemporal patterns in CWD prevalence and deer demographic rates to provide technical information to state natural resource managers regarding deer population dynamics in the CWD-endemic region of southwestern Wisconsin.
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Chronic wasting disease (CWD) was discovered in Wisconsin white-tailed deer harvested in fall 2001 and CWD prevalence has increased in all sex and age classes and increased in spatial extent ever since. It is uncertain what impact CWD is currently having on deer populations and what impact it may have as prevalence increases. This project is a collaboration between the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. A robust modeling framework will be developed to understand spatiotemporal patterns in CWD prevalence and deer demographic rates to provide technical information to state natural resource managers regarding deer population dynamics in the CWD-endemic region of southwestern Wisconsin.
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Evaluation of white sturgeon monitoring practices
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December 2022
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White Sturgeon is an important species in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River basin. Unfortunately, little is known about their population ecology and whether current monitoring metrics are adequate for evaluating management and conservation success. We are working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to evaluate White Sturgeon populations in the basin. Results of this research will examine whether current conservation targets are reasonable and whether monitoring efforts are providing data that are adequate for tracking changes in the population dynamics of White Sturgeon.
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White Sturgeon is an important species in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River basin. Unfortunately, little is known about their population ecology and whether current monitoring metrics are adequate for evaluating management and conservation success. We are working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to evaluate White Sturgeon populations in the basin. Results of this research will examine whether current conservation targets are reasonable and whether monitoring efforts are providing data that are adequate for tracking changes in the population dynamics of White Sturgeon.
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Population Dynamics and Modeling - Cougars
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December 2019
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We will deploy camera stations in suitable habitat predicted by IDFG’s mule deer and elk winter RSF model in GMUs 33-35. Cameras will be active from 2 Oct – 30 April. Detections of cougars at camera stations will be used to estimate cougar abundance with spatial mark-resight models. Cougar detection data will be rarified so that we can compare models populated with detections of single cougars to extended models that include multiple states, including females with kittens. To provide a comparison and test of camera stations, we will tree cougars in winter using hounds and biopsy dart them to obtain DNA samples and generate an independent measure of abundance. We will attempt to enlist local hound hunters to tree cougars and obtain samples by providing them with dart guns, sample kits, and reimbursement for expenses while sampling. We estimate 36 capture events per year in GMUs 33-35 and the same in GMUs 70, 73A, 56. We will radiocollar 18 of the captured cougars in each of the study areas to estimate space use and detection probability.
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Problem:Solitary predators are notoriously difficult to monitor because they occur at low densities and are elusive. New techniques for estimating abundance using camera surveys offer a solution to this problem because they do not depend on many of the assumptions required (e.g., identification of individual animals) by traditional estimation techniques.Why this research matters:To be useful for monitoring carnivores, this new methodology requires 1) confirming that typical behaviors of carnivores (e.g., territoriality) do not bias estimates, and 2) a test on carnivores under field conditions.Collaboration:In collaboration with University of Montana and Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG), we are conducting simulations to address 1, above, and using the technique to estimate abundance of mountain lions in different regions of Idaho to address 2.Informing decisions:Results of this work will give IDFG managers an unprecedented opportunity to reliably estimate abundance for a variety of carnivores in Idaho. This will also allow managers to defensibly evaluate and demonstrate carnivore management in the state.
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Songbird Grazing
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June 2020
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We will assess how avian community composition changes using adult abundance of multiple avian species. Avian abundance is known to change with vegetation heterogeneity and grazing is known to affect vegetation heterogeneity, therefore, we can track vegetative patterns that occur as a result of grazing by measuring changes in avian abundance.
In addition, we will link songbird abundance and breeding activity to understand the fitness consequences for avian communities with respect to grazing regimes. Breeding effort can influence the persistence of populations and existing community structure. It is therefore important to understand how grazing can affect breeding activity.
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Problem:Approximately 75% of sagebrush associated bird species are declining nationally including several songbird species (e.g., Brewer’s sparrow, sage thrasher). Declines in sagebrush-associated avian species are congruent with significant losses of sagebrush ecosystems from human-induced changes.Why it matters:Domestic livestock grazing is a newly founded conservation tool used in parts of the western United States to benefit sagebrush steppe systems. Notably, conservation efforts to protect declining greater sage-grouse populations have implemented various grazing management strategies. The benefits of these conservation managed-grazing regimes for greater sage-grouse influence another avian species of conservation concerns is lacking.Collaboration:The project is a collaboration of resource managers and biologists across multiple agencies and non-governmental organizations and includes University of Montana, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Bureau of Land Management, Safari Club International Foundation, and US Fish and Wildlife Service.Informing decisions:The project will determine how multiple migratory songbird species respond to conservation managed-grazing strategies. The songbird species response variables include community-level responses (e.g., species richness, species diversity, and community composition) and species-level responses (e.g., abundance/density, nest density, nesting success, fledging success). Thus, we will be able to inform land managers how and when during the songbird breeding season, conservation-based livestock grazing benefits these wildlife populations.
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Statewide Mule Deer Study
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February 2021
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This study will provide needed information concerning migration, habitat selection, nutrition, and population dynamics in areas where these elements of mule deer ecology are poorly understood. Results from this study will help managers in these ecotypes better prescribe hunting seasons, understand public access opportunities or limitations related to deer population segments and seasonal distributions, and access the effects of whether, fire, and habitat management on deer dynamics with implications for managing sustained abundance and hunter opportunity.
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Problem statement: Mule deer populations in western Montana are considered to be in decline but little is known about why, or how the trend can be reversed. A suspected contributor is the decline of early-successional habitat across the variety of biomes mule deer inhabit in montane areas.Why this research matters:Managers need to know how and where methods for creating early successional habitat (prescribed fire, mechanical thinning, even-aged harvest) can be used to manage winter and summer range for mule deer in diverse forest habitats, but there are substantial questions about migratory behavior of mule deer, effects of disturbance on local flora, and efficacy of management actions on habitat quality.Collaboration:This project is being done in collaboration with University of Montana and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP).Informing decisions:This project will, in part, result in a decision tool that will allow MFWP managers to weigh the costs and benefits of habitat management tools for both winter and summer ranges across western Montana.
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Influence of Energy Development and Climatic Variability on Sagebrush Songbirds
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July 2022
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Changing temperature and precipitation regimes, especially within arid systems such as the sagebrush steppe, are broad-scale factors that will influence landscapes in addition to other forms of physical habitat loss and fragmentation. The combined, and potentially interactive, effects of climatic conditions and habitat loss/fragmentation on wildlife species of concern, however, are unknown. Simultaneously, all three species of songbirds (Brewer’s sparrow, sagebrush sparrow, sage thrasher) that nest almost exclusively within North American sagebrush habitats have been exhibiting population declines, at least partly due to habitat changes on breeding grounds. This project leverages a large, multi-year nesting dataset of sagebrush songbirds containing over 2,000 nests, and remotely-sensed weather data to investigate the joint influence of climatic conditions and energy development on the reproductive success of sagebrush songbirds within the WLCI (Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative) area in western Wyoming. Project partners include the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies), Wyoming Wildlife- the Foundation, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Information generated by the research will be used to update the Wyoming Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy and Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan, inform Climate Vulnerability Assessments, and address informational needs articulated by the multi-agency Sagebrush Conservation Initiative.
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Changing temperature and precipitation regimes, especially within arid systems such as the sagebrush steppe, are broad-scale factors that will influence landscapes in addition to other forms of physical habitat loss and fragmentation. The combined, and potentially interactive, effects of climatic conditions and habitat loss/fragmentation on wildlife species of concern, however, are unknown. Simultaneously, all three species of songbirds (Brewer’s sparrow, sagebrush sparrow, sage thrasher) that nest almost exclusively within North American sagebrush habitats have been exhibiting population declines, at least partly due to habitat changes on breeding grounds. This project leverages a large, multi-year nesting dataset of sagebrush songbirds containing over 2,000 nests, and remotely-sensed weather data to investigate the joint influence of climatic conditions and energy development on the reproductive success of sagebrush songbirds within the WLCI (Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative) area in western Wyoming. Project partners include the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies), Wyoming Wildlife- the Foundation, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Information generated by the research will be used to update the Wyoming Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy and Wyoming State Wildlife Action Plan, inform Climate Vulnerability Assessments, and address informational needs articulated by the multi-agency Sagebrush Conservation Initiative.
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Evaluating Moose Demography, Habitat Use, and Browsing Interactions in the Bighorn Mountains, WY
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June 2023
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Moose in the Bighorn Mountains are not native to the area. They populated the Bighorns from translocated moose from Jackson, WY in the mid 1900s. To evaluate moose demography and habitat use, 74 GPS collars were deployed by helicopter and ground darting on adult female moose from March of 2017 to August of 2019 with six mortalities to date. The demographic data collected will aid in estimating population dynamics of the herd. The spatial data will be used to develop a resource selection function to identify preferred moose habitat. This study in being conducted in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to advance the managment of this unique moose herd. An integrated population model will be developed to estimate population trends, including demographic data from other Wyoming moose herds. Overall this study will advance our understanding of how moose can endure in varying habitats across Wyoming with different movement strategies.
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Moose in the Bighorn Mountains are not native to the area. They populated the Bighorns from translocated moose from Jackson, WY in the mid 1900s. To evaluate moose demography and habitat use, 74 GPS collars were deployed by helicopter and ground darting on adult female moose from March of 2017 to August of 2019 with six mortalities to date. The demographic data collected will aid in estimating population dynamics of the herd. The spatial data will be used to develop a resource selection function to identify preferred moose habitat. This study in being conducted in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to advance the managment of this unique moose herd. An integrated population model will be developed to estimate population trends, including demographic data from other Wyoming moose herds. Overall this study will advance our understanding of how moose can endure in varying habitats across Wyoming with different movement strategies.
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Climatic variability and the productivity of non-game sagebrush birds
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December 2019
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Sagebrush habitats have been extensively converted, fragmented, and altered via a wide range of human activities, which has resulted in concomitant declines in associated wildlife species, including sagebrush-obligate songbirds. Simultaneously, climatic regimes can influence wildlife, especially species that inhabit exposed, arid environments such as the sagebrush steppe. Biologists and managers, however, do not yet have the requisite information with which to assess how weather patterns such as high temperatures and moisture deficits will influence sagebrush songbird populations. The primary project partner is the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Results of the work will address information gaps identified by the Sagebrush Conservation Strategy, be used to update the Wyoming Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, and contribute to the development of better monitoring and mitigation strategies for sagebrush songbirds most at risk from additional habitat change range-wide.
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Sagebrush habitats have been extensively converted, fragmented, and altered via a wide range of human activities, which has resulted in concomitant declines in associated wildlife species, including sagebrush-obligate songbirds. Simultaneously, climatic regimes can influence wildlife, especially species that inhabit exposed, arid environments such as the sagebrush steppe. Biologists and managers, however, do not yet have the requisite information with which to assess how weather patterns such as high temperatures and moisture deficits will influence sagebrush songbird populations. The primary project partner is the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Results of the work will address information gaps identified by the Sagebrush Conservation Strategy, be used to update the Wyoming Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, and contribute to the development of better monitoring and mitigation strategies for sagebrush songbirds most at risk from additional habitat change range-wide.
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Brook Floater Research and Conservation
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October 2021
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The Brook Floater (Alasmidonta varicosa) is a stream-dwelling freshwater mussel native to the Atlantic Slope of the United States and Canada that has experienced large population declines over the last 50 years and is at high risk of extinction. The species’ distribution has been restricted to approximately 50% of its historic sites, is listed as Threatened or Endangered by most states where it occurs, and has been petitioned for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. Five states within the region were awarded a competitive State Wildlife Grant (SWG) to increase range-wide cooperative conservation efforts and strategic planning towards reducing further population losses, and defining approaches for recovery of A. varicosa. This project will focus on strategies for achieving conservation through multiple objectives: (1) Project partners will build upon findings from a recently completed range-wide status assessment. (2) Partners will develop a conservation working group that will help to develop initiate standardized surveys that will be conducted throughout partnering states to estimate abundances and predict occupancy of Brook Floater and associated SGCN mussels. (3) We will utilize Structured Decision Making approaches to focus monitoring design and conservation planning objectives at the state and regional scale. (4) We will coordinate the development of propagation methods and approaches for population restoration. (5) We will identify additional site-specific conservation actions to benefit A. varicosa and associated SGCN habitat.
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The Brook Floater (Alasmidonta varicosa) is a stream-dwelling freshwater mussel native to the Atlantic Slope of the United States and Canada that has experienced large population declines over the last 50 years and is at high risk of extinction. The species’ distribution has been restricted to approximately 50% of its historic sites, is listed as Threatened or Endangered by most states where it occurs, and has been petitioned for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. This project aims to reduce further population losses and restore the Brook Floater throughout its range through cooperative conservation efforts and strategic planning. Population augmentation and reintroduction have been identified as critical components of a recovery plan, and our research will develop methods to propagate Brook Floater. This research is a collaboration between Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Connecticut River Conservancy, with additional collaboration from several state agencies along the east coast from Maine to Georgia, mussel biologists, and consultants. We will develop and implement a rapid assessment protocol and a long-term monitoring protocol that will be used throughout the range of Brook Floater to create comparable datasets and develop a species distribution model. The research also includes citizen science involvement in mussel and habitat surveys and numerous restoration and outreach efforts.
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Genetic Diversity of Caracara in Florida
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December 2021
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Goal: Develop microsatellite markers using whole genome sequencing and assess genetic diversity of samples from Florida. This project is a collaborative effort with Joan Morrison at Trinity College who has studied the caracara in Florida for more than a decade. She has more than 100 blood samples from unrelated adults, which we will use to genotype and estimate population-level genetic characteristics. From this information we will estimate inbreeding, potential bottlenecks, and be able to inform managers of the genetic health of this endangered population.
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Goal: Develop microsatellite markers using whole genome sequencing and assess genetic diversity of samples from Florida. This project is a collaborative effort with Joan Morrison at Trinity College who has studied the caracara in Florida for more than a decade. She has more than 100 blood samples from unrelated adults, which we will use to genotype and estimate population-level genetic characteristics. From this information we will estimate inbreeding, potential bottlenecks, and be able to inform managers of the genetic health of this endangered population.
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Use of Citizen Scientists to Monitor Cameras for Jaguar and Ocelot Detection
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January 2025
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A large scale camera monitoring effort to detect jaguars and ocelots, across southern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico requires extensive camera-checking hours to retrieve data from all the almost 200 cameras. This study will explore the possibility that citizen scientists can be trained by the team of experts conducting the project, coordinated by a graduate student (Emily Reynolds) and volunteer coordinator (Susan Malusa), and collect reliable data. The data was collected in the same way as data from the scientific-based project, then tested for reliability against data collected by the team members. All data is housed together is a large database managed for the jaguar monitoring project at the University of Arizona. Educational objectives were also addressed to assess how much learning took place for the citizen scientists from start to end of the MS portion of this project. Additional citizen scientists are continually being trained and are currently at 21; they are monitoring 8 mountain ranges in southern Arizona for jaguars and ocelots.
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A large scale camera monitoring effort to detect jaguars and ocelots, across southern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico requires extensive camera-checking hours to retrieve data from all the almost 200 cameras. This study will explore the possibility that citizen scientists can be trained by the team of experts conducting the project, coordinated by a graduate student (Emily Reynolds) and volunteer coordinator (Susan Malusa), and collect reliable data. The data was collected in the same way as data from the scientific-based project, then tested for reliability against data collected by the team members. All data is housed together is a large database managed for the jaguar monitoring project at the University of Arizona. Educational objectives were also addressed to assess how much learning took place for the citizen scientists from start to end of the MS portion of this project. Additional citizen scientists are continually being trained and are currently at 21; they are monitoring 8 mountain ranges in southern Arizona for jaguars and ocelots.
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Use of High-Definition Video Technology to Acquaint the Public with Cryptic Desert Fishes of the Southern Nevada/Death Valley Region
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December 2020
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Desert fishes are cryptic, and infrequently seen by the public. Apathy of the public toward these fishes and their ecosystems hinders their conservation. Fortunately, advanced technological means to acquaint the public with these species is becoming increasingly common. We are creating low-cost educational videography presentations featuring the unique and often rare desert fishes of Nevada and Death Valley. Here we provide examples of high-definition underwater and aerial footage possible with current low-cost, advanced technology. Techniques used to collect this footage are specifically tailored to be used by field biologists when creating educational presentations. In conjunction with this high-definition, we are testing the inclusion of various widely recognized social psychology principles to maximize presentation effectiveness. Low cost technology, especially when combined with the use of easy to include psychological principle, can provide spectacular visual results and could potentially serve as an effective tool to acquaint the public with rare desert fishes. Data collection on this project for the testing of the inclusion of social psychology techniques is now ongoing. A thesis and publication are underway. Partners include USFWS and NDOW.
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Desert fishes are cryptic, and infrequently seen by the public. Apathy of the public toward these fishes and their ecosystems hinders their conservation. Fortunately, advanced technological means to acquaint the public with these species is becoming increasingly common. We are creating low-cost educational videography presentations featuring the unique and often rare desert fishes of Nevada and Death Valley. Here we provide examples of high-definition underwater and aerial footage possible with current low-cost, advanced technology. Techniques used to collect this footage are specifically tailored to be used by field biologists when creating educational presentations. In conjunction with this high-definition, we are testing the inclusion of various widely recognized social psychology principles to maximize presentation effectiveness. Low cost technology, especially when combined with the use of easy to include psychological principle, can provide spectacular visual results and could potentially serve as an effective tool to acquaint the public with rare desert fishes. Data collection on this project for the testing of the inclusion of social psychology techniques is now ongoing. A thesis was completed, video footage was collected at a variety of sites, and presented to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Publications are underway. Partners include USFWS and NDOW.
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Development of Low-Cost, High Definition Videography Methods for Documenting Underwater Flora and Fauna and Creating Education Presentations
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December 2020
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Freshwater biotic communities are complex, magnificent ecosystems, but are often unseen by the general public. In the southwestern United States, underwater views of these communities are rarely obtained. Until recently, methods for aquatic biologists and educators to communicate with the public about these systems required fish and other organisms be brought to the surface, or expensive underwater video and camera techniques be employed. However, with the accelerating development of inexpensive, ultra-high definition underwater video technology and the advancement of personal computer systems to process such video, high quality educational video presentations are now within reach of biologists and educators to use to educate the public. We are developing inexpensive methods that can be used by most biologists and educators with little to no background experience to produce stunning presentations of underwater viewscapes of freshwater systems. Methods were developed and tested while filming underwater aquatic communities of southern Nevada and California. Data are now being compiled, and methods will be presented in a thesis chapter and publication. Partners include USFWS and NDOW.
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Freshwater biotic communities are complex, magnificent ecosystems, but are often unseen by the general public. In the southwestern United States, underwater views of these communities are rarely obtained. Until recently, methods for aquatic biologists and educators to communicate with the public about these systems required fish and other organisms be brought to the surface, or expensive underwater video and camera techniques be employed. However, with the accelerating development of inexpensive, ultra-high definition underwater video technology and the advancement of personal computer systems to process such video, high quality educational video presentations are now within reach of biologists and educators to use to educate the public. We are developing inexpensive methods that can be used by most biologists and educators with little to no background experience to produce stunning presentations of underwater viewscapes of freshwater systems. Methods were developed and tested while filming underwater aquatic communities of southern Nevada and California. Data presented in a thesis chapter and a publication that was chosen as a Featured Article in Fisheries magazine, March 2020 issue. Partners include USFWS and NDOW.
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Captive Rearing and Propagation of Critically Endangered Moapa Dace
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December 2020
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Moapa Dace Moapa coriacea is a critically endangered cyprinid endemic to the Warm Springs area of Clark County, Nevada. Moapa Dace were federally listed as endangered because of their limited range, low abundance (approximately 400 at lowest point), and competition with introduced species. Prior to this work, Moapa Dace had never been successfully held in captivity for any length of time, and had never been propagated in captivity. In an effort to develop a protocol for rearing and propagating Moapa Dace in captivity, 40 fish were collected in February 2013, and an additional group of 30 fish were collected in January 2014. We were able to successfully transport and rear Moapa Dace employing slow acclimation and aggressive prophylactic treatment; feeding adults with a combination of live and frozen invertebrates and commercially available pelleted foods; and providing an artificial stream environment to them. To attempt to spawn Moapa Dace, we applied 14 different treatments, including introduction of different types of cover and different sized substrates; manipulations of photoperiod, water chemistry, and temperature; and application of hormone baths and injections. Moapa Dace were successfully propagated in one treatment left ongoing for over three months. This treatment occurred in an artificial stream and incorporated 14 broodstock from the second capture period, an additional submersible pump to direct an increased velocity along gravel and cobble substrate, and a variety of substrate sizes and artificial plants. To successfully rear and captively propagate Moapa Dace, biologists should take great care with acclimating Moapa Dace, and provide an environment similar to that experienced by fish in the wild, incorporating stream conditions and minimal human disturbance. This work was prepared for a thesis, and a peer-reviewed final report was published in December 2015. Currently the Nevada Department of Wildlife is using the techniques we developed during our study to rear and spawn the only Moapa Dace population in captivity. This work was published in a thesis and a journal. Partners include the USFWS.
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Moapa Dace Moapa coriacea is a critically endangered cyprinid endemic to the Warm Springs area of Clark County, Nevada. Moapa Dace were federally listed as endangered because of their limited range, low abundance (approximately 400 at lowest point), and competition with introduced species. Prior to this work, Moapa Dace had never been successfully held in captivity for any length of time, and had never been propagated in captivity. In an effort to develop a protocol for rearing and propagating Moapa Dace in captivity, 40 fish were collected in February 2013, and an additional group of 30 fish were collected in January 2014. We were able to successfully transport and rear Moapa Dace employing slow acclimation and aggressive prophylactic treatment; feeding adults with a combination of live and frozen invertebrates and commercially available pelleted foods; and providing an artificial stream environment to them. To attempt to spawn Moapa Dace, we applied 14 different treatments, including introduction of different types of cover and different sized substrates; manipulations of photoperiod, water chemistry, and temperature; and application of hormone baths and injections. Moapa Dace were successfully propagated in one treatment left ongoing for over three months. This treatment occurred in an artificial stream and incorporated 14 broodstock from the second capture period, an additional submersible pump to direct an increased velocity along gravel and cobble substrate, and a variety of substrate sizes and artificial plants. To successfully rear and captively propagate Moapa Dace, biologists should take great care with acclimating Moapa Dace, and provide an environment similar to that experienced by fish in the wild, incorporating stream conditions and minimal human disturbance. This work was prepared for a thesis, and a peer-reviewed final report was published in December 2015. Currently the Nevada Department of Wildlife is using the techniques we developed during our study to rear and spawn the only Moapa Dace population in captivity. This work was published in a thesis and a journal. Partners include the USFWS.
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Environmental Conditions Utilized by Endangered Moapa Dace While Spawning
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December 2020
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Moapa Dace Moapa coriacea is an endangered cyprinid endemic to the Warm Springs area of Clark County in southeastern Nevada. Moapa Dace were federally listed as endangered because of their limited range, low abundance, and competition with introduced species. Spawning by Moapa Dace has never been documented; consequently, the environmental conditions they require for this critical aspect of their life history are unknown. Knowledge of Moapa Dace spawning ecology would provide vital data for managers to manage habitat and to identify factors that induce spawning in captivity. Twelve underwater cameras were deployed in the uppermost reach of Plummer Stream to attempt to capture Moapa Dace spawning activity. Camera sites were selected systematically and represented a variety of conditions available. I quantified the available environment by dividing the field of view in front of each camera into a grid and estimating size and embeddedness of substrate, depth, stream velocity, and cover categories in each cell of every grid. Video was recorded from March through May 2012 and then watched to identify grids over which spawning occurred and their associated characteristics. From over 4,000 10-min video clips selected for analysis, 13 spawning events were identified. Moapa Dace displayed behaviors consistent with broadcasting cyprinids. For spawning, Moapa Dace selected depths ranging from 30-34 cm, water velocities from 0.11-0.17 m/sec, cobble substrate, and instream overhead cover. I could not find that they selected for any category of embeddedness or cover (i.e. open water, instream velocity shelter, instream overhead cover, or above stream overhead cover). This information will further the understanding of Moapa Dace spawning ecology in the wild. Moreover, replicating these conditions in captivity will aid in initial efforts to breed Moapa Dace in captivity. This work was prepared for a thesis, and a peer-reviewed final report was published in December 2015. This work was published as a featured article in the North American Journal of Fisheries Management in 2020. Partners include the USFWS.
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Moapa Dace Moapa coriacea is an endangered cyprinid endemic to the Warm Springs area of Clark County in southeastern Nevada. Moapa Dace were federally listed as endangered because of their limited range, low abundance, and competition with introduced species. Spawning by Moapa Dace has never been documented; consequently, the environmental conditions they require for this critical aspect of their life history are unknown. Knowledge of Moapa Dace spawning ecology would provide vital data for managers to manage habitat and to identify factors that induce spawning in captivity. Twelve underwater cameras were deployed in the uppermost reach of Plummer Stream to attempt to capture Moapa Dace spawning activity. Camera sites were selected systematically and represented a variety of conditions available. I quantified the available environment by dividing the field of view in front of each camera into a grid and estimating size and embeddedness of substrate, depth, stream velocity, and cover categories in each cell of every grid. Video was recorded from March through May 2012 and then watched to identify grids over which spawning occurred and their associated characteristics. From over 4,000 10-min video clips selected for analysis, 13 spawning events were identified. Moapa Dace displayed behaviors consistent with broadcasting cyprinids. For spawning, Moapa Dace selected depths ranging from 30-34 cm, water velocities from 0.11-0.17 m/sec, cobble substrate, and instream overhead cover. I could not find that they selected for any category of embeddedness or cover (i.e. open water, instream velocity shelter, instream overhead cover, or above stream overhead cover). This information will further the understanding of Moapa Dace spawning ecology in the wild. Moreover, replicating these conditions in captivity will aid in initial efforts to breed Moapa Dace in captivity. This work was prepared for a thesis, and a peer-reviewed final report was published in December 2015. This work was published as a featured article in the North American Journal of Fisheries Management in 2020. Partners include the USFWS.
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Habitat Suitability Criteria for Non-Native Fishes in Intermediate-Sized Arizona Rivers
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December 2021
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Nonnative fishes were stocked into Arizona streams, starting over 100 years ago, and are currently found in most streams of the state. Commonly, species introduced to Arizona are able to outcompete or predate on native Arizona stream fishes, and fish communities are entirely dominated by nonnatives. However, in some areas, nonnatives have not been able to outcompete native fishes, and both live together. Knowledge of the habitat used by selected nonnative fishes in Arizona streams is important for predicting where they might persist and how habitat might be managed to reduce their numbers or discourage their establishment when desired. We sampled four Arizona streams containing a variety of habitats and documented habitat used by nonnative fishes. Furthermore, we will develop habitat suitability curves for the nonnative fishes based on this use. This information will be useful for fisheries biologists to manage habitat of Arizona’s native and nonnative fish communities. Field work on this project commenced in the spring, 2017 and was completed in the fall, 2019. Data analysis is currently underway. Information will be presented in a publication and thesis. Partners include USFWS and USFS.
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Nonnative fishes were stocked into Arizona streams, starting over 100 years ago, and are currently found in most streams of the state. Commonly, species introduced to Arizona are able to outcompete or predate on native Arizona stream fishes, and fish communities are entirely dominated by nonnatives. However, in some areas, nonnatives have not been able to outcompete native fishes, and both live together. Knowledge of the habitat used by selected nonnative fishes in Arizona streams is important for predicting where they might persist and how habitat might be managed to reduce their numbers or discourage their establishment when desired. We sampled four Arizona streams containing a variety of habitats and documented habitat used by nonnative fishes. Furthermore, we will develop habitat suitability curves for the nonnative fishes based on this use. This information will be useful for fisheries biologists to manage habitat of Arizona’s native and nonnative fish communities. Field work on this project commenced in the spring, 2017 and was completed in the fall, 2019. Data analysis is currently underway. Information will be presented in a publication and thesis. Partners include USFWS and USFS.
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Habitat Suitability Criteria for Native Fishes in Intermediate-Sized Arizona Rivers
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December 2023
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Endemic fishes of the arid southwestern United States have rapidly declined due to anthropogenic stressors. Identifying the habitat conditions needed by these species is critical for their successful management. Habitat suitability criteria are commonly used to conserve species of interest. Therefore, developing habitat suitability criteria for native fish species across multiple rivers permits better understanding of how different environments are occupied under various circumstances. We developed stream-specific and generalized criteria for Longfin Dace Agosia chrysogaster, Speckled Dace Rhinichthys osculus, and Desert Sucker Pantosteus clarki, across four central Arizona streams. Over 1,200 sites were sampled using pre-positioned electrofishing devices during the 2017 summer low-flow period to identify relationships among fish presence and habitat variables (depth, velocity, and substrate class). Optimal (central 50% of range used) and suitable (central 95% of range used) ranges within each habitat variable were calculated for each stream, based on the occurrence of each species. In general, Longfin Dace occupied depths of 9.00 – 54.75 cm (14.25 – 27.25 cm) velocities of 0.00 – 0.63 m/sec (0.11 – 0.31 m/sec), and substrate (modified Wentworth scale) of 0.5 – 4.3<br>(2.1 – 3.3). Speckled Dace occupied depths of 8.25 – 74.00 cm (17.00 – 34.25 cm) velocities of 0.00 – 0.74<br>m/sec (0.16 – 0.43 m/sec), and substrate of 0.0 – 4.5 (2.2 – 3.6). Desert Sucker occupied depths of 9.00 –<br>45.00 cm (15.25 – 25.00 cm) velocities of 0.09 – 0.72 m/sec (0.21 – 0.44 m/sec), and substrate of 1.0 – 4.6 (2.5 – 3.7). Generalized habitat suitability criteria for all three species were significantly (P<0.05) transferable with the exception of substrate class. Field work on this project was conducted spring and summer, 2017 and data analysis in fall 2018. Information was presented in a thesis. In 2019, an additional stream was surveyed, Fossil Creek, to improve the accuracy of general habitat suitability data for native desert fishes, and to develop habitat suitability indices for fishes in a travertine system. Results from this project are currently being prepared for a theses, and results from both projects are being submitted/prepared for publication. Partners include USFWS and USFS.
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Endemic fishes of the arid southwestern United States have rapidly declined due to anthropogenic stressors. Identifying the habitat conditions needed by these species is critical for their successful management. Habitat suitability criteria are commonly used to conserve species of interest. Therefore, developing habitat suitability criteria for native fish species across multiple rivers permits better understanding of how different environments are occupied under various circumstances. We developed stream-specific and generalized criteria for Longfin Dace Agosia chrysogaster, Speckled Dace Rhinichthys osculus, and Desert Sucker Pantosteus clarki, across four central Arizona streams. Over 1,200 sites were sampled using pre-positioned electrofishing devices during the 2017 summer low-flow period to identify relationships among fish presence and habitat variables (depth, velocity, and substrate class). Optimal (central 50% of range used) and suitable (central 95% of range used) ranges within each habitat variable were calculated for each stream, based on the occurrence of each species. In general, Longfin Dace occupied depths of 9.00 – 54.75 cm (14.25 – 27.25 cm) velocities of 0.00 – 0.63 m/sec (0.11 – 0.31 m/sec), and substrate (modified Wentworth scale) of 0.5 – 4.3(2.1 – 3.3). Speckled Dace occupied depths of 8.25 – 74.00 cm (17.00 – 34.25 cm) velocities of 0.00 – 0.74m/sec (0.16 – 0.43 m/sec), and substrate of 0.0 – 4.5 (2.2 – 3.6). Desert Sucker occupied depths of 9.00 –45.00 cm (15.25 – 25.00 cm) velocities of 0.09 – 0.72 m/sec (0.21 – 0.44 m/sec), and substrate of 1.0 – 4.6 (2.5 – 3.7). Generalized habitat suitability criteria for all three species were significantly (P<0.05) transferable with the exception of substrate class. Field work on this project was conducted spring and summer, 2017 and data analysis in fall 2018. Information was presented in a thesis. In 2019, an additional stream was surveyed, Fossil Creek, to improve the accuracy of general habitat suitability data for native desert fishes, and to develop habitat suitability indices for fishes in a travertine system. Results from this project are currently being prepared for a theses, and results from both projects are being submitted/prepared for publication. Partners include USFWS and USFS.
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Relationship between native and nonnative fish presence and components of the hydrograph in streams of the Mogollon Rim Emphasis Area, Arizona
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December 2021
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Streams of the southwestern United States contain some of the most unique and endangered fish species on the planet. Conserving these species requires knowledge of what physical and biological conditions enable them to live at a particular location. Mining companies and others want to harvest flood flows in addition to baseflows in Southwestern streams. In late summer 2015, expert witnesses were questioned in a recent Arizona water rights trial on the importance to fish of the five different parts of the hydrograph (water level, flow duration, rate of change, frequency, and timing as outlined by Poff et al. 1997), and the effects of altering these. Our current knowledge is focused primarily on the need for adequate baseflow, and some on flood flow; however, information about the relative importance of various other parts of the hydrograph could improve our management decisions, especially because water interests want to harvest parts of the hydrograph outside of baseflow. The goal of this project is to identify relationships between select native and nonnative fish species presence with the five components of the hydrograph described above. Hydrograph components will be expressed in two ways: as discharge and mean velocity, and history of these flows and their relationship with fish presence will be examined as well. Flow information is being obtained from field observations, available data from in-stream flow models and USGS gauging stations. Fish presence data is being obtained from prepositioned electrofisher surveys. Additional information from a collaboration with AZGFD will be used to examine changes in populations with changes in discharge over time. This information will improve in-stream flow management, inform the use of flow management to manage interactions among native and nonnative fishes, provide additional information for habitat improvement projects, and help provide information for upcoming water rights litigation. Field work on this project started spring, 2017 and was completed in fall, 2017. Data analysis is currently underway. A thesis resulted from this project, and publications are currently being prepared. Partners include USFS, USFWS and AZGFD.
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Streams of the southwestern United States contain some of the most unique and endangered fish species on the planet. Conserving these species requires knowledge of what physical and biological conditions enable them to live at a particular location. Mining companies and others want to harvest flood flows in addition to baseflows in Southwestern streams. In late summer 2015, expert witnesses were questioned in a recent Arizona water rights trial on the importance to fish of the five different parts of the hydrograph (water level, flow duration, rate of change, frequency, and timing as outlined by Poff et al. 1997), and the effects of altering these. Our current knowledge is focused primarily on the need for adequate baseflow, and some on flood flow; however, information about the relative importance of various other parts of the hydrograph could improve our management decisions, especially because water interests want to harvest parts of the hydrograph outside of baseflow. The goal of this project is to identify relationships between select native and nonnative fish species presence with the five components of the hydrograph described above. Hydrograph components will be expressed in two ways: as discharge and mean velocity, and history of these flows and their relationship with fish presence will be examined as well. Flow information is being obtained from field observations, available data from in-stream flow models and USGS gauging stations. Fish presence data is being obtained from prepositioned electrofisher surveys. Additional information from a collaboration with AZGFD will be used to examine changes in populations with changes in discharge over time. This information will improve in-stream flow management, inform the use of flow management to manage interactions among native and nonnative fishes, provide additional information for habitat improvement projects, and help provide information for upcoming water rights litigation. Field work on this project started spring, 2017 and was completed in fall, 2017. Data analysis is currently underway. A thesis resulted from this project, and publications are currently being prepared. Partners include USFS, USFWS and AZGFD.
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Linking Exposure to Sub-lethal Stressors to Individual Vital Rates and Population Abundance
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September 2021
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1. Sample across a gradient of wetlands with differing levels of brine contamination in the Prairie Pothole region of the Williston Basin (Montana and North Dakota). The contamination index (CI), which measures the ratio of chloride to specific conductance in water (Reiten and Tischmak 1993), is a well-established measure of brine intrusion in the region. (Note: This component is already being done by B. Hossack and others.)
2. Estimate abundance and community richness of amphibian larvae in reference wetlands and wetlands impacted by energy development in the Williston Basin of North Dakota and Montana. This will be done using ≥2 capture sessions with unbaited minnow traps. For tiger salamanders, we will batch-mark larvae based on capture session and estimate abundance with capture-mark-recapture methods. For frog larvae that are less amenable to marking, we will use N-mixture models to estimate abundance. Community richness will be estimated using the pooled dataset.
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Problem:Wildlife management will be more effective and less expensive when managers can quickly identify populations that are most susceptible to decline. This challenge is especially large for species with complex life cycles that depend upon both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Why it matters:Stressors such as increased salinity are increasing globally, including on DOI lands such as National Wildlife Refuges. Collaboration:The project is a collaboration of researchers and managers from USGS, University of Montana, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Informing decisions:This goal of this research is to identify tools that will allow us to link sublethal exposures to contaminants to individual-level vital rates to population abundance. The resulting data will represent a novel approach to investigating the potential impacts of contamination on aquatic communities.
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LTER: The Role of Biogeochemical and Community Openness in Governing Arctic Ecosystem Response to Climate Change and Disturbance
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April 2021
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The Arctic is one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth. Responses to this warming involve acceleration of processes common to other ecosystems around the world (e.g., shifts in plant community composition) and changes to processes unique to the Arctic (e.g., carbon loss from permafrost thaw). The objectives of the Arctic Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) Project for 2017-2023 are to use the concepts of biogeochemical and community “openness” and “connectivity” to understand the responses of arctic terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems to climate change and disturbance. These objectives will be met through continued long-term monitoring of changes in undisturbed terrestrial, stream, and lake ecosystems in the vicinity of Toolik Lake, Alaska, observations of the recovery of these ecosystems from natural and imposed disturbances, maintenance of existing long-term experiments, and initiation of new experimental manipulations. Based on these data, carbon and nutrient budgets and indices of species composition will be compiled for each component of the arctic landscape to compare the biogeochemistry and community dynamics of each ecosystem in relation to their responses to climate change and disturbance and to the propagation of those responses across the landscape. The Arctic LTER is a collaborative partnership between 5 Principle Investigators (including Budy) at academic units located at different universities and a conservative estimate of 28 secondary and very interdisciplinary Co-Principle investigators (and their students and staff) housed at 28 other academic units. The proposed research will compare key ecosystems of the Arctic to determine how their degree of openness governs their responses to climate change and acute disturbance such as fire and surface slumping associated with permafrost thaw. The proposed research will also determine how the responses to climate change and disturbance are mediated by landscape connectivity and the movement of nutrients, organic carbon, and organisms across arctic landscapes, and how that movement is facilitated or impeded by the degree of openness of the ecosystems.
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The Arctic is one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth. Responses to this warming involve acceleration of processes common to other ecosystems around the world (e.g., shifts in plant community composition) and changes to processes unique to the Arctic (e.g., carbon loss from permafrost thaw). The objectives of the Arctic Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) Project for 2017-2023 are to use the concepts of biogeochemical and community “openness” and “connectivity” to understand the responses of arctic terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems to climate change and disturbance. These objectives will be met through continued long-term monitoring of changes in undisturbed terrestrial, stream, and lake ecosystems in the vicinity of Toolik Lake, Alaska, observations of the recovery of these ecosystems from natural and imposed disturbances, maintenance of existing long-term experiments, and initiation of new experimental manipulations. Based on these data, carbon and nutrient budgets and indices of species composition will be compiled for each component of the arctic landscape to compare the biogeochemistry and community dynamics of each ecosystem in relation to their responses to climate change and disturbance and to the propagation of those responses across the landscape. The Arctic LTER is a collaborative partnership between 5 Principle Investigators (including Budy) at academic units located at different universities and a conservative estimate of 28 secondary and very interdisciplinary Co-Principle investigators (and their students and staff) housed at 28 other academic units. The proposed research will compare key ecosystems of the Arctic to determine how their degree of openness governs their responses to climate change and acute disturbance such as fire and surface slumping associated with permafrost thaw. The proposed research will also determine how the responses to climate change and disturbance are mediated by landscape connectivity and the movement of nutrients, organic carbon, and organisms across arctic landscapes, and how that movement is facilitated or impeded by the degree of openness of the ecosystems.
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NSF: An exploration of the direct and indirect effects of climatic warming on arctic lake ecosystems.
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June 2023
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Arctic lakes support trophic interactions, biological processes, and critical habitat at all trophic levels; however, climatic warming threatens to alter the structure and function of aquatic communities and overall system production. Arctic ecosystems are warming at some of the fastest rates observed on earth, and arctic lakes are experiencing more frequent years of warmer surface water and deeper mixing. However, the ability to detect and quantify ecosystem effects and specific biological responses (e.g. bacterial diversity, invertebrate production, fish growth) to these climatic changes has been primarily limited to non-mechanistic modeled scenarios and observational studies in uncontrolled environments. The proposed research will use a controlled whole-lake manipulation experiment to answer: How will warmer lake temperatures and extended growing season alter (1) lake ice coverage and annual thermal regime, (2) abundance, activity and diversity of primary and secondary producers, (3) fish vital rates and dynamics, and (4) degree of carry-over across growing seasons and cumulative effects on ecosystem production. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple academic entities including Oregon State University and the Marine Biological Lab, Woods Hole, MA. This research will quantify lake thermal processes and lake-atmosphere feedbacks, provide more precise projections of lake horizontal and vertical temperature structures, and document and<br>predict lake biota and ecosystem responses to lake thermal condition changes under different climate scenarios. By providing some of the first empirical evidence of how fundamental processes will actually change in the face of climate change, this research will also improve understanding of ecosystem service sustainability (e.g., subsistence fisheries).
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Arctic lakes support trophic interactions, biological processes, and critical habitat at all trophic levels; however, climatic warming threatens to alter the structure and function of aquatic communities and overall system production. Arctic ecosystems are warming at some of the fastest rates observed on earth, and arctic lakes are experiencing more frequent years of warmer surface water and deeper mixing. However, the ability to detect and quantify ecosystem effects and specific biological responses (e.g. bacterial diversity, invertebrate production, fish growth) to these climatic changes has been primarily limited to non-mechanistic modeled scenarios and observational studies in uncontrolled environments. The proposed research will use a controlled whole-lake manipulation experiment to answer: How will warmer lake temperatures and extended growing season alter (1) lake ice coverage and annual thermal regime, (2) abundance, activity and diversity of primary and secondary producers, (3) fish vital rates and dynamics, and (4) degree of carry-over across growing seasons and cumulative effects on ecosystem production. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple academic entities including Oregon State University and the Marine Biological Lab, Woods Hole, MA. This research is quantifing lake thermal processes and lake-atmosphere feedbacks, provide more precise projections of lake horizontal and vertical temperature structures, and document and predict lake biota and ecosystem responses to lake thermal condition changes under different climate scenarios. By providing some of the first empirical evidence of how fundamental processes will actually change in the face of climate change, this research will also improve understanding of ecosystem service sustainability (e.g., subsistence fisheries).
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Black Rail ecology to inform effective survey design and support population modeling
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August 2021
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The Black Rail is currently under review by the USFWS for protection under the Endangered Species Act. Black Rails have experienced population declines, breeding range retractions, and reductions in number of breeding locations within its core range. In the Southeast U.S., most remnant populations occur in high elevation marshes near or along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, a habitat particularly vulnerable to development pressure, altered hydrological patterns, Phragmites and fire ant invasion, sea-level rise, and incompatible management practices. Research priorities identified by consensus of government and non-government partners include (1) extensive surveys of appropriate habitat using a standardized protocol specific to Black Rails, and (2) basic life history research including nest success and factors limiting productivity, and habitat requirements of breeding, transient, and wintering birds.<br><br>This project addresses multiple research and technical assistance objectives to address the above priorities: Employ automated telemetry on a known population of Black Rails (St. Johns National Wildlife Refuge) to (1) estimate Black Rail vital rates; (2) estimate breeding and wintering home ranges and habitat selection; and (3) quantify diel patterns of activity. Collect biological samples to evaluate (4) migratory origins of wintering Black Rails using stable isotopes. Additionally, (5) devise, implement, and evaluate modifications of existing marsh bird protocols to improve the applicability to Black Rails. Finally, (6) coordinate USFWS-funded comprehensive marsh bird surveys on southeast national wildlife refuges.
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Black rails (Laterallus jamaicensis) have experienced population declines, breeding range retractions, and reductions in number of breeding locations within its core range, and the species is currently under review by the USFWS for protection under the Endangered Species Act. With the species facing an array of threats, research priorities identified by consensus of government and non-government partners include (1) extensive surveys of appropriate habitat using a standardized protocol specific to black rails, and (2) basic life history research including nest success and factors limiting productivity, and habitat requirements of breeding, transient, and wintering birds. This work will directly inform the status assessment for the black rail’s candidacy for protection under the ESA. The work will also address information needs identified by coalitions of conservation groups and management agencies. This work is being conducted by a collaboration of partners in USGS, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the University of Georgia. This project includes multiple research and technical assistance components to address the research priorities identified by conservation partners. The work will produce estimates of vital rate parameters usable in predictive population models supporting decision making, and the work will provide modifications of existing marsh bird protocols to better monitor this secretive species.
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Composition, distribution and ecology of the Nature Coast sea turtle assemblage
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August 2020
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Initial objectives:
1) Visual transect surveys using a surface vessel will identify areas of high occurrence and will be conducted with methods similar to the work of Inwater Research Group (2012), but with the addition of line transects with distance sampling to account for detectability issues.
2) Polling of fishers and recreationists will provide a survey of local knowledge to identify turtle “hotspots”. Some of the impetus for the proposed work comes from the recent rise in anecdotal reports of the increased presence of sea turtles in coastal areas adjacent to the NCBS.
3) Aerial transects with Box on Strut (BoS)/Aerial transects with Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) – will leverage the research interests of the UF Unmanned Aerial Systems Research Program to perform BoS and Nova 2.1 (fixed-wing platform) flights. Resulting imagery will address the efficacy of these tools for aquatic megafaunal surveys, and provide additional data for demographic analyses.
4) Assessment of nearshore bottom types and health with tethered Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) transects and sampling – will allow examination and possible correlation of edaphic factors driving prey/forage availability and habitat selection.
5) Overlay of climatic data on historical and current sea turtle distribution and assemblage composition – will investigate the role of climate/SST and related variability on species distribution and dominance. This may allow examination of the hypothesis that localized increases in turtle sightings may reflect responses to changing conditions and are not solely an indication of increased populations.
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Initial objectives:
1) Visual transect surveys using a surface vessel will identify areas of high occurrence and will be conducted with methods similar to the work of Inwater Research Group (2012), but with the addition of line transects with distance sampling to account for detectability issues.
2) Polling of fishers and recreationists will provide a survey of local knowledge to identify turtle “hotspots”. Some of the impetus for the proposed work comes from the recent rise in anecdotal reports of the increased presence of sea turtles in coastal areas adjacent to the NCBS.
3) Aerial transects with Box on Strut (BoS)/Aerial transects with Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) – will leverage the research interests of the UF Unmanned Aerial Systems Research Program to perform BoS and Nova 2.1 (fixed-wing platform) flights. Resulting imagery will address the efficacy of these tools for aquatic megafaunal surveys, and provide additional data for demographic analyses.
4) Assessment of nearshore bottom types and health with tethered Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) transects and sampling – will allow examination and possible correlation of edaphic factors driving prey/forage availability and habitat selection.
5) Overlay of climatic data on historical and current sea turtle distribution and assemblage composition – will investigate the role of climate/SST and related variability on species distribution and dominance. This may allow examination of the hypothesis that localized increases in turtle sightings may reflect responses to changing conditions and are not solely an indication of increased populations.
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D. Duke Conservation Scholars Program Partnership Through UF
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September 2023
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DCSP is a two-year research and mentorship program, fostering a generation of conservation professionals with diverse backgrounds, as well as excellent research and leadership skills. Five other universities send students to this program, and all meet and learn from each other, as well as from graduate students and faculty mentors.
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DCSP is a two-year research and mentorship program, fostering a generation of conservation professionals with diverse backgrounds, as well as excellent research and leadership skills. Five other universities send students to this program, and all meet and learn from each other, as well as from graduate students and faculty mentors.
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Lake trout population modeling and annual assessment of suppression netting
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August 2021
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Invasive species introductions cause reductions in populations of native species and are associated with negative environmental and economic effects. Suppression techniques including chemical, mechanical, and biological controls are commonly used to manage invasive species. Understanding the ecosystem-level influence of suppression techniques selected by natural resource agencies is essential for establishment of successful mitigation against invasive species and assisting native populations in an altered ecosystem. Invasive Lake Trout within Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming have greatly reduced the abundance of native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout and disrupted the ecosystem through food-web alteration. The National Park Service gillnets juvenile and adult Lake Trout, and a portion of the Lake Trout carcasses collected are subsequently placed on Lake Trout spawning sites to suppress embryo development. The novel concentration of nutrients from Lake Trout carcasses could further influence the adult stages of Lake Trout and Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout by providing concentrated areas of prey not historically available. We will determine if carcass material is changing the diets of fishes in Yellowstone Lake and the trophic structure of the food web using diet and stable isotope analysis. We collected diets from 1,025 fishes in Yellowstone Lake and tissue from 359 individual fish during the 2018 field season. This study will provide information that will allow for an understanding of the consequences associated with a novel-suppression action in Yellowstone Lake.
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Invasive species introductions cause reductions in populations of native species and are associated with negative environmental and economic effects. Understanding the ecosystem-level influence of suppression techniques selected by natural resource agencies is essential for establishment of successful mitigation against invasive species and assisting native populations in an altered ecosystem. Invasive Lake Trout within Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming have greatly reduced the abundance of native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout and disrupted the ecosystem through food-web alteration. The National Park Service gillnets juvenile and adult Lake Trout, and a portion of the Lake Trout carcasses collected are subsequently placed on Lake Trout spawning sites to suppress embryo development. The novel concentration of nutrients from Lake Trout carcasses could further influence the adult stages of Lake Trout and Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout by providing concentrated areas of prey not historically available. Here we will determine if carcass material is changing the diets of fishes in Yellowstone Lake and the trophic structure of the food web using diet and stable isotope analysis. This study will provide information that will allow for an understanding of the consequences associated with a novel-suppression action in Yellowstone Lake.
Partner: Yellowstone National Park
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Spatial Ecology of Brown Pelicans in the South Atlantic Bight
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December 2023
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As a nearshore marine predator and species of conservation concern, Brown Pelicans (Pelecanus oddicentalis) in the southeastern United States constitute a valuable study population for investigating coastal ecological systems. Despite occupying a highly visible and elevated trophic position in estuarine and oceanic ecosystems, movement parameters describing habitat use patterns, foraging behaviors, and migratory corridors are undeveloped at multiple spatial and temporal scales. This study aims to address these information gaps by outfitting breeding adult pelicans with high-resolution GPS satellite transmitters, which will provide accurate locational data throughout the annual life-history cycle. We will use these data to (1) examine movement and behavior of individual pelicans during the passage of hurricanes, (2) evaluate the risk exposure of pelican colonies to ship-based oil spills within Charleston Harbor, SC, using modeling products developed by NOAA, (3) assess the usage of discarded bycatch from shrimp trawlers by adult pelicans in relation to reproductive output by pairing movement data with diet samples, stable isotope analysis, and chick corticosterone concentrations, and (4) investigate the drivers of partial migration in brown pelicans and subsequently model shifts in both migration probability and non-breeding range of brown pelicans under multiple climate change scenarios.
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Brown Pelicans have been understudied in the southeastern US and the sparse availability of data for pelicans (as well as other nearshore seabirds in the region such as Royal Tern, Sandwich Tern, and Black Skimmer) has resulted in a relatively incomplete picture of pelican ecology in a baseline environment. As such our understanding of habitat use at sea, population trends, and reproductive success for pelicans is very limited. Furthermore, the potential for an overlap between use areas of Brown Pelicans in the marine environment and proposed or existing offshore energy activities may be substantial in the region. We are collaborating with state agencies (SC, GA, FL), BOEM, and the USGS Outer Continental Shelf Program to study spatial and reproductive ecology of pelicans in the region. Data will be used to generate distribution maps and movement models showcasing breeding ranges, migratory pathways, wintering locations, and site fidelity. This information will greatly expand our knowledge of this charismatic species in the Atlantic, and complement prior research recently conducted on Brown Pelicans in the Gulf of Mexico.
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A macrosystems ecology framework for continental-scale prediction and understanding of lakes
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September 2023
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In the past decade, our understanding of how inland waters influence regional, continental, and global biogeochemical cycles has fundamentally changed. We have moved from discounting their contributions, to now recognizing these ecosystems as significant hotspots for the storage and transformation of nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon. This realization has come about through careful and labor-intensive collection, integration, and synthesis of often-scattered data sources, combined with a variety of different approaches to extrapolate site-level measures to unsampled sites across regions and continents. Today, although this view of the role of inland waters in large-scale cycling is supported by numerous studies, substantial gaps in our understanding remain. Estimates for the same flux (e.g., organic carbon burial in lakes) often differ substantially among studies. Further, most attempts to quantify continental or global fluxes or pools come with caveats regarding the often high– and often unknown– uncertainty associated with these estimates. To better understand the role of inland waters in macroscale nutrient cycling, new approaches are needed to reduce uncertainty in extrapolating site-level estimates to larger geographical scales. The overarching goal of this research is to understand and predict nutrient patterns for ALL continental US lakes to inform estimates of lake contributions to continental and global cycles of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and carbon (C), while also providing locally valuable information about conditions in unsampled lakes.
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Inland waters are significant hotspots for the storage and transformation of nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon and influence regional, continental, and global biogeochemical cycles. However, most attempts to quantify continental or global fluxes or pools come with caveats regarding the often high– and often unknown– uncertainty associated with these estimates. To better understand the role of inland waters in macroscale nutrient cycling, new approaches are needed to reduce uncertainty in extrapolating site-level estimates to larger geographical scales. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the USGS, Michigan State University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Wisconsin, and the University of Missouri. The overarching goal of this research is to understand and predict nutrient patterns for all continental US lakes to inform estimates of lake contributions to continental and global cycles of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and carbon (C), while also providing locally valuable management information about conditions in unsampled lakes. This work will improve understanding of the role of inland waters in macroscale nutrient cycling.
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An assessment of neonicotinoid exposure on USFWS high diversity grasslands in the Prairie Pothole Region
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March 2020
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Neonicotinoids are a class of neuro-active insecticides developed in the 1990s because of widespread pest resistance and environmental objections to organophosphorus insecticides. We intend to estimate rate of uptake, accumulation, persistence, and concentration of neonicotiniods in native prairie plants on US Fish and Wildlife Service remnant native and restored grasslands in the Prairie Pothole Region.
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Neonicotinoids are a class of neuro-active insecticides developed in the 1990s because of widespread pest resistance and environmental objections to organophosphorus insecticides. In developed countries, neonicotinoids are predominantly used as seed treatments but their widespread use is partly due to their flexibility of use (i.e., foliar sprays on horticultural crops, direct applications to soil and water). While large-scale use of neonicotinoid insecticides started around 2004, neonicotinoids are now the most widely used class of insecticides world-wide. However, only a small portion of the insecticide actually reaches its intended target; only 1.6-20.0% of imidacloprid applied via seed coating enters and provides protection to the crop; the remaining 80-98.4% accumulates in soil and water. Recent concern over neonicotinoids is, in part, due to their acute toxicity to non-target species such as birds, mammals, bees, butterflies, and aquatic invertebrates. However, limited data exists concerning the uptake of neonicotinoids on non-target plants. Given the persistence and accumulation of neonicotinoids in soil and water, uptake by non-target plant species would be expected. However, data on persistence of neonicotinoids once absorbed by plants are sparse and accumulation in plant tissue may be species-specific. In this study we endeavor to estimate rate of uptake and accumulation of neonicotinoids in native plants in South Dakota on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service remnant native and restored grasslands as a function of surrounding land use, estimate presence and concentration of neonicotinoids in soils, and estimate the decay function of neonicotinoids as it relates to the distance from crop fields as a function of native plant and soil contamination. These data will provide important information to guide management of native and restored grasslands, especially those intended to promote the health and persistence of pollinating insects.
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Monitoring protocol for otter and bobcat in Iowa
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December 2020
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Goals and Objectives:<br>- Comparing conventional population indices to statistical population reconstruction (SPR) to determine if the SPR model provides superior inferences that warrant its use as an otter and bobcat management tool.<br>- Performing SPR to provide estimates on otter and bobcat survival, age structure, recruitment, harvest, and population trends in Iowa.<br>- Using GIS to develop a river otter habitat suitability map for Iowa based on the number of otters trapped per HUC 12 watersheds as a function of land cover and landscape metrics comparable to the suitability map developed for the bobcats.<br>- Validating the habitat suitability map created in item 3.<br>- Evaluating the value of current data sources and simulating potential gains by including additional auxiliary data for use in managing Iowan furbearers.<br>- Publishing a final report and outlining recommendations to the Iowa DNR for future furbearer monitoring.
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Two native species, the Bobcat and the North American River Otter (hereafter otter) have returned to Iowa and reestablished their roles as predators and furbearers. Harvest information, tooth age, and reproductive tract data has been gathered annually by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources since 2006, but this information has not been utilized to its full extent, particularly with otters. Accurate population monitoring is critical to meet management and conservation goals, and is especially important considering inclusion on CITES Appendix II of both bobcats and otters. The goal of our project is to create an efficient modeling framework for monitoring Iowa otter and bobcat populations using the Iowa DNR’s existing data sources and augmenting it with additional auxiliary information. We will specifically be able to evaluate the role and effectiveness the annual bow hunter survey in monitoring these species, as bobcats are better represented on this survey than otters.
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Safe operating space for walleye: adapting inland recreational fisheries for climate change
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May 2022
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Climate change affects inland recreational fisheries by influencing lake thermal structure, water clarity, habitat, and other factors that influence economically valuable sport fishes. The Safe Operating Space (SOS) for a given fishery is the range of biophysical and social conditions that allows for self-sustaining populations of target species. Walleye, a socially and economically important sportfish across much of North America, is undergoing declines due to recruitment failures in many lakes throughout their range. Studies of the SOS for Walleye suggest that many factors are involved, including warming and changes in thermal structure, loss of habitat, increasing clarity (perhaps due to drought), and biotic interactions with other fish species. We propose research to identify mechanisms behind recruitment failures that will help inform rehabilitation of Walleye recruitment and populations. In a whole-lake experiment we will remove centrarchid fish species. In parallel, we will conduct a structured comparison of lakes with contrasting habitat and centrarchid densities to evaluate the effects of water clarity, growing degree days, and predation mortality on young-of-year growth and survivorship of Walleye. Results of these studies, in combination with simulation modeling and additional analyses of long-term data from lakes in Northern Wisconsin, will sharpen our understanding of the SOS for Walleye and inform a new vision for recreational fisheries management in a changing climate. Members of the research team work closely with fisheries managers, which will foster a regular exchange of information. Results will also be communicated to managers through regular management workshops, as well as technical papers in the scientific literature.
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Global change, including large scale changes in climate, land use, hydrology, and biogeochemistry, creates unprecedented pressure on inland recreational fisheries. Local fish managers have little influence on these large-scale changes, but they can manipulate factors such as harvest, food web structure, and some features of habitat. The Safe Operating Space (SOS) concept establishes a framework for analyzing a fishery in the context of both large-scale and local factors. Adaptation is the manipulation of local factors (such as harvest, food web structure, or habitat) to maintain the SOS of a fishery as the climate changes. The project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the National Climate Adaptation Science Center and UW-Madison Center for Limnology.The research will use comparative studies, a whole-lake experiment, models, and synthesis of extant long-term data to quantify the walleye SOS over a diverse landscape with thousands of lakes. We will develop tools for classifying lakes with respect to the walleye SOS.
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RWO 98: Structure and Connectivity of Mid-Continental Snowy ...
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September 2020
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Recent work in the Southern High Plains of Texas have documented continued declines of adult snowy plovers (Charadrius nivosus) on saline lakes. Currently, no reliable estimates of survival, recruitment, connectivity or philopatry exist for any other portion of the midcontinental snowy plover population.
Approximately 28% of snowy plovers occur in the Great Plains emphasis area, with population declines approaching 80% in saline lakes of the Southern High Plains of Texas over a 10-year period.
We are working with partners from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to obtain information reliable estimates of survival and population connectivity.
These data are important to provide decision makers with reliable information with which to evaluate the species status and develop conservation measures if warranted.
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Recent work in the Southern High Plains of Texas have documented continued declines of adult snowy plovers (Charadrius nivosus) on saline lakes. Currently, no reliable estimates of survival, recruitment, connectivity or philopatry exist for any other portion of the midcontinental snowy plover population.
Approximately 28% of snowy plovers occur in the Great Plains emphasis area, with population declines approaching 80% in saline lakes of the Southern High Plains of Texas over a 10-year period.
We are working with partners from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to obtain information reliable estimates of survival and population connectivity.
These data are important to provide decision makers with reliable information with which to evaluate the species status and develop conservation measures if warranted.
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Impacts of Rabbit Hunting on Northern Bobwhite Demographics and Behavior
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August 2021
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Management of early successional habitat for northern bobwhites often provides habitat for other species, such as rabbits, with similar habitat preferences. This positive by-product creates additional opportunities for those who participate in small-game hunting. However, the concurrent pursuit of two species with similar habitat requirements may create conflicts among hunters or affect the demography or behavior of one or both of the species. Rabbit hunting, in particular, has the potential to disrupt bobwhite movements and behavior given the nature of pursuit involving large hunting parties and packing dogs. This disruption may subsequently affect bobwhite survival and/or bobwhite hunter satisfaction. This study focuses on effects of hunting at one Georgia DNR Wildlife Management Area in which activities of the two types of hunters are separated in time. Specifically, the study investigates whether rabbit hunting activity disrupts bobwhite behavior sufficiently to impact bird demography and consequently bobwhite hunter satisfaction.
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Management of early successional habitat for northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) may provide as a byproduct habitat suitable for other species, such as rabbits (Silvilagus floridanus). Although this association creates additional sport hunting opportunities on the same site, concurrent pursuit of harvest objectives for two co-occurring species may create conflicts among hunters or affect demography or behavior of one or both species. Wildlife management agencies seek to increase opportunities for hunting on public areas, and strategies that appear to provide added opportunity for the same management effort are highly attractive to agencies. However, such strategies can have deleterious consequences if hunting activities directed at one species disrupts populations of the other species, ultimately leading to decreased satisfaction among hunters of that species. This research is conducted in collaboration with Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the University of Georgia. Research results will inform the Georgia Department of Natural Resources on costs – in terms of population performance and hunter satisfaction – for the perceived benefits of coincidental habitat and harvest management for two co-occurring species.
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Environmental Stressors and Priority Plant Communities on Jekyll Island, Georgia
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May 2020
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Jekyll Island is a Georgia barrier island that supports developed tourism amenities and a residential community, but is also a state park that is committed to conserving and managing most of the island's area as natural habitat. Natural areas on Jekyll Island are facing a multitude of environmental stresses, most of whose root causes are anthropogenic. Sea level rise, climate change, altered surface and groundwater hydrology, fire suppression, invasive species, land development, and altered wildlife abundances can all affect the dynamics of vegetation communities. Many of Jekyll Island’s vegetation communities are locally or globally rare, unique to barrier islands, and highly regarded for their aesthetic and recreational values, all of which create a strong impetus for conserving the integrity of these vegetation communities and ecosystems. However, formulating natural areas management strategies is a complex challenge because of the simultaneous multiple stressors that are impacting plant communities, and the diverse range of ecological and social objectives – from biodiversity conservation and climate resilience, to tourism amenities and educational opportunities – that the Jekyll Island Authority’s mission seeks to balance. To surmount these complexities, this project combines three suites of scientific studies to (1) investigate the effects of multiple stressors on vegetation structure and dynamics in three high-priority plant communities, (2) integrate field and existing data on expected management outcomes into a decision support framework, and (3) evaluate stakeholder attitudes toward management options. This approach will deliver relevant, novel ecological information on the consequences of ecological stressors on high-priority natural areas, contextualized in terms of management options, in order to facilitate the Jekyll Island Authority in conservation planning. The findings delivered from the social research component will allow JIA managers to evaluate the potential tradeoffs, synergies, and leverage points between ecological conservation strategies and the values held by diverse stakeholders.
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Jekyll Island is a Georgia barrier island that supports developed tourism amenities and a residential community, but it is also a state park that is committed to conserving and managing most of the island's area as natural habitat. Formulating natural areas management strategies is a complex challenge because of the simultaneous multiple stressors that are impacting plant communities, and the diverse range of ecological and social objectives – from biodiversity conservation and climate resilience, to tourism amenities and educational opportunities – that the Jekyll Island Authority’s mission seeks to balance. Jekyll Island is a prototypical example of a place that is vulnerable to both environmental stressors and the direct human stressor of being “loved to death.” This work will have relevance to the management of other barrier islands faced with similar threats. Partners in this work are USGS, the University of Georgia, and the Jekyll Island Authority. This work is expected to deliver relevant, novel ecological information on the consequences of ecological stressors on high-priority natural areas, contextualized in terms of management options, to facilitate the Jekyll Island Authority in conservation planning.
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Adaptive Management of Federal Investments to Great Lakes Restoration Activities
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September 2021
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The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) is a large federal program aimed at protecting and restoring the largest system of surface freshwater in the world. Among its project portfolios are efforts to prioritize terrestrial conservation projects to increase habitat connectivity for species of conservation importance to GLRI partners. Anthropogenic land uses can reduce native wildlife species’ ability to move through landscapes, potentially obstructing the movement of non-volant species to climate refuges to the north. An area of focus of the GLRI is the support of decisions aimed at restoring and conserving areas that link habitats across the complex of federal-owned lands in the ecoregion. The principal scientific partners in this work are USGS and the University of Georgia, and client partners consist of federal agencies involved in the GLRI. This work will produce analyses of landscape connectivity under alternative future scenarios and will quantify local-level contributions to regional-scale connectivity. This granular information will aid decision makers charged with choosing conservation acquisitions and actions aimed at maintaining high levels of connectivity in the face of uncertain future landscapes.
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The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) is a large federal program aimed at protecting and restoring the largest system of surface freshwater in the world. Among its project portfolios are efforts to prioritize terrestrial conservation projects to increase habitat connectivity for species of conservation importance to GLRI partners. Anthropogenic land uses can reduce native wildlife species’ ability to move through landscapes, potentially obstructing the movement of non-volant species to climate refuges to the north. An area of focus of the GLRI is the support of decisions aimed at restoring and conserving areas that link habitats across the complex of federal-owned lands in the ecoregion. The principal scientific partners in this work are USGS and the University of Georgia, and client partners consist of federal agencies involved in the GLRI. This work will produce analyses of landscape connectivity under alternative future scenarios and will quantify local-level contributions to regional-scale connectivity. This granular information will aid decision makers charged with choosing conservation acquisitions and actions aimed at maintaining high levels of connectivity in the face of uncertain future landscapes.
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Accelerating Conservation of At-Risk Species in the Longleaf System
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June 2022
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The Southeast Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working actively with state wildlife agencies and other partners, through the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies to assess the status of >300 species awaiting reviews for listing decision and to implement conservation for these species on public and private lands. The longleaf pine ecological system supports a number of priority at-risk species, including the gopher tortoise, striped newt, gopher frog, southern hognose snake, and Florida pine snake. Major science needs are to analyze and integrate new information from status surveys for this group of species and to identify those conservation actions to improve the status of these species. By involving partner groups in this work, this project will synthesize data for these priority species and will develop models that predict population viability as a consequence of predicted exogenous threats (e.g., climate change and land use conversion) and conservation actions in space and time to mitigate those threats. These products will be delivered in form that facilitates a future formal decision analysis in which tradeoffs in alternative conservation actions may be explored.
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The Southeast Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working actively with state wildlife agencies and other partners to assess the status of >300 species awaiting reviews for listing decision and to implement conservation for these species on public and private lands. The longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) ecosystem supports several species of priority at-risk species, including the gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus), striped newt (Notophthalmus perstriatus), gopher frog (Rana capito), southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus); for these species, there has been no comprehensive effort to synthesize information and identify knowledge gaps for their conservation. Conservation agencies face an immense workload in assessing the status of numerous species and formulating conservation actions in response. By taking a comprehensive view of species within an ecosystem, the expectation is that efficiencies for planning conservation action will emerge, compared to a piece-by-piece approach. This work relies on a collaboration between USGS, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the University of Georgia, and several state, federal, and NGO partners. By involving partner groups in this work, the project is expected to synthesize data for the five priority species above and to develop models that predict population viability as a consequence of predicted exogenous threats (e.g., climate change and land use conversion) and conservation actions in space and time to mitigate those threats. These products will be delivered in a form that facilitates a future formal decision analysis in which tradeoffs in alternative conservation actions may be explored.
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Assess Field- and Landscape-Level Effects of NRCS Conservation Practices on Gopher Tortoise Habitat
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August 2020
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The Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) program of the Natural Resources Conservation Service provides financial incentives for private landowners to manage their lands in ways that enhance habitat suitability for wildlife species of conservation concern, including the gopher tortoise. This project has two purposes: (1) assess how well WLFW has delivered conservation benefit on enrolled properties with respect to habitat and population metrics, and (2) develop enhancements in population assessment technology to more sensitively gauge how tortoise populations respond to conservation actions in short time frames.
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The NRCS Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) program for the gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) was initiated in 2013, with enrollments in the states of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The program provides incentive payments to private landowners for implementing habitat management practices believed to promote sustainability of tortoise populations, but there has been no assessment of whether WLFW is achieving its goals and no identification of challenges in its implementation. A component of this research addresses enhancements to the field survey protocol used across the range of the tortoise; thus the management community will have a better tool to quantify tortoise populations. The research will also help determine if the allocation of public dollars to incentivize private landowners is having the intended effect and will further clarify how tortoise populations respond to habitat management actions across the range. Partners from USGS, NRCS, the University of Georgia, and the Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center are collaborating on this project. The implementation of an improved survey tool will provide more precision to management decision making. The work is also expected to inform NRCS about the effectiveness of the WLFW program in meeting habitat objectives and to identify attributes (local to landscape scale) that contribute to or impinge on the meeting of objectives.
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Demographic Estimation and Conservation Modeling for the Loggerhead Sea Turtle
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June 2020
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Successful recovery of the threatened loggerhead sea turtle will hinge on decisions about where to invest limited resources into conservation actions, and these decisions will be informed by predictions of population response to each action. This study focuses on the development of decision or scenario planning models for the northern recovery unit of the turtle. We will first construct a demographic model by integrating data from various sources, including genetic mark-recapture data, nest counts, and in-water monitoring data. Next, we will outfit this model as a scenario/decision analysis tool and simulate the model to product output of use to managers. The main purpose of the model is to help state agency resource managers in the northern recovery unit discern the relative efficacy of actions under their control, to assess the relative contributions of stressors so that broad scope conservation strategies may be devised, and to identify key uncertainties in sea turtle demography to which targeted information gathering would yield more effective conservation delivery.
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Decision-making aimed at recovering the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) from threatened status is dependent on models that evaluate population vulnerability to an array of potential threats and that assess trade-offs of alternative conservation actions. Crucial uncertainties in population mechanisms exist, and demographic models can be used to identify those uncertainties to which targeted information gathering would yield more effective conservation delivery. Conservation management for loggerhead sea turtles is uncertain because key mechanisms and components of the population are unknown, and no framework exists to evaluate trade-offs of alternative actions in the face of this uncertainty. This work will provide the needed framework to advance conservation for the turtle, and it will provide a blueprint for model development and decision analysis for related conservation problems hampered by uncertainty. This work is a collaboration between USGS, the University of Georgia, and Georgia Department of Natural Resources. This work will result in a population model that integrates multiple sources of data including genetic mark-recapture, nest counts, and in-water surveys, and it will be outfit as a scenario/decision analysis tool for generating demographic output of use to managers. Among possible scenarios investigated are those that trade off one form of management for another if total resources for conservation are capped.
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Comprehensive evaluation of the Nebraska outdoor enthusiast
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July 2022
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Fishing and hunting license sales and taxes on fishing and hunting equipment are vital sources of funding for wildlife management agencies, and in many cases, management objectives are met under the stewardship of sportspersons. The dependence on hunters and anglers by management agencies makes the North American Model of Conservation unique, but vulnerable to declining participation in outdoor recreation.<br><br>The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service supports the National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation Survey in a nationwide effort to understand the sporting public. Conducted every five years, the National Survey identifies generalizations concerning patterns of outdoor enthusiast participation in the USA. Although useful for setting broad policy, the spatial and temporal scales of this National Survey limit the capacity for state fish and wildlife agencies to affect local participation within their states. To overcome these limitations, many state agencies conduct surveys of individual license holders. However, state surveys are often highly directed, limiting their applicability across user groups and state boundaries.<br><br> Given the challenges of both national and state surveys, there is a need to bridge the information gap and understand sportspersons at spatial and temporal scales that may more directly assist in creating hunting and angling opportunities. We are analyzing a comprehensive database on license holders in Nebraska with the goal of helping inform and direct wildlife and fisheries management, as well as recruitment and retention efforts within the state. To date, we have documented that movement of sportspersons across activity groups (hunting only, fishing only, a combination of hunting and fishing, and inactive), inferred from license purchases, is limited and varies little based on initial group participation. <br><br>In addition, we developed a customizable, open-source, web-based application—huntfishapp—that allows users to easily interact with a license database. The huntfishapp serves as an informational resource, provides a framework for sharing information on license sales across an agency, and allows agencies and non-governmental organizations to become more knowledgeable of their customer base.
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The decline in hunters and anglers is of increasing concern to natural resource management agencies that depend on these individuals for annual funding. The dependence on hunters and anglers by natural resource management agencies makes the North American Model of Conservation unique, but vulnerable to declining participation in outdoor recreation. Comprehensive understanding of the hunting and fishing public is needed to inform and direct wildlife and fisheries management, as well as recruitment and retention efforts by natural resource management agencies. This project is a collaboration of researchers across multiple agencies and includes the University of Nebraska—Lincoln and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Participation levels will be quantified among groups of hunters and anglers, and models will be developed to describe recruitment and development of these groups of people. Findings will help identify key socio-demographic parameters that predict movement among and retention in each of the user groups (e.g., from hunter education program to small-game hunter to angler to big-game hunter).
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RWO 224: Application of an Integrated Ecosystem Model: A multi-institutional and multi-disciplinary effort to understand potential landscape, habitat and ecosystem change in Alaska and Northwest Canada.
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August 2021
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The overarching goal of this research work order is continued development and application of the Integrated Ecosystem Model (IEM) that integrates the driving components for, and the interactions among, disturbance regimes, permafrost dynamics, hydrology, and vegetation in Alaska and Northwest Canada. The outputs from the integrated model will provide natural resource managers and decision makers an improved understanding of the potential response of ecosystems to a changing climate. These projections of key ecological variables of interest (e.g., wildlife habitat conditions) can facilitate the integration of how landscapes may respond to climate change into resource management decisions.
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Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Mule Deer Project
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July 2020
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Increasingly, scientists and wildlife managers are recognizing that the productivity of western herds of mule deer depend on their ability to migrate seasonally across vast expanses of public and private lands. Mule deer are especially important to the ecology and economy of northwest Wyoming, part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). Along the eastern front of Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains, mule deer herds migrate from higher elevations in summer to lower elevation wintering habitats. Although a comprehensive map of the elk migrations of the GYE is soon to be completed, mule deer migration corridors have never been mapped comprehensively. By studying the movements and nutritional ecology of five EGYE herds over two years, we will provide essential information to our state partners (Wyoming Game and Fish Department) to manage these herds through identifying crucial habitats - including migration corridors, stop‐over sites, parturition areas, and winter concentration areas - for conservation and improvement projects.
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Increasingly, scientists and wildlife managers are recognizing that the productivity of western herds of mule deer depend on their ability to migrate seasonally across vast expanses of public and private lands. Mule deer are especially important to the ecology and economy of northwest Wyoming, part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). Along the eastern front of Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains, mule deer herds migrate from higher elevations in summer to lower elevation wintering habitats. Although a comprehensive map of the elk migrations of the GYE is soon to be completed, mule deer migration corridors have never been mapped comprehensively. By studying the movements and nutritional ecology of five EGYE herds over two years, we will provide essential information to our state partners (Wyoming Game and Fish Department) to manage these herds through identifying crucial habitats - including migration corridors, stop‐over sites, parturition areas, and winter concentration areas - for conservation and improvement projects.
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Migration Assessment
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December 2022
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In order for ungulate migration corridors to be effectively managed, they must first be mapped with detailed movement data. The Wyoming Unit is continuing its multi-year effort to map migration corridors of elk and other big game in Wyoming, and to develop tools to facilitate the identification and prioritization of threats and opportunities for conservation along migration corridors. Our analytical team has produced the migration corridor maps currently being incorporated into the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s vital habitat program. Our initial corridor maps have also formed the scientific basis of multiple efforts to conserve private lands that intersect with migration corridors in northwest Wyoming. These products represent a new way of managing elk and other big game herds in Wyoming. They are already increasing awareness and interest in Wyoming’s elk migrations, while also acting as tools to guide on-the-ground management and conservation projects now and for years to come.
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In order for ungulate migration corridors to be effectively managed, they must first be mapped with detailed movement data. The Wyoming Unit is continuing its multi-year effort to map migration corridors of elk and other big game in Wyoming, and to develop tools to facilitate the identification and prioritization of threats and opportunities for conservation along migration corridors. Our analytical team has produced the migration corridor maps currently being incorporated into the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s vital habitat program. Our initial corridor maps have also formed the scientific basis of multiple efforts to conserve private lands that intersect with migration corridors in northwest Wyoming. These products represent a new way of managing elk and other big game herds in Wyoming. They are already increasing awareness and interest in Wyoming’s elk migrations, while also acting as tools to guide on-the-ground management and conservation projects now and for years to come.
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Baggs, Wyoming Mule Deer Project
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December 2020
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While environmental variables like weather and plant phenology are thought to be the main drivers of migration, new evidence suggests that anthropogenic disturbances, such as hunting, as well as intrinsic factors like age and sex can also influence ungulate migrations. However, critical gaps in understanding of the influence of both the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that affect migratory behaviors abound. We used three years (2016 – 2018) of GPS-collar data for a herd of migratory mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>) in south-central Wyoming to compare key migratory behaviors between sexes, identify factors that influence the potential and timing of migration, and evaluate habitat selection in and around the autumn hunting season. We found that during hunting season, males found security by using habitats far from roads, while females used habitats through the hunting season that retained higher forage quality longer. This collaborative study with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department suggests that mule deer mitigate disturbance from hunting season by moving to roadless security habitats. Overall, our findings contribute to a broader understanding of migration ecology and the factors that influence migration and habitat selection of wild ungulates in western landscapes.
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While environmental variables like weather and plant phenology are thought to be the main drivers of migration, new evidence suggests that anthropogenic disturbances, such as hunting, as well as intrinsic factors like age and sex can also influence ungulate migrations. However, critical gaps in understanding of the influence of both the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that affect migratory behaviors abound. We used three years (2016 – 2018) of GPS-collar data for a herd of migratory mule deer (<i>Odocoileus hemionus</i>) in south-central Wyoming to compare key migratory behaviors between sexes, identify factors that influence the potential and timing of migration, and evaluate habitat selection in and around the autumn hunting season. We found that during hunting season, males found security by using habitats far from roads, while females used habitats through the hunting season that retained higher forage quality longer. This collaborative study with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department suggests that mule deer mitigate disturbance from hunting season by moving to roadless security habitats. Overall, our findings contribute to a broader understanding of migration ecology and the factors that influence migration and habitat selection of wild ungulates in western landscapes.
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Insecticide exposure risk for grassland wildlife on public lands
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December 2019
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Routine application of insecticides in agricultural landscapes has the potential to expose grassland wildlife on public lands to chemicals that could influence survival and reproduction. We are evaluating this risk on Minnesota Department of Natural Resources property in southwestern Minnesota.
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Routine application of insecticides in agricultural landscapes has the potential to expose grassland wildlife on public lands to chemicals that could influence survival and reproduction. In particular, application of insecticides to control soybean aphids is thought to potentially influence grassland birds both directly and indirectly. We evaluated this risk on Minnesota Department of Natural Resources property in southwestern Minnesota that is managed for wildlife by assessing potential direct and indirect (through food resources) exposure of grassland birds to operational insecticide application, and be measuring chemical deposition. To conduct this assessment, we partnered with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources with support from the State of Minnesota Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund. Results of this research will help managers better design and manage public grasslands embedded in agricultural landscapes for wildlife.
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Development of methods to assess lake sturgeon populations in Lake Champlain
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December 2021
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Lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens are widely distributed in freshwater systems throughout North America, occupying both lake and riverine habitats. Like other members of the sturgeon family, lake sturgeon are long lived, slow to mature, display intermittent spawning, have high fecundity and low natural mortality. Despite their low natural mortality, these life history characteristics make them especially vulnerable to overexploitation. Lake sturgeon populations have declined throughout the range of the species due to factors including habitat loss and overfishing, and are listed as extirpated, endangered, threatened, or of special concern in 12 states. The State of Vermont listed the species as endangered in 1975 due to low abundances in Lake Champlain. In the late 1800s and early 1900s a small commercial fishery for sturgeon existed Lake Champlain, however current numbers are unknown and likely represent a small fraction of the historic population. Since 1998, the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife (VTFW) has conducted sampling that has documented adult spawners, eggs, and larvae in the Winooski, Lamoille, and Missisquoi rivers. Spawning adults have not been documented in Otter Creek, a historic spawning tributary of Lake Champlain. Successful reproduction is occurring in multiple rivers in the lake. In this study, we are documenting adult and juvenile movements in the lake and spawning adult movements in the Winooski River and we are working on developing a method to estimate abundance of lake sturgeon in Lake Champlain.
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Lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens populations have declined throughout its range due to several factors including habitat loss and overfishing, and are listed as extirpated, endangered, threatened, or of special concern in 12 states. The State of Vermont listed the species as endangered in 1975 due to low abundances in Lake Champlain. Since 1998, the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife has conducted sampling that documented adult spawners, eggs, and larvae in the Winooski, Lamoille, and Missisquoi rivers. In this study, we are collaborating with Vermont Fish and Wildlife to provide more detailed information that can be used in managing this state endangered fish. Our research determines adult and juvenile movements in the lake and adult spawning movements in the Winooski River. We are using remote technologies in developing methods to estimate the abundance of lake sturgeon in Lake Champlain.
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Assessment of Prey Consumption and Body Condition of Missouri River Age-0 Scaphirhynchus Sturgeon
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January 2021
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The purpose of this study is to assess prey use and lipid content of age-0 sturgeon along a linear gradient of the lower Missouri River in relation to previously studied reaches.
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The lower Missouri River has been highly modified for navigation, affecting resident sturgeon populations. We are working with US Army Corps of Engineers and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to study the effect of habitat on prey use and lipid content of juvenile shovelnose sturgeon. Results of this study will be used in an adaptive management process that is evaluating how habitat modifications in the river are affecting juvenile sturgeon.
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Develop Adaptive Management Framework for Robust Redhorse
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November 2021
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Structured decision making and scenario forecasting are being used in collaboration with several stakeholders to evaluate alternative conservation strategies for Robust Redhorse.
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Robust Redhorse (<i>Moxostoma robustum</i>) is a native freshwater fish species, which inhabits a few river systems on the Atlantic slope of the southeastern U.S., and is considered imperiled. The species faces threats such as sedimentation and migration barriers created by hydropower dams. Some evidence suggests a potential population decline in recent years. A diverse group of stakeholders exists for supporting conservation efforts for Robust Redhorse. The Georgia Unit has been collaborating with the Robust Redhorse Conservation Committee (a partnership that includes federal agencies, state agencies, and utility companies) to develop an adaptive management framework to help stakeholders make informed management decisions. This project is helping to support a PhD student in the Interdisciplinary Conservation program at the University of Georgia. The objectives of the project include assessing current population status for each Robust Redhorse ecologically significant unit (ESU) and conducting scenario forecasts for each ESU to investigate population viability under different conservation strategies. The results from the forecasting models will then help decision makers identify preferable management options.
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Assessment of Trout Management in Georgia
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December 2019
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We conducted a collaborative assessment to help GA DNR update or formulate a trout management strategy that will satisfy a plurality of GA’s trout anglers and be relatively robust to identified critical uncertainties. The overarching goal for this project is to increase both the amount and usability of socioecological information available to managers when making fisheries management decisions.
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The northern part of Georgia is home to the native Brook Trout, but Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout are now considered to be naturalized in the state. In the early 2000s, a comprehensive management program (i.e., the “Georgia Trout Management Plan”) was developed around five major categories: 1) Trout Habitat Conservation; 2) Wild Trout Management; 3) Management of Hatchery Supported Waters; 4) Hatchery Production Program; and 5) Access and Angler Use Issues. The efficacy of this plan is a question of immediate interest to fishery managers at GA Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This project is a collaboration of the Fisheries Section of GA DNR, the University of Georgia, and the Georgia Unit. A stakeholder survey was completed in 2017. A corresponding student-led paper, which included an importance-satisfaction analysis of catch and noncatch attributes, was published in 2019 in the North American Journal of Fisheries Management. Two MS students have completed degree requirements. Local, regional, and national presentations have been provided along with several interactions with GA DNR to report findings in an effort to increase socioecological information available to managers when making fisheries management decisions, such as choosing among potential future stocking scenarios.
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Great Lakes Cisco spawning habitat assessment
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December 2019
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Great Lakes Cisco, Coregonus artedi, once dominated Great Lakes forage fish communities, yet overharvest, invasive species, and habitat loss led to the widespread collapse of these native fish by the mid 1900s. As Great Lakes ecosystems continue to change, restoration of these native forage species is a top priority for increasing the resilience of fishery resources across the basin. In this collaboration across NY State, Cornell, USGS, USFWS, and Canadian partners, we are assessing Cisco, spawning habitat preferences in the Great Lakes to assist in prioritizing coregonid population restoration efforts. Our project results have shown that Cisco utilize a wide range in nearshore habitats across their Great Lakes range, but within lakes, we observe only a subset of life histories. This indicates biodiversity across the species range is still high, but raises research priorities to understand whether within-lake life history diversity has been lost.
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Great Lakes Cisco, Coregonus artedi, once dominated Great Lakes forage fish communities, yet overharvest, invasive species, and habitat loss led to the widespread collapse of these native fish by the mid 1900s. As Great Lakes ecosystems continue to change, restoration of these native forage species is a top priority for increasing the resilience of fishery resources across the basin. In this collaboration across NY State, Cornell, USGS, USFWS, and Canadian partners, we are assessing Cisco, spawning habitat preferences in the Great Lakes to assist in prioritizing coregonid population restoration efforts. Our project results have shown that Cisco utilize a wide range in nearshore habitats across their Great Lakes range, but within lakes, we observe only a subset of life histories. This indicates biodiversity across the species range is still high, but raises research priorities to understand whether within-lake life history diversity has been lost.
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Relative Population Densities of Asian Carp in the Tennessee River and Cumberland River drainages
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June 2022
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Asian carp (AC) are increasingly expanding within multiple Tennessee river systems, but knowledge of current distributions and abundance is lacking. Bighead carp have been observed in the Tennessee waters of the Cumberland River and Tennessee River for at least 10 years. Silver carp were first observed in Tennessee waters in ~2008, but they were not observed in the headwaters of the lowermost reservoirs in each river system until ~ 2012. Sporadic sampling by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency commenced in 2013 and provided some information on where AC occurred in the Tennessee River, Cumberland River, and their tributaries. All empirical and anecdotal evidence points to a rapid expansion of AC upstream in both river systems and into their tributaries and successful reproduction by silver carp in the headwaters of Kentucky Lake. Unlike other locales in the Ohio River basin, a paucity of information exists on AC in the Tennessee and Cumberland river systems. Accompanying this relative lack of information on AC in Tennessee is a deficit in our understanding of where to direct commercial fishing activity and other measures to slow the spread of AC and reduce their potential impact on native fish and mussel assemblages. The objectives of this project are to (1) assess spatial variation in relative abundance of AC in the main basins of two Tennessee River impoundments (Kentucky and Pickwick lakes) and two Cumberland River impoundments (Barkley and Cheatham lakes); (2) develop indices of AC abundance in the headwaters (i.e., dam tailwaters) of those four impoundments, which are proximal sources for further upstream invasion; (3) evaluate tailwater sampling efficiency and relate tailwater AC indices to AC catches in the main basins; and (4) sample additional tailwaters within the Tennessee and Cumberland river systems where the status of AC is unknown to further delineate the leading edge of AC in the waters of Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama.
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Asian carp (AC) are increasingly expanding within multiple Tennessee river systems, but knowledge of current distributions and abundance is lacking. Bighead carp have been observed in the Tennessee waters of the Cumberland River and Tennessee River for at least 10 years. Silver carp were first observed in Tennessee waters in ~2008, but they were not observed in the headwaters of the lowermost reservoirs in each river system until ~ 2012. Asian Carp invasion presents a threat to native species, fishing, and tourism. The objectives of this project are to (1) assess spatial variation in relative abundance of AC in the main basins of two Tennessee River impoundments (Kentucky and Pickwick lakes) and two Cumberland River impoundments (Barkley and Cheatham lakes); (2) develop indices of AC abundance in the headwaters (i.e., dam tailwaters) of those four impoundments, which are proximal sources for further upstream invasion; (3) evaluate tailwater sampling efficiency and relate tailwater AC indices to AC catches in the main basins; and (4) test novel gears and models for sampling and control measures in southeast reservoirs. Partners include the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama as well as US Fish and Wildlife Service and USGS Science Centers.
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Movements and Lock and Dam Passage of Asian Carp in the Tennessee River
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June 2022
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Silver Carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix are spreading in the Ohio River Basin and many of its tributaries. Increasing occurrences in one of the major tributaries, the Tennessee River, has created concerns for the five states that manage fisheries within the Tennessee River’s watershed. Populations of Asian carp have become well established in the lower reaches of the Tennessee River, especially below Pickwick Dam. The leading edge of Asian Carp invasion in the Tennessee River is not well defined, but suspected to be between Pickwick Lake in Mississippi and Guntersville Lake in Alabama. Multiple agencies have begun an effort to understand the movement of Asian carp in the Tennessee River basin via acoustic telemetry. These efforts intend to inform removal efforts in downstream areas and inform invasion into the upper portions of the Tennessee River basin including the Tennessee Tombigbee waterway. There is significant potential for limiting dispersal of Asian carp at navigation locks and dams because the design of those structures limits upstream movements. Previous and ongoing studies have created an acoustic receiver array that covers much of the system. This project would fill in the gaps and complete the array of receivers on the Tennessee River system. This project joins multiple, independent projects on the system working towards a common goal. Movement data from these projects will lead to better understanding of Asian carp dispersal and invasion dynamics, evaluation of movement through lock and dam systems, and identification of seasonal congregations in the Tennessee River. The specific objectives are to (1) manually track tagged Asian carp in the Tennessee waters of the Tennessee River in 2016 and 2017; (2) quantify spatial and temporal movements of Asian Carp between Kentucky and Pickwick lakes via the lock chamber at Pickwick Dam.
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Invasive Silver Carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Bighead Carp H. Nobilis are spreading in the Ohio River Basin and many of its tributaries. Increasing occurrences has created concerns for states in the Tennessee River and Cumberland River watersheds, tributaries to the Ohio River with connectivity to the Mississippi River. Upstream passage occurs through locks at dams. A multi-state effort to use telemetry to quantify lock passage is ongoing. This information will help inform potential lock management or movement barrier placement at locks.
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Wolverine monitoring analysis and reporting
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June 2020
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The multi-state wolverine monitoring program will produce a large amount of data and the resulting analysis will be complex. Given the importance of the data and scrutiny that the program will receive, a thorough and rigorous analysis is important. I will lead the analysis and reporting, working closely Dr. Jake Ivan. We will analyze the wolverine camera trapping data to estimate occupancy and distribution as functions of environmental covariates and spatial autocorrelation within the pre-defined wolverine sampling frame.
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Problem:Wolverines are notriously difficult to monitor because they are solitary, elusive, and occur at very low densities. Some data support concerns that wolverine populations are declining, possibly affecting listing and harvest decisions.Why the research matters:No reliable monitoring methodology or collaborative infrastructure exists across the western states where wolverines live. This project will provide means by which multiple states can monitor wolverines collaboratively, allowing managers to make effective decisions for managing the wolverine population they share in common.Collaboration:Cooperators include the University of Montana, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Idaho Fish and Game, and Wyoming Game and Fish.Informing decisions:By providing estimates of wolverine abundance and distribution across multiple states this work will contribute directly to decisions critical to wolverine management, including harvest, listing as an endangered species, and multi-agency efforts to conserve wolverines across their distribution in the northern Rockies.
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Demography of Black-footed and Laysan Albatross: Vital Rates in Support of the Surrogate Species Approach to Strategic Habitat Conservation
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July 2020
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The black-footed (BFAL) and Laysan (LAAL) albatrosses are long-lived seabirds of conservation concern to the USFWS. Specifically, a petition to list the BFAL under the Endangered Species Act has recently been submitted to USFWS. Furthermore, over 65% of the world population of these albatross species nest on remote island refuges in the Pacific. Although Southern Hemisphere albatross species are well-studied, through intensive research projects conducted by multiple countries, relatively little is known about the life history, survival, breeding frequency, and reproductive success of Northern Hemisphere albatross species. Such information is important, given the variety of threats that these species face (e.g., fishery bycatch, plastics ingestions, contaminants, loss of breeding habitat due to sea level rise). A banding/recapture program to monitor the vital rates of these species, under protocols developed by the Principal Investigator and collaborators, was initiated by USFWS on Midway Atoll and Tern Island in 2004, and on Laysan Island in 2005, thus encompassing the vast majority of each of these species. Designing, developing, and maintaining this monitoring program of these globally significant populations has been an ongoing collaboration among the USGS (Patuxent Wildlife Research Center before 2010 and the Colorado Cooperative and Wildlife Research Unit since), the USGS Bird Banding Lab, the USFWS Pacific and Remote Refuges, and the USFWS Region 1 Division of Migratory Birds and Habitat Programs. The main purpose of this project is to, based on the first 10 years of this data collection, (1) to assess the life history and demographic parameters (survival, recruitment probabilities, breeding probabilities, reproductive success, variability in these metrics across populations) of these Northern Hemisphere species. The parameter estimates and variability from this effort can be incorporated into a stage-based population model, to inform status assessment and provide predictions for candidate conservation actions. (2) Review whether the level of sampling effort recommended in the monitoring protocols has produced inferences with sufficient precision for management purposes (i.e., whether effort should be increased, or could be reduced).
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The black-footed (Phoebastria nigripes; BFAL) and Laysan (Phoebastria immutabilis; LAAL) albatrosses are long-lived seabirds of conservation concern to the USFWS, and a petition to list the BFAL under the Endangered Species Act has recently been submitted to USFWS. Furthermore, over 65% of the world population of these albatross species nest on remote low island refuges in the Pacific, and in smaller numbers in the main Hawaiian Islands. Relatively little is known about the life history, survival, and breeding frequency of Northern Hemisphere albatross species, and in how this compares between the low islands of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and the main Hawaiian Islands. Such information is important, given the variety of threats that these species face (e.g., fishery bycatch, plastics ingestions, contaminants, loss of breeding habitat due to sea level rise). The project is a collaboration with the USFWS Region 1 Migratory Bird and Habitat and Inventory and Monitoring programs, the Marine National Monuments of the Pacific, and the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. A model for annual survival and breeding probability for albatross will be developed for Midway Atoll and Laysan Island, allowing these processes to be connected with threats such as overlap with long-line fishing and other environmental factors. A vetted banding database will be provided for future analyses and recommendations for future monitoring intensity will also be provided to Refuge personnel.
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Dispersal behavior of Yuma Ridgway's Rail
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September 2020
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Since 2005, the number of Yuma Ridgway’s Rail (Rallus obsoletus yumanensis, hereafter ‘Rail’ or R. obsoletus) detected through standardized surveys across its range has decreased by 52%, declining to 432 individuals in 2013 (USFWS 2014). Most of this decline has occurred at managed wetlands near the Salton Sea, California. The reasons for this decline are not known.<br><br>Incidental fatalities of the rail have been reported at renewable energy facilities within the species range. The current fatality monitoring at renewable energy facilities was not designed to be able to evaluate total species impacts, or rare events of injury or fatality of an endangered species. Currently the species is restricted to small patches of emergent wetland vegetation impacted by multi-year drought, disconnected by large expanses of agricultural lands and open desert with solar facilities possibly attracting dispersing individuals that mistake the reflection from the solar arrays as water. The species is known to make long range dispersal movements from areas where prolonged drought and water use are currently having a deleterious impact to this water-dependent bird.<br><br>OBJECTIVE:<br>Determine the dispersal distances, dispersal direction, and dispersal behavior of juvenile Yuma Ridgway’s Rail.<br><br>METHODS:<br>We will attach PTT transmitters to 10 hatch year (HY) rails to determine dispersal distances, and the conditions under which young birds move to find new habitat patches.
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Since 2005, the number of Yuma Ridgway’s Rail (Rallus obsoletus yumanensis, hereafter ‘Rail’ or R. obsoletus) detected through standardized surveys across its range has decreased by 52%, declining to 432 individuals in 2013 (USFWS 2014). Most of this decline has occurred at managed wetlands near the Salton Sea, California. The reasons for this decline are not known. Incidental fatalities of the rail have been reported at renewable energy facilities within the species range. The current fatality monitoring at renewable energy facilities was not designed to be able to evaluate total species impacts, or rare events of injury or fatality of an endangered species. Currently the species is restricted to small patches of emergent wetland vegetation impacted by multi-year drought, disconnected by large expanses of agricultural lands and open desert with solar facilities possibly attracting dispersing individuals that mistake the reflection from the solar arrays as water. The species is known to make long range dispersal movements from areas where prolonged drought and water use are currently having a deleterious impact to this water-dependent bird. OBJECTIVE:Determine the dispersal distances, dispersal direction, and dispersal behavior of juvenile Yuma Ridgway’s Rail. METHODS: We will attach PTT transmitters to 10 hatch year (HY) rails to determine dispersal distances, and the conditions under which young birds move to find new habitat patches.
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A strategic path forward for mussel conservation in the state of Missouri
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July 2021
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Our overarching goal is to propose a strategic framework to guide state-level mussel conservation programs. To do so, we first document current state-level management actions, strategies, and resources used to manage freshwater mussels through an online survey of personnel from state natural resource agencies. Second, we detail our mussel conservation assessment strategy and describe its proposed implementation in the state of Missouri. With full understanding of the resource limitations and challenges to mussel conservation, we explore the potential of our approach to improve the effectiveness of mussel conservation efforts through strategic planning and implementation of restoration actions.
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Our overarching goal is to propose a strategic framework to guide state-level mussel conservation programs. To do so, we first document current state-level management actions, strategies, and resources used to manage freshwater mussels through an online survey of personnel from state natural resource agencies. Second, we detail our mussel conservation assessment strategy and describe its proposed implementation in the state of Missouri. With full understanding of the resource limitations and challenges to mussel conservation, we explore the potential of our approach to improve the effectiveness of mussel conservation efforts through strategic planning and implementation of restoration actions.
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Bat occupancy patterns as a function of wildlife and forest restoration activities
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December 2019
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Evaluation of bat occupancy patterns as a function of wildlife and forest restoration activities in the Plumas National Forest
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Wildfires are increasing in incidence and severity across the western US, leading to changes in forest structure and wildlife habitats. Knowledge of how species respond to fire-driven habitat changes in these landscapes is limited and generally disconnected from our understanding of adaptations that underpin responses to fire. We aimed to identify relationships between fire regime, physiographic and forest structure variables, and occupancy and functional traits of a diverse bat community, to inform forest management in a fire-prone landscape. Relationships between bat traits and fire regime were driven by adaptations to diverse forest structure. Bats adapted to foraging in open habitats and emitting longer duration and narrow bandwidth calls were associated with higher severity and more frequent fires, and bats adapted to foraging in a more cluttered environment were negatively associated with fire. Relationships between edge-adapted bat species and fire were driven by prey preference or habitat availability and configuration at a landscape scale. Predicted increases in fire frequency and severity in the western US are likely to shift dominance in the bat community to species adapted to open environments and those able to exploit post-fire resource pulses (aquatic insects, beetles, snags). Managing for pyrodiversity within the western US is likely important for maintaining bat community diversity, as well as diversity of other biotic communities. Identifying trait-fire regime relationships will help forest managers develop appropriate management interventions and focus limited resources to provide for a broad range of species.
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Estimation of mountain lion density in New Mexico
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June 2020
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The goal of this study is to provide relevant population and density data for mountain lions in New Mexico that will contribute to the management plans developed by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. The objectives of this study are to: 1) estimate mountain lion abundance and density in replicated survey areas across New Mexico to provide additional data for deriving harvest limits; 2) compare data-derived density estimates to those used in the habitat model currently employed by NMDGF to develop harvest limits; and 3) test a remote camera-based method for estimating mountain lion abundance and density in the absence of marked individuals.
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Estimation of large carnivore population size and density at scales most relevant for management is arguably one of the most challenging issues in wildlife management. Despite substantial advances in methodological and analytical approaches for the estimation of common game species, estimation of low density predator populations remains challenging for state and federal management agencies. We are currently estimating the abundance of mountain lions in New Mexico in collaboration with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. This study will provide relevant, precise and unbiased population and density data for mountain lions in New Mexico that will drive harvest plans.
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Broad Whitefish (Coregonus nasus) Ecology, Habitat Use and Potential Impacts of Climate Change in Arctic Alaska
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December 2020
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Subsistence fisheries provide an important food resource for communities on Alaska’s Arctic Coastal Plain. Despite the importance of the Colville River’s summer run of Broad Whitefish (<i>Coregonus nasus</i>)<b> </b>to Native communities and the potential habitat impacts associated with climate change and petroleum development, the basic ecology of this migratory species remains poorly understood. The objectives of this ongoing study are to identify key habitats and seasonal migration patterns, understand the prevalence and role of anadromy, and conceptualize how ongoing climate change will likely influence Broad Whitefish growth, phenology, and their habitats. Methods include studying adult migratory fish in summer riverine habitats, analyzing stable isotopes in body tissues to estimate the contribution of marine food resources, assessing strontium isotopes in otoliths to determine life history type, and using radio telemetry to determine seasonal movements among freshwater habitats. Findings from this research will provide insight into potential effects from climate and landscape change to better conserve this important subsistence resource on the Arctic Coastal Plain.
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Subsistence fisheries provide an important food resource for communities on Alaska’s Arctic Coastal Plain. Despite the importance of the Colville River’s summer run of Broad Whitefish (<i>Coregonus nasus</i>)<b> </b>to Native communities and the potential habitat impacts associated with climate change and petroleum development, the basic ecology of this migratory species remains poorly understood. The objectives of this ongoing study are to identify key habitats and seasonal migration patterns, understand the prevalence and role of anadromy, and conceptualize how ongoing climate change will likely influence Broad Whitefish growth, phenology, and their habitats. Methods include studying adult migratory fish in summer riverine habitats, analyzing stable isotopes in body tissues to estimate the contribution of marine food resources, assessing strontium isotopes in otoliths to determine life history type, and using radio telemetry to determine seasonal movements among freshwater habitats. Findings from this research will provide insight into potential effects from climate and landscape change to better conserve this important subsistence resource on the Arctic Coastal Plain.
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Landscape Characteristics Influence Climate Change Effects on Juvenile Chinook and Coho Salmon Rearing Habitat in the Kenai River
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August 2020
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Shifts in water temperature regime influence juvenile salmon freshwater rearing habitat differently depending on local temperature and food conditions, but neither are well-characterized in the Kenai River watershed. Regional stakeholders in the Kenai Peninsula are concerned about the future of salmon populations in the face of climate change. A more detailed understanding of how environmental variables influence juvenile salmon growth rates will help inform us on how these fish will fare in a changing landscape. Objectives are to (1) characterize how juvenile Chinook and coho salmon growth rates respond to projected rising water temperatures across diverse landscape settings, and (2) examine the degree to which stream temperature monitoring sites in lower reaches are representative of upstream thermal conditions. Project results will provide support to the growing consensus that diverse habitats within a watershed support diverse early-life history opportunities for juvenile salmon and underscore the regional variability of climate change influence on Pacific salmon lifecycles.
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Shifts in water temperature regime influence juvenile salmon freshwater rearing habitat differently depending on local temperature and food conditions, but neither are well-characterized in the Kenai River watershed. Regional stakeholders in the Kenai Peninsula are concerned about the future of salmon populations in the face of climate change. A more detailed understanding of how environmental variables influence juvenile salmon growth rates will help inform us on how these fish will fare in a changing landscape. Objectives are to (1) characterize how juvenile Chinook and coho salmon growth rates respond to projected rising water temperatures across diverse landscape settings, and (2) examine the degree to which stream temperature monitoring sites in lower reaches are representative of upstream thermal conditions. Project results will provide support to the growing consensus that diverse habitats within a watershed support diverse early-life history opportunities for juvenile salmon and underscore the regional variability of climate change influence on Pacific salmon lifecycles.
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Influence of Environmental Variables on Growth of Toxigenic Golden Alga (Prymnesium parvum): A Laboratory Test of Field-Generated Hypotheses
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May 2020
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<i>Prymnesium parvum</i> (golden alga) is a harmful algal species that has caused serious ecological damage to inland aquatic habitats worldwide and in the USA, especially the southwest. While much field research has been conducted to characterize environmental factors associated with golden alga blooms, the information generated has been mostly descriptive and insufficient to fully understand what triggers or facilitates these blooms. Based on an experimental approach, this study's purpose is to test the validity of several hypotheses about environmental factors responsible for driving golden alga range expansion or bloom formation. This study constitutes the dissertation research of a unit graduate student (R. Rashel) and is supported by Texas Tech University and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department resources. The information obtained is anticipated to reveal cause-effect associations between specific environmental variables and golden alga growth and to inform efforts to predict and control toxic blooms.
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<i>Prymnesium parvum</i> (golden alga) is a harmful algal species that has caused serious ecological damage to inland aquatic habitats worldwide and in the USA, especially the southwest. While much field research has been conducted to characterize environmental factors associated with golden alga blooms, the information generated has been mostly descriptive and insufficient to fully understand what triggers or facilitates these blooms. Based on an experimental approach, this study's purpose is to test the validity of several hypotheses about environmental factors responsible for driving golden alga range expansion or bloom formation. This study constitutes the dissertation research of a unit graduate student (R. Rashel) and is supported by Texas Tech University and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department resources. The information obtained is anticipated to reveal cause-effect associations between specific environmental variables and golden alga growth and to inform efforts to predict and control toxic blooms.
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Causes of elevational patterns in avian species richness
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December 2019
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national analysis to document elevational patterns in species richness and the potential processes responsible for those patterns
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national analysis to document elevational patterns in species richness and the potential processes responsible for those patterns
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Assessment of the effectiveness of management plans for greater sage-grouse
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December 2021
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assess BLM plans for Idaho
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Enhancing diversity in conservation and natural resource professions
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May 2025
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Participation of women in the natural resources and conservation professions has improved dramatically in the recent decades, but only very modest gains have been made in increasing racial and ethnic diversity of the conservation field. Diversification of the conservation workforce is essential for the long-term protection of the environment for a suite of reasons. A bottleneck in efforts to diversify the conservation science workforce is recruitment and graduation of undergraduates. Only 10% of conservation-related undergraduate degrees are typically awarded to minority students, despite their earning approximately 24% of all undergraduate degrees.
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improving appreciation for diversity in natural resource professions
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Effects of cattle grazing on demographic traits of greater sage-grouse
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December 2024
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The greater sage-grouse was once widespread within sagebrush-grassland ecosystems of western North America, but populations declined substantially during the 20th century. Given the ubiquity of livestock grazing within sage-grouse habitat and the lack of rigorous scientific data to inform the debate regarding the effects of grazing on sage-grouse populations, we are conducting a 10-year research project to experimentally evaluate the effects of cattle grazing on demographic traits and habitat characteristics of greater sage-grouse. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, University of Idaho, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Public Lands Council, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game. The results will help guide management actions (and inform policy and litigation decisions) throughout the western United States.
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The greater sage-grouse was once widespread within sagebrush-grassland ecosystems of western North America, but populations declined substantially during the 20th century. Given the ubiquity of livestock grazing within sage-grouse habitat and the lack of rigorous scientific data to inform the debate regarding the effects of grazing on sage-grouse populations, we are conducting a 10-year research project to experimentally evaluate the effects of cattle grazing on demographic traits and habitat characteristics of greater sage-grouse. The project is a collaboration between USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, University of Idaho, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Public Lands Council, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game. The results will help guide management actions (and inform policy and litigation decisions) throughout the western United States.
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Using Genomics to Understand Population Dynamics and Enhance the Management of Canada Lynx Populations in the Contiguous United States
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December 2019
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Management of Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) populations occurring at the edge of the species range has been informed by limited regional studies mostly focused on demographics and ecology. Tools are needed to provide baseline metrics of population health and an understanding of landscape dynamics to inform regional and range-wide management and monitoring strategies. Next-generation sequencing produces a high density of genetic markers (e.g., single nucleotide polymorphisms, structural variants, mutations) that enhance the precision and reliability of population demographic parameter estimates relevant to conservation practitioners. In September of 2018 we produced the first-ever reference genome for Canada lynx, which will serve as a publicly available community resource and a powerful tool for population-level assessments. Ultimately this work will provide baseline metrics for managing Canada lynx populations in the lower 48 states and management recommendations that conserve or enhance population fitness and resiliency. This project is a multi-disciplinary collaboration including the Massachusetts Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit at UMass Amherst, the Vertebrate Genomes Laboratory at Rockefeller University, the State of Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, and the Smithsonian Institution.
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Management of Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) populations occurring at the edge of the species range has been informed by limited regional studies mostly focused on demographics and ecology. Tools are needed to provide baseline metrics of population health and an understanding of landscape dynamics to inform regional and range-wide management and monitoring strategies. Next-generation sequencing produces a high density of genetic markers (e.g., single nucleotide polymorphisms, structural variants, mutations) that enhance the precision and reliability of population demographic parameter estimates relevant to conservation practitioners. In September of 2018 we produced the first-ever reference genome for Canada lynx, which will serve as a publicly available community resource and a powerful tool for population-level assessments. Ultimately this work will provide baseline metrics for managing Canada lynx populations in the lower 48 states and management recommendations that conserve or enhance population fitness and resiliency. This project is a multi-disciplinary collaboration including the Massachusetts Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit at UMass-Amherst, the Vertebrate Genomes Laboratory at Rockefeller University, the State of Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, and the Smithsonian Institution.
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Comparative Ecology and Conservation of Bears in North and South America
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December 2020
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The spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus) and American black bear (Ursus americanus) are considered to be representative landscape species, meaning that large scale conservation benefits can result from conservation efforts for these species and the areas they inhabit. However, the general lack of information about spectacled bears, particularly their distribution in Peru, makes it difficult to develop conservation plans. This research aims to create a spectacled bear distribution model and verify the species' presence in areas without current records in order to obtain reliable distribution predictability. In contrast, distribution, ecology, and management strategies for the American black bear are well known, and can serve to inform the same topics for the somewhat similar spectacled bear, for which relatively little is known. Results will contribute to the national plan for the conservation of spectacled bears being implemented by our major collaborator, the Peruvian forest and wildlife service (Servicio Nacional Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre - SERFOR), and allow a comparative study among these two bear species.
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The spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus) and American black bear (Ursus americanus) are considered to be representative landscape species, meaning that large scale conservation benefits can result from conservation efforts for these species and the areas they inhabit. However, the general lack of information about spectacled bears, particularly their distribution in Peru, makes it difficult to develop conservation plans. This research aims to create a spectacled bear distribution model and verify the species' presence in areas without current records in order to obtain reliable distribution predictability. In contrast, distribution, ecology, and management strategies for the American black bear are well known, and can serve to inform the same topics for the somewhat similar spectacled bear, for which relatively little is known. Results will contribute to the national plan for the conservation of spectacled bears being implemented by our major collaborator, the Peruvian forest and wildlife service (Servicio Nacional Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre - SERFOR), and allow a comparative study among these two bear species.
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Develop an Adaptive Management Framework to Reduce the Impact of Invasive Phragmites in the Great Lakes Basin
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September 2021
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This project will develop decision support tools for Phragmites management in the Great Lakes Basin. This effort will develop dynamic system models and decision support tools for Phragmites management that are informed by on-the-ground data. The new integrated approach will build on existing successful programs and resources (e.g., the Great Lakes Phragmites Collaborative (GLPC), structured decision making at the local land-unit scale, Best Management Practices (BMP) guidelines), develop much needed new components (e.g., standardized scalable monitoring protocol, centralized data management system, larger scale state/transition models, expanded BMP toolkit), and put in place a strategic information stream to support decision makers. Development of the integrated approach will need to be a multi-institution effort to both take advantage of existing investments and maximize basin-wide participation and investment by resource managers. Success of this project will result in a framework for using adaptive management to manage Phragmites on the patch and landscape scale.
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Wetland invasion by Phragmites australis (common reed) in the Great Lakes coastal zone is a significant ecosystem and economic threat recognized by the public, NGOs, and governmental agencies at all levels. Although a tremendous amount of time and energy has been invested in invasive Phragmites management and control, the plant continues to be a regional threat (estimated at over 24,000 ha in 2010). Best approaches for the control of Phragmites are uncertain, and current management attempts are disjointed and have not been informative to other efforts. This project will provide a framework in which results from management actions across the region can be synthesized and converted into knowledge useful for further rounds of decision making. This work involves a scientific collaboration among three principal partners – the USGS, University of Georgia, and the Great Lakes Commission – and voluntary participation in the program occurs across a diversity of landowners including federal, state, and local government organizations, NGOs, and private individuals. The research has led to models, monitoring methods, and a decision support infrastructure that has successfully been implemented as an adaptive management system, the Phragmites Adaptive Management Framework (PAMF). Participants enrolled in PAMF receive management guidance for invaded sites, and they contribute data to the program that are informative for adaptive refinements of the system models.
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Deer-Elk Ecology Project (DEER PRoject)
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July 2020
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Mule deer are an integral part of the outdoor heritage of western North America, a relished species of pursuit among big-game hunters throughout the country, and a key component of the landscape of the West. Nevertheless, mule deer populations have declined across much of their range during the last 2 decades, with a number of factors potentially contributing to those declines. Coincident with waning populations of mule deer, populations of elk have burgeoned throughout much of their range through growth in abundance and range expansion. The opposite trajectories of these two species that overlap throughout much of their range have spawned the hypothesis that competition between elk and mule deer may contribute to declining mule deer populations. Quantifying the net effects of competition on nutritional condition, survival, productivity, and ultimately population growth is a difficult endeavor and one that has not been adequately addressed. To better understand factors regulating growth of struggling mule deer populations, and identifying what, if any, effect elk have on mule deer is key to knowing what management and conservation actions will enhance mule deer populations, while maintaining robust elk populations in the future.
In few places are these questions more prevalent than for the south Rock Springs mule deer and elk herds in southwest Wyoming. This region harbors some of the most sought mule deer and elk hunting in the state of Wyoming. While elk have been above desired levels during most of the last 2 decades, the mule deer population remains about half of the desired population level. In an effort to address the underlying reasons for failed growth of this and other mule deer populations in the West, a non-profit organization, a management agency, and a research entity have formed a key partnership to conceive and execute the Deer-Elk Ecology Research (DEER) Project.
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Advancing Adaptive Management in the Riverside East Solar Energy Zone
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January 2020
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In a world confronting climate change and rapidly shifting land uses, effective methods for monitoring natural resources are critical to support scientifically-informed management decisions. This study is a pilot study for monitoring the Riverside East Solar Energy Zone (SEZ), a vast area in southern California that may be developed for solar production. The Bureau of Land Management is charged with monitoring wildlife in this area to minimize the effects of the solar production on wildlife species. <br><br>By taking audio recordings of the environment, scientists can acquire presence-absence data to characterize populations of sound-producing wildlife over time and across vast spatial scales. The pilot approach involves the following key elements:<br><br>1. Twenty cell phones are deployed in strategic locations in the SEZ as “prototype” data collection units.<br>2. Each phone is associated with a unique Google account.<br>3. The phones collect audio recordings based on a schedule that is input into Google Calendar, and push the recordings to the cloud on a daily basis.<br>4. Recordings are analyzed for target species.<br><br>Remote acoustic monitoring presents new challenges, however: monitoring programs are often constrained in the total time they can record, automated detection algorithms typically produce a prohibitive number of detection mistakes, and there is no streamlined framework for moving from raw acoustic data to models of wildlife occurrence dynamics. <br><br>In partnership with the U.S Bureau of Land Management’s Riverside East Solar Energy Zone, this study developed a new R software package, AMMonitor, alongside a novel body of work: 1) temporally-adaptive acoustic sampling to maximize the detection probabilities of target species despite recording constraints, 2) statistical learning tools for template-based automated detection of target species, and 3) methods supporting the construction of dynamic species occurrence models from automated acoustic detection data. . Unifying these methods with streamlined data management, the AMMonitor software package supports the tracking of species occurrence, colonization, and extinction patterns through time, introducing the potential to perform adaptive management at landscape scales<br><br>This project is a collaboration of BLM, the Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and the UVM IGERT SMART program. The primary products are two open-source R packages (AMModels and AMMonitor), coupled with a SQLite database that stores not just recording results but also the full suite of information required to effectively run a wildlife monitoring program. <br>
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The Riverside East Solar Energy Zone (SEZ) is vast area in southern California designated for large-scale solar development. The Bureau of Land Management is charged with monitoring wildlife in this area to minimize the effects of the solar production on wildlife species. However, consistent monitoring of wildlife across vast spatial landscapes over time has proven to be a daunting challenge. This study investigates if cell phones can be used as a primary monitoring tool for documenting wildlife occurrence through time and space, and develops data management and software that allow rapid analysis and reporting. The primary product of this effort is the open-source software package, called AMMonitor. This project is a collaboration between scientists at the USGS Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and BLM. In a world confronting climate change and rapidly shifting land uses, cost- and time-effective methods for monitoring natural resources are critical to support scientifically-informed management decisions. By combining remote data collection methods with a streamlined data management and analysis, the AMMonitor software package supports the tracking of species occurrence, colonization, and extinction patterns through time, introducing the potential to place monitoring initiatives within an adaptive management framework.
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Genomic variation and local adaptation among natural stocks of eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) in coastal Louisiana
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August 2021
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For any fishery, natural genetic variation among and within stocks is of critical importance, affecting aquaculture success and the outcome of restoration, recovery from overharvest ( and the capacity to respond to environmental change . Nevertheless, there are no comprehensive data on genetic variation among or within Louisiana oyster stocks, limiting managers’ abilities to choose stocks for aquaculture, or to predict the ways that environmental change might differentially impact stocks with varying environmental histories. Specifically, this research will address the following questions: A.How much genomic variation exists among oysters from geographically separated sites with differing environmental conditions? B.Do genetic differences among sites translate into differences in growth and survival among stocks translocated among sites? C.Is there genetic evidence of post-settlement selective mortality, which would contribute to differentiation among stocks? D.Do the larvae of adults from different sites vary in their salinity tolerances?
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For any fishery, natural genetic variation among and within stocks is of critical importance, affecting aquaculture success and the outcome of restoration, recovery from overharvest ( and the capacity to respond to environmental change . Nevertheless, there are no comprehensive data on genetic variation among or within Louisiana oyster stocks, limiting managers’ abilities to choose stocks for aquaculture, or to predict the ways that environmental change might differentially impact stocks with varying environmental histories. In collaboration with researchers from Alabama (Auburn University), Louisiana (LSU, LSU AgCenter, LA Sea Grant, LDWF) and Texas (Texas A&M, Corpus Christi), this project is examining phenotypic variation, and potential markers and variation in oysters growing under different environmental conditions (salinity) and looking for evidence of post-settlement selection. Identifying potential markers conferring either low or high salinity tolerance on oysters would enable stock selection of oyster populations for both aquaculture and restoration.
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Response of desert bighorn sheep in the Mojave National Preserve to respiratory disease.
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September 2020
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A recently discovered (May 2013) outbreak of epizootic pneumonia in the deserts of southeastern California caused a substantial die-off of desert bighorn sheep in the largest and most important population in the Mojave National Preserve (MOJA). This outbreak was likely caused by pathogens transmitted from domestic sheep or goats to which native bighorn sheep mostly lack natural resistance, and could lead to extirpation of the iconic species from the Preserve. MOJA and adjacent mountain ranges support a large meta-population of desert bighorn sheep, central to the most extensive array of naturally-persisting bighorn herds in North America. Until 2013, pneumonia epizootics in this region were unknown. This study is using both existing and new data to evaluate adult and juvenile survival over multiple years across populations where pneumonia is present, to establish the demographic consequences of the current disease outbreak, and determine how strong environmental stochasticity affects the persistence and impacts of the disease. We will also use recently updated genetic data and studies of seasonal movement patterns by male and female bighorn sheep to infer risk of disease spread among populations.
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A recently discovered (May 2013) outbreak of epizootic pneumonia in the deserts of southeastern California caused a substantial die-off of desert bighorn sheep in the largest and most important population in the Mojave National Preserve (MOJA). This outbreak was likely caused by pathogens transmitted from domestic sheep or goats to which native bighorn sheep mostly lack natural resistance, and could lead to extirpation of the iconic species from the Preserve. MOJA and adjacent mountain ranges support a large meta-population of desert bighorn sheep, central to the most extensive array of naturally-persisting bighorn herds in North America. Until 2013, pneumonia epizootics in this region were unknown. In collaboration with the National Park Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, this study is using both existing and new data to evaluate adult and juvenile survival over multiple years across populations where pneumonia is present, to establish the demographic consequences of the current disease outbreak, and determine how strongly environmental stochasticity affects the persistence and impacts of the disease. We will also use recently updated genetic data and studies of seasonal movement patterns by male and female bighorn sheep to infer risk of disease spread among populations. Results from this study will provide key information on the demographic impacts and transmission dynamics of the pneumonia pathogen and aide in mitigation and management of disease outbreaks in bighorn sheep.
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Creation and Development of Early Successional Habitat and Wildlife Utilization
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December 2020
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Wildlife species that depend on young forest conditions are declining. This study is examining various methods for creating young forest habitat for early successional dependent species (specifically birds and terrestrial salamanders) to provide land managers with information to optimize their management activities. Partners include West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and Wildlife Management Institute.
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Wildlife species that depend on young forest conditions are declining. At the same time, linear features in the landscape (e.g. powerlines, pipelines, roads) are increasing and creating hard forest edges within forested landscapes. This study examined creation of young forest habitat along linear edges by "softening" hard edges to benefit early successional dependent species (specifically birds and terrestrial salamanders). Results provide land managers with information on intensity and width of harvest treatment to optimize management activities for young forest species while minimizing negative impacts on mature forest species with a focus on species of greatest conservation need.
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Which geese are being harvested? Body condition of lesser snow (Chen caerulescens caerulescens) and Ross’s Geese (C. rossii) harvested by different methods during the light goose conservation order.
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December 2019
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The increase of mid-continent light goose populations over the past thirty years and subsequent impacts to Arctic and sub-Arctic habitats has been well documented (e.g., Abraham and Jefferies 1997, Jefferies et al. 2004). Liberalization of regular season hunting regulations and initiation of a light goose conservation order (LGCO) in both Canada and the United States were implemented to decrease mid-continent light goose populations to help alleviate impacts to northern habitats. Despite the liberalizations of hunting regulations, which have increased harvest (Kruse and Fronczak 2012), current efforts appear to be ineffective in reducing light goose populations (Alisauskas et al. 2011).
Harvest of certain segments of light goose populations may not be aiding in population reduction. Preliminary data collected during spring 2012 in Nebraska indicated that light geese harvested over decoys weighed approximately 100g less than those harvested by pass shooting or sneaking and stalking. Although the total number of light geese harvested with various methods are unknown, survey data from participants in the light goose conservation order in Nebraska indicate that >70% of hunters/participants use electronic calls (M. Vrtiska, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, unpublished data), meaning that a large percentage of light geese in Nebraska are harvested over decoys. Thus, if most of the individuals harvested in the light goose conservation order are in poorer body condition than the general population, and populations are structured through compensative mortality, current harvest strategies may actually benefit populations by lessening impacts of competition for food and other resources.
Additionally, species, sex, and age composition of the harvest during the LGCO and possible implications for harvest management have not been assessed. Rockwell and Ankney (2000) indicated that 1.41 million light geese would need to be harvested to have an effect on the population. While Ross’s geese have been identified as overabundant in the U.S. (Moser 2001), the primary species impacting Arctic and sub-Arctic habitats are lesser snow geese. Disproportionate harvest of Ross’s geese may decrease the effectiveness of the LGCO in reducing lesser snow goose populations and conserving those habitats. From band recovery information, Alisauskas et al. (2011) reported that the LGCO had proportionally greater influence on adult survival, but also recognized that large numbers of juveniles were being harvested and fewer juveniles may be available to LGCO harvest after fall and winter mortality. Because the majority of lesser snow geese do not breed until 3 years of age (Cooke et al. 1995), harvest of a disproporitonate number of juvenile birds may have a latent effect on populations. Finally, if males are more susceptable to harvest, then the effectiveness of the LGCO is reduced given adult female survival is the key parameter in population reduction (Rockwell et al. 1997). Thus, differential vulnerability between lesser snow and Ross’s geese, juvenile vs. adults, and males vs. females all may impact the effectiveness of the LGCO on reducing mid-continent light goose populations. Assessing body condition of light geese harvested by various methods during the LGCO and examining species, sex and age composition of the harvest would provide insight to other impacts of harvest efforts to reduce populations. Such information could be used to help justify further, and perhaps more controversial action, in terms of reducing light goose populations.
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The increase of mid-continent light goose populations over the past thirty years and subsequent impacts to Arctic and sub-Arctic habitats has been well documented (e.g., Abraham and Jefferies 1997, Jefferies et al. 2004). Liberalization of regular season hunting regulations and initiation of a light goose conservation order (LGCO) in both Canada and the United States were implemented to decrease mid-continent light goose populations to help alleviate impacts to northern habitats. Despite the liberalizations of hunting regulations, which have increased harvest (Kruse and Fronczak 2012), current efforts appear to be ineffective in reducing light goose populations (Alisauskas et al. 2011).
Harvest of certain segments of light goose populations may not be aiding in population reduction. Preliminary data collected during spring 2012 in Nebraska indicated that light geese harvested over decoys weighed approximately 100g less than those harvested by pass shooting or sneaking and stalking. Although the total number of light geese harvested with various methods are unknown, survey data from participants in the light goose conservation order in Nebraska indicate that >70% of hunters/participants use electronic calls (M. Vrtiska, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, unpublished data), meaning that a large percentage of light geese in Nebraska are harvested over decoys. Thus, if most of the individuals harvested in the light goose conservation order are in poorer body condition than the general population, and populations are structured through compensative mortality, current harvest strategies may actually benefit populations by lessening impacts of competition for food and other resources.
Additionally, species, sex, and age composition of the harvest during the LGCO and possible implications for harvest management have not been assessed. Rockwell and Ankney (2000) indicated that 1.41 million light geese would need to be harvested to have an effect on the population. While Ross’s geese have been identified as overabundant in the U.S. (Moser 2001), the primary species impacting Arctic and sub-Arctic habitats are lesser snow geese. Disproportionate harvest of Ross’s geese may decrease the effectiveness of the LGCO in reducing lesser snow goose populations and conserving those habitats. From band recovery information, Alisauskas et al. (2011) reported that the LGCO had proportionally greater influence on adult survival, but also recognized that large numbers of juveniles were being harvested and fewer juveniles may be available to LGCO harvest after fall and winter mortality. Because the majority of lesser snow geese do not breed until 3 years of age (Cooke et al. 1995), harvest of a disproporitonate number of juvenile birds may have a latent effect on populations. Finally, if males are more susceptable to harvest, then the effectiveness of the LGCO is reduced given adult female survival is the key parameter in population reduction (Rockwell et al. 1997). Thus, differential vulnerability between lesser snow and Ross’s geese, juvenile vs. adults, and males vs. females all may impact the effectiveness of the LGCO on reducing mid-continent light goose populations. Assessing body condition of light geese harvested by various methods during the LGCO and examining species, sex and age composition of the harvest would provide insight to other impacts of harvest efforts to reduce populations. Such information could be used to help justify further, and perhaps more controversial action, in terms of reducing light goose populations.
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Fish Community Response to Stream Flow Alterations in Wadeable Missouri Streams
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June 2020
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Ensuring adequate water quantity and quality in stream, riparian, and wetland systems is a pressing issue worldwide and the science related to stream flow management is rapidly evolving (Arthington and Pusey 2003; Poff et al. 2003; Richter 2003; Petts et al. 2006). In the last 10 years the number of research studies evaluating ecological flows has quadrupled. Therefore, researchers, managers, and policy makers need to keep up to date on the latest research to help inform ecological flow decisions.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has made it a priority to be at the forefront of ecological flow science and to understand how flow alterations affect riverine systems and their biota. The information needed to address the diversity of ecological flow issues that will continue to arise due to climate change, increasing human population, and the associated increased demand for water make stream flow management a complex and long-term issue facing MDC. Recently, ecological flows were identified as one of the top five research needs by MDC’s Fisheries Division and it was listed as one of 20 priority research topics during MDC’s Strategic Research Planning Committee’s efforts to identify long-term research programs. In addition, one of Fisheries Division’s Stretch Goals is establishing adequate ecological flows in Missouri streams in advance of increasing water demands and associated water supply and energy development projects.
MDC has broadened its approach to stream flow management by incorporating steps based on an established scientific framework for determining appropriate ecological flows (ELOHA; Poff et al 2010). Over the past two decades, the science of ecological flows has shifted from a narrow focus on minimum flows to a broader view that a complex range of flows is needed to account for seasonal and inter-annual variation in the magnitude, timing, frequency, duration, and rate of change of stream flows (Poff et al. 1997; Richter 2011). This natural flow paradigm recognizes that ecological processes of aquatic and water-dependent ecosystems are driven by naturally variable flows. As a result, flow recommendations now typically use a framework for determining appropriate ecological flows across different seasons and years in an attempt to represent the intra- and inter-annual variability of flow.
MDC has been working internally and with partners to develop the information needed for various steps of the established framework. The first step in this effort was the classification of Missouri streams and development of the Missouri Hydrologic Assessment Tool (MOHAT) software to better understand hydrologic alterations (Kennen et al. 2009). Following the development of the classification system and the hydrologic tools their utility were evaluated as part of a cooperative project with the University of Missouri. Recently, MDC funded a literature review to identify fish species responses linked to stream flow alteration metrics, which identified 76 studies that evaluated fish responses to flow with over 400 occurrences for both hydrologic and biologic metrics and over 200 significant biologic responses to varying flow components. Biologic responses are likely species (see Figure 1), system, or region-specific, further emphasizing the complexity of biotic interactions with stream flow and limiting the ability to generate a list of overarching metrics that consistently showed similar responses. The literature review found that information is needed regarding how flow alterations of various types and relative magnitudes affect fish communities in different Missouri streams.
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Ensuring adequate water quantity and quality in stream, riparian, and wetland systems is a pressing issue worldwide and the science related to stream flow management is rapidly evolving. However, flow recommendations now typically use a framework for determining appropriate ecological flows across different seasons and years in an attempt to represent the intra- and inter-annual variability of flow. MDC has been working internally and with partners to develop the information needed for various steps of the established framework. Our work will help inform MDC on how altered flows may affect fishes.
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Determining Electrofishing Immobilization Thresholds of Smallmouth Bass, Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish: A Critical Step to Develop a Standardized Sampling Protocol
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June 2020
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Management Issue: Improve the sampling accuracy and precision of population demographic parameters (e.g., catch per unit effort and length-frequency distributions) collected across sampling events via electrofishing so that more valid spatial and temporal comparisons and trend analysis of fish populations will be appropriate and useful to fisheries managers responsible for evaluating harvest regulations.
Initial Information Review: Standardization of electrofishing output will minimize bias, reduce variation in catch, and allow for more valid spatial and temporal comparisons of sample data (Bonar and Hubert 2002, Miranda 2009), regardless of the electrofishing control box used. Biologists need to know how conductivity of the water relates to the effective conductivity of Smallmouth Bass (SMB), Blue Catfish (BLC) and Flathead Catfish (FHC), hereafter referred to individually by the abbreviations or collectively as bass and catfish, in order to develop standardized electrofishing output goals that are species specific and maintain a desired capture-prone fish response (e.g., taxis or immobilization) across a range of water conductivities, water temperatures, and fish sizes.
The effective power (the product of current and voltage) transferred from the water to the fish during electrofishing is a critical electrical factor affecting fish response; power transfer depends on the ratio of fish conductivity to water conductivity (Kolz 1989, Kolz and Reynolds 1989, Reynolds and Kolz 2012). Effective fish conductivity is empirically derived based on the observed-behavioral response of live fish to electrical fields in tests across a range of water conductivity and is considered a constant for a given species (Kolz and Reynolds 1989, Dean and Temple 2011). Knowing the effective fish conductivity of a particular species would allow researchers to develop applied power, voltage, and amperage goal tables, standardized by power, for use by biologists when sampling targeted species. Standardizing electrofishing output by power as part of long-term sampling programs has been shown to reduce catch variance by up to 15% (Burkhardt and Gutreuter 1995), and would improve MDC’s ability to more accurately assess and monitor bass and catfish populations. With the exception of Asian carp and snakeheads, only general estimates of effective power goals exist, and these were derived from warmwater fish community information using a general value for effective fish conductivity (Burkhardt and Gutreuter 1995; Miranda 2009), and are not applicable to bass or catfish, two of the most important species groups to Missouri anglers.
To determine the most effective electrical waveform settings and develop target output goals for a particular species, experimental trials using a range of electrofisher settings at varying water conductivity levels and water temperatures are conducted in a controlled (i.e., aquaria) environment with a homogenous electric field to determine optimal settings that achieve a defined capture-prone fish response (e.g., immobilization). For example, using a fish conductivity value derived in a controlled laboratory setting, standardized power (and voltage) goal tables were recently developed to electrofish Asian carp and have resulted in improved catch rates of juvenile fish (K. Anderson, USGS, personal communication). The same process was recently conducted to identify optimal electrofisher settings successfully used in the field to collect snakeheads (A. Temple, USFWS, personal communication). To date, no work has focused specifically on SMB, and very little has focused on acceptable surrogate species such as Largemouth Bass (Dolan and Miranda 2003; Miranda and Dolan 2004; Miranda 2005). Even less work has been done on BLC and FHC (Bodine et al. 2013). Since past work has been carried out on different sized fish, across a limited range of electrofisher settings (due in part to electrofishing control box limitations), or as part of a warmwater fish community sample, it is difficult to confidently apply those findings to the specific species discussed in this proposal.
Who is requesting the new information: Fisheries Division and Resource Science Division Staff, specifically the MDC Sampling Protocol Subcommittee of the Smallmouth Bass Working Group along with the Big River and Truman Reservoir-Lake of the Ozarks Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish Working Groups. Electrofishing experts who instruct the USFWS Principles and Techniques of Electrofishing Course and other electrofishing specialists along with agency biologists looking to develop (or refine) sampling protocols for these species in other states.
Why is the information needed: Black bass and catfish are popular sportfish in Missouri. Missouri’s 1.1 million anglers spend about 15 million days on the water each year, and about 77% of that time is spent pursuing bass or catfish species, making them the two most popular groups of fishes among Missouri anglers (U.S. Department of the Interior 2011).
The ability to accurately assess bass and catfish populations is needed to evaluate special regulations and monitor population trends and is critical to the credibility of MDC to make scientifically-sound management decisions. Combined with electrofishing training, this research will give biologists the tools and knowledge necessary to measure and adjust their electrofishing output applied in the field, allowing them to sample these species in a standardized, efficient, and safe manner. Any increase in sampling accuracy and precision (possibly as much as 15% [Burkhardt and Gutreuter 1995] or more) can provide higher confidence in making management decisions when changes in catch per unit effort (CPUE) occur. Further, standardization is critical for comparisons across lakes or rivers or when assessing long-term trends within a lake or river (Bonar and Hubert 2002, Miranda 2009). The knowledge gained from this work will also ensure consistency in data collection as biologists retire and new biologists are hired, which is critical for long-term evaluation of population trends (McClelland et al. 2013).
Additionally, BLC and FHC population assessments in the Missouri and Mississippi rivers are high priority information needs being addressed by the Big River Catfish Working Group. Missouri’s Catfish Management Plan (Dames et al. 2003) contains objectives to develop and refine standardized sampling techniques for both species in reservoirs and large rivers, respectively. Previous work reported high sample variation (e.g., CV > 50%) using existing boat electrofishing methods to sample FHC in the lower Missouri River (Travnichek 2011) and tributary rivers (Ford et al. 2011). Despite being the most commonly used gear, the unique behavioral response (i.e., surfacing ≥ 100 m from the electrofishing boat) of BLC and FHC to electrofishing is not well understood and it is unclear what level of electrofishing power (threshold power) or most efficient electrical waveform is necessary to consistently achieve a capture-prone response at varying water conductivities and water temperatures, and to collect a representative sample of all fish sizes (Bodine et al. 2013).
Immediacy of Information Need?
• Results will standardize current electrofishing protocols for SMB in Missouri streams and will be immediately incorporated. Future work on sampling protocols will also utilize this information.
• Results will help develop standardized electrofishing sampling protocols for BLC and FHC in the Missouri River and Mississippi River but also apply to sampling in streams and large reservoirs and will be immediately incorporated.
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Electrofishing is a common sampling technique to collect fish, but biologist may use different setting that may create bias in the collections. There has been very little research on what electrofishing waveforms are best to collect popular sportfish like Smallmouth bass, Flathead Catfish, and Blue Catfish. This work is in collaboration with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and several state agencies. Our work is helping managers determine what waveforms that product the fish response that will most likely collect these species and is being used to refine standardized sampling methods to help managers make better informed decisions of the management of fish populations.
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Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Global Inland Fisheries
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December 2019
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Aquatic biota is particularly vulnerable to climate change and its associated effects, but these effects, both distributional and physiological, will differ by species and region. Approximately 50 percent of available cold and cool water fish habitats are expected to disappear with projected doubling of atmospheric CO2 (Eaton and Scheller 1996; Mohseni et al. 2003), while warm water fish habitat is expected increase by 31 percent (Mohseni et al. 2003). For example, cold water trout in the Mountain West of the U.S. may lose substantial habitat due to increasing water temperature and altered flows (Wenger et al. 2011). Increasing water temperatures and altered flows have also been linked to increased disease in brown trout in Switzerland (Hari et al. 2006). Similarly, Lassalle and Rochard (2009) projected species-specific distribution shifts across North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East under 21st century climate predictions. Likewise, in Wisconsin, a 3°C increase in air temperature is estimated to cause a loss of approximately 343,034km of cold and cool water fish habitats (Lyons et al. 2010).
Climate change may also be linked to physiological effects (Pörtner and Knust 2007; Pease and Paukert 2014), and behavioral or competitive effects (Poloczanska et al. 2008, Rahel and Olden 2008). For example, Pease and Paukert (2014) predicted that smallmouth bass in the U.S. Midwest could grow about 6% for every 1 °C increase in water temperature, but would need 27% more food to reach that level of growth. While these physiological effects may have as significant an effect on ecological systems as distributional changes, there is much less research on these projected impacts.
Inland fish species, and their associated fisheries, are especially vulnerable to climate changes, both distributional and physiological, because they have limited habitat availability and a more direct link with terrestrial systems, land use patterns, and water use than marine systems. Climate change impacts on these inland systems may be magnified as a result of climate impacts to terrestrial systems and human interventions. To date, little research has investigated climate change effects on inland fisheries at a global scale.
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Freshwater biodiversity is declining at a faster rate than any terrestrial biome and the threats posed by anthropogenic land-use, climate change, flow modification, and invasive species are likely to exasperate the situation. These changes will often be driven by changes in temperature and precipitation. Our work, in collaboration with the USGS Climate Adaptation Center and partners helped synthesize how climate change affects fish in North America, and has developed a plan that can be used to assess how climate change may affect fishes at a global scale, which can be implemented by FAO and others to manage fishes under a changing climate.
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Post WNS bat ecology in the eastern United States
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December 2028
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This project is a comprehensive investigation of the foraging and roosting ecology and distribution of bats in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast following White-nose Syndrome with emphasis on the threatened Northern long-eared bat and the endangered Indiana bat. Work has expanding to encompass Coastal Plain bat ecology in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic for these species. The Virginia Unit has been working with several persisting populations, notably in the DC-metro area, northeastern North Carolina, Long Island, New York and the upper Ohio Valley with efforts focused documenting natural ecology and to ascertain what factors allow for persistence. Data from this work helps inform a wide array of land management efforts such as forest management, military training and energy development where these species occur or could be recovered. This effort over multiple states and cooperating state, federal and private entities comprises one of the largest and longest running continuation of mist-netting and acoustic surveys in the East.
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This project is a comprehensive investigation of the foraging and roosting ecology and distribution of bats in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast following White-nose Syndrome with emphasis on the threatened Northern long-eared bat and the endangered Indiana bat. Work has expanding to encompass Coastal Plain bat ecology in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic for these species. The Virginia Unit has been working with several persisting populations, notably in the DC-metro area, northeastern North Carolina, Long Island, New York and the upper Ohio Valley with efforts focused documenting natural ecology and to ascertain what factors allow for persistence. Data from this work helps inform a wide array of land management efforts such as forest management, military training and energy development where these species occur or could be recovered. This effort over multiple states and cooperating state, federal and private entities comprises one of the largest and longest running continuation of mist-netting and acoustic surveys in the East.
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Predation rates and use of habitats and wildlife drinkers by mountain lions
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July 2020
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For decades, State and Federal wildlife management agencies have built and supplied man-made water sources within desert landscapes, making surface water a consistent and stable feature. However, some have speculated that the provision of surface water could be counterproductive for management because it may: 1) lure ungulates from preferable areas (such as escape terrain) thereby increasing their risk of predation; 2) predators may linger near water sources to increase their chances of killing a visiting ungulate; and 3) water sources may make areas previously inhospitable for carnivores hospitable, exacerbating losses in ungulates. Thus by providing surface water to increase ungulate populations, it may attract predators (and prey), thereby increasing kills on ungulate species. The goals of this project are to evaluate the effect that wildlife drinkers have on mountain lion habitat selection and to determine if mountain lion kills are disproportionately located near man-made perennial water sources. The project is a collaborative effort between the New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Armendaris Ranch, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, and Arizona Game and Fish Department.
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Wildlife management agencies maintain man-made water sources for wildlife in arid environments based on long-held assumptions that it benefits wildlife and does not have adverse consequences. However, some have speculated that these water sources may allow predators to occupy areas that would otherwise be inhospitable and that predators use these water sources to ambush prey, thus increasing predation on species that these water developments are intended to benefit. In collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and Arizona Game and Fish Department we are determining the effect of man-made water sources on mountain lion habitat and prey selection and if kill sites of ungulates are disproportionately located near man-made water sources (i.e., waters are used as ambush sites). The results of this study could have impacts on wildlife water development programs across the West. Furthermore, this project will greatly expand our knowledge on large carnivore water dependency and the influence of water on predator space use, resource selection and predator-prey dynamics in arid ecosystems.
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Habitat selection in an Arctic Seabird: Implications for Climate Change
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December 2019
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Climate change is projected to have its greatest impact in arctic regions where temperature increases are forecasted to cause rapid changes to ecosystems and the wildlife dependent on them. These changes range from phenological mismatches (i.e/, between the timing of emergence of invertebrate prey and the arrival and breeding of shorebird predators; Liebezeit et al. 2014) to altered habitats where warmer climates favor successional changes in plant communities. The Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla; hereafter "sandpiper") is an abundant, arctic shorebird whose breeding range extends across nearly all of the Nearctic. The sandpiper breeds in wet coastal tundra that is likely to be strongly affected by climate change. Recent evidence suggests a decline in population size of the Semipalmated Sandpiper (Andres et al. 2012), but the cause of this decline is unknown. Despite its abundance, little is known regarding nest site selection by breeding Semipalmated Sandpipers (Jehl 2006). In the face of global climate change, it is likely that the population of sandpipers will be affected by changing habitats. The goal of this research is to investigate current aspects of habitat selection by Semipalmated Sandpipers in order to predict how future changes will affect their habitats and population.
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The California Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit will be collaborating with the U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska to examine habitat selection by Semipalmated Sandpipers in the Colville River delta, Alaska. Specific objectives are to: 10 quantify nest site selection of sandpipers breeding in the coastal plain of arctic Alaska; and 2) discuss implications in relation to changing habitats as influenced by global climate change.
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Montana Wolf Monitoring Study
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December 2020
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Two PhD students will work with State collaborators to provide biological insights to enhance conservation and management of wolves in Montana.
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Problem statement:Wolves have recolonized western Montana and have been managed as a game species since they were delisted. Because they are species of strong interest to a diversity of public stakeholders, documentation of wolf abundance and effects of harvest must be transparent and scientifically rigorous. Why this research matters:Addressing these issues requires development of a monitoring system that is cost-effective, reliable, and accurate; missing knowledge of the biological mechanisms driving territoriality, pack size, and reproduction, however, can hamper robust estimation of abundance and the effects of harvest. Collaboration:This project is being conducted with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP). Informing decisions:This work will provide MFWP wolf managers with the tools needed to produce credible estimates of wolf abundance across Montana, and defensible harvest regulations in an adaptive management framework.
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