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• 401. [Article] American pika in a low-elevation lava landscape: expanding the known distribution of a temperature-sensitive species

  This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The published article can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/j...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: American pika in a low-elevation lava landscape: expanding the known distribution of a temperature-sensitive species Author: Shinderman, Matt This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The published article can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/%28ISSN%292045-7758 Title: American pika in a low-elevation lava landscape: expanding the known distribution of a temperature-sensitive species Author: Shinderman, Matt This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The published article can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/%28ISSN%292045-7758 Close

• 402. [Article] Analysis of habitat features and abundance of young-of-the-year fishes off of the central Oregon coast

  This project is part of ongoing research, which has been extended to include temporal variation. Dr. Lorenzo Ciannelli has also been brought onto this project as of Fall 2015.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Analysis of habitat features and abundance of young-of-the-year fishes off of the central Oregon coast Author: Brodeur, Richard, Yergey, Matthew, Wakefield, W. Waldo, Haven, Katlyn This project is part of ongoing research, which has been extended to include temporal variation. Dr. Lorenzo Ciannelli has also been brought onto this project as of Fall 2015. Title: Analysis of habitat features and abundance of young-of-the-year fishes off of the central Oregon coast Author: Brodeur, Richard, Yergey, Matthew, Wakefield, W. Waldo, Haven, Katlyn This project is part of ongoing research, which has been extended to include temporal variation. Dr. Lorenzo Ciannelli has also been brought onto this project as of Fall 2015. Close

• 403. [Article] Mapping Migratory Bird Prevalence Using Remote Sensing Data Fusion

  This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the Public Library of Science and can be found at: http://www.plosone.org/home.action.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Mapping Migratory Bird Prevalence Using Remote Sensing Data Fusion Author: Dubayah, Ralph, Hofton, Michelle, Goetz, Scott, Sun, Mindy, Betts, Matthew G., Simard, Marc, Holmes, Richard, Swatantran, Anu This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the Public Library of Science and can be found at: http://www.plosone.org/home.action. Title: Mapping Migratory Bird Prevalence Using Remote Sensing Data Fusion Author: Dubayah, Ralph, Hofton, Michelle, Goetz, Scott, Sun, Mindy, Betts, Matthew G., Simard, Marc, Holmes, Richard, Swatantran, Anu This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the Public Library of Science and can be found at: http://www.plosone.org/home.action. Close

• 404. [Article] Arthropod prey for riparian associated birds in headwater forests of the Oregon Coast Range

  This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Elsevier and can be found at: http://www.journals.elsevier.com/forest-ecology-and-management/. To the best of our knowledge, one ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Arthropod prey for riparian associated birds in headwater forests of the Oregon Coast Range Author: Li, Judith, Jenkins, Stephanie, Hagar, Joan C., Sobota, Janel This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Elsevier and can be found at: http://www.journals.elsevier.com/forest-ecology-and-management/. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. Title: Arthropod prey for riparian associated birds in headwater forests of the Oregon Coast Range Author: Li, Judith, Jenkins, Stephanie, Hagar, Joan C., Sobota, Janel This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Elsevier and can be found at: http://www.journals.elsevier.com/forest-ecology-and-management/. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. Close

• 405. [Article] Ecology and decline of a rare western minnow : the Oregon chub (Oregonichthys crameri)

  Once historically widespread throughout the Willamette and Umpqua River drainages, the Willamette Oregon chub is now restricted to scattered populations along 15 miles of the Middle Fork of the Willamette ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Ecology and decline of a rare western minnow : the Oregon chub (Oregonichthys crameri) Author: Pearsons, Todd N. Once historically widespread throughout the Willamette and Umpqua River drainages, the Willamette Oregon chub is now restricted to scattered populations along 15 miles of the Middle Fork of the Willamette River whereas the Umpqua Oregon chub is still widely distributed. The decline in the Willamette drainage was more severe because changes in the physical and biological habitat were more severe when compared to the Umpqua drainage. The Willamette Oregon chub may be more sensitive to environmental degradations than the Umpqua Oregon chub. The difference in sensitivity to degradation is a result of ecological differences between Willamette and Umpqua Oregon chub. Willamette Oregon chub inhabited areas with primarily very little if any current, fed in the water column, and spawned in aquatic vegetation. Umpqua Oregon chub inhabited areas with primarily slow water velocities, fed on benthic prey, and spawned over gravel substrate. Because Willamette Oregon chub inhabit slackwater habitats they may be more sensitive to water velocity increases and exotic species, whereas Umpqua Oregon chub have a habitat refuge in relatively faster water velocity habitats. Willamette Oregon chub larval stages are described and illustrated. The following combination of characters distinguish Willamette Oregon chub larvae from other cyprinid larvae found in the Willamette drainage: 33-37 myomeres, preanal length of 52-61%, and absence of snout pigment. Willamette Oregon chub larvae generally congregated in nearshore areas, in the upper layers of the water column, in shallow water. They fed primarily in the water column, and ate primarily rotifers and cladocerans. Title: Ecology and decline of a rare western minnow : the Oregon chub (Oregonichthys crameri) Author: Pearsons, Todd N. Once historically widespread throughout the Willamette and Umpqua River drainages, the Willamette Oregon chub is now restricted to scattered populations along 15 miles of the Middle Fork of the Willamette River whereas the Umpqua Oregon chub is still widely distributed. The decline in the Willamette drainage was more severe because changes in the physical and biological habitat were more severe when compared to the Umpqua drainage. The Willamette Oregon chub may be more sensitive to environmental degradations than the Umpqua Oregon chub. The difference in sensitivity to degradation is a result of ecological differences between Willamette and Umpqua Oregon chub. Willamette Oregon chub inhabited areas with primarily very little if any current, fed in the water column, and spawned in aquatic vegetation. Umpqua Oregon chub inhabited areas with primarily slow water velocities, fed on benthic prey, and spawned over gravel substrate. Because Willamette Oregon chub inhabit slackwater habitats they may be more sensitive to water velocity increases and exotic species, whereas Umpqua Oregon chub have a habitat refuge in relatively faster water velocity habitats. Willamette Oregon chub larval stages are described and illustrated. The following combination of characters distinguish Willamette Oregon chub larvae from other cyprinid larvae found in the Willamette drainage: 33-37 myomeres, preanal length of 52-61%, and absence of snout pigment. Willamette Oregon chub larvae generally congregated in nearshore areas, in the upper layers of the water column, in shallow water. They fed primarily in the water column, and ate primarily rotifers and cladocerans. Close

• 406. [Article] Nesting ecology of Marbled Murrelets at a remote mainland fjord in southeast Alaska

  This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the Cooper Ornithological Society and can be found at: http://www.bioone.org/loi/cond.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Nesting ecology of Marbled Murrelets at a remote mainland fjord in southeast Alaska Author: Carter, Harry R., Roby, Daniel D., Dugger, Bruce D., Barbaree, Blake A., Whitworth, Darrell L., Nelson, S. Kim, Newman, Scott H. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the Cooper Ornithological Society and can be found at: http://www.bioone.org/loi/cond. Title: Nesting ecology of Marbled Murrelets at a remote mainland fjord in southeast Alaska Author: Carter, Harry R., Roby, Daniel D., Dugger, Bruce D., Barbaree, Blake A., Whitworth, Darrell L., Nelson, S. Kim, Newman, Scott H. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the Cooper Ornithological Society and can be found at: http://www.bioone.org/loi/cond. Close

• 407. [Article] Cattle grazing in semiarid forestlands: Habitat selection during periods of drought

  To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by American ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Cattle grazing in semiarid forestlands: Habitat selection during periods of drought Author: DelCurto, T., Rowland, M., Roever, C. L., Vavra, M., Wisdom, M. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by American Society of Animal Science and can be found at: https://www.animalsciencepublications.org/publications/jas Title: Cattle grazing in semiarid forestlands: Habitat selection during periods of drought Author: DelCurto, T., Rowland, M., Roever, C. L., Vavra, M., Wisdom, M. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by American Society of Animal Science and can be found at: https://www.animalsciencepublications.org/publications/jas Close

• 408. [Article] Stream habitat utilization and behavior of sympatric and allopatric wild cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki) and hatchery coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kitsutch)

  The behavior and stream habitat utilization of juvenile hatchery-reared coho salmon (Ovicozihynchus kisutch) and wild cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki) were examined to assess the nature of interactions between ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Stream habitat utilization and behavior of sympatric and allopatric wild cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki) and hatchery coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kitsutch) Author: Jacobs, Steven Edward The behavior and stream habitat utilization of juvenile hatchery-reared coho salmon (Ovicozihynchus kisutch) and wild cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki) were examined to assess the nature of interactions between the species potentially resulting from introductions of hatchery coho salmon in streams. Habitat utilization was monitored in Mill Creek, Polk Co., Oregon by manipulating the composition of fish within three study sections to include either allopatric or sympatric populations of hatchery coho salmon and wild cutthroat trout. In allopatry, coho salmon and cutthroat trout selected feeding microhabitat that was similar in physical characteristics and exhibited extensive dietary overlap. When the two species occurred in sympatry, feeding microhabitat used by coho salmon was altered, however, that of cutthroat trout was comparable to allopatric cutthroat trout. No discernable differences in dietary composition between allopatric and sympatric fish were detected. While allopatric cutthroat trout always gained mass. ailopatric coho salmon always lost mass. Stomach fullness indices were higher for allopatric cutthroat trout than allopatric coho salmon. Sympatric cutthroat trout had comparable or greater gains of mass, indices of stomach fullness, and hepatic glycogen reserves relative to allopatric cutthroat trout. Conversely, sympatric coho salmon had greater losses of mass, reduced hepatic glycogen reserves, and apparently lower indices of stomach fullness than allopatric salmon. Behavioral observations made through the use of an in-stream viewing chamber in Berry Creek, Benton Co., Oregon, indicated that in allopatry populations of hatchery coho salmon and wild cutthroat trout were structured as linear dominance hierarchies that were organized by quantitatively and qualitatively similar aggressive interactions. In sympatry, however, cutthroat trout were more aggressive and socially dominant to coho salmon. The shift in use of micro-habitat and reduction in habitat utilization effectiveness of hatchery coho salmon in the presence of cutthroat trout can, thus, be interpreted to occur as a result of interference competition mediated through interspecific aggression. Title: Stream habitat utilization and behavior of sympatric and allopatric wild cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki) and hatchery coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kitsutch) Author: Jacobs, Steven Edward The behavior and stream habitat utilization of juvenile hatchery-reared coho salmon (Ovicozihynchus kisutch) and wild cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki) were examined to assess the nature of interactions between the species potentially resulting from introductions of hatchery coho salmon in streams. Habitat utilization was monitored in Mill Creek, Polk Co., Oregon by manipulating the composition of fish within three study sections to include either allopatric or sympatric populations of hatchery coho salmon and wild cutthroat trout. In allopatry, coho salmon and cutthroat trout selected feeding microhabitat that was similar in physical characteristics and exhibited extensive dietary overlap. When the two species occurred in sympatry, feeding microhabitat used by coho salmon was altered, however, that of cutthroat trout was comparable to allopatric cutthroat trout. No discernable differences in dietary composition between allopatric and sympatric fish were detected. While allopatric cutthroat trout always gained mass. ailopatric coho salmon always lost mass. Stomach fullness indices were higher for allopatric cutthroat trout than allopatric coho salmon. Sympatric cutthroat trout had comparable or greater gains of mass, indices of stomach fullness, and hepatic glycogen reserves relative to allopatric cutthroat trout. Conversely, sympatric coho salmon had greater losses of mass, reduced hepatic glycogen reserves, and apparently lower indices of stomach fullness than allopatric salmon. Behavioral observations made through the use of an in-stream viewing chamber in Berry Creek, Benton Co., Oregon, indicated that in allopatry populations of hatchery coho salmon and wild cutthroat trout were structured as linear dominance hierarchies that were organized by quantitatively and qualitatively similar aggressive interactions. In sympatry, however, cutthroat trout were more aggressive and socially dominant to coho salmon. The shift in use of micro-habitat and reduction in habitat utilization effectiveness of hatchery coho salmon in the presence of cutthroat trout can, thus, be interpreted to occur as a result of interference competition mediated through interspecific aggression. Close

• 409. [Article] Ecological physiology of the larvel brine fly Ephydra (Hydropyrus) hians, and alkaline-salt lake inhabiting Ephyrid (Diptera)

  Dipterans of the family Ephydridae (shore and brine flies) are well known for their ability to tolerate and thrive in a wide variety of physically harsh circumstances. The immature stages of one such species of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Ecological physiology of the larvel brine fly Ephydra (Hydropyrus) hians, and alkaline-salt lake inhabiting Ephyrid (Diptera) Author: Herbst, David B. Dipterans of the family Ephydridae (shore and brine flies) are well known for their ability to tolerate and thrive in a wide variety of physically harsh circumstances. The immature stages of one such species of this family, Ephydra hians, are characteristically limited in distribution as benthic inhabitants of highly alkaline salt lakes in the arid regions of western North America. In order to examine the nature of this habitat specificity, the intraspecific comparative physiology of osmotic and ionic regulation, energy metabolism and survival was examined in two populations of brine fly larvae which differ in the historical-environmental stability of their native habitats. The population at Mono Lake, California, has, until recent times, been evolving under relatively stable conditions of water chemistry and habitat availability (i.e., little fluctuation in salinity or littoral benthic habitat due to stable lake level). Since 1940 however, the lake level has been steadily dropping and the dissolved salt content increasing due to diversion of tributary water. The population at Abert Lake, Oregon, has by contrast been subject to severe short-term changes in salinity and habitat availability throughout its history. Larvae were exposed to both alkaline and non-alkaline brines. While both populations displayed hyposmotic regulation in alkaline salt media, Mono Lake larvae consistently showed more effective maintenance of homeostasis. However, in non-alkaline salt water, Mono Lake larvae show poor ability to acclimate to these conditions while Abert Lake larvae are capable of limited physiological adaptation. The general pattern of response to increased salinity or "foreign" water chemistry seems to be an attempt to physiologically accommodate on the part of Abert larvae while Mono larvae become behaviorally and metabolically inactive. The results indicate a physiological basis for biogeogrphic restriction, with the degree of specificity and efficiency of physiological adjustment in this species being apparently related to the historical experience of the particular population. In high salinities of their native lake water, the poor survival and reduced developmental/physiological activity of Mono Lake larvae suggest that a reduction in abundance is likely to accompany further increases in the salinity of the lake. Title: Ecological physiology of the larvel brine fly Ephydra (Hydropyrus) hians, and alkaline-salt lake inhabiting Ephyrid (Diptera) Author: Herbst, David B. Dipterans of the family Ephydridae (shore and brine flies) are well known for their ability to tolerate and thrive in a wide variety of physically harsh circumstances. The immature stages of one such species of this family, Ephydra hians, are characteristically limited in distribution as benthic inhabitants of highly alkaline salt lakes in the arid regions of western North America. In order to examine the nature of this habitat specificity, the intraspecific comparative physiology of osmotic and ionic regulation, energy metabolism and survival was examined in two populations of brine fly larvae which differ in the historical-environmental stability of their native habitats. The population at Mono Lake, California, has, until recent times, been evolving under relatively stable conditions of water chemistry and habitat availability (i.e., little fluctuation in salinity or littoral benthic habitat due to stable lake level). Since 1940 however, the lake level has been steadily dropping and the dissolved salt content increasing due to diversion of tributary water. The population at Abert Lake, Oregon, has by contrast been subject to severe short-term changes in salinity and habitat availability throughout its history. Larvae were exposed to both alkaline and non-alkaline brines. While both populations displayed hyposmotic regulation in alkaline salt media, Mono Lake larvae consistently showed more effective maintenance of homeostasis. However, in non-alkaline salt water, Mono Lake larvae show poor ability to acclimate to these conditions while Abert Lake larvae are capable of limited physiological adaptation. The general pattern of response to increased salinity or "foreign" water chemistry seems to be an attempt to physiologically accommodate on the part of Abert larvae while Mono larvae become behaviorally and metabolically inactive. The results indicate a physiological basis for biogeogrphic restriction, with the degree of specificity and efficiency of physiological adjustment in this species being apparently related to the historical experience of the particular population. In high salinities of their native lake water, the poor survival and reduced developmental/physiological activity of Mono Lake larvae suggest that a reduction in abundance is likely to accompany further increases in the salinity of the lake. Close

• 410. [Article] Resource partitioning of four sympatric mynas and starlings (Sturnidae) in Thailand

  Patterns of resource partitioning among 4 sympatric sturnids: [black-collared starling (Sturnus nigricollis), pied starling (S. contra), common myna (Acridotheres tristis) and crested myna (A. javanicus) ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Resource partitioning of four sympatric mynas and starlings (Sturnidae) in Thailand Author: Tunhikorn, Schwann Patterns of resource partitioning among 4 sympatric sturnids: [black-collared starling (Sturnus nigricollis), pied starling (S. contra), common myna (Acridotheres tristis) and crested myna (A. javanicus) were determined based on their food habits, foraging and nesting microhabitat selection, morphology and behavior. The study was conducted from March 1986 to June 1988 at and around Bang Pra Game Sanctuary, Cholburi, Thailand. Diets of adults and nestlings of all species were significantly different. The 4 species exhibited significant differences in morphology, primarily in trophic (bill shape and length) and locomotive (wing shape and size) appendages that affect selection of foraging microhabitat and hence choice of diets. Selection of nest site characteristics was significantly different among the species and was associated with types of tree i.e., palm vs non-palm (trees with forks or branches), distance of nest tree from human habitation and distance of nest tree from seasonal or permanent waters. The pied starling, common myna and crested myna all selected different foraging habitats and used different techniques for foraging,-however the black-collared starling shared foraging habitat with the other 3 species. Breeding success, breeding chronology, and clutch sizes were similar for the 4 species. These 4 sympatric sturnids partitioned their resources through differences in morphology, which, in turn, affected their foraging habitat selection and modes of foraging, and hence, differences in diet. Behavioral differences also segregated their foraging techniques and nest site selection. Title: Resource partitioning of four sympatric mynas and starlings (Sturnidae) in Thailand Author: Tunhikorn, Schwann Patterns of resource partitioning among 4 sympatric sturnids: [black-collared starling (Sturnus nigricollis), pied starling (S. contra), common myna (Acridotheres tristis) and crested myna (A. javanicus) were determined based on their food habits, foraging and nesting microhabitat selection, morphology and behavior. The study was conducted from March 1986 to June 1988 at and around Bang Pra Game Sanctuary, Cholburi, Thailand. Diets of adults and nestlings of all species were significantly different. The 4 species exhibited significant differences in morphology, primarily in trophic (bill shape and length) and locomotive (wing shape and size) appendages that affect selection of foraging microhabitat and hence choice of diets. Selection of nest site characteristics was significantly different among the species and was associated with types of tree i.e., palm vs non-palm (trees with forks or branches), distance of nest tree from human habitation and distance of nest tree from seasonal or permanent waters. The pied starling, common myna and crested myna all selected different foraging habitats and used different techniques for foraging,-however the black-collared starling shared foraging habitat with the other 3 species. Breeding success, breeding chronology, and clutch sizes were similar for the 4 species. These 4 sympatric sturnids partitioned their resources through differences in morphology, which, in turn, affected their foraging habitat selection and modes of foraging, and hence, differences in diet. Behavioral differences also segregated their foraging techniques and nest site selection. Close

• 411. [Article] Winter ecology of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in modified and unmodified sections of a coastal stream

  Natural and gabion modified habitats containing coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) were observed and measured seasonally in East Fork Lobster Creek, a fifth order stream in western Oregon. Coho salmon ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Winter ecology of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in modified and unmodified sections of a coastal stream Author: Phillips, Stephen H. (Stephen Homes), 1957- Natural and gabion modified habitats containing coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) were observed and measured seasonally in East Fork Lobster Creek, a fifth order stream in western Oregon. Coho salmon usually inhabited backwater and secondary channel pools in winter. Large wood debris complexes and undercut banks were the primary sources of cover in winter. Beaver activity played a vital role in creating summer and winter habitat. Discharge rates seemed to have more influence than temperature in regulating coho winter hiding behavior. Lower than usual stream discharges of the 1984-85 winter allowed many fish to move out from cover, and a large portion of the coho were found more than 2 meters from cover. Coho were also not as dependent on cover during the low flows of spring and summer, and these low discharges allowed fish to inhabit less complex sites. Study sites with gabions maintained large numbers of fry throughout the spring and summer. Fish were attracted to the gabion-created plunge pools in low stream discharge months but not in high discharge months. During winter high discharges, gabion sites with backwater pool habitat held relatively larger numbers of fish than gabion sites without such habitat. Title: Winter ecology of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in modified and unmodified sections of a coastal stream Author: Phillips, Stephen H. (Stephen Homes), 1957- Natural and gabion modified habitats containing coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) were observed and measured seasonally in East Fork Lobster Creek, a fifth order stream in western Oregon. Coho salmon usually inhabited backwater and secondary channel pools in winter. Large wood debris complexes and undercut banks were the primary sources of cover in winter. Beaver activity played a vital role in creating summer and winter habitat. Discharge rates seemed to have more influence than temperature in regulating coho winter hiding behavior. Lower than usual stream discharges of the 1984-85 winter allowed many fish to move out from cover, and a large portion of the coho were found more than 2 meters from cover. Coho were also not as dependent on cover during the low flows of spring and summer, and these low discharges allowed fish to inhabit less complex sites. Study sites with gabions maintained large numbers of fry throughout the spring and summer. Fish were attracted to the gabion-created plunge pools in low stream discharge months but not in high discharge months. During winter high discharges, gabion sites with backwater pool habitat held relatively larger numbers of fish than gabion sites without such habitat. Close

• 412. [Article] Multiobjective Optimization of Wetlands for Attaining Flood, Water Quality and Bird Habitat Benefits

  A significant number of historically existing wetlands that naturally stored rainwater and attenuated flood peaks have now been drained and employed as new farming areas. Beyond the water quality and flow ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Multiobjective Optimization of Wetlands for Attaining Flood, Water Quality and Bird Habitat Benefits Author: Noa-Yarasca, Efrain A significant number of historically existing wetlands that naturally stored rainwater and attenuated flood peaks have now been drained and employed as new farming areas. Beyond the water quality and flow problem, this has resulted in loss of natural habitats of diverse ecological species. Restoring wetlands have hence been proposed as a potential conservation strategy to help attenuate many of these problems. In this study a spatial, multi-objective optimization study of new potential wetlands was carried out to achieve biodiversity improvements in addition to flood reduction benefits and water quality improvements. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to simulate flow and water quality, and the USGS GAP tool was used to estimate impacts on ecological habitats. Although this study is focused on four types of bird species, as a surrogate of biodiversity across the study site (Big Creek Watershed in southwestern Indiana), the methodology can be applied to other species and regions. The study helped assess redundancies as well as trade-offs between the flooding, water quality, and habitat objective functions. Additionally, the methodology helped assess critical locations that help improve multiple goals. Title: Multiobjective Optimization of Wetlands for Attaining Flood, Water Quality and Bird Habitat Benefits Author: Noa-Yarasca, Efrain A significant number of historically existing wetlands that naturally stored rainwater and attenuated flood peaks have now been drained and employed as new farming areas. Beyond the water quality and flow problem, this has resulted in loss of natural habitats of diverse ecological species. Restoring wetlands have hence been proposed as a potential conservation strategy to help attenuate many of these problems. In this study a spatial, multi-objective optimization study of new potential wetlands was carried out to achieve biodiversity improvements in addition to flood reduction benefits and water quality improvements. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to simulate flow and water quality, and the USGS GAP tool was used to estimate impacts on ecological habitats. Although this study is focused on four types of bird species, as a surrogate of biodiversity across the study site (Big Creek Watershed in southwestern Indiana), the methodology can be applied to other species and regions. The study helped assess redundancies as well as trade-offs between the flooding, water quality, and habitat objective functions. Additionally, the methodology helped assess critical locations that help improve multiple goals. Close

• 413. [Article] Key areas for conserving United States’ biodiversity likely threatened by future land use change

  This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by the Ecological Society of America. The published article can be found at: http://www.esajournal...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Key areas for conserving United States’ biodiversity likely threatened by future land use change Author: Martinuzzi, S., Helmers, D. P., Higgins, J. V., Radeloff, V. C., Plantinga, A. J., Lewis, D. J. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by the Ecological Society of America. The published article can be found at: http://www.esajournals.org/loi/ecsp. Title: Key areas for conserving United States’ biodiversity likely threatened by future land use change Author: Martinuzzi, S., Helmers, D. P., Higgins, J. V., Radeloff, V. C., Plantinga, A. J., Lewis, D. J. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by the Ecological Society of America. The published article can be found at: http://www.esajournals.org/loi/ecsp. Close

• 414. [Article] Status and habitat preference of California bighorn sheep on Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada

  A herd of California bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis californiana), re-introduced to the area of Hell Creek on the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge in northwestern Nevada, was studied from 15 June 1978 to ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Status and habitat preference of California bighorn sheep on Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada Author: Hansen, Michael Charles A herd of California bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis californiana), re-introduced to the area of Hell Creek on the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge in northwestern Nevada, was studied from 15 June 1978 to 20 August 1980. Major vegetation and physiographic types were delineated and described. Habitat preferences were determined from field observations of sheep use of both vegetation and physiographic habitat components. Sheep displayed preference in their use of habitat components during all seasons; greatest selection was shown by the ewe/ lamb band for physiographic types associated with escape cover in spring, and for vegetation types associated with quality forage in winter. Rams generally displayed less selective habitat use than did the ewe/lamb band. The population was relatively stable at 30-35 individuals, following the initial post-introduction period of rapid growth. It was hypothesized that high quality lambing terrain was limited in quantity within the present ewe/lamb range, and that expansion of the ewe/lamb range to include the nearby Boulder Spring and Virgin Canyon areas would promote substantial population increase. Water was available during all seasons. Spring use of mineral licks may have been related to seasonal mineral deficiency associated with tissue and/or milk production. Activity patterns suggested that sheep adapted their daily activities to fit local, seasonal situations. Title: Status and habitat preference of California bighorn sheep on Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada Author: Hansen, Michael Charles A herd of California bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis californiana), re-introduced to the area of Hell Creek on the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge in northwestern Nevada, was studied from 15 June 1978 to 20 August 1980. Major vegetation and physiographic types were delineated and described. Habitat preferences were determined from field observations of sheep use of both vegetation and physiographic habitat components. Sheep displayed preference in their use of habitat components during all seasons; greatest selection was shown by the ewe/ lamb band for physiographic types associated with escape cover in spring, and for vegetation types associated with quality forage in winter. Rams generally displayed less selective habitat use than did the ewe/lamb band. The population was relatively stable at 30-35 individuals, following the initial post-introduction period of rapid growth. It was hypothesized that high quality lambing terrain was limited in quantity within the present ewe/lamb range, and that expansion of the ewe/lamb range to include the nearby Boulder Spring and Virgin Canyon areas would promote substantial population increase. Water was available during all seasons. Spring use of mineral licks may have been related to seasonal mineral deficiency associated with tissue and/or milk production. Activity patterns suggested that sheep adapted their daily activities to fit local, seasonal situations. Close

• 415. [Article] The relative influence of catchment and site variables on fish and macroinvertebrate richness in cerrado biome streams

  To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Springer ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The relative influence of catchment and site variables on fish and macroinvertebrate richness in cerrado biome streams Author: Ligeiro, Raphael, et al., Hughes, Robert M., Macedo, Diego R. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Title: The relative influence of catchment and site variables on fish and macroinvertebrate richness in cerrado biome streams Author: Ligeiro, Raphael, et al., Hughes, Robert M., Macedo, Diego R. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Close

• 416. [Article] A survey of the vertebrate animals of Mount Jefferson, Oregon

  The Mount Jefferson Primitive Area is one of three High Cascade wilderness areas in Oregon. It is second in size among these, covers approximately 136 square miles, and with the addition of a large roadless ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A survey of the vertebrate animals of Mount Jefferson, Oregon Author: Voth, Elver Howard The Mount Jefferson Primitive Area is one of three High Cascade wilderness areas in Oregon. It is second in size among these, covers approximately 136 square miles, and with the addition of a large roadless area in Warm Springs Indian Reservation represents the only one of these areas in Oregon extending for a considerable distance on both sides of the crest line. This study covers approximately 7 weeks of field research, spread over more than 2 years, into the occurrence, distribution, arid migration patterns of 35 species of Oregon Cascade mammals, 55 species of birds, and the occurrence and distribution of 11 species of amphibians and reptiles. Elevations of habitats examined ranged from 2500 to 9000 feet. The habitats included dense Douglas fir-western hemlock forest, burn, park, slope, terrace, meadow, bog, stream bed, ridge, timberline, alpine, talus, and lake communities. Geological, weather, and vegetational studies contributing to an understanding of local habitat features were reviewed. The migration routes followed by several species of large Cascade mammals have extended beyond the Primitive Area boundaries, and the wilderness is inadequate to provide sanctuary for these during the winter months. Medium-sized mammals not migrating for these distances appear to be diminishing in number. Although the original intention for the wilderness areas included the preservation of habitats for animal species, current recreational use and the increased timber cutting now reaching almost to the Primitive Area boundaries have caused diminution in numbers of all non-migrant mammals and some birds except those of the deepest snow zones. Only the small mammals have not been reduced extensively, and even these, in areas like Jefferson Park, are experiencing some loss of habitat through recreational use. Industrial involvement of this and adjacent areas, with compression of the actual wilderness, has since 1905 caused the extinction of at least 3 species of large mammals and the near extinction of 1 more locally. Title: A survey of the vertebrate animals of Mount Jefferson, Oregon Author: Voth, Elver Howard The Mount Jefferson Primitive Area is one of three High Cascade wilderness areas in Oregon. It is second in size among these, covers approximately 136 square miles, and with the addition of a large roadless area in Warm Springs Indian Reservation represents the only one of these areas in Oregon extending for a considerable distance on both sides of the crest line. This study covers approximately 7 weeks of field research, spread over more than 2 years, into the occurrence, distribution, arid migration patterns of 35 species of Oregon Cascade mammals, 55 species of birds, and the occurrence and distribution of 11 species of amphibians and reptiles. Elevations of habitats examined ranged from 2500 to 9000 feet. The habitats included dense Douglas fir-western hemlock forest, burn, park, slope, terrace, meadow, bog, stream bed, ridge, timberline, alpine, talus, and lake communities. Geological, weather, and vegetational studies contributing to an understanding of local habitat features were reviewed. The migration routes followed by several species of large Cascade mammals have extended beyond the Primitive Area boundaries, and the wilderness is inadequate to provide sanctuary for these during the winter months. Medium-sized mammals not migrating for these distances appear to be diminishing in number. Although the original intention for the wilderness areas included the preservation of habitats for animal species, current recreational use and the increased timber cutting now reaching almost to the Primitive Area boundaries have caused diminution in numbers of all non-migrant mammals and some birds except those of the deepest snow zones. Only the small mammals have not been reduced extensively, and even these, in areas like Jefferson Park, are experiencing some loss of habitat through recreational use. Industrial involvement of this and adjacent areas, with compression of the actual wilderness, has since 1905 caused the extinction of at least 3 species of large mammals and the near extinction of 1 more locally. Close

• 417. [Article] Biological opinion: Morse Brothers Habitat Restoration Project

  On October 16, 2000, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) received a request from Portland District Army Corps of Engineers (COE) for Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 7 consultation for issuance ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biological opinion: Morse Brothers Habitat Restoration Project Author: National Marine Fisheries Service, Northwest Region On October 16, 2000, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) received a request from Portland District Army Corps of Engineers (COE) for Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 7 consultation for issuance of a Corps permit to Morse Brothers (Corps No. 2000-00844) for a habitat restoration project that will connect an abandoned gravel mining pit and pond with the Willamette River near Harrisburg, Linn County, Oregon. In the October 16, 2000 letter, the COE determined that the Upper Willamette River (UWR) chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) may occur within the project area and that this species may be affected by the proposed project. Because the proposed action would provide seasonal access to a floodplain pond and back water slough that may entrap, or take, the indicated listed fish, the COE determined that the proposed action may adversely affect these species and requested formal consultation. The NMFS was contacted by Jeff Steyaert, Morse Brothers, and Dr. Peter Bayley, Oregon State University who is conducting a research project related to the proposed activity. Mr. Steyaert and Dr. Bayley provided detailed information regarding the proposed action and the ongoing research. The baseline conditions for the Willamette River in the action area, the immediate location of the proposed action, have been generally described and understood from previous study and analysis. References to this work were noted in the documents provided. The objective of this Opinion is to determine whether the action to restore habitat by modifying the floodplain pond and constructing a channel to connect the pond with the Willamette River is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of UWR or destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. Title: Biological opinion: Morse Brothers Habitat Restoration Project Author: National Marine Fisheries Service, Northwest Region On October 16, 2000, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) received a request from Portland District Army Corps of Engineers (COE) for Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 7 consultation for issuance of a Corps permit to Morse Brothers (Corps No. 2000-00844) for a habitat restoration project that will connect an abandoned gravel mining pit and pond with the Willamette River near Harrisburg, Linn County, Oregon. In the October 16, 2000 letter, the COE determined that the Upper Willamette River (UWR) chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) may occur within the project area and that this species may be affected by the proposed project. Because the proposed action would provide seasonal access to a floodplain pond and back water slough that may entrap, or take, the indicated listed fish, the COE determined that the proposed action may adversely affect these species and requested formal consultation. The NMFS was contacted by Jeff Steyaert, Morse Brothers, and Dr. Peter Bayley, Oregon State University who is conducting a research project related to the proposed activity. Mr. Steyaert and Dr. Bayley provided detailed information regarding the proposed action and the ongoing research. The baseline conditions for the Willamette River in the action area, the immediate location of the proposed action, have been generally described and understood from previous study and analysis. References to this work were noted in the documents provided. The objective of this Opinion is to determine whether the action to restore habitat by modifying the floodplain pond and constructing a channel to connect the pond with the Willamette River is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of UWR or destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. Close

• 418. [Article] Ecological functions of off-channel habitat, Willamette River, Oregon : final research plan

  Off-channel features such as alcoves and side channels can have important ecological functions for large rivers such as the Willamette River. Some species and age classes of fish may select these features ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Ecological functions of off-channel habitat, Willamette River, Oregon : final research plan Author: Sharps, D., Cline, S.P., Landers, Dixon, Andrus, Charles W., Erway, M.L. Off-channel features such as alcoves and side channels can have important ecological functions for large rivers such as the Willamette River. Some species and age classes of fish may select these features instead of the main channel to feed, avoid predation by other fish, escape fast water, or seek out cool water in the summer. Other organisms such as amphibians, mussels, and birds may also be attracted to alcoves and side channels because of unique physical and water quality characteristics. This proposal describes research to evaluate the functions of alcoves and side channels in a large river ecosystem, determine factors that currently affect their ecological functions, and identify future management actions that could be taken to improve these functions. In addition, the authors intend to relate the processes occurring within alcoves and side channels to processes occurring in the main channel, in adjacent ground water, and the riparian vegetative community. Title: Ecological functions of off-channel habitat, Willamette River, Oregon : final research plan Author: Sharps, D., Cline, S.P., Landers, Dixon, Andrus, Charles W., Erway, M.L. Off-channel features such as alcoves and side channels can have important ecological functions for large rivers such as the Willamette River. Some species and age classes of fish may select these features instead of the main channel to feed, avoid predation by other fish, escape fast water, or seek out cool water in the summer. Other organisms such as amphibians, mussels, and birds may also be attracted to alcoves and side channels because of unique physical and water quality characteristics. This proposal describes research to evaluate the functions of alcoves and side channels in a large river ecosystem, determine factors that currently affect their ecological functions, and identify future management actions that could be taken to improve these functions. In addition, the authors intend to relate the processes occurring within alcoves and side channels to processes occurring in the main channel, in adjacent ground water, and the riparian vegetative community. Close

• 419. [Article] A GIS investigation of indigenous intensification of native food plants : humans as environmental variable in maxent habitat suitability modeling of Camassia in Oregon

  This thesis merges the fields of Ecology and Anthropology by applying Habitat Suitability Modeling to the relationship between people and plants in the Pacific Northwest. In it, I create and optimize two ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A GIS investigation of indigenous intensification of native food plants : humans as environmental variable in maxent habitat suitability modeling of Camassia in Oregon Author: Elliott, Braden T. This thesis merges the fields of Ecology and Anthropology by applying Habitat Suitability Modeling to the relationship between people and plants in the Pacific Northwest. In it, I create and optimize two Maxent habitat suitability models for camas (Camassia spp.) in Oregon. The first model describes the physical environment of camas using precipitation and maximum temperature. The second model incorporates the cultural environment of camas by adding cultural centrality and cost distance to known earth ovens. Cultural centrality is inferred by combining culture and language area maps of the Pacific Northwest around Euroamerican contact. Centrality is measured by agreement between these maps, peripherality is measured by disagreement. Earth ovens, used to prepare camas for human consumption, are mapped on a slope map of Oregon to measure cost distance--the energy necessary to travel--to the nearest known oven. The first (ecological) model performs acceptably well, but the second (socioecological) model outperforms the first on standard measures which reward fit and penalize complexity. This demonstrates a strong relationship between indigenous cultural geography and the distribution of camas on the Oregon landscape, visible through centuries of nonindigenous landscape management with a necessarily incomplete dataset. Title: A GIS investigation of indigenous intensification of native food plants : humans as environmental variable in maxent habitat suitability modeling of Camassia in Oregon Author: Elliott, Braden T. This thesis merges the fields of Ecology and Anthropology by applying Habitat Suitability Modeling to the relationship between people and plants in the Pacific Northwest. In it, I create and optimize two Maxent habitat suitability models for camas (Camassia spp.) in Oregon. The first model describes the physical environment of camas using precipitation and maximum temperature. The second model incorporates the cultural environment of camas by adding cultural centrality and cost distance to known earth ovens. Cultural centrality is inferred by combining culture and language area maps of the Pacific Northwest around Euroamerican contact. Centrality is measured by agreement between these maps, peripherality is measured by disagreement. Earth ovens, used to prepare camas for human consumption, are mapped on a slope map of Oregon to measure cost distance--the energy necessary to travel--to the nearest known oven. The first (ecological) model performs acceptably well, but the second (socioecological) model outperforms the first on standard measures which reward fit and penalize complexity. This demonstrates a strong relationship between indigenous cultural geography and the distribution of camas on the Oregon landscape, visible through centuries of nonindigenous landscape management with a necessarily incomplete dataset. Close

• 420. [Article] Patterns in coastal marsh vegetation of the Juneau area, Alaska

  A vegetation study was made of four coastal marshes near Juneau, Alaska. Results confirmed earlier studies' findings in southeast Alaska that communities or assemblages of species can be identified but ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Patterns in coastal marsh vegetation of the Juneau area, Alaska Author: Stone, Catherine S. A vegetation study was made of four coastal marshes near Juneau, Alaska. Results confirmed earlier studies' findings in southeast Alaska that communities or assemblages of species can be identified but from marsh to marsh these assemblages appear to have no consistent relationship to each other or to environmental "factors" such as elevation and salinity. Further, marshes of the Juneau area vary in assemblage composition and assemblages vary in species composition within and among marshes. This variability apparently results from individualistic behavior of plant species. An individualistic interpretation of these results may explain plant populations behaviors but not the behavior of vegetation as a collective unit. Also, it makes comparison of marshes impossible because the comparison must be based on inconsistent species composition and inconsistent spatial arrangement of species and vegetation units. The explanation of the behavior of coastal marsh vegetation in the Juneau area lies in the integration of behaviors of physiography, species, and assemblages of species. Physiography is the integration of "site factors," species are the integration of populations, and vegetation is the integration of species' interactions. Site physiography thus defines the habitat, and the integration of plants and habitat at a site is the habitat-vegetation complex. The collection of complexes in a landscape forms a pattern of patches in which the complexes serve as species and materials pools for each other and for the surrounding patterns. The composition and structure (spatial arrangement) of the present complexes are its realized capacity, the result of site history and species-and-vegetation history. The nature of future habitat-vegetation complexes will be the outcome of site processes and species-and-vegetation processes. This future incorporates all possible outcomes of all possible combinations of processes and represents the potential capacities of the habitat-vegetation complex. This scheme makes possible the explanation of the history and future of vegetation and comparison of coastal marsh sites and vegetation in terms of history and process without requiring specification of species composition or endpoint of vegetation development. Title: Patterns in coastal marsh vegetation of the Juneau area, Alaska Author: Stone, Catherine S. A vegetation study was made of four coastal marshes near Juneau, Alaska. Results confirmed earlier studies' findings in southeast Alaska that communities or assemblages of species can be identified but from marsh to marsh these assemblages appear to have no consistent relationship to each other or to environmental "factors" such as elevation and salinity. Further, marshes of the Juneau area vary in assemblage composition and assemblages vary in species composition within and among marshes. This variability apparently results from individualistic behavior of plant species. An individualistic interpretation of these results may explain plant populations behaviors but not the behavior of vegetation as a collective unit. Also, it makes comparison of marshes impossible because the comparison must be based on inconsistent species composition and inconsistent spatial arrangement of species and vegetation units. The explanation of the behavior of coastal marsh vegetation in the Juneau area lies in the integration of behaviors of physiography, species, and assemblages of species. Physiography is the integration of "site factors," species are the integration of populations, and vegetation is the integration of species' interactions. Site physiography thus defines the habitat, and the integration of plants and habitat at a site is the habitat-vegetation complex. The collection of complexes in a landscape forms a pattern of patches in which the complexes serve as species and materials pools for each other and for the surrounding patterns. The composition and structure (spatial arrangement) of the present complexes are its realized capacity, the result of site history and species-and-vegetation history. The nature of future habitat-vegetation complexes will be the outcome of site processes and species-and-vegetation processes. This future incorporates all possible outcomes of all possible combinations of processes and represents the potential capacities of the habitat-vegetation complex. This scheme makes possible the explanation of the history and future of vegetation and comparison of coastal marsh sites and vegetation in terms of history and process without requiring specification of species composition or endpoint of vegetation development. Close

• 421. [Article] Population characteristics and habitat utilization of bighorn sheep, Steens Mountain, Oregon

  A herd of re-introduced California bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis californiana) was studied from 15 June 1976 to 31 August 1977. Thirteen major and seven minor habitats were delineated and described. Habitat ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Population characteristics and habitat utilization of bighorn sheep, Steens Mountain, Oregon Author: Van Dyke, Walter A. A herd of re-introduced California bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis californiana) was studied from 15 June 1976 to 31 August 1977. Thirteen major and seven minor habitats were delineated and described. Habitat use by bighorns was observed throughout the study and a habitat preference value (H.P.V.) was calculated based on use by ewe-lamb groups. Certain habitats were highly preferred for foraging or resting by bighorns during different seasons of the year, probably because of the physical and vegetative characteristics they offered. Examination of daily activity patterns of ewe-lamb groups revealed that they primarily fed in the morning, rested at mid-day, and again fed toward evening during all seasons. Comparison of the activity budgets (time allotment for the various activities) between the sex and age groups within seasons disclosed statistical differences in all seasons. In spring lambs foraged less and pursued other activities more than ewes or rams. In summer, rams foraged less than lambs and lambs foraged less than ewes. The reverse trend was noted for resting activity. These trends were probably related energy demands of each sex and age class. In fall and winter no difference was found between the activity budgets of ewes and lambs. Adult rams, however, spent less time foraging and more time resting and pursuing other activities than ewes or lambs. This was related to energy demands and the rut. Estimated herd size fluctuated between 128 and 180 individuals with most of the change attributable to birth and subsequent mortality of lambs. Factors responsible for lamb mortality were not identified but losses appeared related to parasites and disease; Between 1976 and 1977 the population increased very little. Title: Population characteristics and habitat utilization of bighorn sheep, Steens Mountain, Oregon Author: Van Dyke, Walter A. A herd of re-introduced California bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis californiana) was studied from 15 June 1976 to 31 August 1977. Thirteen major and seven minor habitats were delineated and described. Habitat use by bighorns was observed throughout the study and a habitat preference value (H.P.V.) was calculated based on use by ewe-lamb groups. Certain habitats were highly preferred for foraging or resting by bighorns during different seasons of the year, probably because of the physical and vegetative characteristics they offered. Examination of daily activity patterns of ewe-lamb groups revealed that they primarily fed in the morning, rested at mid-day, and again fed toward evening during all seasons. Comparison of the activity budgets (time allotment for the various activities) between the sex and age groups within seasons disclosed statistical differences in all seasons. In spring lambs foraged less and pursued other activities more than ewes or rams. In summer, rams foraged less than lambs and lambs foraged less than ewes. The reverse trend was noted for resting activity. These trends were probably related energy demands of each sex and age class. In fall and winter no difference was found between the activity budgets of ewes and lambs. Adult rams, however, spent less time foraging and more time resting and pursuing other activities than ewes or lambs. This was related to energy demands and the rut. Estimated herd size fluctuated between 128 and 180 individuals with most of the change attributable to birth and subsequent mortality of lambs. Factors responsible for lamb mortality were not identified but losses appeared related to parasites and disease; Between 1976 and 1977 the population increased very little. Close

• 422. [Article] Distribution and habitat use of bull trout following the removal of nonnative brook trout

  Invasion by nonnative brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) often results in replacement of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in western North America, but the causal mechanisms are not well understood. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Distribution and habitat use of bull trout following the removal of nonnative brook trout Author: Renner, Dirk Invasion by nonnative brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) often results in replacement of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in western North America, but the causal mechanisms are not well understood. Removal of brook trout from 1992 to 2000 from Sun Creek in southern Oregon, provided an opportunity to investigate the changes in distribution and abundance of bull trout. This study investigated bull trout distribution over from 1994 to 2003, during and following the extirpation of brook trout in 2000. In 2001 over, 8 km of contiguous stream habitat was examined to investigate bull trout habitat utilization. Bull trout abundance increased almost 300% after the removal of brook trout; however, bull trout distribution did not shift either upstream or downstream into habitat previously occupied by brook trout. This finding suggested that the occupied habitat was either critical for bull trout persistence or that factors restricted dispersal. Temperature did not appear to limit bull trout distribution remaining below 17°C with averages less than 10°C throughout Sun Creek. The downstream distribution of bull trout coincided with a point source increase of turbidity. In regions of the stream where turbidity was low bull trout abundance was positively associated with deep pools, higher average temperatures, and correlated with high densities of springs. The results of this study suggest that brook trout did not displace bull trout, underscoring the importance that point source disturbances (i.e. turbidity) can have on trout distributions. These findings reiterate the value of sampling contiguous streams as a means to identifying factors influencing trout distribution throughout a stream system. Title: Distribution and habitat use of bull trout following the removal of nonnative brook trout Author: Renner, Dirk Invasion by nonnative brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) often results in replacement of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in western North America, but the causal mechanisms are not well understood. Removal of brook trout from 1992 to 2000 from Sun Creek in southern Oregon, provided an opportunity to investigate the changes in distribution and abundance of bull trout. This study investigated bull trout distribution over from 1994 to 2003, during and following the extirpation of brook trout in 2000. In 2001 over, 8 km of contiguous stream habitat was examined to investigate bull trout habitat utilization. Bull trout abundance increased almost 300% after the removal of brook trout; however, bull trout distribution did not shift either upstream or downstream into habitat previously occupied by brook trout. This finding suggested that the occupied habitat was either critical for bull trout persistence or that factors restricted dispersal. Temperature did not appear to limit bull trout distribution remaining below 17°C with averages less than 10°C throughout Sun Creek. The downstream distribution of bull trout coincided with a point source increase of turbidity. In regions of the stream where turbidity was low bull trout abundance was positively associated with deep pools, higher average temperatures, and correlated with high densities of springs. The results of this study suggest that brook trout did not displace bull trout, underscoring the importance that point source disturbances (i.e. turbidity) can have on trout distributions. These findings reiterate the value of sampling contiguous streams as a means to identifying factors influencing trout distribution throughout a stream system. Close

• 423. [Article] Implementation of Greater Sage-Grouse Resource Management Plan Revisions or Amendments - Oil & Gas Leasing and Development Sequential Prioritization

  This Instruction Memorandum (IM) provides guidance on prioritizing implementation decisions for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oil and gas leasing and development, to be consistent with the Approved Resource ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Implementation of Greater Sage-Grouse Resource Management Plan Revisions or Amendments - Oil & Gas Leasing and Development Sequential Prioritization Author: Ellis, Steven A., Bureau of Land Management This Instruction Memorandum (IM) provides guidance on prioritizing implementation decisions for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oil and gas leasing and development, to be consistent with the Approved Resource Management Plan Amendments for the Rocky Mountain and Great Basin GRSG Regions and nine Approved Resource Management Plans in the Rocky Mountain GRSG Region ( collectively referred to as the GRSG Plans). This IM applies to activities in the areas covered by both the Rocky Mountain (RM) and Great Basin (GB) Regions Records of Decision (RODs), issued by the BLM in September 2015.1 This IM also contains reporting requirements for communication between State Offices and the Washington Office. The objectives ofthis IM are: to ensure consistency across BLM offices when implementing the GRSG Plans decisions aimed at avoiding or limiting new surface disturbance in Priority Habitat Management Areas (PHMAs ), including Sagebrush Focal Areas (SF As), and minimizing surface disturbance in General Habitat Management Areas (GHMAs); and to provide clarity to the BLM Field Offices on how to move forward with oil and gas leasing and development activities within designated GRSG habitats2• This IM provides guidance on how the BLM will exercise the Secretary of the Interior's discretion with regard to leasing activities in order to fulfill the conservation commitments in the GRSG Plans, to facilitate efforts to reduce the costs to project proponents and the BLM from the potentially extended time it may take for leasing and permitting within GRSG habitat, and to demonstrate that the GRSG Plans are being implemented consistently and transparently. BLM offices are encouraged to work collaboratively with relevant state and federal agencies as well as stakeholders to develop strategies and incentives to encourage and prioritize leasing and development outside of GRSG habitats. Title: Implementation of Greater Sage-Grouse Resource Management Plan Revisions or Amendments - Oil & Gas Leasing and Development Sequential Prioritization Author: Ellis, Steven A., Bureau of Land Management This Instruction Memorandum (IM) provides guidance on prioritizing implementation decisions for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oil and gas leasing and development, to be consistent with the Approved Resource Management Plan Amendments for the Rocky Mountain and Great Basin GRSG Regions and nine Approved Resource Management Plans in the Rocky Mountain GRSG Region ( collectively referred to as the GRSG Plans). This IM applies to activities in the areas covered by both the Rocky Mountain (RM) and Great Basin (GB) Regions Records of Decision (RODs), issued by the BLM in September 2015.1 This IM also contains reporting requirements for communication between State Offices and the Washington Office. The objectives ofthis IM are: to ensure consistency across BLM offices when implementing the GRSG Plans decisions aimed at avoiding or limiting new surface disturbance in Priority Habitat Management Areas (PHMAs ), including Sagebrush Focal Areas (SF As), and minimizing surface disturbance in General Habitat Management Areas (GHMAs); and to provide clarity to the BLM Field Offices on how to move forward with oil and gas leasing and development activities within designated GRSG habitats2• This IM provides guidance on how the BLM will exercise the Secretary of the Interior's discretion with regard to leasing activities in order to fulfill the conservation commitments in the GRSG Plans, to facilitate efforts to reduce the costs to project proponents and the BLM from the potentially extended time it may take for leasing and permitting within GRSG habitat, and to demonstrate that the GRSG Plans are being implemented consistently and transparently. BLM offices are encouraged to work collaboratively with relevant state and federal agencies as well as stakeholders to develop strategies and incentives to encourage and prioritize leasing and development outside of GRSG habitats. Close

• 424. [Article] Grazing management for riparian-wetland areas

  This document presents information from various land managers and researchers to guide livestock management in riparian areas using their unique responsiveness to accomplish management objectives. Riparian ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Grazing management for riparian-wetland areas Author: Swanson, Sherman, Kinch, Gene, United States. Forest Service, National Applied Resource Sciences Center (U.S.), Borman, Michael M., Elsbernd, Van, Leonard, Steve (Stephen G.) This document presents information from various land managers and researchers to guide livestock management in riparian areas using their unique responsiveness to accomplish management objectives. Riparian areas, as interfaces between the aquatic and upland components of the ecosystem comprise mosaics of landforms, communities, and environments within the larger landscape. The structure and processes of riparian areas, more than any other ecosystem, are influenced by their connectivity to adjacent ecosystems. An ecosystem perspective provides an ecological basis for evaluating current grazing practices and other land uses, identifying riparian management objectives, and developing future management alternatives. Title: Grazing management for riparian-wetland areas Author: Swanson, Sherman, Kinch, Gene, United States. Forest Service, National Applied Resource Sciences Center (U.S.), Borman, Michael M., Elsbernd, Van, Leonard, Steve (Stephen G.) This document presents information from various land managers and researchers to guide livestock management in riparian areas using their unique responsiveness to accomplish management objectives. Riparian areas, as interfaces between the aquatic and upland components of the ecosystem comprise mosaics of landforms, communities, and environments within the larger landscape. The structure and processes of riparian areas, more than any other ecosystem, are influenced by their connectivity to adjacent ecosystems. An ecosystem perspective provides an ecological basis for evaluating current grazing practices and other land uses, identifying riparian management objectives, and developing future management alternatives. Close

• 425. [Article] Models of presence-absence estimate abundance as well as (or even better than) models of abundance: the case of the butterfly Parnassius apollo

  This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Models of presence-absence estimate abundance as well as (or even better than) models of abundance: the case of the butterfly Parnassius apollo Author: Wilson, Robert J., Gutiérrez, David, Díez, Sonia B., Gutiérrez Illán, Javier, Harcourt, Jennifer This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Title: Models of presence-absence estimate abundance as well as (or even better than) models of abundance: the case of the butterfly Parnassius apollo Author: Wilson, Robert J., Gutiérrez, David, Díez, Sonia B., Gutiérrez Illán, Javier, Harcourt, Jennifer This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Close

• 426. [Article] Models of presence-absence estimate abundance as well as (or even better than) models of abundance: the case of the butterfly Parnassius apollo

  This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Models of presence-absence estimate abundance as well as (or even better than) models of abundance: the case of the butterfly Parnassius apollo Author: Wilson, Robert J., Gutiérrez, David, Díez, Sonia B., Harcourt, Jennifer, Gutiérrez Illán, Javier This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Title: Models of presence-absence estimate abundance as well as (or even better than) models of abundance: the case of the butterfly Parnassius apollo Author: Wilson, Robert J., Gutiérrez, David, Díez, Sonia B., Harcourt, Jennifer, Gutiérrez Illán, Javier This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Close

• 427. [Article] Patterns of benthic mega-invertebrate habitat associations in the Pacific Northwest continental shelf waters

  This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10531

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Patterns of benthic mega-invertebrate habitat associations in the Pacific Northwest continental shelf waters Author: Henkel, Sarah K., Hemery, Lenaïg G. This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10531 Title: Patterns of benthic mega-invertebrate habitat associations in the Pacific Northwest continental shelf waters Author: Henkel, Sarah K., Hemery, Lenaïg G. This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10531 Close

• 428. [Article] Biomass and community structure of sporocarps formed by hypogeous ectomycorrhizal fungi within selected forest habitats of the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Oregon

  This study characterizes the production of hypogeous sporocarps (broadly referred to as truffles) by ectomycorrhizal fungi within Douglas-fir dominated forests that are considered typical of those found ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biomass and community structure of sporocarps formed by hypogeous ectomycorrhizal fungi within selected forest habitats of the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Oregon Author: Luoma, Daniel L. This study characterizes the production of hypogeous sporocarps (broadly referred to as truffles) by ectomycorrhizal fungi within Douglas-fir dominated forests that are considered typical of those found on the west slopes of the central Cascade mountains in Oregon. Three aspects of sporocarp production are addressed: 1) the distribution of total biomass and biomass of each species by season and habitat, 2) analysis of sporocarp biomass from the perspective of community structure, and 3) correlation of biomass production with sporocarp number and selected forest floor parameters. Sporocarps with an equivalent dry standing biomass of 1.3 kg/ha were harvested from ten Douglas-fir stands in and near the H. J. Andrews Experimental forest. The maximum single stand sample biomass was equivalent to 9.9 kg/ha. Forty-seven species of hypogeous fungi were recorded during the study (although some collections are of uncertain taxonomic affinity and some taxa are of uncertain status). Fourteen species account for 93% of the total biomass. Five species account for 73% of the biomass (Elaphomyces granulatus, Gautieria monticola, Hysterangium coriaceum, Leucogaster rubescens, and Rhizopogon parksii). Individual species showed strong differential trends in seasonal production of sporocarp biomass, with spring and summer production being greater than fall in contrast to fall fruiting epigeous species. Many species showed differences in sporocarp production by habitat. Sporocarp production was evaluated in five Douglas-fir habitats, (wet old-growth, mesic old-growth, dry old-growth, mesic mature, and mesic young). The mesic mature forest habitat has the highest standing biomass value (2.2 kg/ha) of all the habitats. The dry old-growth forest habitat had the lowest (0.7 kg/ha). Analysis of the distribution of sample values indicates that samples of small total area overestimate biomass because of the strong skewing towards high values. Interspersion of the largest practical number of quadrats is required to reduce overestimation of standing biomass (expressed on a kg/ha basis) when localized concentrations of biomass are included in samples. Vegetation studies have shown that, for vascular plants, similar species combinations recur under similar habitat conditions. Also, species abundance and composition change more or less continuously over the landscape. This study found communities of hypogeous ectomycorrhizal fungi to be co-extensive with associated vascular plant communities and sensitive to subtle variations in habitats spanning wet-to-dry and young-to-old gradients. A profound dichotomy in seasonal fruiting pattern between spring and fall precludes the use of single season sampling to reveal fungal community structure. Furthermore, yearly variation in weather patterns causes variation in sporocarp biomass production that tends to obscure community structure responses to environmental gradients. When fungal data collected over a number of years from a stand are integrated, subsequent classification and ordination closely reflect the vascular plant classification and subtle responses to a moisture gradient. A fungal community guild structure was delineated that reflected the subtle variation in the studied habitats. The guild of hypogeous ectomycorrhizal has Rhizopogon parksii as the subterranean dominant counterpart to Pseudotsuga menziesii with Gautieria monticola nearly as wide spread and abundant. Changes in fungal community structure along the stand age gradient are noted, but the limited amount of replication in the present study makes this interpretation tentative. Within three old-growth stands ranging from wet to dry, sporocarp biomass and numbers of hypogeous sporocarps were assessed in relation to each other, coarse woody debris, forest floor litter, and other selected forest floor parameters by use of regression models. Significant regressions between forest floor parameters are also examined. Transformation of data values improved the normality of the distributions for most parameters. The regression of sporocarp biomass and number of sporocarps is significant, however, it is not a strong relationship and the use of numbers of sporocarps as a substitute for biomass is not recommended. The correlation between sporocarp biomass and forest floor depth was significant in the mesic old-growth stand only. Significant regression relationships between parameters are highly individualistic within each stand. Over all stands, a slight tendency for forest floor depth to increase with coarse woody debris cover was noted. Regression analysis may have been hampered by the old-growth status of all stands. Perhaps, due to centuries of development without catastrophic disturbance, within-stand variation in the chosen parameters has been reduced to the point that trends in the relations between selected parameters are difficult to detect. In designing future research, it would be advisable to include stands varying considerably in old-growth characteristics and to assess the degree to which "carry over" of characteristics into second growth stands affects sporocarp production. Title: Biomass and community structure of sporocarps formed by hypogeous ectomycorrhizal fungi within selected forest habitats of the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Oregon Author: Luoma, Daniel L. This study characterizes the production of hypogeous sporocarps (broadly referred to as truffles) by ectomycorrhizal fungi within Douglas-fir dominated forests that are considered typical of those found on the west slopes of the central Cascade mountains in Oregon. Three aspects of sporocarp production are addressed: 1) the distribution of total biomass and biomass of each species by season and habitat, 2) analysis of sporocarp biomass from the perspective of community structure, and 3) correlation of biomass production with sporocarp number and selected forest floor parameters. Sporocarps with an equivalent dry standing biomass of 1.3 kg/ha were harvested from ten Douglas-fir stands in and near the H. J. Andrews Experimental forest. The maximum single stand sample biomass was equivalent to 9.9 kg/ha. Forty-seven species of hypogeous fungi were recorded during the study (although some collections are of uncertain taxonomic affinity and some taxa are of uncertain status). Fourteen species account for 93% of the total biomass. Five species account for 73% of the biomass (Elaphomyces granulatus, Gautieria monticola, Hysterangium coriaceum, Leucogaster rubescens, and Rhizopogon parksii). Individual species showed strong differential trends in seasonal production of sporocarp biomass, with spring and summer production being greater than fall in contrast to fall fruiting epigeous species. Many species showed differences in sporocarp production by habitat. Sporocarp production was evaluated in five Douglas-fir habitats, (wet old-growth, mesic old-growth, dry old-growth, mesic mature, and mesic young). The mesic mature forest habitat has the highest standing biomass value (2.2 kg/ha) of all the habitats. The dry old-growth forest habitat had the lowest (0.7 kg/ha). Analysis of the distribution of sample values indicates that samples of small total area overestimate biomass because of the strong skewing towards high values. Interspersion of the largest practical number of quadrats is required to reduce overestimation of standing biomass (expressed on a kg/ha basis) when localized concentrations of biomass are included in samples. Vegetation studies have shown that, for vascular plants, similar species combinations recur under similar habitat conditions. Also, species abundance and composition change more or less continuously over the landscape. This study found communities of hypogeous ectomycorrhizal fungi to be co-extensive with associated vascular plant communities and sensitive to subtle variations in habitats spanning wet-to-dry and young-to-old gradients. A profound dichotomy in seasonal fruiting pattern between spring and fall precludes the use of single season sampling to reveal fungal community structure. Furthermore, yearly variation in weather patterns causes variation in sporocarp biomass production that tends to obscure community structure responses to environmental gradients. When fungal data collected over a number of years from a stand are integrated, subsequent classification and ordination closely reflect the vascular plant classification and subtle responses to a moisture gradient. A fungal community guild structure was delineated that reflected the subtle variation in the studied habitats. The guild of hypogeous ectomycorrhizal has Rhizopogon parksii as the subterranean dominant counterpart to Pseudotsuga menziesii with Gautieria monticola nearly as wide spread and abundant. Changes in fungal community structure along the stand age gradient are noted, but the limited amount of replication in the present study makes this interpretation tentative. Within three old-growth stands ranging from wet to dry, sporocarp biomass and numbers of hypogeous sporocarps were assessed in relation to each other, coarse woody debris, forest floor litter, and other selected forest floor parameters by use of regression models. Significant regressions between forest floor parameters are also examined. Transformation of data values improved the normality of the distributions for most parameters. The regression of sporocarp biomass and number of sporocarps is significant, however, it is not a strong relationship and the use of numbers of sporocarps as a substitute for biomass is not recommended. The correlation between sporocarp biomass and forest floor depth was significant in the mesic old-growth stand only. Significant regression relationships between parameters are highly individualistic within each stand. Over all stands, a slight tendency for forest floor depth to increase with coarse woody debris cover was noted. Regression analysis may have been hampered by the old-growth status of all stands. Perhaps, due to centuries of development without catastrophic disturbance, within-stand variation in the chosen parameters has been reduced to the point that trends in the relations between selected parameters are difficult to detect. In designing future research, it would be advisable to include stands varying considerably in old-growth characteristics and to assess the degree to which "carry over" of characteristics into second growth stands affects sporocarp production. Close

• 429. [Article] Survival, movements and habitat selection of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) on the Great Basin of southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada

  I investigated survival, movements, home range sizes, and habitat selection of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada from June 2005 to June 2007. I trapped ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Survival, movements and habitat selection of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) on the Great Basin of southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada Author: Crawford, Justin A. I investigated survival, movements, home range sizes, and habitat selection of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada from June 2005 to June 2007. I trapped 298 rabbits on four sites and fitted each with radio transmitters. More than 13,000 locations of telemetered rabbits were recorded. I used known fate models in program MARK to estimate survival of radio-marked pygmy rabbits from September 2005 – August 2006. The most appropriate model, based on Akaike's Information Criterion (AICc), indicated survival rates varied among study sites, sexes, and with monthly interval in a parallel pattern [model S(area * sex + t)]. The estimated annual survival rate on the four study sites was notably low, varying from 0.003 (SE = 0.003) to 0.173 (SE = 0.066). Predation on collared rabbits was high for both adult (88.6%) and juvenile (89.4%) rabbits. When the cause of mortality could be determined, the most common predators of pygmy rabbits were coyotes (Canis latrans)–19.6%, avian predators–18.5%, and weasels (Mustela spp.)–9.8%. Spatial use by pygmy rabbits was strongly influenced by sex and season. Males used larger annual (mean = 1.70 ha ± 0.69 SE) and breeding (1.67 ± 0.27 ha) home ranges than females (Annual: 0.90 ± 0.26 ha; Breeding: 0.92 ± 0.16 ha), likely influenced by mate-searching behaviors exhibited by males. Both sexes utilized larger home ranges during the breeding season than during the nonbreeding season (Male: 0.63 ± 0.11 ha; Female: 0.50 ± 0.09 ha). Core area sizes of males (0.10 ± 0.04 ha) also were larger than females (0.07 ± 0.03 ha). Twenty-four radio-marked individuals dispersed greater than 0.5 km, with a maximal observed dispersal distance of 8.5 km. The majority (62.5%) of these long distance movements were by juvenile males, which likely represented dispersal from natal areas. Many of these individuals apparently crossed low sagebrush (Artemisia arbuscula) communities and relatively open areas. The ability of this species to cross unsuitable habitats, previously considered barriers to movement, may suggest that fragmented populations of pygmy rabbits may not be as isolated as once thought. To examine resource selection by pygmy rabbits, I sampled vegetative and soil characteristics at locations used by radio-marked rabbits (n = 178) and available (n = 100) sites and compared them using logistic regression. The top model, based on Akaike's Information Criterion (AICc), indicated that the increased density and height of live shrubs, higher silt content of soil, and lower clay content of soil were the primary variables related to pygmy rabbit occupation relative to available habitat. Habitat-use patterns also varied among study sites as I did not find a consensus model that described habitat selection among pygmy rabbits for each study site. Further, my analysis demonstrated that soils at pygmy rabbit burrows were deeper, had greater subsurface strengths, lower strengths at the surface, and lower clay composition than was randomly available in the study area. The findings in this study provide needed information to management agencies making land-use decisions. Given the concern over the status of this species throughout its range, a more thorough understanding of survival rates, spatial use, dispersal capabilities, and habitat associations of this sagebrush obligate species is essential to identify factors influencing their conservation. Title: Survival, movements and habitat selection of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) on the Great Basin of southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada Author: Crawford, Justin A. I investigated survival, movements, home range sizes, and habitat selection of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada from June 2005 to June 2007. I trapped 298 rabbits on four sites and fitted each with radio transmitters. More than 13,000 locations of telemetered rabbits were recorded. I used known fate models in program MARK to estimate survival of radio-marked pygmy rabbits from September 2005 – August 2006. The most appropriate model, based on Akaike's Information Criterion (AICc), indicated survival rates varied among study sites, sexes, and with monthly interval in a parallel pattern [model S(area * sex + t)]. The estimated annual survival rate on the four study sites was notably low, varying from 0.003 (SE = 0.003) to 0.173 (SE = 0.066). Predation on collared rabbits was high for both adult (88.6%) and juvenile (89.4%) rabbits. When the cause of mortality could be determined, the most common predators of pygmy rabbits were coyotes (Canis latrans)–19.6%, avian predators–18.5%, and weasels (Mustela spp.)–9.8%. Spatial use by pygmy rabbits was strongly influenced by sex and season. Males used larger annual (mean = 1.70 ha ± 0.69 SE) and breeding (1.67 ± 0.27 ha) home ranges than females (Annual: 0.90 ± 0.26 ha; Breeding: 0.92 ± 0.16 ha), likely influenced by mate-searching behaviors exhibited by males. Both sexes utilized larger home ranges during the breeding season than during the nonbreeding season (Male: 0.63 ± 0.11 ha; Female: 0.50 ± 0.09 ha). Core area sizes of males (0.10 ± 0.04 ha) also were larger than females (0.07 ± 0.03 ha). Twenty-four radio-marked individuals dispersed greater than 0.5 km, with a maximal observed dispersal distance of 8.5 km. The majority (62.5%) of these long distance movements were by juvenile males, which likely represented dispersal from natal areas. Many of these individuals apparently crossed low sagebrush (Artemisia arbuscula) communities and relatively open areas. The ability of this species to cross unsuitable habitats, previously considered barriers to movement, may suggest that fragmented populations of pygmy rabbits may not be as isolated as once thought. To examine resource selection by pygmy rabbits, I sampled vegetative and soil characteristics at locations used by radio-marked rabbits (n = 178) and available (n = 100) sites and compared them using logistic regression. The top model, based on Akaike's Information Criterion (AICc), indicated that the increased density and height of live shrubs, higher silt content of soil, and lower clay content of soil were the primary variables related to pygmy rabbit occupation relative to available habitat. Habitat-use patterns also varied among study sites as I did not find a consensus model that described habitat selection among pygmy rabbits for each study site. Further, my analysis demonstrated that soils at pygmy rabbit burrows were deeper, had greater subsurface strengths, lower strengths at the surface, and lower clay composition than was randomly available in the study area. The findings in this study provide needed information to management agencies making land-use decisions. Given the concern over the status of this species throughout its range, a more thorough understanding of survival rates, spatial use, dispersal capabilities, and habitat associations of this sagebrush obligate species is essential to identify factors influencing their conservation. Close

• 430. [Article] A Comparative Study of Foraging Behavior and Disturbance Regimes in Urban Versus Agricultural Habitats used by Cackling Geese Wintering in the Willamette Valley, Oregon

  The Cackling goose (Branta hutchinsii minima) population has increased from a low of 20,000 in 1984 to the current population of 220,000-300,000 (Stehn 2012, Sanders 2013). As the Cackling goose population ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A Comparative Study of Foraging Behavior and Disturbance Regimes in Urban Versus Agricultural Habitats used by Cackling Geese Wintering in the Willamette Valley, Oregon Author: Harrington, Erin R. (Erin Rose) The Cackling goose (Branta hutchinsii minima) population has increased from a low of 20,000 in 1984 to the current population of 220,000-300,000 (Stehn 2012, Sanders 2013). As the Cackling goose population began to recover in the late 1990s, the majority of the population relocated from wintering in California to the Willamette Valley, Oregon (Pacific Flyway Council 1999, Mini 2012). Cackling geese in Oregon now commonly use exurban, suburban, and urban areas (Mini 2012). The reasons for Cackling goose use of urban areas are still unclear as they did not commonly use this habitat type on their traditional wintering areas in California or initially upon showing up in Oregon. Given what we know about habitat selection in geese and the Willamette Valley system, we tested three different hypotheses that seem to have the greatest utility for explaining the recent use of urban habitats in Oregon’s Willamette Valley: 1) Foraging opportunity in urban habitats is higher due to lower perceived, or actual, predation risks, 2) Foraging efficiency in urban habitats is higher in urban landscapes due to a difference in forage characteristics between landscape types, and 3) Quality of forage in urban habitats is higher due to a difference in nutritional content and regrowth rate. My field work centered on collecting data to test predictions deduced from my hypotheses. From November 2013-April 2014 and November 2014-April 2015, I conducted a total of 278 hour-long disturbance surveys and 238 behavioral time- activity budget scans in 109 different sites in the Willamette Valley, Oregon within urban areas in Portland, Eugene, and Salem and agricultural areas in the Willamette Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex and nearby private fields. Consistent with the Safe Habitat Hypothesis, predator-related disturbances in urban landscapes were significantly lower than in agricultural landscapes: only one avian predator-related disturbance was observed in urban landscapes throughout the entire study. Geese spent more time feeding (69.0 ± 1.9% vs. 55.0 ± 2.1%), less time flying (3.0 ± 1.1% vs. 6.6 ± 1.3%) and less time vigilant (2.1 ± 0.2% vs. 5.6 ± 0.5%) in urban landscapes than in agricultural landscapes. The frequency of the eight disturbance types differed between landscape types (n = 988, χ² = 308, df = 8, P < 0.001). Vigilance (70% vs. 56%, χ² = 22.9, df = 1, P < 0.001) occurred more often in agricultural landscapes and walking away responses (19% vs. 3%, χ² = 64.49, df = 1, P < 0.001) occurred more often in urban landscapes. I measured forage biomass, daily regrowth rate, and nutritional content from 58 plots in December of 2014, and 60 plots in December of 2015 at a total of 6 fields in urban landscapes and 6 fields in agricultural landscapes. Mean grass biomass did not vary significantly between urban (32.0 ± 7.5 g m⁻²) and agricultural landscapes (22.0 ± 4.2 g m⁻², n = 12, P = 0.4), and average daily regrowth rate did not vary significantly between urban (0.08 ± 0.01 cm/d) and agricultural landscapes (0.12 ± 0.02 cm/d, n = 12, P = 0.09). Average grass height in agricultural landscapes was 7.1 ± 0.7 cm and average height in urban landscapes was 3.8 ± 0.3 cm. Percent crude protein did not vary significantly between urban (18.4 ± 0.97%) and agricultural landscapes (17.0 ± 1.3%, n = 12, P = 0.64). Percent ADF did not vary significantly between urban (35.3 ± 1.8%) and agricultural landscapes (36.7 ± 2.4%, n = 12, P = 0.84). My results are consistent with the Safe-habitat Hypothesis which states Cacklers may be now using urban landscapes partially in response to an increasing Bald Eagle population. Ultimately, if nutritional quality of forage is the same between landscapes types, but Cacklers are disturbed more often by predators in agricultural landscapes, Cacklers in urban landscapes may have a higher net energy gain than Cacklers foraging on refuges; therefore, use of urban areas by Cacklers might increase. Coordinated management plans with private landowners, public school districts, and Parks and Recreation departments in the Willamette Valley that maximize preferred foraging conditions on refuges and minimize preferred foraging conditions in urban areas may attract more geese to protected areas in agricultural landscapes. Title: A Comparative Study of Foraging Behavior and Disturbance Regimes in Urban Versus Agricultural Habitats used by Cackling Geese Wintering in the Willamette Valley, Oregon Author: Harrington, Erin R. (Erin Rose) The Cackling goose (Branta hutchinsii minima) population has increased from a low of 20,000 in 1984 to the current population of 220,000-300,000 (Stehn 2012, Sanders 2013). As the Cackling goose population began to recover in the late 1990s, the majority of the population relocated from wintering in California to the Willamette Valley, Oregon (Pacific Flyway Council 1999, Mini 2012). Cackling geese in Oregon now commonly use exurban, suburban, and urban areas (Mini 2012). The reasons for Cackling goose use of urban areas are still unclear as they did not commonly use this habitat type on their traditional wintering areas in California or initially upon showing up in Oregon. Given what we know about habitat selection in geese and the Willamette Valley system, we tested three different hypotheses that seem to have the greatest utility for explaining the recent use of urban habitats in Oregon’s Willamette Valley: 1) Foraging opportunity in urban habitats is higher due to lower perceived, or actual, predation risks, 2) Foraging efficiency in urban habitats is higher in urban landscapes due to a difference in forage characteristics between landscape types, and 3) Quality of forage in urban habitats is higher due to a difference in nutritional content and regrowth rate. My field work centered on collecting data to test predictions deduced from my hypotheses. From November 2013-April 2014 and November 2014-April 2015, I conducted a total of 278 hour-long disturbance surveys and 238 behavioral time- activity budget scans in 109 different sites in the Willamette Valley, Oregon within urban areas in Portland, Eugene, and Salem and agricultural areas in the Willamette Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex and nearby private fields. Consistent with the Safe Habitat Hypothesis, predator-related disturbances in urban landscapes were significantly lower than in agricultural landscapes: only one avian predator-related disturbance was observed in urban landscapes throughout the entire study. Geese spent more time feeding (69.0 ± 1.9% vs. 55.0 ± 2.1%), less time flying (3.0 ± 1.1% vs. 6.6 ± 1.3%) and less time vigilant (2.1 ± 0.2% vs. 5.6 ± 0.5%) in urban landscapes than in agricultural landscapes. The frequency of the eight disturbance types differed between landscape types (n = 988, χ² = 308, df = 8, P < 0.001). Vigilance (70% vs. 56%, χ² = 22.9, df = 1, P < 0.001) occurred more often in agricultural landscapes and walking away responses (19% vs. 3%, χ² = 64.49, df = 1, P < 0.001) occurred more often in urban landscapes. I measured forage biomass, daily regrowth rate, and nutritional content from 58 plots in December of 2014, and 60 plots in December of 2015 at a total of 6 fields in urban landscapes and 6 fields in agricultural landscapes. Mean grass biomass did not vary significantly between urban (32.0 ± 7.5 g m⁻²) and agricultural landscapes (22.0 ± 4.2 g m⁻², n = 12, P = 0.4), and average daily regrowth rate did not vary significantly between urban (0.08 ± 0.01 cm/d) and agricultural landscapes (0.12 ± 0.02 cm/d, n = 12, P = 0.09). Average grass height in agricultural landscapes was 7.1 ± 0.7 cm and average height in urban landscapes was 3.8 ± 0.3 cm. Percent crude protein did not vary significantly between urban (18.4 ± 0.97%) and agricultural landscapes (17.0 ± 1.3%, n = 12, P = 0.64). Percent ADF did not vary significantly between urban (35.3 ± 1.8%) and agricultural landscapes (36.7 ± 2.4%, n = 12, P = 0.84). My results are consistent with the Safe-habitat Hypothesis which states Cacklers may be now using urban landscapes partially in response to an increasing Bald Eagle population. Ultimately, if nutritional quality of forage is the same between landscapes types, but Cacklers are disturbed more often by predators in agricultural landscapes, Cacklers in urban landscapes may have a higher net energy gain than Cacklers foraging on refuges; therefore, use of urban areas by Cacklers might increase. Coordinated management plans with private landowners, public school districts, and Parks and Recreation departments in the Willamette Valley that maximize preferred foraging conditions on refuges and minimize preferred foraging conditions in urban areas may attract more geese to protected areas in agricultural landscapes. Close

• 431. [Article] Greater Sage-grouse conservation assessment and strategy for Oregon: A plan to maintain and enhance populations and habitat

  Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) were once found in most grassland and sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) habitats east of the Cascades in Oregon. European settlement and conversion of sagebrush ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Greater Sage-grouse conservation assessment and strategy for Oregon: A plan to maintain and enhance populations and habitat Author: Hagen, Christian Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) were once found in most grassland and sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) habitats east of the Cascades in Oregon. European settlement and conversion of sagebrush steppe into agricultural production led to extirpation of the species in the Columbia Basin by the early part of the 1900s, but sagebrush rangelands have persisted, particularly in southeast Oregon. Populations have fluctuated markedly since the mid 1900s with notable declines in populations from the 1950s to early 1970s. These patterns in populations and habitat loss are similar to those observed for greater sage-grouse throughout its range. Population declines during the latter part of the 1900s lead to considerable concern for the species and subsequent conservation planning in all western states where it occurs. This management strategy is a result of this larger conservation effort by the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. This updated and revised Plan describes Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s management of greater sage-grouse and provides guidance to public land management agencies and land managers for sage-grouse conservation. Conservation actions should be encouraged on private lands as these contain some of the more productive sites, but conservation on private land is voluntary. Highlights of updates. Population goals have been revised based on statistically more robust methods for estimating population sizes. Accomplishments in conservation, research, and monitoring that have occurred since 2005 are discussed. The Core Area approach to strategically identifying important landscapes for sage-grouse is explained in detail from model development to implementation. Finally, there have been numerous publications on sage-grouse since 2005 and that literature has been updated to the document where appropriate. This management strategy and the supporting background information is intended to promote the conservation of greater sage-grouse and intact functioning sagebrush communities in Oregon. The strategy is tied to the life history of greater sage-grouse and uses the best science available. Although this strategy focuses on conservation of greater sage-grouse, the intent is to benefit conservation needs of other sagebrush-steppe species. Oregon greater sage-grouse are important to the North American population and management actions in the state will have implications on a much larger scale. This Plan recognizes that livestock ranching operations which manage for ecologically sustainable native rangelands is compatible with sage-grouse conservation, and necessary management activities to maintain a sustainable ranching operation are not considered “development actions” under the application of the Mitigation Policy to sage-grouse habitat. This Plan provides biological recommendations for long-term conservation of sage-grouse in Oregon based on the best available science. However, ODFW recognizes that land use planners and managers may need to consider these recommendations within the context of socialeconomic issues and decisions that are the responsibility of the respective governmental bodies. Thus, the intent of this plan is to inform decision-makers regarding the biological consequences of various actions on sage-grouse, but not to dictate land management decision. This document is divided into 6 sections. Section I explains the background and philosophy of conservation approaches in this strategy. Section II provides an overview of sage-grouse biology and ecology throughout the species range. Sections III and IV provide an assessment of populations and habitat, respectively, upon which management objectives are developed and their underlying assumptions and rationale are stated. In Section V, conservation guidelines are outlined, that describe actions needed and methods for achieving habitat objectives. Section VI outlines components for Plan implementation, includes a description of the structure and role of local implementation groups, and implications for public (state and federal) land management agencies. There are 6 appendices that provide supporting information, including a new appendix about socio-economics provided by the Association of Oregon Counties. Sections III to VI of the plan were expanded, because these sections are linked to the objectives and implementation of this Plan. Populations and habitat were assessed by BLM district boundaries because; the availability of habitat measures by district, each district approximates an eco-region, and BLM is the primary land manager within most of the district boundaries. The 23 years 1980-2003 are the relevant time period to establish a benchmark for sage-grouse populations and their habitats, because the factors of predator control methods (and take levels), grazing schedules, survey protocols, habitat treatments and harvest levels of sage-grouse were similar through this period. Title: Greater Sage-grouse conservation assessment and strategy for Oregon: A plan to maintain and enhance populations and habitat Author: Hagen, Christian Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) were once found in most grassland and sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) habitats east of the Cascades in Oregon. European settlement and conversion of sagebrush steppe into agricultural production led to extirpation of the species in the Columbia Basin by the early part of the 1900s, but sagebrush rangelands have persisted, particularly in southeast Oregon. Populations have fluctuated markedly since the mid 1900s with notable declines in populations from the 1950s to early 1970s. These patterns in populations and habitat loss are similar to those observed for greater sage-grouse throughout its range. Population declines during the latter part of the 1900s lead to considerable concern for the species and subsequent conservation planning in all western states where it occurs. This management strategy is a result of this larger conservation effort by the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. This updated and revised Plan describes Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s management of greater sage-grouse and provides guidance to public land management agencies and land managers for sage-grouse conservation. Conservation actions should be encouraged on private lands as these contain some of the more productive sites, but conservation on private land is voluntary. Highlights of updates. Population goals have been revised based on statistically more robust methods for estimating population sizes. Accomplishments in conservation, research, and monitoring that have occurred since 2005 are discussed. The Core Area approach to strategically identifying important landscapes for sage-grouse is explained in detail from model development to implementation. Finally, there have been numerous publications on sage-grouse since 2005 and that literature has been updated to the document where appropriate. This management strategy and the supporting background information is intended to promote the conservation of greater sage-grouse and intact functioning sagebrush communities in Oregon. The strategy is tied to the life history of greater sage-grouse and uses the best science available. Although this strategy focuses on conservation of greater sage-grouse, the intent is to benefit conservation needs of other sagebrush-steppe species. Oregon greater sage-grouse are important to the North American population and management actions in the state will have implications on a much larger scale. This Plan recognizes that livestock ranching operations which manage for ecologically sustainable native rangelands is compatible with sage-grouse conservation, and necessary management activities to maintain a sustainable ranching operation are not considered “development actions” under the application of the Mitigation Policy to sage-grouse habitat. This Plan provides biological recommendations for long-term conservation of sage-grouse in Oregon based on the best available science. However, ODFW recognizes that land use planners and managers may need to consider these recommendations within the context of socialeconomic issues and decisions that are the responsibility of the respective governmental bodies. Thus, the intent of this plan is to inform decision-makers regarding the biological consequences of various actions on sage-grouse, but not to dictate land management decision. This document is divided into 6 sections. Section I explains the background and philosophy of conservation approaches in this strategy. Section II provides an overview of sage-grouse biology and ecology throughout the species range. Sections III and IV provide an assessment of populations and habitat, respectively, upon which management objectives are developed and their underlying assumptions and rationale are stated. In Section V, conservation guidelines are outlined, that describe actions needed and methods for achieving habitat objectives. Section VI outlines components for Plan implementation, includes a description of the structure and role of local implementation groups, and implications for public (state and federal) land management agencies. There are 6 appendices that provide supporting information, including a new appendix about socio-economics provided by the Association of Oregon Counties. Sections III to VI of the plan were expanded, because these sections are linked to the objectives and implementation of this Plan. Populations and habitat were assessed by BLM district boundaries because; the availability of habitat measures by district, each district approximates an eco-region, and BLM is the primary land manager within most of the district boundaries. The 23 years 1980-2003 are the relevant time period to establish a benchmark for sage-grouse populations and their habitats, because the factors of predator control methods (and take levels), grazing schedules, survey protocols, habitat treatments and harvest levels of sage-grouse were similar through this period. Close

• 432. [Article] Beaver ecology in Bridge Creek, a tributary to the John Day River

  The American beaver (Castor canadensis) was nearly extirpated by the late 1800's due to the fur trade. Due to reintroduction efforts, it now occupies much of its former range. Beavers are a keystone species ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Beaver ecology in Bridge Creek, a tributary to the John Day River Author: Maenhout, Julie L. The American beaver (Castor canadensis) was nearly extirpated by the late 1800's due to the fur trade. Due to reintroduction efforts, it now occupies much of its former range. Beavers are a keystone species and ecosystem engineers, greatly influencing riparian and instream habitats through selective harvesting of plant materials and dam building. Beaver dams can accelerate the recovery of stream and riparian habitats. These habitats are beneficial to a variety of wildlife, including some fish species. Relocating nuisance beavers to areas where their damming activity will benefit fish habitat by helping restore degraded streams is gaining interest as a restoration and management tool in Oregon. However, little is known about the extant beaver populations in Oregon, including in the areas of restoration interest. We used genetic and radio telemetry approaches together to investigate the ecology of beavers in Bridge Creek; the site of a project partnering with beaver to aid in restoration efforts. Radio telemetry was used to estimate the home range size, habitat use, and survival rates for beavers in Bridge Creek and mitochondrial DNA was used to investigate the genetic diversity of beavers in Bridge Creek. In order to put the genetic diversity of this watershed in the historical context of beaver management in Oregon, we used samples from the John Day River upstream of the Bridge Creek confluence and samples from another study being conducted in western Oregon. These samples together would represent a broader context of the western and eastern parts of Oregon, on both sides of the Cascade Range. We tracked 24 radio tagged beavers in the summer of 2011 and 22 beavers in the spring of 2012 to estimate home ranges. The mean linear home range length was 1.56 ± 0.71 km. Home ranges did not differ by sex or age except for spring 2012; female home ranges were longer than males. Home ranges encompassed nearly the entire study area of Bridge Creek and in some cases overlapped. Habitat use showed that beavers used areas of grasses and herbaceous vegetation in greater proportion to its availability for spring 2012 but did not deviate from random in summer 2011. The survival rate was estimated to be 0.92 ± 0.05 for the entire 18 month study period. While radio tagging captured beavers, a tissue sample was taken for mitochondrial DNA genetic analysis. Genetic diversity was very low for the samples from Bridge Creek beavers, and therefore we were unable to discern any genetic structuring. Eastern Oregon samples overall (Bridge Creek and John Day samples) had a low nucleotide and haplotype diversity (0.001 ± 0.001, 0.441 ± 0.056 respectively) while western Oregon samples had a higher nucleotide and haplotype diversity (0.003 ± 0.002, 0.546 ± 0.098 respectively). The two subpopulations were significantly differentiated from each other (P < 0.001, pairwise F[subscript ST] = 0.499). The information gained on the survival, home range, habitat use, and genetic diversity of beavers in Bridge Creek is important in assisting managers; partnering with beaver to meet their stream restoration goals. Although beaver relocation is an attractive tool for alleviating nuisance beaver issues while potentially restoring fish habitat, our results indicate that Bridge Creek may not be able to support more beavers in its current condition. Additional research on the social structure, through the use of microsatellites, and continued year-round monitoring of beavers within Bridge Creek and the greater John Day basin will further inform managers on the feasibility of the use of beavers as a stream restoration tool. Title: Beaver ecology in Bridge Creek, a tributary to the John Day River Author: Maenhout, Julie L. The American beaver (Castor canadensis) was nearly extirpated by the late 1800's due to the fur trade. Due to reintroduction efforts, it now occupies much of its former range. Beavers are a keystone species and ecosystem engineers, greatly influencing riparian and instream habitats through selective harvesting of plant materials and dam building. Beaver dams can accelerate the recovery of stream and riparian habitats. These habitats are beneficial to a variety of wildlife, including some fish species. Relocating nuisance beavers to areas where their damming activity will benefit fish habitat by helping restore degraded streams is gaining interest as a restoration and management tool in Oregon. However, little is known about the extant beaver populations in Oregon, including in the areas of restoration interest. We used genetic and radio telemetry approaches together to investigate the ecology of beavers in Bridge Creek; the site of a project partnering with beaver to aid in restoration efforts. Radio telemetry was used to estimate the home range size, habitat use, and survival rates for beavers in Bridge Creek and mitochondrial DNA was used to investigate the genetic diversity of beavers in Bridge Creek. In order to put the genetic diversity of this watershed in the historical context of beaver management in Oregon, we used samples from the John Day River upstream of the Bridge Creek confluence and samples from another study being conducted in western Oregon. These samples together would represent a broader context of the western and eastern parts of Oregon, on both sides of the Cascade Range. We tracked 24 radio tagged beavers in the summer of 2011 and 22 beavers in the spring of 2012 to estimate home ranges. The mean linear home range length was 1.56 ± 0.71 km. Home ranges did not differ by sex or age except for spring 2012; female home ranges were longer than males. Home ranges encompassed nearly the entire study area of Bridge Creek and in some cases overlapped. Habitat use showed that beavers used areas of grasses and herbaceous vegetation in greater proportion to its availability for spring 2012 but did not deviate from random in summer 2011. The survival rate was estimated to be 0.92 ± 0.05 for the entire 18 month study period. While radio tagging captured beavers, a tissue sample was taken for mitochondrial DNA genetic analysis. Genetic diversity was very low for the samples from Bridge Creek beavers, and therefore we were unable to discern any genetic structuring. Eastern Oregon samples overall (Bridge Creek and John Day samples) had a low nucleotide and haplotype diversity (0.001 ± 0.001, 0.441 ± 0.056 respectively) while western Oregon samples had a higher nucleotide and haplotype diversity (0.003 ± 0.002, 0.546 ± 0.098 respectively). The two subpopulations were significantly differentiated from each other (P < 0.001, pairwise F[subscript ST] = 0.499). The information gained on the survival, home range, habitat use, and genetic diversity of beavers in Bridge Creek is important in assisting managers; partnering with beaver to meet their stream restoration goals. Although beaver relocation is an attractive tool for alleviating nuisance beaver issues while potentially restoring fish habitat, our results indicate that Bridge Creek may not be able to support more beavers in its current condition. Additional research on the social structure, through the use of microsatellites, and continued year-round monitoring of beavers within Bridge Creek and the greater John Day basin will further inform managers on the feasibility of the use of beavers as a stream restoration tool. Close

• 433. [Article] Sequential isotopic analysis to characterize ontogenetic shifts and growth dynamics of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)

  Ontogenetic niche theory predicts that as organisms grow they make size-specific changes in habitat use and diet to optimize growth and survival. A variety of factors contribute to growth and survival ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Sequential isotopic analysis to characterize ontogenetic shifts and growth dynamics of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) Author: Ramirez, Matthew D. Ontogenetic niche theory predicts that as organisms grow they make size-specific changes in habitat use and diet to optimize growth and survival. A variety of factors contribute to growth and survival in different habitats, ultimately leading to variation in life history that can affect population dynamics. An understanding of the variation in timing of habitat shifts and fidelity to those habitats is critical for population dynamics modeling and evaluation of conservation strategies, especially for species whose population vital rates are sensitive to changes in growth and survival of critical life stages, such as the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Isotopic analysis of sequentially deposited structures, such as sea turtle humerus bone, provides a means of studying intraspecific life history variation. I sequentially analyzed the annual humerus bone growth increments of 84 juvenile loggerhead sea turtles for stable isotopes (δ¹³C, δ¹⁵N) to reconstruct the diet and habitat use histories of turtles undergoing an oceanic-to-neritic ontogenetic shift. I also used skeletochronological methods to evaluate the growth dynamics surrounding this transition. Generated isotopic transects were used to classify individuals into alternative life history pattern groups and were combined with body size and growth data obtained from skeletal analyses to evaluate differences in the duration, timing, and growth dynamics of ontogenetic shifts. Sea turtles that displayed increases in nitrogen stable isotope ratios (δ¹⁵N) greater than 3.0‰ over one or more years were presumed to have transitioned from oceanic to neritic diets and/or habitats based on oceanic and neritic prey isotopic information collected from the literature, and were classified into one of two life history pattern groups: discrete shifters (n = 23) completed this transition within year, while facultative shifters (n = 16) completed this transition in up to eight years. As differences in isotopic values between neritic and oceanic prey are most likely driven by differences in isotopic baselines, I propose the gradual increases in δ¹⁵N values within facultative shifters over multiple years is indicative of foraging in both oceanic and neritic habitats within growth years. Size-at-transition between habitats was similar between discrete shifters (55.1 ± 7.6 cm straightline carapace length, SCL) and facultative shifters (52.8 ± 6.9 cm SCL). Growth variance was higher for facultative shifters versus discrete shifters. Yet, mean size at transition, size-at-age relationships, and mean increment-specific growth rates were similar between turtles with alternative life history patterns. Annual growth rates generally peaked within one year of transition (31/38 of turtles), providing support for a short-term (i.e., 1-2 year) ontogenetic shift-associated growth advantage. However, there was considerable variation in the timing of maximal growth rate among turtles with some individuals exhibiting maximal growth in years prior to the ontogenetic shift (14/38 turtles). The lack of substantial differences in the timing of transition and growth dynamics between discrete and facultative shifters likely limits the influence of these alternative life history patterns on time to sexual maturity in this species, though differences in habitat-specific survival probabilities could affect loggerhead population dynamics. This study demonstrates the value of paired isotopic and skeletal analyses to the study of long-term sea turtle life history variation and its affect on growth. Title: Sequential isotopic analysis to characterize ontogenetic shifts and growth dynamics of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) Author: Ramirez, Matthew D. Ontogenetic niche theory predicts that as organisms grow they make size-specific changes in habitat use and diet to optimize growth and survival. A variety of factors contribute to growth and survival in different habitats, ultimately leading to variation in life history that can affect population dynamics. An understanding of the variation in timing of habitat shifts and fidelity to those habitats is critical for population dynamics modeling and evaluation of conservation strategies, especially for species whose population vital rates are sensitive to changes in growth and survival of critical life stages, such as the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Isotopic analysis of sequentially deposited structures, such as sea turtle humerus bone, provides a means of studying intraspecific life history variation. I sequentially analyzed the annual humerus bone growth increments of 84 juvenile loggerhead sea turtles for stable isotopes (δ¹³C, δ¹⁵N) to reconstruct the diet and habitat use histories of turtles undergoing an oceanic-to-neritic ontogenetic shift. I also used skeletochronological methods to evaluate the growth dynamics surrounding this transition. Generated isotopic transects were used to classify individuals into alternative life history pattern groups and were combined with body size and growth data obtained from skeletal analyses to evaluate differences in the duration, timing, and growth dynamics of ontogenetic shifts. Sea turtles that displayed increases in nitrogen stable isotope ratios (δ¹⁵N) greater than 3.0‰ over one or more years were presumed to have transitioned from oceanic to neritic diets and/or habitats based on oceanic and neritic prey isotopic information collected from the literature, and were classified into one of two life history pattern groups: discrete shifters (n = 23) completed this transition within year, while facultative shifters (n = 16) completed this transition in up to eight years. As differences in isotopic values between neritic and oceanic prey are most likely driven by differences in isotopic baselines, I propose the gradual increases in δ¹⁵N values within facultative shifters over multiple years is indicative of foraging in both oceanic and neritic habitats within growth years. Size-at-transition between habitats was similar between discrete shifters (55.1 ± 7.6 cm straightline carapace length, SCL) and facultative shifters (52.8 ± 6.9 cm SCL). Growth variance was higher for facultative shifters versus discrete shifters. Yet, mean size at transition, size-at-age relationships, and mean increment-specific growth rates were similar between turtles with alternative life history patterns. Annual growth rates generally peaked within one year of transition (31/38 of turtles), providing support for a short-term (i.e., 1-2 year) ontogenetic shift-associated growth advantage. However, there was considerable variation in the timing of maximal growth rate among turtles with some individuals exhibiting maximal growth in years prior to the ontogenetic shift (14/38 turtles). The lack of substantial differences in the timing of transition and growth dynamics between discrete and facultative shifters likely limits the influence of these alternative life history patterns on time to sexual maturity in this species, though differences in habitat-specific survival probabilities could affect loggerhead population dynamics. This study demonstrates the value of paired isotopic and skeletal analyses to the study of long-term sea turtle life history variation and its affect on growth. Close

• 434. [Article] Comparative wintering ecology of two subspecies of sandhill crane : informing conservation planning in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta region of California

  California's Central Valley agricultural landscapes provide several important wintering regions for Pacific Flyway sandhill crane (Grus canadensis) populations; however, the value of those regions is being ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Comparative wintering ecology of two subspecies of sandhill crane : informing conservation planning in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta region of California Author: Ivey, Gary L. California's Central Valley agricultural landscapes provide several important wintering regions for Pacific Flyway sandhill crane (Grus canadensis) populations; however, the value of those regions is being compromised by urban expansion, other developments, and conversions to incompatible crop types. Greater (G. c. tabida) and lesser sandhill cranes (G. c. canadensis) both have special conservation status in California; the greater is listed as threatened and the lesser as a bird species of conservation concern by the state. However, basic information about their wintering ecology has been lacking to design biologically sound conservation strategies to maintain their wintering habitats. My study of sandhill cranes focused on one major Central Valley wintering region, the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta (Delta). I compared daily movements and winter site fidelity between the two sandhill crane subspecies, evaluated the timing of crane arrival and departure from the region, assessed foraging habitat choices, measured abundance and distribution in the Delta, documented the characteristics of roost sites, and developed habitat conservation models and decision tools for managers to facilitate habitat conservation and management. Both crane subspecies showed strong fidelity to my Delta study area. Foraging flights from roost sites were shorter for greaters than lesser (1.2 ± 0.4 km vs. 3.1 ± 0.1 km, respectively) and consequently, mean size of 95% fixed kernel winter home ranges was an order of magnitude smaller for greaters (1.9 ± 0.4 km² vs.21.9 ± 1.9 km², respectively). The strong site fidelity of greaters to roost complexes within landscapes in the Delta indicates that conservation planning targeted at maintaining and managing for adequate food resources around traditional roost sites can be effective for meeting sandhill crane habitat needs, while the scale of conservation differs by subspecies. I recommend that conservation planning actions consider all habitats within 5 km of a crane roost as a sandhill crane conservation "ecosystem unit." This radius encompasses 95% and 69% of the flights from roosts to foraging location (commuting flights) made by greaters and lessers, respectively. For lessers, a conservation radius of 10 km would encompass 90% of the commuting flights. Management, mitigation, acquisition, easement, planning, and farm subsidy programs intended to benefit cranes will be most effective when applied at these scales. Within these radii, conservation and management of wintering habitats should include creating both new roost and feeding areas to ensure high chances of successful use. Sandhill cranes used major crops and habitat types available in the landscapes surrounding their roost sites and focused most of their foraging in grain crops. They generally avoided dry corn stubble, selected dry rice stubble early in the season, and rarely used dry wild rice stubble. Tilled fields were also usually avoided but were occasionally used shortly after tillage. Mulched corn ranked high in comparison to other corn treatments while mulched rice use was used similarly to dry rice stubble. Both subspecies often highly favored cropland habitats when they were initially flooded. Cranes were attracted to new plantings of pasture and winter wheat. One important difference between the subspecies was that lessers used alfalfa which was generally avoided by greaters. Dry corn stubble was avoided while dry rice stubble was favored early in winter. If wildlife managers want to encourage winter field use by cranes they could provide incentives for favorable practices such as production of grain crops, reduction or delaying tillage and flooding of grain fields, provision of irrigations to some crop types, and increasing the practice of mulching of corn stubble. Of the 69 crane night roosts I identified, 35 were flooded cropland sites and 34 were wetland sites. I found that both larger individual roost sites and larger complexes of roost sites supported larger peak numbers of cranes. Water depth used by roosting cranes averaged 10 cm (range 3-21 cm, mode 7 cm) and was similar between subspecies. Roosting cranes avoided sites that were regularly hunted or had high densities (i.e., > 1 blind/5 ha) of hunting blinds. Roost site design and management should consider providing and maintaining large roost complexes (100 - 1000 ha) ideally in close proximity (< 5 km) to other roost sites, with large individual sites (> 5 ha) of mostly level topography, dominated by shallow water (5-10 cm depths). The fact that cranes readily use undisturbed flooded cropland sites makes this a viable option for creation of roost habitat. Because hunting disturbance can limit crane use of roost sites I suggest these two uses should not be considered compatible. However, if the management objective of an area includes waterfowl hunting, limiting hunting at low blind densities (i.e., < 1 blind/60 ha) and restricting hunting to early morning may be viable options for creating a crane-compatible waterfowl hunt program. Radio-marked sandhill cranes arrived in the Delta beginning 3 October, most arrived in mid-October, and the last radio-marked sandhill crane arrived on 10 December. Departure dates ranged from 15 January to 13 March. Mean arrival and departure dates were similar between subspecies. From mid-December through early-February in 2007-2008, the Delta population ranged from 20,000 to 27,000 sandhill cranes. Abundance varied at the main roost sites during winter, likely because sandhill cranes responded to changes in water and foraging habitat conditions. Sandhill cranes used an area of approximately 1,500 km² for foraging. Estimated peak abundance in the Delta was more than half the total number counted on recent Pacific Flyway midwinter surveys, indicating the Delta region is a key area for efforts in conservation and recovery of wintering sandhill cranes in California. Based on arrival dates, flooding of sandhill crane roost sites should be staggered with some sites flooded in early September and most sites flooded by early October. Maintaining flooding of at least some roost sites through mid-March would provide essential roosting habitat until most birds have departed the Delta region on spring migration. Not all 5-km radius ecosystem units are equal in their value to greater sandhill cranes, and the relative foraging value of a particular parcel within an ecosystem unit depends on the numbers of cranes using the focal roost site, the habitat choices they make, and the probability that they will fly to a particular parcel. Additionally, some ecosystem units overlap, and in these overlap zones, the probability of crane use is higher, because of additive effects. To provide a tool to allow managers to further refine management plans, I developed a model which allows more specific focus of crane conservation, mitigation and habitat management, using what my study revealed about greater sandhill cranes. This model considers the abundance of greaters at individual roost sites and the probability that they would fly to a given location. Sites closer to roosts had a higher probability of crane use. I calculated the probability that greaters would fly to a parcel within concentric 1-km intervals as a product of the proportion of commuting flights of individuals that reached that interval, and the proportion of all commuting flights that reached that interval. Within crane ecosystem units, it is important to protect the existing habitat from further loss and optimize foraging conditions for cranes. I provide a decision matrix to assist with plans to enhance existing crane landscapes, create new crane habitat areas or mitigate habitat losses. This matrix provides a framework for decision-making regarding enhancing sandhill crane foraging and roost site habitats. Wildlife managers could employ a variety of tools to conserve and manage crane habitats, including fee title acquisitions, private conservation easements, and specific cropland management actions to maintain crane-compatible conditions and high food values for cranes (possibly including providing unharvested food plots). My study has demonstrated that most cranes use a relatively small landscape surrounding their traditional roost sites and that they favor certain crops and post-harvest crop management practices for foraging. However, we need a better understanding of the actual carrying capacity for cranes in these crane management zones to ensure that managers can maintain these sites for cranes in the future. Title: Comparative wintering ecology of two subspecies of sandhill crane : informing conservation planning in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta region of California Author: Ivey, Gary L. California's Central Valley agricultural landscapes provide several important wintering regions for Pacific Flyway sandhill crane (Grus canadensis) populations; however, the value of those regions is being compromised by urban expansion, other developments, and conversions to incompatible crop types. Greater (G. c. tabida) and lesser sandhill cranes (G. c. canadensis) both have special conservation status in California; the greater is listed as threatened and the lesser as a bird species of conservation concern by the state. However, basic information about their wintering ecology has been lacking to design biologically sound conservation strategies to maintain their wintering habitats. My study of sandhill cranes focused on one major Central Valley wintering region, the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta (Delta). I compared daily movements and winter site fidelity between the two sandhill crane subspecies, evaluated the timing of crane arrival and departure from the region, assessed foraging habitat choices, measured abundance and distribution in the Delta, documented the characteristics of roost sites, and developed habitat conservation models and decision tools for managers to facilitate habitat conservation and management. Both crane subspecies showed strong fidelity to my Delta study area. Foraging flights from roost sites were shorter for greaters than lesser (1.2 ± 0.4 km vs. 3.1 ± 0.1 km, respectively) and consequently, mean size of 95% fixed kernel winter home ranges was an order of magnitude smaller for greaters (1.9 ± 0.4 km² vs.21.9 ± 1.9 km², respectively). The strong site fidelity of greaters to roost complexes within landscapes in the Delta indicates that conservation planning targeted at maintaining and managing for adequate food resources around traditional roost sites can be effective for meeting sandhill crane habitat needs, while the scale of conservation differs by subspecies. I recommend that conservation planning actions consider all habitats within 5 km of a crane roost as a sandhill crane conservation "ecosystem unit." This radius encompasses 95% and 69% of the flights from roosts to foraging location (commuting flights) made by greaters and lessers, respectively. For lessers, a conservation radius of 10 km would encompass 90% of the commuting flights. Management, mitigation, acquisition, easement, planning, and farm subsidy programs intended to benefit cranes will be most effective when applied at these scales. Within these radii, conservation and management of wintering habitats should include creating both new roost and feeding areas to ensure high chances of successful use. Sandhill cranes used major crops and habitat types available in the landscapes surrounding their roost sites and focused most of their foraging in grain crops. They generally avoided dry corn stubble, selected dry rice stubble early in the season, and rarely used dry wild rice stubble. Tilled fields were also usually avoided but were occasionally used shortly after tillage. Mulched corn ranked high in comparison to other corn treatments while mulched rice use was used similarly to dry rice stubble. Both subspecies often highly favored cropland habitats when they were initially flooded. Cranes were attracted to new plantings of pasture and winter wheat. One important difference between the subspecies was that lessers used alfalfa which was generally avoided by greaters. Dry corn stubble was avoided while dry rice stubble was favored early in winter. If wildlife managers want to encourage winter field use by cranes they could provide incentives for favorable practices such as production of grain crops, reduction or delaying tillage and flooding of grain fields, provision of irrigations to some crop types, and increasing the practice of mulching of corn stubble. Of the 69 crane night roosts I identified, 35 were flooded cropland sites and 34 were wetland sites. I found that both larger individual roost sites and larger complexes of roost sites supported larger peak numbers of cranes. Water depth used by roosting cranes averaged 10 cm (range 3-21 cm, mode 7 cm) and was similar between subspecies. Roosting cranes avoided sites that were regularly hunted or had high densities (i.e., > 1 blind/5 ha) of hunting blinds. Roost site design and management should consider providing and maintaining large roost complexes (100 - 1000 ha) ideally in close proximity (< 5 km) to other roost sites, with large individual sites (> 5 ha) of mostly level topography, dominated by shallow water (5-10 cm depths). The fact that cranes readily use undisturbed flooded cropland sites makes this a viable option for creation of roost habitat. Because hunting disturbance can limit crane use of roost sites I suggest these two uses should not be considered compatible. However, if the management objective of an area includes waterfowl hunting, limiting hunting at low blind densities (i.e., < 1 blind/60 ha) and restricting hunting to early morning may be viable options for creating a crane-compatible waterfowl hunt program. Radio-marked sandhill cranes arrived in the Delta beginning 3 October, most arrived in mid-October, and the last radio-marked sandhill crane arrived on 10 December. Departure dates ranged from 15 January to 13 March. Mean arrival and departure dates were similar between subspecies. From mid-December through early-February in 2007-2008, the Delta population ranged from 20,000 to 27,000 sandhill cranes. Abundance varied at the main roost sites during winter, likely because sandhill cranes responded to changes in water and foraging habitat conditions. Sandhill cranes used an area of approximately 1,500 km² for foraging. Estimated peak abundance in the Delta was more than half the total number counted on recent Pacific Flyway midwinter surveys, indicating the Delta region is a key area for efforts in conservation and recovery of wintering sandhill cranes in California. Based on arrival dates, flooding of sandhill crane roost sites should be staggered with some sites flooded in early September and most sites flooded by early October. Maintaining flooding of at least some roost sites through mid-March would provide essential roosting habitat until most birds have departed the Delta region on spring migration. Not all 5-km radius ecosystem units are equal in their value to greater sandhill cranes, and the relative foraging value of a particular parcel within an ecosystem unit depends on the numbers of cranes using the focal roost site, the habitat choices they make, and the probability that they will fly to a particular parcel. Additionally, some ecosystem units overlap, and in these overlap zones, the probability of crane use is higher, because of additive effects. To provide a tool to allow managers to further refine management plans, I developed a model which allows more specific focus of crane conservation, mitigation and habitat management, using what my study revealed about greater sandhill cranes. This model considers the abundance of greaters at individual roost sites and the probability that they would fly to a given location. Sites closer to roosts had a higher probability of crane use. I calculated the probability that greaters would fly to a parcel within concentric 1-km intervals as a product of the proportion of commuting flights of individuals that reached that interval, and the proportion of all commuting flights that reached that interval. Within crane ecosystem units, it is important to protect the existing habitat from further loss and optimize foraging conditions for cranes. I provide a decision matrix to assist with plans to enhance existing crane landscapes, create new crane habitat areas or mitigate habitat losses. This matrix provides a framework for decision-making regarding enhancing sandhill crane foraging and roost site habitats. Wildlife managers could employ a variety of tools to conserve and manage crane habitats, including fee title acquisitions, private conservation easements, and specific cropland management actions to maintain crane-compatible conditions and high food values for cranes (possibly including providing unharvested food plots). My study has demonstrated that most cranes use a relatively small landscape surrounding their traditional roost sites and that they favor certain crops and post-harvest crop management practices for foraging. However, we need a better understanding of the actual carrying capacity for cranes in these crane management zones to ensure that managers can maintain these sites for cranes in the future. Close

• 435. [Article] Multi-season occupancy models identify biotic and abiotic factors influencing a recovering Arctic Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus tundrius population

  To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The article is copyrighted by the British Ornithologists' ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Multi-season occupancy models identify biotic and abiotic factors influencing a recovering Arctic Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus tundrius population Author: Bruggeman, Jason E., Nigro, Debora, Swem, Ted, Kennedy, Patricia L., Andersen, David E. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The article is copyrighted by the British Ornithologists' Union and published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. It can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/%28ISSN%291474-919X Title: Multi-season occupancy models identify biotic and abiotic factors influencing a recovering Arctic Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus tundrius population Author: Bruggeman, Jason E., Nigro, Debora, Swem, Ted, Kennedy, Patricia L., Andersen, David E. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The article is copyrighted by the British Ornithologists' Union and published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. It can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/%28ISSN%291474-919X Close

• 436. [Article] Validating songbird habitat relationship models

  Models are commonly used to assess and predict wildlife response to management practices. Model validation is essential if managers are to use them with confidence. Fifteen forest bird-habitat relationship ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Validating songbird habitat relationship models Author: Wilson, Dorothy G. Models are commonly used to assess and predict wildlife response to management practices. Model validation is essential if managers are to use them with confidence. Fifteen forest bird-habitat relationship models were developed by biologists using data collected from private forestland in southwest Washington. These models predict species' probability of occurring in a stand based on structural habitat variables, such as shrub cover and canopy height. In the spring/summer of 1998 and 1999, I collected data from private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestland in the vicinity of Cottage Grove, Oregon to test or validate these models. Thus, I tested the models' ability to be generalized to a different time and place. I used 3 approaches to test or validate the models: 1) accuracy of prediction; 2) trend analysis; and 3) variable coefficient comparisons. Four of the 15 models performed well in at least 2 of the 3 tests. Four of the models that performed well at predicting species occurrence also had a positive relationship between the probability of occurrence output from the model and species' abundance. However, this relationship was weak for species that had low detectabilities or low densities because of large territories. Models that performed well at predicting habitat also were more likely to have variable coefficients that were comparable between the Washington (WA) models and models I produced with the same variables using my data. Finally, because few of the models performed well, I created new models using my 1998 data and tested them with my 1999 data. These models generally performed better than the WA models; there were some similarities between variables, especially with the better performing WA models. I tested whether point count duration effects bird abundance and/or presence/absence and, thus, model performance. Point count surveys were conducted along forest roads, so there was the additional concern that surveys conducted on roads were not representative of the stand. I tested to see if there was a difference in relative abundance or species' presence/absence for on and off road surveys. I found a difference in abundance for most species between 5- and 8-minute point count surveys. Also, there were differences in presence/absence of species between the 2 counts, which had an affect on model performance. There was no difference in abundance of modeled species between on-road and off-road point count surveys except for the western tanager (Piranga ludoviciana), which was more abundant at on-road than off-road survey points. There were a few differences in presence/absence of species for on and off roads, but the differences in model performance were minimal. The models that performed well may be used to make management decisions that will affect the landscape for years to come, and thus, their accuracy needs to be continually monitored and the models adjusted accordingly. The survey length for future monitoring efforts should be 8 minutes because presence/absence of species can be more accurately accessed with this longer survey length. Survey locations should accurately depict the entire habitat to which inferences are made. Title: Validating songbird habitat relationship models Author: Wilson, Dorothy G. Models are commonly used to assess and predict wildlife response to management practices. Model validation is essential if managers are to use them with confidence. Fifteen forest bird-habitat relationship models were developed by biologists using data collected from private forestland in southwest Washington. These models predict species' probability of occurring in a stand based on structural habitat variables, such as shrub cover and canopy height. In the spring/summer of 1998 and 1999, I collected data from private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestland in the vicinity of Cottage Grove, Oregon to test or validate these models. Thus, I tested the models' ability to be generalized to a different time and place. I used 3 approaches to test or validate the models: 1) accuracy of prediction; 2) trend analysis; and 3) variable coefficient comparisons. Four of the 15 models performed well in at least 2 of the 3 tests. Four of the models that performed well at predicting species occurrence also had a positive relationship between the probability of occurrence output from the model and species' abundance. However, this relationship was weak for species that had low detectabilities or low densities because of large territories. Models that performed well at predicting habitat also were more likely to have variable coefficients that were comparable between the Washington (WA) models and models I produced with the same variables using my data. Finally, because few of the models performed well, I created new models using my 1998 data and tested them with my 1999 data. These models generally performed better than the WA models; there were some similarities between variables, especially with the better performing WA models. I tested whether point count duration effects bird abundance and/or presence/absence and, thus, model performance. Point count surveys were conducted along forest roads, so there was the additional concern that surveys conducted on roads were not representative of the stand. I tested to see if there was a difference in relative abundance or species' presence/absence for on and off road surveys. I found a difference in abundance for most species between 5- and 8-minute point count surveys. Also, there were differences in presence/absence of species between the 2 counts, which had an affect on model performance. There was no difference in abundance of modeled species between on-road and off-road point count surveys except for the western tanager (Piranga ludoviciana), which was more abundant at on-road than off-road survey points. There were a few differences in presence/absence of species for on and off roads, but the differences in model performance were minimal. The models that performed well may be used to make management decisions that will affect the landscape for years to come, and thus, their accuracy needs to be continually monitored and the models adjusted accordingly. The survey length for future monitoring efforts should be 8 minutes because presence/absence of species can be more accurately accessed with this longer survey length. Survey locations should accurately depict the entire habitat to which inferences are made. Close

• 437. [Article] Organization and the adaptation of aquatic laboratory ecosystems to resource availability, exploitation, and a toxicant

  Organization and the adaptation of aquatic laboratory ecosystems to resource availability, exploitation, and a toxicant were examined in a 34-month study. Sixteen 560-liter microcosms including prey, predator, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Organization and the adaptation of aquatic laboratory ecosystems to resource availability, exploitation, and a toxicant Author: Woltering, Daniel Mark Organization and the adaptation of aquatic laboratory ecosystems to resource availability, exploitation, and a toxicant were examined in a 34-month study. Sixteen 560-liter microcosms including prey, predator, and competitor populations were employed over a wide range of energy and habitat resource availability and exploitation of the top predator. Chronic exposure to the pesticide dieldrin was used to perturb systems near steady states. Empirical generalizations from ecological theory, productivity theory, and fishery exploitation theory were incorporated to explain in part such performances as development, structure, and persistence of the laboratory ecosystems, their communities, populations, and individual organisms. Dynamic (developmental) and near steady-state community structure and organization were detailed for guppy, amphipod, snail, planaria, and algae populations and for a benthic detritus and microorganism component. Near steady-state population performances including density, production, yield, and size-specific growth and reproduction were determined for the guppy population in order to demonstrate the concordance of life history, population, and community level performances with changes in environmental conditions. A system of isoclines on a series of interrelated resource-utilizer and competition phase planes was employed to gain a better understanding of the structure and apparent organization of the laboratory systems. The 16 systems were established with a 0.6 gram/day alfalfa ration, 20 percent of each tank bottom covered with gravel for invertebrate habitat, and 0, 10, 20, or 40 percent guppy exploitation per month. Exploitation directly affected the size of the guppy populations near steady state (through observed changes in production, yield, growth, and reproduction) and indirectly affected the size of snail and amphipod populations which responded to competition and/or predation from guppies. Following many months of near steady-state system behavior (i. e. restricted fluctuations of population biomasses), eight systems were shifted to a 4.0 grams/day alfalfa ration and 95 percent gravel cover. These high energy and habitat level systems were characterized by relatively complex trophic and habitat resource partitioning. These systems developed different population interactions and community structure and had much higher population densities. At the same time, four low energy and habitat level systems (one at each guppy exploitation rate) with well established near steady states began continuous exposure to 1.0 ppb dieldrin in the water. The response of the laboratory systems to the toxicant was determined by the levels of prevailing environmental conditions as well as by the system's organization and the capacity of the populations to adapt and to persist. There were both density-dependent (via exploitation) and time-dependent components to the response to toxicant perturbation. In general, dieldrin reduced the growth and reproduction of the guppies, this resulting in smaller population biomasses. Amphipod biomasses increased in response to reduced predation and competition. The ecosystem with 0 percent exploitation (i.e. the largest guppy biomass) responded immediately with apparent dieldrin induced mortalities of mature fish. However, eventually the population recovered its lost biomass. There was no apparent initial response at 40 percent exploitation (i. e. smallest guppy biomass), but after 15 months of exposure the guppy population went extinct apparently from the. combined stress of exploitation and toxicant. Community organization and its expression in community development, structure, and persistence involved the adaptation of species populations to each other, to available energy and materials, to habitat, to climatic conditions including water quality and temperature, to exploitation, and to the introduction of the toxicant. Manipulating energy and habitat availability, exploitation levels, and toxicant presence altered near steady-state community, population, and individual organism performances. In these responses to environmental conditions, there was a certain concordance of community, population, and life history patterns that constitutes adaptation of the community and its subsystems. Title: Organization and the adaptation of aquatic laboratory ecosystems to resource availability, exploitation, and a toxicant Author: Woltering, Daniel Mark Organization and the adaptation of aquatic laboratory ecosystems to resource availability, exploitation, and a toxicant were examined in a 34-month study. Sixteen 560-liter microcosms including prey, predator, and competitor populations were employed over a wide range of energy and habitat resource availability and exploitation of the top predator. Chronic exposure to the pesticide dieldrin was used to perturb systems near steady states. Empirical generalizations from ecological theory, productivity theory, and fishery exploitation theory were incorporated to explain in part such performances as development, structure, and persistence of the laboratory ecosystems, their communities, populations, and individual organisms. Dynamic (developmental) and near steady-state community structure and organization were detailed for guppy, amphipod, snail, planaria, and algae populations and for a benthic detritus and microorganism component. Near steady-state population performances including density, production, yield, and size-specific growth and reproduction were determined for the guppy population in order to demonstrate the concordance of life history, population, and community level performances with changes in environmental conditions. A system of isoclines on a series of interrelated resource-utilizer and competition phase planes was employed to gain a better understanding of the structure and apparent organization of the laboratory systems. The 16 systems were established with a 0.6 gram/day alfalfa ration, 20 percent of each tank bottom covered with gravel for invertebrate habitat, and 0, 10, 20, or 40 percent guppy exploitation per month. Exploitation directly affected the size of the guppy populations near steady state (through observed changes in production, yield, growth, and reproduction) and indirectly affected the size of snail and amphipod populations which responded to competition and/or predation from guppies. Following many months of near steady-state system behavior (i. e. restricted fluctuations of population biomasses), eight systems were shifted to a 4.0 grams/day alfalfa ration and 95 percent gravel cover. These high energy and habitat level systems were characterized by relatively complex trophic and habitat resource partitioning. These systems developed different population interactions and community structure and had much higher population densities. At the same time, four low energy and habitat level systems (one at each guppy exploitation rate) with well established near steady states began continuous exposure to 1.0 ppb dieldrin in the water. The response of the laboratory systems to the toxicant was determined by the levels of prevailing environmental conditions as well as by the system's organization and the capacity of the populations to adapt and to persist. There were both density-dependent (via exploitation) and time-dependent components to the response to toxicant perturbation. In general, dieldrin reduced the growth and reproduction of the guppies, this resulting in smaller population biomasses. Amphipod biomasses increased in response to reduced predation and competition. The ecosystem with 0 percent exploitation (i.e. the largest guppy biomass) responded immediately with apparent dieldrin induced mortalities of mature fish. However, eventually the population recovered its lost biomass. There was no apparent initial response at 40 percent exploitation (i. e. smallest guppy biomass), but after 15 months of exposure the guppy population went extinct apparently from the. combined stress of exploitation and toxicant. Community organization and its expression in community development, structure, and persistence involved the adaptation of species populations to each other, to available energy and materials, to habitat, to climatic conditions including water quality and temperature, to exploitation, and to the introduction of the toxicant. Manipulating energy and habitat availability, exploitation levels, and toxicant presence altered near steady-state community, population, and individual organism performances. In these responses to environmental conditions, there was a certain concordance of community, population, and life history patterns that constitutes adaptation of the community and its subsystems. Close

• 438. [Article] Phyto-edaphic relationships and ecotypic development of Festuca idahoensis in eastern Oregon habitat types of Artemisia tridentata

  This research assessed certain specific plant-soil and community interrelationships in eastern Oregon habitat types dominated by subspecies of Artemisia tridentata. The first evaluation described plant-induced ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Phyto-edaphic relationships and ecotypic development of Festuca idahoensis in eastern Oregon habitat types of Artemisia tridentata Author: Doescher, Paul Steven This research assessed certain specific plant-soil and community interrelationships in eastern Oregon habitat types dominated by subspecies of Artemisia tridentata. The first evaluation described plant-induced soil chemical patterns for Artemisia tridentata plant communities of high perennial grass-low shrub and low perennial grass-high shrub composition. Soil concentrations of total nitrogen, organic matter, potassium and phosphorus were greater in surface horizons under shrub influenced soils than bare soil areas or soils influenced by grasses. Magnesium concentrations generally increased in lower soil horizons. Less distinct soil chemical patterns were apparent as soil depth increased. Percentage of land area occupied by sagebrush, perennial grasses and bare soil interspaces changed as range condition declined. The second investigation assessed ecotypic development in Festuca idahoensis from sagebrush and pine communities. Results from a transplant garden indicated ramets from a Pinus ponderosa site were slower in phenological development and exhibited greater vegetative growth than collections from three lower elevation A. tridentata habitat types. Within collections from sagebrush sites, similar phenological timing was observed. Vegetative and floral development was reduced in plants selected from a habitat type dominated by A. tridentata ssp. wyomingensis in comparison to ramets gathered from a high and low elevation A. tridentata spp. vaseyana habitat type. Evaluation of germination characteristics under conditions of controlled temperature and moisture stress revealed differences in relation to collection site. Seeds gathered from a Pinus ponderosa dominated community exhibited reduced germination under stress conditions. It was concluded response in F. idahoensis ecotypes to controlled environmental conditions reflected adaptational genetics of plants from the various collection sites. The final assessment involved characterization of vegetation and soils for the Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Festuca idahoensis habitat type. This habitat type had not previously been described for other intermountain rangeland areas. Idaho fescue was the dominant understory perennial in climax communities, with Poa sandbergii, Sitanion hystrix and A. tridentata ssp. wyomingensis increasing as range condition declined. Bromus tectorum was most prevalent on sites with coarse textured soils. Title: Phyto-edaphic relationships and ecotypic development of Festuca idahoensis in eastern Oregon habitat types of Artemisia tridentata Author: Doescher, Paul Steven This research assessed certain specific plant-soil and community interrelationships in eastern Oregon habitat types dominated by subspecies of Artemisia tridentata. The first evaluation described plant-induced soil chemical patterns for Artemisia tridentata plant communities of high perennial grass-low shrub and low perennial grass-high shrub composition. Soil concentrations of total nitrogen, organic matter, potassium and phosphorus were greater in surface horizons under shrub influenced soils than bare soil areas or soils influenced by grasses. Magnesium concentrations generally increased in lower soil horizons. Less distinct soil chemical patterns were apparent as soil depth increased. Percentage of land area occupied by sagebrush, perennial grasses and bare soil interspaces changed as range condition declined. The second investigation assessed ecotypic development in Festuca idahoensis from sagebrush and pine communities. Results from a transplant garden indicated ramets from a Pinus ponderosa site were slower in phenological development and exhibited greater vegetative growth than collections from three lower elevation A. tridentata habitat types. Within collections from sagebrush sites, similar phenological timing was observed. Vegetative and floral development was reduced in plants selected from a habitat type dominated by A. tridentata ssp. wyomingensis in comparison to ramets gathered from a high and low elevation A. tridentata spp. vaseyana habitat type. Evaluation of germination characteristics under conditions of controlled temperature and moisture stress revealed differences in relation to collection site. Seeds gathered from a Pinus ponderosa dominated community exhibited reduced germination under stress conditions. It was concluded response in F. idahoensis ecotypes to controlled environmental conditions reflected adaptational genetics of plants from the various collection sites. The final assessment involved characterization of vegetation and soils for the Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Festuca idahoensis habitat type. This habitat type had not previously been described for other intermountain rangeland areas. Idaho fescue was the dominant understory perennial in climax communities, with Poa sandbergii, Sitanion hystrix and A. tridentata ssp. wyomingensis increasing as range condition declined. Bromus tectorum was most prevalent on sites with coarse textured soils. Close

• 439. [Article] The influences of habitat structure and landscape heterogeneity on African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) group size in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa

  This study aimed to connect habitat and landscape scale variation, through time and space, to wildlife population dynamics. I studied African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) group size according to habitat structure, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The influences of habitat structure and landscape heterogeneity on African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) group size in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa Author: Dora, Cathleen Anna This study aimed to connect habitat and landscape scale variation, through time and space, to wildlife population dynamics. I studied African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) group size according to habitat structure, landscape heterogeneity, forage quality, and water availability in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa. I used two approaches to study grouping behavior of buffalo-daily field observations and digital vegetation classification and mapping home range areas to quantify seasonal and geographic changes. Daily buffalo observations included a record of tree and shrub density within habitat patches and buffalo group counts. I concluded that buffalo occurred in smaller groups during the dry season. During both seasons, buffalo maintained larger groups in more open habitat and in the dry season, group size also depended on grass quality. To examine landscape heterogeneity, a Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM) satellite image was classified into structural vegetation types and radio tracking data from ten herds were used to calculate and delineate home range area. Vegetation structure and water availability were summarized in each home range area and an average buffalo group size was calculated for each herd in each season. During the dry season, average vegetation density was the only significant influence on group size. Again, buffalo maintained larger groups in more open areas. During the wet season, vegetation density did not affect group size, but the heterogeneity of vegetation types within the home range did. Buffalo were found in larger groups in more heterogeneous home range areas. The total size of the herd was also a significant influence in the wet season. Larger herds maintained larger average groups. I also determined the influence of vegetation structure and landscape heterogeneity on group size variability within herds. During the dry season, variability was affected by home range heterogeneity, total herd size, and, marginally, by water availability. In the dry season, more variability was observed in heterogeneous areas and areas with more permanent water. Larger herds also had more group size variability than small herds. In the wet season variability was determined by total herd size only. Larger herds had more variability than small herds. This study has important implications in terms of wildlife management. I have shown that habitat structure, forage availability, and landscape heterogeneity significantly affect buffalo population dynamics. I have also presented a method to quantify vegetation factors on a landscape scale and determine how those factors can influence wildlife populations. The map of structural vegetation can also be used to examine the effects of landscape change, yearly burning regimes, and large herbivores on the reserve's ecosystem. Title: The influences of habitat structure and landscape heterogeneity on African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) group size in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa Author: Dora, Cathleen Anna This study aimed to connect habitat and landscape scale variation, through time and space, to wildlife population dynamics. I studied African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) group size according to habitat structure, landscape heterogeneity, forage quality, and water availability in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa. I used two approaches to study grouping behavior of buffalo-daily field observations and digital vegetation classification and mapping home range areas to quantify seasonal and geographic changes. Daily buffalo observations included a record of tree and shrub density within habitat patches and buffalo group counts. I concluded that buffalo occurred in smaller groups during the dry season. During both seasons, buffalo maintained larger groups in more open habitat and in the dry season, group size also depended on grass quality. To examine landscape heterogeneity, a Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM) satellite image was classified into structural vegetation types and radio tracking data from ten herds were used to calculate and delineate home range area. Vegetation structure and water availability were summarized in each home range area and an average buffalo group size was calculated for each herd in each season. During the dry season, average vegetation density was the only significant influence on group size. Again, buffalo maintained larger groups in more open areas. During the wet season, vegetation density did not affect group size, but the heterogeneity of vegetation types within the home range did. Buffalo were found in larger groups in more heterogeneous home range areas. The total size of the herd was also a significant influence in the wet season. Larger herds maintained larger average groups. I also determined the influence of vegetation structure and landscape heterogeneity on group size variability within herds. During the dry season, variability was affected by home range heterogeneity, total herd size, and, marginally, by water availability. In the dry season, more variability was observed in heterogeneous areas and areas with more permanent water. Larger herds also had more group size variability than small herds. In the wet season variability was determined by total herd size only. Larger herds had more variability than small herds. This study has important implications in terms of wildlife management. I have shown that habitat structure, forage availability, and landscape heterogeneity significantly affect buffalo population dynamics. I have also presented a method to quantify vegetation factors on a landscape scale and determine how those factors can influence wildlife populations. The map of structural vegetation can also be used to examine the effects of landscape change, yearly burning regimes, and large herbivores on the reserve's ecosystem. Close

• 440. [Article] Migration, movement, and habitat use of humpback whitefish (Coregonus pidschian) in the Copper River Delta, Alaska

  Research conducted on humpback whitefish Coregonus pidschian in the Copper River Delta, Alaska has revealed a complex life history involving seasonal migrations and the occupation of a variety of freshwater ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Migration, movement, and habitat use of humpback whitefish (Coregonus pidschian) in the Copper River Delta, Alaska Author: Neilson, Brian J. Research conducted on humpback whitefish Coregonus pidschian in the Copper River Delta, Alaska has revealed a complex life history involving seasonal migrations and the occupation of a variety of freshwater and marine habitats including lacustrine, riverine, estuarine, and marine. Forty-five whitefish were tagged with radio transmitters in 2006 and 2007, and another 29 whitefish were tagged with acoustic tags in 2008. In addition, otolith chemistry was used to evaluate marine habitat use of humpback whitefish sampled from McKinley Lake in the Copper River Delta, Alaska. Movements and migration of tagged fish were tracked using biotelemetry techniques from boats, airplanes, and fixed receiver stations throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Sagittal otoliths were extracted from 20 humpback whitefish and a chemical analysis was performed to evaluate levels of Sr:Ca. Biotelemetry and sampling results revealed seasonal migrations where humpback whitefish migrated into McKinley Lake in mid to late spring and left the lake by late summer and early fall. Fish migrated to the Copper River in the fall by traveling down Alaganik Slough and then to the Copper River by traveling through Pete Dahl Cutoff Slough or the Gulf of Alaska. Fish travel up the Copper River presumably to their spawning grounds. Nine tagged fish returned to McKinley Lake in 2007 and four tagged fish in 2008, indicating some fidelity to the summer feeding site. Otolith chemistry detected marine migrations in 45% of the samples. Three migratory behaviors were observed, while some individuals inhabited only freshwater environments, some individuals made single migrations to marine habitats, and other individuals made multiple migrations to marine habitats. Age of whitefish ranged from 2 to 9 years. Analysis of small-scale movement of humpback whitefish in McKinley Lake found movement rates to be significantly higher at dusk compared to night in one sampling period. However, diel movement activity in all other diel periods did not significantly differ, suggesting arrhythmic diel movement. A large portion of the lake was occupied at any given time, but not all areas were used equally. Activity levels, measured by change in zones, were variable between dates and indicated that fish often moved between detection zones. An increase in activity was observed in individuals 48 h prior to migration from the lake. This study provides the first documentation of migration, movement, and habitat use of humpback whitefish in the Copper River Delta, Alaska. Results of this study will help inform management of humpback whitefish in order to sustain populations into the future. This information should be considered in land use and species management planning in the Copper River basin including fish passage and harvest regulations. Title: Migration, movement, and habitat use of humpback whitefish (Coregonus pidschian) in the Copper River Delta, Alaska Author: Neilson, Brian J. Research conducted on humpback whitefish Coregonus pidschian in the Copper River Delta, Alaska has revealed a complex life history involving seasonal migrations and the occupation of a variety of freshwater and marine habitats including lacustrine, riverine, estuarine, and marine. Forty-five whitefish were tagged with radio transmitters in 2006 and 2007, and another 29 whitefish were tagged with acoustic tags in 2008. In addition, otolith chemistry was used to evaluate marine habitat use of humpback whitefish sampled from McKinley Lake in the Copper River Delta, Alaska. Movements and migration of tagged fish were tracked using biotelemetry techniques from boats, airplanes, and fixed receiver stations throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Sagittal otoliths were extracted from 20 humpback whitefish and a chemical analysis was performed to evaluate levels of Sr:Ca. Biotelemetry and sampling results revealed seasonal migrations where humpback whitefish migrated into McKinley Lake in mid to late spring and left the lake by late summer and early fall. Fish migrated to the Copper River in the fall by traveling down Alaganik Slough and then to the Copper River by traveling through Pete Dahl Cutoff Slough or the Gulf of Alaska. Fish travel up the Copper River presumably to their spawning grounds. Nine tagged fish returned to McKinley Lake in 2007 and four tagged fish in 2008, indicating some fidelity to the summer feeding site. Otolith chemistry detected marine migrations in 45% of the samples. Three migratory behaviors were observed, while some individuals inhabited only freshwater environments, some individuals made single migrations to marine habitats, and other individuals made multiple migrations to marine habitats. Age of whitefish ranged from 2 to 9 years. Analysis of small-scale movement of humpback whitefish in McKinley Lake found movement rates to be significantly higher at dusk compared to night in one sampling period. However, diel movement activity in all other diel periods did not significantly differ, suggesting arrhythmic diel movement. A large portion of the lake was occupied at any given time, but not all areas were used equally. Activity levels, measured by change in zones, were variable between dates and indicated that fish often moved between detection zones. An increase in activity was observed in individuals 48 h prior to migration from the lake. This study provides the first documentation of migration, movement, and habitat use of humpback whitefish in the Copper River Delta, Alaska. Results of this study will help inform management of humpback whitefish in order to sustain populations into the future. This information should be considered in land use and species management planning in the Copper River basin including fish passage and harvest regulations. Close

• 441. [Article] Effects of thinning on forest-floor vertebrates and analysis of habitat associations along ecological gradients in Oregon coastal Douglas-fir forests

  Thinning has the potential to increase structural diversity of managed forests for wildlife. During 1994-1996, I conducted experimental and observational studies using pitfall trapping to assess short-term ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Effects of thinning on forest-floor vertebrates and analysis of habitat associations along ecological gradients in Oregon coastal Douglas-fir forests Author: Suzuki, Nobuya Thinning has the potential to increase structural diversity of managed forests for wildlife. During 1994-1996, I conducted experimental and observational studies using pitfall trapping to assess short-term and potential long-term effects of thinning on abundance and reproduction of forest-floor vertebrates in Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menzeisii) forests of the Oregon Coast Range. Thinning had posititive effects on relative abundances of creeping voles (Microtus oregoni) and Pacific jumping mice (Zapus trinotatus) in both the short term and the long term. In contrast, relative abundance of western red-backed salamanders (Plethodon vehiculum) was lower in stands thinned 7-24 years previously than unthinned stands, suggesting potential negative effects of thinning in the long term. Relative abundance of western red-backed voles (Clethrionomys calfornicus) decreased within 2 years of thinning but was similar in stands thinned 7-24 years previously and unthinned stands. However, reproductive performance of western red-backed voles was higher in thinned than unthinned stands, suggesting potential positive effects of thinning on reproduction of the voles in the long term. In 1994, I investigated the influences of ecological gradients on habitat associations of forest-floor vertebrates at microsite and stand scales in 12 Douglas-fir stands in the stem exclusion stage. I examined various gradients of microclimate, stand structure, plant community composition, and downed wood. Among the ecological gradients I examined, the highest number of species was influenced by red alder/herb conifer/shrub gradient of community composition at both the microsite and stand scales. At the microsite scale, 7 species were associated with red alder/herb communities whereas only 2 species were associated with conifer/shrub communities. Red-alder patches with herb understory, therefore, have a potential role in maintaining biodiversity of forest-floor vertebrate communities in young Douglas-fir dominated stands. Furthermore, I found that habitat associations of 4 shrew species were generally consistent between the microsite and stand scales, whereas those of 3 rodent species were inconsistent between the 2 spatial scales. I hypothesized that this rodent-shrew dichotomy in habitat association occurring at the 2 spatial scales is a result of differences in their ability to explore habitats at multiple spatial scales. Title: Effects of thinning on forest-floor vertebrates and analysis of habitat associations along ecological gradients in Oregon coastal Douglas-fir forests Author: Suzuki, Nobuya Thinning has the potential to increase structural diversity of managed forests for wildlife. During 1994-1996, I conducted experimental and observational studies using pitfall trapping to assess short-term and potential long-term effects of thinning on abundance and reproduction of forest-floor vertebrates in Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menzeisii) forests of the Oregon Coast Range. Thinning had posititive effects on relative abundances of creeping voles (Microtus oregoni) and Pacific jumping mice (Zapus trinotatus) in both the short term and the long term. In contrast, relative abundance of western red-backed salamanders (Plethodon vehiculum) was lower in stands thinned 7-24 years previously than unthinned stands, suggesting potential negative effects of thinning in the long term. Relative abundance of western red-backed voles (Clethrionomys calfornicus) decreased within 2 years of thinning but was similar in stands thinned 7-24 years previously and unthinned stands. However, reproductive performance of western red-backed voles was higher in thinned than unthinned stands, suggesting potential positive effects of thinning on reproduction of the voles in the long term. In 1994, I investigated the influences of ecological gradients on habitat associations of forest-floor vertebrates at microsite and stand scales in 12 Douglas-fir stands in the stem exclusion stage. I examined various gradients of microclimate, stand structure, plant community composition, and downed wood. Among the ecological gradients I examined, the highest number of species was influenced by red alder/herb conifer/shrub gradient of community composition at both the microsite and stand scales. At the microsite scale, 7 species were associated with red alder/herb communities whereas only 2 species were associated with conifer/shrub communities. Red-alder patches with herb understory, therefore, have a potential role in maintaining biodiversity of forest-floor vertebrate communities in young Douglas-fir dominated stands. Furthermore, I found that habitat associations of 4 shrew species were generally consistent between the microsite and stand scales, whereas those of 3 rodent species were inconsistent between the 2 spatial scales. I hypothesized that this rodent-shrew dichotomy in habitat association occurring at the 2 spatial scales is a result of differences in their ability to explore habitats at multiple spatial scales. Close

• 442. [Article] Aquatic invertebrate-habitat relationships and stream channel cross section area change in response to streamside management zones in North Central Mississippi

  The southern states lead the country in timber production and are subject to Best Management Practices (BMPs) designed to mediate the effects of forest harvesting on water quality. Small headwater streams ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Aquatic invertebrate-habitat relationships and stream channel cross section area change in response to streamside management zones in North Central Mississippi Author: Luecker, Terry A. The southern states lead the country in timber production and are subject to Best Management Practices (BMPs) designed to mediate the effects of forest harvesting on water quality. Small headwater streams on timberland in North Central Mississippi have received little attention with respect to effectiveness of the BMPs designed to protect them. With stand rotations of 25-30 years and with some counties held in nearly 30% private industrial forestry ownership, impacts of intensive forest management on water resources have the potential to be large. In North Central Mississippi, I evaluated the effectiveness of Streamside Management Zones (SMZs), corridors of the riparian zone along the stream left unharvested, as a component of BMPs. The streams sampled were low-order perennial headwaters either within a clearcut with no SMZ, a clearcut with an SMZ, or a site that had not been harvested. Aquatic invertebrate community composition, habitat and substrate composition, and stream channel cross-section areas were evaluated in 2002 and again in 2003. My objectives were 1) to describe the invertebrates and habitat conditions at each site, 2) to determine if there are relationships between invertebrates and water quality, cover metrics, or relative amounts of substrate size fractions, and 3) to determine whether or not there were detectable treatment effects on either substrate composition or stream channel cross-section areas. Water quality, cover, and substrate size classes were highly variable within each harvest treatment. No significant differences were found downstream of harvest treatments for relative distribution of substrate within each harvest treatment group. Even though the habitat and substrate were highly variable, the invertebrate composition at many sites was dominated by a single family, Chironomidae. Ordinations of the presence of invertebrate taxa using non-metric multidimensional scaling showed a separation of the Reference and No-SMZ treatment groups for 2003, indicating that treatment effects may only be expressed in the biota and not in physical stream habitat characteristics measured by this study three to five years after harvesting. Changes in stream channel cross-section area occurred for all treatments, with Reference treatments degrading and SMZ and No-SMZ treatments aggrading between 24 and 29 months after harvesting treatments were established. Overall, No-SMZ treatments did not have significant changes in stream channel cross-section between sampling intervals, while Reference and SMZ treated streams changed significantly throughout the study. High natural variability of the streams made it difficult to discern differences in stream habitat parameters for each harvest treatment. Differences between Reference and No-SMZ sites in the 2003 ordinations and between No-SMZ and the other treatments for stream channel cross-sections indicated that SMZs are functioning in these low-order streams. Title: Aquatic invertebrate-habitat relationships and stream channel cross section area change in response to streamside management zones in North Central Mississippi Author: Luecker, Terry A. The southern states lead the country in timber production and are subject to Best Management Practices (BMPs) designed to mediate the effects of forest harvesting on water quality. Small headwater streams on timberland in North Central Mississippi have received little attention with respect to effectiveness of the BMPs designed to protect them. With stand rotations of 25-30 years and with some counties held in nearly 30% private industrial forestry ownership, impacts of intensive forest management on water resources have the potential to be large. In North Central Mississippi, I evaluated the effectiveness of Streamside Management Zones (SMZs), corridors of the riparian zone along the stream left unharvested, as a component of BMPs. The streams sampled were low-order perennial headwaters either within a clearcut with no SMZ, a clearcut with an SMZ, or a site that had not been harvested. Aquatic invertebrate community composition, habitat and substrate composition, and stream channel cross-section areas were evaluated in 2002 and again in 2003. My objectives were 1) to describe the invertebrates and habitat conditions at each site, 2) to determine if there are relationships between invertebrates and water quality, cover metrics, or relative amounts of substrate size fractions, and 3) to determine whether or not there were detectable treatment effects on either substrate composition or stream channel cross-section areas. Water quality, cover, and substrate size classes were highly variable within each harvest treatment. No significant differences were found downstream of harvest treatments for relative distribution of substrate within each harvest treatment group. Even though the habitat and substrate were highly variable, the invertebrate composition at many sites was dominated by a single family, Chironomidae. Ordinations of the presence of invertebrate taxa using non-metric multidimensional scaling showed a separation of the Reference and No-SMZ treatment groups for 2003, indicating that treatment effects may only be expressed in the biota and not in physical stream habitat characteristics measured by this study three to five years after harvesting. Changes in stream channel cross-section area occurred for all treatments, with Reference treatments degrading and SMZ and No-SMZ treatments aggrading between 24 and 29 months after harvesting treatments were established. Overall, No-SMZ treatments did not have significant changes in stream channel cross-section between sampling intervals, while Reference and SMZ treated streams changed significantly throughout the study. High natural variability of the streams made it difficult to discern differences in stream habitat parameters for each harvest treatment. Differences between Reference and No-SMZ sites in the 2003 ordinations and between No-SMZ and the other treatments for stream channel cross-sections indicated that SMZs are functioning in these low-order streams. Close

• 443. [Article] How the animals found their places : pattern detection, experimentation, and epistemology in a high desert stream fish assemblage

  I examined the relative roles of biotic and abiotic factors in structuring redband trout Oncorhynchus mykiss distributions in the South Fork John Day. I first examined the relationship between the biological ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: How the animals found their places : pattern detection, experimentation, and epistemology in a high desert stream fish assemblage Author: White, Seth Michael I examined the relative roles of biotic and abiotic factors in structuring redband trout Oncorhynchus mykiss distributions in the South Fork John Day. I first examined the relationship between the biological traits of the fish assemblage and riparian-geomorphic features in context of prevailing theories of stream ecology stemming from the river continuum concept (Chapter 2). I found that fish traits and habitat characteristics were related to one another in a different manner according to the spatial scale of observation (watershed, tributary, and reach scales) and that mode of species coexistence (niche overlap, niche partitioning, and non-associative) was correlated more strongly with the distribution of traits than with environmental features, suggesting that biotic interactions play an important role in structuring the fish assemblage. Next, I described the 'behaviorscape' of redband trout foraging and aggression in context of prevailing foraging theory (Chapter 3, Part I). I found that redband trout behaviors could be described in terms of expected energetic gains and losses and potentially predation risk, with 'risky' behaviors yielding higher expected energetic gains in habitats with abundant structural refugia. These findings raised the questions of how fish growth and foraging behavior would be affected by increased food resources, questions which I addressed via a supplemental feeding experiment in two streams (Chapter 3, Part II). I observed nearly an order of magnitude increase in instantaneous growth rates of redband trout O. mykiss and a potential competitor, juvenile Chinook salmon O. tshawytscha, upon feeding, demonstrating that food is a limiting factor for salmonid growth in this system. Also upon feeding, redband trout foraging and aggression increased in a stream with no heterospecifics, lower discharge, and colder water temperature, but not in a stream with the opposite characteristics. These findings suggested that O. mykiss and O. tshawytscha may coexist in a state of interactive segregation, contrary to the common wisdom that the two species are selectively segregated and have therefore evolved fully-distinct habitat preferences. To acquire further evidence for this hypothesis and to elucidate the role of competitor densities on habitat selection at local scales (which would in turn affect fish distribution patterns at larger scales), I employed a multi-species habitat selection model (Chapter 4). Redband trout habitat selection of enriched patches was negatively affected by conspecific densities as expected, but positively affected by juvenile Chinook densities, a finding that I attribute to habitat effects or heterospecific attraction. Redband trout foraging and aggression decreased in the presence of both conspecifics and heterospecifics, and aggression appeared to decrease with supplemental feeding. These contrary results between the former and latter experiments testing for aggression as a response to feeding are explained via the manner in which food was delivered to the stream, pulsed at dawn and dusk versus delivered evenly over time, respectively. In the concluding chapter (Chapter 5), I make the case that restoration practices acknowledging a broad range of potential drivers for species distributions—including behaviorally-mediated biotic interactions among the fish assemblage—will better serve a broader range of restoration goals. Title: How the animals found their places : pattern detection, experimentation, and epistemology in a high desert stream fish assemblage Author: White, Seth Michael I examined the relative roles of biotic and abiotic factors in structuring redband trout Oncorhynchus mykiss distributions in the South Fork John Day. I first examined the relationship between the biological traits of the fish assemblage and riparian-geomorphic features in context of prevailing theories of stream ecology stemming from the river continuum concept (Chapter 2). I found that fish traits and habitat characteristics were related to one another in a different manner according to the spatial scale of observation (watershed, tributary, and reach scales) and that mode of species coexistence (niche overlap, niche partitioning, and non-associative) was correlated more strongly with the distribution of traits than with environmental features, suggesting that biotic interactions play an important role in structuring the fish assemblage. Next, I described the 'behaviorscape' of redband trout foraging and aggression in context of prevailing foraging theory (Chapter 3, Part I). I found that redband trout behaviors could be described in terms of expected energetic gains and losses and potentially predation risk, with 'risky' behaviors yielding higher expected energetic gains in habitats with abundant structural refugia. These findings raised the questions of how fish growth and foraging behavior would be affected by increased food resources, questions which I addressed via a supplemental feeding experiment in two streams (Chapter 3, Part II). I observed nearly an order of magnitude increase in instantaneous growth rates of redband trout O. mykiss and a potential competitor, juvenile Chinook salmon O. tshawytscha, upon feeding, demonstrating that food is a limiting factor for salmonid growth in this system. Also upon feeding, redband trout foraging and aggression increased in a stream with no heterospecifics, lower discharge, and colder water temperature, but not in a stream with the opposite characteristics. These findings suggested that O. mykiss and O. tshawytscha may coexist in a state of interactive segregation, contrary to the common wisdom that the two species are selectively segregated and have therefore evolved fully-distinct habitat preferences. To acquire further evidence for this hypothesis and to elucidate the role of competitor densities on habitat selection at local scales (which would in turn affect fish distribution patterns at larger scales), I employed a multi-species habitat selection model (Chapter 4). Redband trout habitat selection of enriched patches was negatively affected by conspecific densities as expected, but positively affected by juvenile Chinook densities, a finding that I attribute to habitat effects or heterospecific attraction. Redband trout foraging and aggression decreased in the presence of both conspecifics and heterospecifics, and aggression appeared to decrease with supplemental feeding. These contrary results between the former and latter experiments testing for aggression as a response to feeding are explained via the manner in which food was delivered to the stream, pulsed at dawn and dusk versus delivered evenly over time, respectively. In the concluding chapter (Chapter 5), I make the case that restoration practices acknowledging a broad range of potential drivers for species distributions—including behaviorally-mediated biotic interactions among the fish assemblage—will better serve a broader range of restoration goals. Close

• 444. [Article] Spatial heterogeneity, meta-analysis and spatial dependence : three essays on environmental valuation and spatial land management decisions

  This dissertation consists of three essays that collectively address the importance of accounting for spatial heterogeneity and spatial dependence of environmental assets and natural resources in policy ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Spatial heterogeneity, meta-analysis and spatial dependence : three essays on environmental valuation and spatial land management decisions Author: Bu, Meidan This dissertation consists of three essays that collectively address the importance of accounting for spatial heterogeneity and spatial dependence of environmental assets and natural resources in policy making. The first essay examines the value of different wetland ecosystem services using an expanded meta-dataset of valuation studies in North America. The purpose of this essay is to explore the sources of variation in wetland values from valuation methodology, ecosystem functions, and site-specific geographic, demographic and socio-economic characteristics. This essay used panel random effect models stratified "by study", "by state" and "by wetland site" to address the issues of correlation between wetland value estimates. Results indicated that wetland welfare measures reported by the same study and in the same wetland site are correlated. By comparing regression results and conclusions from this study with two internationally scoped meta-analysis studies, this essay found that the wetland valuation literature is not robust to regional characteristics, and wetland welfare estimates are sensitive to geographic extent. The second essay extends the first essay to investigate spatial spillover effects of wetland welfare estimates in North America. The primary purpose of the essay is to explore whether wetland values are correlated across space and what determines the correlation. The goal is accomplished by incorporating spatial econometric methods into the meta-analysis framework. The essay constructed three spatial weight matrices based on threshold distances, the ecological similarity and the economic similarity of wetland sites in the metadata. Results indicate that spatial proximity is an important predictor of wetland values regardless of wetland type and function. In part this is captured through shared contexts including resource availability and market characteristics. However, similar ecological and economic profiles are insufficient to capture shared values when transferring value estimates across spatial areas. Results from this study also raised questions on whether ecological functions and economic markets are sufficient for improving international transfers when studies are beyond geographic thresholds. The third essay incorporates spatial econometric models into a stochastic optimization framework to explore the consequences of ignoring the spatial linkage of management units in land management outcomes. The integrated framework combines an economic decision model, a spatial fire simulation model, a spotted owl population prediction model to maximize the expected post-fire and post-treatment NSO population under a budget constraint. Results from this essay inform us that ignoring spatial habitat connections leads to an underestimate of the fuel treatment disturbance and an over-estimate of the expected post-fire and post-treatment NSO population. However, the negative externality of habitat conversions depends on the degree of habitat connections. Additionally, the amount of total treatment area depends on the degree of habitat connections. The optimization outcome suggests less fuel treatment for a landscape with a higher degree of habitat connections. Moreover, the optimization outcome informs us that the spatial configuration of fuel treatment matters for the NSO population protection. Ignoring the spatial habitat connections leads to a fragmented treatment pattern and fails to protect the core NSO habitat from treatment disturbances. Title: Spatial heterogeneity, meta-analysis and spatial dependence : three essays on environmental valuation and spatial land management decisions Author: Bu, Meidan This dissertation consists of three essays that collectively address the importance of accounting for spatial heterogeneity and spatial dependence of environmental assets and natural resources in policy making. The first essay examines the value of different wetland ecosystem services using an expanded meta-dataset of valuation studies in North America. The purpose of this essay is to explore the sources of variation in wetland values from valuation methodology, ecosystem functions, and site-specific geographic, demographic and socio-economic characteristics. This essay used panel random effect models stratified "by study", "by state" and "by wetland site" to address the issues of correlation between wetland value estimates. Results indicated that wetland welfare measures reported by the same study and in the same wetland site are correlated. By comparing regression results and conclusions from this study with two internationally scoped meta-analysis studies, this essay found that the wetland valuation literature is not robust to regional characteristics, and wetland welfare estimates are sensitive to geographic extent. The second essay extends the first essay to investigate spatial spillover effects of wetland welfare estimates in North America. The primary purpose of the essay is to explore whether wetland values are correlated across space and what determines the correlation. The goal is accomplished by incorporating spatial econometric methods into the meta-analysis framework. The essay constructed three spatial weight matrices based on threshold distances, the ecological similarity and the economic similarity of wetland sites in the metadata. Results indicate that spatial proximity is an important predictor of wetland values regardless of wetland type and function. In part this is captured through shared contexts including resource availability and market characteristics. However, similar ecological and economic profiles are insufficient to capture shared values when transferring value estimates across spatial areas. Results from this study also raised questions on whether ecological functions and economic markets are sufficient for improving international transfers when studies are beyond geographic thresholds. The third essay incorporates spatial econometric models into a stochastic optimization framework to explore the consequences of ignoring the spatial linkage of management units in land management outcomes. The integrated framework combines an economic decision model, a spatial fire simulation model, a spotted owl population prediction model to maximize the expected post-fire and post-treatment NSO population under a budget constraint. Results from this essay inform us that ignoring spatial habitat connections leads to an underestimate of the fuel treatment disturbance and an over-estimate of the expected post-fire and post-treatment NSO population. However, the negative externality of habitat conversions depends on the degree of habitat connections. Additionally, the amount of total treatment area depends on the degree of habitat connections. The optimization outcome suggests less fuel treatment for a landscape with a higher degree of habitat connections. Moreover, the optimization outcome informs us that the spatial configuration of fuel treatment matters for the NSO population protection. Ignoring the spatial habitat connections leads to a fragmented treatment pattern and fails to protect the core NSO habitat from treatment disturbances. Close

• 445. [Article] A comparison of seafloor sonar classification methods through the use of error matrices and 3 dimensional GIS visualization : a multibeam sonar investigation of Nehalem Bank, Oregon

  Multibeam sonar data was collected on Nehalem Bank, off of the Oregon Coast with the purpose of increasing the spatial resolution of our knowledge of the area and delineating seafloor habitats. The system ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A comparison of seafloor sonar classification methods through the use of error matrices and 3 dimensional GIS visualization : a multibeam sonar investigation of Nehalem Bank, Oregon Author: Lanier, Andrew S. Multibeam sonar data was collected on Nehalem Bank, off of the Oregon Coast with the purpose of increasing the spatial resolution of our knowledge of the area and delineating seafloor habitats. The system used was the Kongsberg Simrad EM-300 operating at 30 kHz. The data set collected includes both topographic and backscatter information, both of which were processed and gridded at a 5m cell-size resolution. This thesis summarizes the methods used in the characterization of seafloor habitat using the Nehalem Bank data and the analysis tools incorporated within a geographic information system (GIS). This work focuses on investigations into the analysis of benthic habitats through the use of algorithmic calculations at multiple scales to quantitatively delineate distinct seafloor regions. A recently developed spatial analysis technique, the bathymetric position index (BPI), was tested and used as part of the Benthic Terrain Modeler Tool to classify the Nehalem Bank data. Those results were compared both qualitatively and quantitatively to a newly developed method (developed for this project) entitled the surface interpretation method (SIM). Both methods of classification use multiple scales of BPI in conjunction with the topographic digital elevation model (DEM) to quantitatively delineate seafloor habitats. While accuracy assessments of remotely sensed imagery on land are usually carried out using groundtruthing information collected specifically for that purpose, sonar imagery is often assessed using any information available. The groundtruth data available for Nehalem Bank is sparsely located throughout the region and includes: submersible dives, sample data, and seismic and sidescan imagery. In order to evaluate the fit of the classification attempts to the DEM quantitatively, a set of reference points was created and interpreted using the three dimensional (3D) visualization capabilities of a GIS. The results were analyzed using error matrix statistical measures that provided a quantitative assessment of the classification results, the feedback from which guided a refinement of the classification methods. This was done in attempt to optimize “real-world” evaluation of a classification methods results, without an idealized level of seafloor groundtruth data. The backscatter component of the data was processed to reduce the influence of grazing angle on the intensity of surface returns, a common source of noise that dominates many datasets. The processed image shows a reduced variability of the grey level of the imagery in both along and across track directions. Submersible dive groundtruth data were then co-located with the backscatter imagery using habitat interpretations of the dives displayed upon the DEM. The backscatter data was then classified in the regions of the dives using textural analysis with grey level co-occurrence matrix derived indices of homogeneity and entropy. The resulting substrate class divisions satisfactorily parsed the landscape into habitat regions, with the exceptions of the nadir and shadow regions. However, higher frequency deep-towed sidescan imagery in the same region shows that the delineation of substrate regions appears to be incorrect with the EM300 imagery likely imaging subsurface seafloor characteristics. Title: A comparison of seafloor sonar classification methods through the use of error matrices and 3 dimensional GIS visualization : a multibeam sonar investigation of Nehalem Bank, Oregon Author: Lanier, Andrew S. Multibeam sonar data was collected on Nehalem Bank, off of the Oregon Coast with the purpose of increasing the spatial resolution of our knowledge of the area and delineating seafloor habitats. The system used was the Kongsberg Simrad EM-300 operating at 30 kHz. The data set collected includes both topographic and backscatter information, both of which were processed and gridded at a 5m cell-size resolution. This thesis summarizes the methods used in the characterization of seafloor habitat using the Nehalem Bank data and the analysis tools incorporated within a geographic information system (GIS). This work focuses on investigations into the analysis of benthic habitats through the use of algorithmic calculations at multiple scales to quantitatively delineate distinct seafloor regions. A recently developed spatial analysis technique, the bathymetric position index (BPI), was tested and used as part of the Benthic Terrain Modeler Tool to classify the Nehalem Bank data. Those results were compared both qualitatively and quantitatively to a newly developed method (developed for this project) entitled the surface interpretation method (SIM). Both methods of classification use multiple scales of BPI in conjunction with the topographic digital elevation model (DEM) to quantitatively delineate seafloor habitats. While accuracy assessments of remotely sensed imagery on land are usually carried out using groundtruthing information collected specifically for that purpose, sonar imagery is often assessed using any information available. The groundtruth data available for Nehalem Bank is sparsely located throughout the region and includes: submersible dives, sample data, and seismic and sidescan imagery. In order to evaluate the fit of the classification attempts to the DEM quantitatively, a set of reference points was created and interpreted using the three dimensional (3D) visualization capabilities of a GIS. The results were analyzed using error matrix statistical measures that provided a quantitative assessment of the classification results, the feedback from which guided a refinement of the classification methods. This was done in attempt to optimize “real-world” evaluation of a classification methods results, without an idealized level of seafloor groundtruth data. The backscatter component of the data was processed to reduce the influence of grazing angle on the intensity of surface returns, a common source of noise that dominates many datasets. The processed image shows a reduced variability of the grey level of the imagery in both along and across track directions. Submersible dive groundtruth data were then co-located with the backscatter imagery using habitat interpretations of the dives displayed upon the DEM. The backscatter data was then classified in the regions of the dives using textural analysis with grey level co-occurrence matrix derived indices of homogeneity and entropy. The resulting substrate class divisions satisfactorily parsed the landscape into habitat regions, with the exceptions of the nadir and shadow regions. However, higher frequency deep-towed sidescan imagery in the same region shows that the delineation of substrate regions appears to be incorrect with the EM300 imagery likely imaging subsurface seafloor characteristics. Close

• 446. [Article] The seasonal occurence and larval habitats of the mosquitoes of Corvallis, Oregon (Diptera-Culicidae)

  From May through November 1963, a mosquito survey was made in the city of Corvallis, Oregon. The information obtained dealt with the species of mosquitoes found, their seasonal occurrence and the location ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The seasonal occurence and larval habitats of the mosquitoes of Corvallis, Oregon (Diptera-Culicidae) Author: Kerr, George Ezekiel From May through November 1963, a mosquito survey was made in the city of Corvallis, Oregon. The information obtained dealt with the species of mosquitoes found, their seasonal occurrence and the location and nature of their larval habitats. A quantitative and qualitative analysis of larval and adult mosquito collections by genera and species was used to determine seasonal occurrence and distribution. Results reported here are based on a total of 309 light trap collections made in six locations, 29 aspirator collections made in each of 11 diurnal resting sites and larval surveys which were made every 10 days using the dipper method. During the course of the survey 6,968 specimens comprising nine species and four genera were collected. The species in order of abundance were Culex pipiens, Culex pens, Culex tarsalis, Culiseta incidens, Aedes increpitus, Culiseta inornata, Anopheles punctipennis, Aedes vexans and Aedes sierrensis. With the exception of Culiseta inornata, a seasonal variation in abundance of all the species favoring the late summer and early fall was observed. Culiseta inornata was common during the spring and early fall when temperatures were cooler. Individual collecting techniques did not provide an accurate, quantitative comparison of the relative abundance of all the species. On many occasions when weather conditions were ideal for mosquito activity, the number of specimens that were taken in light trap collections were not a true representative of the numbers present in the vicinity. Culex pipiens and Culex tarsalis were taken in large numbers in light trap collections but Aedes sierrensis and Anopheles punctipennis were not present in large enough numbers to indicate population trends. Conversely, collections in diurnal resting sites included large numbers of Culiseta incidens but very few Culiseta inornata. The results of light trap catches however, corresponded closely with catches in diurnal resting sites as far as qualitative studies were concerned. Routine larval collections from common breeding habitats around the city were positive for all species except Aedes vexans, Aedes increpitus and Aedes sierrensis. These positive collections always confirmed the quantitative adult catches. The presence of the Aedes species in the collections was probably due to adult infiltration from breeding areas outside the city. Larval habitats of the immature mosquitoes collected were divided into two ecological groups. First, temporary bodies of water which include rain pools, water troughs and concrete structures and second, permanent bodies of water including log ponds and sewage disposal ponds. All these habitats gave rise to a number of generations during the mosquito breeding season. Mosquitoes collected from temporary habitats included Culex pipiens and Culiseta incidens while Culex tarsalis, Culex pens, Anopheles punctipennis and Culiseta inornata were abundant in permanent habitats. Title: The seasonal occurence and larval habitats of the mosquitoes of Corvallis, Oregon (Diptera-Culicidae) Author: Kerr, George Ezekiel From May through November 1963, a mosquito survey was made in the city of Corvallis, Oregon. The information obtained dealt with the species of mosquitoes found, their seasonal occurrence and the location and nature of their larval habitats. A quantitative and qualitative analysis of larval and adult mosquito collections by genera and species was used to determine seasonal occurrence and distribution. Results reported here are based on a total of 309 light trap collections made in six locations, 29 aspirator collections made in each of 11 diurnal resting sites and larval surveys which were made every 10 days using the dipper method. During the course of the survey 6,968 specimens comprising nine species and four genera were collected. The species in order of abundance were Culex pipiens, Culex pens, Culex tarsalis, Culiseta incidens, Aedes increpitus, Culiseta inornata, Anopheles punctipennis, Aedes vexans and Aedes sierrensis. With the exception of Culiseta inornata, a seasonal variation in abundance of all the species favoring the late summer and early fall was observed. Culiseta inornata was common during the spring and early fall when temperatures were cooler. Individual collecting techniques did not provide an accurate, quantitative comparison of the relative abundance of all the species. On many occasions when weather conditions were ideal for mosquito activity, the number of specimens that were taken in light trap collections were not a true representative of the numbers present in the vicinity. Culex pipiens and Culex tarsalis were taken in large numbers in light trap collections but Aedes sierrensis and Anopheles punctipennis were not present in large enough numbers to indicate population trends. Conversely, collections in diurnal resting sites included large numbers of Culiseta incidens but very few Culiseta inornata. The results of light trap catches however, corresponded closely with catches in diurnal resting sites as far as qualitative studies were concerned. Routine larval collections from common breeding habitats around the city were positive for all species except Aedes vexans, Aedes increpitus and Aedes sierrensis. These positive collections always confirmed the quantitative adult catches. The presence of the Aedes species in the collections was probably due to adult infiltration from breeding areas outside the city. Larval habitats of the immature mosquitoes collected were divided into two ecological groups. First, temporary bodies of water which include rain pools, water troughs and concrete structures and second, permanent bodies of water including log ponds and sewage disposal ponds. All these habitats gave rise to a number of generations during the mosquito breeding season. Mosquitoes collected from temporary habitats included Culex pipiens and Culiseta incidens while Culex tarsalis, Culex pens, Anopheles punctipennis and Culiseta inornata were abundant in permanent habitats. Close

• 447. [Article] Ecology of breeding mallards : nest parasitism; brood survival; and habitat utilization

  In 1976 and 1977 I examined three broad problems associated with the recruitment of young mallards, Anas platyrhynchos, in the Prairie Pothole Region of North Dakota. The three problems studied were: the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Ecology of breeding mallards : nest parasitism; brood survival; and habitat utilization Author: Talent, Larry Gene In 1976 and 1977 I examined three broad problems associated with the recruitment of young mallards, Anas platyrhynchos, in the Prairie Pothole Region of North Dakota. The three problems studied were: the effects of interspecific nest parasitism on production; the chronology and magnitude of total-brood loss during the brood-rearing period; and, mobility, home range, and habitat utilization of broods. Nest parasitism occurred only in mallard nests that were in marsh habitat. Of 24 active mallard nests located in marsh habitat during 1976, 46% were parasitized. Forty-two percent were parasitized by redheads, Aythya americana, and 8% by ruddy ducks, Oxyura jamaicensis. Only three mallard nests were found in marsh habitat in 1977, presumably because of a severe drought, and none were parasitized. Nest parasitism by redheads or ruddy ducks did not significantly decrease mallard nest success (P>0.05). Parasitism by redheads reduced mallard clutch-size by about 1.5 eggs; parasitism by ruddy ducks had no significant effect on mallard clutch-size. In successful nests, nest parasitism by redheads significantly reduced mallard egg success (P<0.05), primarily through host egg displacement. Due to a small sample size, the effect nest parasitism by. ruddy ducks had on mallard egg success was not determined. Nest parasitism by redheads could potentially reduce the number of mallards produced in the Prairie Pothole Region during some years. Survival of mallard broods was estimated from data obtained from 25 radio-marked broods monitored during 1976 and 1977. Radio-equipped mallard hens fledged at least one duckling in 44% of broods initially hatched in 1976 and 55% in 1977. Combined brood survival for 1976 and 1977 was 48%. Eighty-five percent of the loss of entire broods occurred within the first two weeks after hatching and all losses occurred in wetlands. Few ducklings and no broods were lost during overland travel. The primary predators on ducklings in wetlands were mink, Mustela vison. Mallard broods were quite mobile during the first few weeks after hatching, but mobility varied greatly between 1976 and 1977. Of 16 broods monitored in 1976, 12 made major overland moves among wetlands and utilized from 2 to 10 different wetlands during the brood-rearing period. In 1977 only 2 of 9 radio-marked broods made major habitat shifts. The reason for the difference in brood mobility between 1976 and 1977 appeared to be related to drought conditions. The area of the corrected 'home range of radio-marked broods increased rapidly until broods were about one week old; by two weeks the home range of most broods was stable. Cumulative home ranges varied among broods but averaged 11.0±4.7 ha (mean±SD). Broods used only a small portion of the home range in any one week period. Generally, the home range of a brood on a particular wetland ranged in size from 4 to 6 ha. Habitats utilized by broods varied greatly between 1976 and 1977. In 1976, when many types of wetlands contained water, mallard hens with broods demonstrated a significant preference for whitetop ponds, but rejection was indicated for other types of seasonal wetlands. In 1976 overall use of semipermanent wetlands was significantly less than expected; but in 1977, when drought conditions prevailed on the study area, semipermanent wetlands were used by mallard broods directly in proportion to their availability. Mallard hens with broods used brood-rearing areas with high standing crops of benthic invertebrates. Title: Ecology of breeding mallards : nest parasitism; brood survival; and habitat utilization Author: Talent, Larry Gene In 1976 and 1977 I examined three broad problems associated with the recruitment of young mallards, Anas platyrhynchos, in the Prairie Pothole Region of North Dakota. The three problems studied were: the effects of interspecific nest parasitism on production; the chronology and magnitude of total-brood loss during the brood-rearing period; and, mobility, home range, and habitat utilization of broods. Nest parasitism occurred only in mallard nests that were in marsh habitat. Of 24 active mallard nests located in marsh habitat during 1976, 46% were parasitized. Forty-two percent were parasitized by redheads, Aythya americana, and 8% by ruddy ducks, Oxyura jamaicensis. Only three mallard nests were found in marsh habitat in 1977, presumably because of a severe drought, and none were parasitized. Nest parasitism by redheads or ruddy ducks did not significantly decrease mallard nest success (P>0.05). Parasitism by redheads reduced mallard clutch-size by about 1.5 eggs; parasitism by ruddy ducks had no significant effect on mallard clutch-size. In successful nests, nest parasitism by redheads significantly reduced mallard egg success (P<0.05), primarily through host egg displacement. Due to a small sample size, the effect nest parasitism by. ruddy ducks had on mallard egg success was not determined. Nest parasitism by redheads could potentially reduce the number of mallards produced in the Prairie Pothole Region during some years. Survival of mallard broods was estimated from data obtained from 25 radio-marked broods monitored during 1976 and 1977. Radio-equipped mallard hens fledged at least one duckling in 44% of broods initially hatched in 1976 and 55% in 1977. Combined brood survival for 1976 and 1977 was 48%. Eighty-five percent of the loss of entire broods occurred within the first two weeks after hatching and all losses occurred in wetlands. Few ducklings and no broods were lost during overland travel. The primary predators on ducklings in wetlands were mink, Mustela vison. Mallard broods were quite mobile during the first few weeks after hatching, but mobility varied greatly between 1976 and 1977. Of 16 broods monitored in 1976, 12 made major overland moves among wetlands and utilized from 2 to 10 different wetlands during the brood-rearing period. In 1977 only 2 of 9 radio-marked broods made major habitat shifts. The reason for the difference in brood mobility between 1976 and 1977 appeared to be related to drought conditions. The area of the corrected 'home range of radio-marked broods increased rapidly until broods were about one week old; by two weeks the home range of most broods was stable. Cumulative home ranges varied among broods but averaged 11.0±4.7 ha (mean±SD). Broods used only a small portion of the home range in any one week period. Generally, the home range of a brood on a particular wetland ranged in size from 4 to 6 ha. Habitats utilized by broods varied greatly between 1976 and 1977. In 1976, when many types of wetlands contained water, mallard hens with broods demonstrated a significant preference for whitetop ponds, but rejection was indicated for other types of seasonal wetlands. In 1976 overall use of semipermanent wetlands was significantly less than expected; but in 1977, when drought conditions prevailed on the study area, semipermanent wetlands were used by mallard broods directly in proportion to their availability. Mallard hens with broods used brood-rearing areas with high standing crops of benthic invertebrates. Close

• 448. [Article] Response of juvenile steelhead trout to an instream habitat rehabilitation project in Meadow Creek, Oregon

  Responses of juvenile steelhead trout to changes in stream habitat resulting from an instream habitat rehabilitation project in Meadow Creek, Oregon were measured from 1991 through 1992 and compared to ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Response of juvenile steelhead trout to an instream habitat rehabilitation project in Meadow Creek, Oregon Author: Miller, Alan Christopher Responses of juvenile steelhead trout to changes in stream habitat resulting from an instream habitat rehabilitation project in Meadow Creek, Oregon were measured from 1991 through 1992 and compared to pre-treatment data from 1987 through 1990. Sixty nine pool-forming, and 59 channel-stabilizing log structures were constructed by the U.S. Forest Service in a 3.7 km reach in 1990. A 20-year flood caused extensive modifications to the instream structures in May 1991. Pool habitat and large wood volume increased in the treatment and the two reference reaches but pool development was greater in the treatment reach compared to the two reference reaches. Summer rearing densities of juvenile steelhead were similar for the treatment and the two reference reaches at the reach scale. Summer rearing densities were lower in the post-treatment period compared to the pre-treatment period for the treatment and two reference reaches. Mean density of juvenile steelhead was higher in complex pools compared to non-complex pools throughout the study area. Mean density of juvenile steelhead was higher in pools associated with large wood from washed-out structures compared to pools associated with intact structures in the treatment reach. Changes in smolt production from the treatment reach following the rehabilitation project could not be determined due to trapping difficulties. Only three percent of the smolts emigrating from the basin overwintered in the treatment reach in 1992. Four life history patterns of juvenile steelhead were identified. Only one of the four life history patterns rears in the Meadow Creek basin until smolting. From these findings I conclude that the instream habitat rehabilitation project did not increase the abundance of juvenile steelhead or smolt production during the first two years after treatment. An extended drought and a 20-year flood may have been the dominant factors controlling abundance of juvenile steelhead over the study period. The Meadow Creek rehabilitation project may have limited success at increasing smolt production because it influences only one of four life history patterns of juvenile steelhead during the entire freshwater rearing phase. Title: Response of juvenile steelhead trout to an instream habitat rehabilitation project in Meadow Creek, Oregon Author: Miller, Alan Christopher Responses of juvenile steelhead trout to changes in stream habitat resulting from an instream habitat rehabilitation project in Meadow Creek, Oregon were measured from 1991 through 1992 and compared to pre-treatment data from 1987 through 1990. Sixty nine pool-forming, and 59 channel-stabilizing log structures were constructed by the U.S. Forest Service in a 3.7 km reach in 1990. A 20-year flood caused extensive modifications to the instream structures in May 1991. Pool habitat and large wood volume increased in the treatment and the two reference reaches but pool development was greater in the treatment reach compared to the two reference reaches. Summer rearing densities of juvenile steelhead were similar for the treatment and the two reference reaches at the reach scale. Summer rearing densities were lower in the post-treatment period compared to the pre-treatment period for the treatment and two reference reaches. Mean density of juvenile steelhead was higher in complex pools compared to non-complex pools throughout the study area. Mean density of juvenile steelhead was higher in pools associated with large wood from washed-out structures compared to pools associated with intact structures in the treatment reach. Changes in smolt production from the treatment reach following the rehabilitation project could not be determined due to trapping difficulties. Only three percent of the smolts emigrating from the basin overwintered in the treatment reach in 1992. Four life history patterns of juvenile steelhead were identified. Only one of the four life history patterns rears in the Meadow Creek basin until smolting. From these findings I conclude that the instream habitat rehabilitation project did not increase the abundance of juvenile steelhead or smolt production during the first two years after treatment. An extended drought and a 20-year flood may have been the dominant factors controlling abundance of juvenile steelhead over the study period. The Meadow Creek rehabilitation project may have limited success at increasing smolt production because it influences only one of four life history patterns of juvenile steelhead during the entire freshwater rearing phase. Close

• 449. [Article] Resource partitioning and reproductive success of three species of hawks (Buteo spp.) in an Oregon prairie

  In a native prairie of Oregon (363 km²) red-tailed (Buteo jamaicensis), ferruginous (Buteo regalis), and Swainson's hawks (Buteo swainsoni) coexist in one of the highest nesting Buteo densities in North ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Resource partitioning and reproductive success of three species of hawks (Buteo spp.) in an Oregon prairie Author: Cottrell, Marcy Jean In a native prairie of Oregon (363 km²) red-tailed (Buteo jamaicensis), ferruginous (Buteo regalis), and Swainson's hawks (Buteo swainsoni) coexist in one of the highest nesting Buteo densities in North America. In 1979 and 1980, the distribution, density, and productivity of the three species was studied in relation to availability of food and nesting habitat. The degree of ecological segregation among the three species was also investigated. Red-tailed and ferruginous hawks showed considerable overlap in the timing of their nesting cycles; the Swainson's hawk nested about one month later in the spring. The major food item of all three species was the Belding ground squirrel (Spennophilus beldingi). The total dietary overlap among the three hawk species was high: in 1979 and 1980, red-tailed and ferruginous hawks overlapped 90 percent and 80 percent, red-tailed and Swainson's hawks 88 percent and 83 percent, and ferruginous and Swainson's hawks 83 percent and 95 percent. Although timing and use of food resources exhibited considerable overlap, habitat was partitioned. Nine major habitat types occurred within the study area. Red-tailed hawks had almost exclusive use of pine groves and cultivated areas with cottonwood trees. Ferruginous hawks had almost exclusive use of south exposure sites where large rocky outcrops occurred. Use of other habitat types overlapped to some degree. The total habitat overlap between the red-tailed and ferruginous hawk in 1979 and 1980 was 33 percent and 37 percent. The Swainson's hawk exhibited slightly greater overlaps in 1979 and 1980 of 54 percent and 52 percent with red-tailed hawks and 47 percent and 41 percent with ferruginous hawks. Habitat overlap of the Swainson's hawk tended to be minimized by its selection of nest trees whose configuration differed from red-tailed and ferruginous hawks. Space was also partitioned by the maintenance of intraspecific and, to a lesser degree, interspecific nesting territories. Nest success of red-tailed and ferruginous hawks significantly declined when nesting pairs were visible to one another. This suggests that competition for space was a mechanism affecting distribution, density, and nest success. Based on the findings from this study, Buteo management could involve: (1) range management for prey species, which in this case is in accord with good management for cattle, (2) range management for nesting habitat, and (3) maintenance of properly spaced nesting sites. Title: Resource partitioning and reproductive success of three species of hawks (Buteo spp.) in an Oregon prairie Author: Cottrell, Marcy Jean In a native prairie of Oregon (363 km²) red-tailed (Buteo jamaicensis), ferruginous (Buteo regalis), and Swainson's hawks (Buteo swainsoni) coexist in one of the highest nesting Buteo densities in North America. In 1979 and 1980, the distribution, density, and productivity of the three species was studied in relation to availability of food and nesting habitat. The degree of ecological segregation among the three species was also investigated. Red-tailed and ferruginous hawks showed considerable overlap in the timing of their nesting cycles; the Swainson's hawk nested about one month later in the spring. The major food item of all three species was the Belding ground squirrel (Spennophilus beldingi). The total dietary overlap among the three hawk species was high: in 1979 and 1980, red-tailed and ferruginous hawks overlapped 90 percent and 80 percent, red-tailed and Swainson's hawks 88 percent and 83 percent, and ferruginous and Swainson's hawks 83 percent and 95 percent. Although timing and use of food resources exhibited considerable overlap, habitat was partitioned. Nine major habitat types occurred within the study area. Red-tailed hawks had almost exclusive use of pine groves and cultivated areas with cottonwood trees. Ferruginous hawks had almost exclusive use of south exposure sites where large rocky outcrops occurred. Use of other habitat types overlapped to some degree. The total habitat overlap between the red-tailed and ferruginous hawk in 1979 and 1980 was 33 percent and 37 percent. The Swainson's hawk exhibited slightly greater overlaps in 1979 and 1980 of 54 percent and 52 percent with red-tailed hawks and 47 percent and 41 percent with ferruginous hawks. Habitat overlap of the Swainson's hawk tended to be minimized by its selection of nest trees whose configuration differed from red-tailed and ferruginous hawks. Space was also partitioned by the maintenance of intraspecific and, to a lesser degree, interspecific nesting territories. Nest success of red-tailed and ferruginous hawks significantly declined when nesting pairs were visible to one another. This suggests that competition for space was a mechanism affecting distribution, density, and nest success. Based on the findings from this study, Buteo management could involve: (1) range management for prey species, which in this case is in accord with good management for cattle, (2) range management for nesting habitat, and (3) maintenance of properly spaced nesting sites. Close

• 450. [Article] Rapid endangered species assessment : a novel approach to improve extinction risk assessments in poorly known species

  The number of endangered species is rapidly increasing while paucity of adequate information and resources delays establishment of conservation actions. The IUCN’s listing system is insufficient to determine ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Rapid endangered species assessment : a novel approach to improve extinction risk assessments in poorly known species Author: Bianchi, Carlos A. The number of endangered species is rapidly increasing while paucity of adequate information and resources delays establishment of conservation actions. The IUCN’s listing system is insufficient to determine conservation priorities and many species lack information even to be evaluated (i.e., “data deficient”). Here I proposed and tested the Rapid Endangered Species Assessment approach, combining methods including distribution modeling, landscape/habitat availability analysis and an evaluation of population spatial structure to improve information about species of concern and make future extinction risk assessments more attainable. I used the Pfrimer’s Parakeet (Pyrrhura pfrimeri) an endemic Brazilian species, as a case study. I modeled and validated the potential distribution of the species, known to occur in association with the tropical dry forests in central Brazil, using the Maxent method. The model predicted potential occurrence in three regions in central Brazil. Field surveys used to validate model found the species at 17 sites, all located in the dry forests of the Paranã River Basin. Modeling results set boundaries for the analysis of loss and fragmentation of the species’ habitat. Satellite imagery and remote sensing techniques were used to estimate deforestation trends over a large spatiotemporal scale (31 years). Results indicated a 66.3% decrease in forest extent, average annual deforestation rate of 2.1% and significant increase in fragmentation, suggesting that these forests may disappear in less than 20 years if current deforestation rates persist. The habitat availability analysis set boundaries for the investigation of spatial arrangement of local populations of Pfrimer’s Parakeets, which was carried out by collecting information on abundance, densities estimates, species home range, and habitat use. Twenty individuals were monitored with radio transmitters and home range estimates averaged between 195.7 ha (fixed kernel) and 261.8 ha (minimum convex polygons). Habitat use was estimated with behavioral observations of birds flying through a mosaic of forests and pastures. I found no evidence that the species used open areas farther than 300m from the forest edge. Systematic line transects and observations of parakeets per time effort produced estimates of population densities at 11.7 individuals/km2; indicating strong variation in abundance indices among areas, suggesting a population decline. The Rapid Endangered Species Assessment represents a broad and integrative approach carried out over a short term and was successfully used to produce relevant data about a poorly known species. Thus, I propose the use of this approach as a minimally ideal yet scientifically viable method to generate information for extinction risk assessment of species. Title: Rapid endangered species assessment : a novel approach to improve extinction risk assessments in poorly known species Author: Bianchi, Carlos A. The number of endangered species is rapidly increasing while paucity of adequate information and resources delays establishment of conservation actions. The IUCN’s listing system is insufficient to determine conservation priorities and many species lack information even to be evaluated (i.e., “data deficient”). Here I proposed and tested the Rapid Endangered Species Assessment approach, combining methods including distribution modeling, landscape/habitat availability analysis and an evaluation of population spatial structure to improve information about species of concern and make future extinction risk assessments more attainable. I used the Pfrimer’s Parakeet (Pyrrhura pfrimeri) an endemic Brazilian species, as a case study. I modeled and validated the potential distribution of the species, known to occur in association with the tropical dry forests in central Brazil, using the Maxent method. The model predicted potential occurrence in three regions in central Brazil. Field surveys used to validate model found the species at 17 sites, all located in the dry forests of the Paranã River Basin. Modeling results set boundaries for the analysis of loss and fragmentation of the species’ habitat. Satellite imagery and remote sensing techniques were used to estimate deforestation trends over a large spatiotemporal scale (31 years). Results indicated a 66.3% decrease in forest extent, average annual deforestation rate of 2.1% and significant increase in fragmentation, suggesting that these forests may disappear in less than 20 years if current deforestation rates persist. The habitat availability analysis set boundaries for the investigation of spatial arrangement of local populations of Pfrimer’s Parakeets, which was carried out by collecting information on abundance, densities estimates, species home range, and habitat use. Twenty individuals were monitored with radio transmitters and home range estimates averaged between 195.7 ha (fixed kernel) and 261.8 ha (minimum convex polygons). Habitat use was estimated with behavioral observations of birds flying through a mosaic of forests and pastures. I found no evidence that the species used open areas farther than 300m from the forest edge. Systematic line transects and observations of parakeets per time effort produced estimates of population densities at 11.7 individuals/km2; indicating strong variation in abundance indices among areas, suggesting a population decline. The Rapid Endangered Species Assessment represents a broad and integrative approach carried out over a short term and was successfully used to produce relevant data about a poorly known species. Thus, I propose the use of this approach as a minimally ideal yet scientifically viable method to generate information for extinction risk assessment of species. Close

• 451. [Article] The influence of forest management on headwater stream amphibians at multiple spatial scales

  To effectively manage for biodiversity at broad, ecosystem scales, the influences of habitat structure at multiple spatial scales on vertebrate species must be understood. There are few studies on the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The influence of forest management on headwater stream amphibians at multiple spatial scales Author: Stoddard, Margo A. To effectively manage for biodiversity at broad, ecosystem scales, the influences of habitat structure at multiple spatial scales on vertebrate species must be understood. There are few studies on the broad-scale habitat requirements of stream amphibians despite their importance in streams in forest ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) as predators and prey, and potentially as indicators of ecosystem health. In particular, studies on the influence of forest structure at landscape scales on stream amphibians are lacking. I examined stream amphibian-habitat relationships for Pacific giant salamanders (Dicamptodon tenebrosus), larval and metamorphosed tailed frogs (Ascaphus truei), and torrent salamanders (Rhyacotriton spp.) at four spatial scales (2-m sample unit, intermediate, sub-drainage, and drainage). Over two field seasons (1998 and 1999), I captured 1,568 amphibians in 702 sample units in 16 randomly chosen drainages in the Oregon Coast Range. I used an information theoretic approach of analysis to rank sets of a priori candidate models that described habitat relationships at each spatial scale. At the 2-m sample unit scale, all species of interest were negatively associated with fine sediments and were positively associated with either stream width or elevation. At the intermediate spatial scale, Pacific giant salamanders, metamorphosed tailed frogs, and torrent salamanders were positively associated with the presence of a 150-ft. forested band on each side of the stream, and larval tailed frogs were positively associated with the presence of forest >105 years old on at least one side of the stream. At the sub-drainage and drainage scales, all species were positively associated with the proportion of stream length in a sub-drainage or drainage with a 150-ft. forested band on each side of the stream. Heat load index (aspect) was also important for Pacific giant salamanders and larval tailed frogs at the intermediate and sub-drainage scales. Results at all spatial scales suggest that Pacific giant salamanders and larval tailed frogs occur lower in the drainage network, and metamorphosed tailed frogs and torrent salamanders occur higher in the drainage network. This study demonstrates the importance of examining headwater stream amphibian habitat at multiple spatial scales, provides insights on linkages between amphibian responses across spatial scales, and shows that broad-scale variables (e.g., the presence of forested bands or the percentage of stream length with forested bands) can be used to assess management approaches for stream amphibian communities. Geophysical characteristics such as stream aspect may also help identify areas that should not be harvested if protection of amphibian habitat is an objective. Title: The influence of forest management on headwater stream amphibians at multiple spatial scales Author: Stoddard, Margo A. To effectively manage for biodiversity at broad, ecosystem scales, the influences of habitat structure at multiple spatial scales on vertebrate species must be understood. There are few studies on the broad-scale habitat requirements of stream amphibians despite their importance in streams in forest ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) as predators and prey, and potentially as indicators of ecosystem health. In particular, studies on the influence of forest structure at landscape scales on stream amphibians are lacking. I examined stream amphibian-habitat relationships for Pacific giant salamanders (Dicamptodon tenebrosus), larval and metamorphosed tailed frogs (Ascaphus truei), and torrent salamanders (Rhyacotriton spp.) at four spatial scales (2-m sample unit, intermediate, sub-drainage, and drainage). Over two field seasons (1998 and 1999), I captured 1,568 amphibians in 702 sample units in 16 randomly chosen drainages in the Oregon Coast Range. I used an information theoretic approach of analysis to rank sets of a priori candidate models that described habitat relationships at each spatial scale. At the 2-m sample unit scale, all species of interest were negatively associated with fine sediments and were positively associated with either stream width or elevation. At the intermediate spatial scale, Pacific giant salamanders, metamorphosed tailed frogs, and torrent salamanders were positively associated with the presence of a 150-ft. forested band on each side of the stream, and larval tailed frogs were positively associated with the presence of forest >105 years old on at least one side of the stream. At the sub-drainage and drainage scales, all species were positively associated with the proportion of stream length in a sub-drainage or drainage with a 150-ft. forested band on each side of the stream. Heat load index (aspect) was also important for Pacific giant salamanders and larval tailed frogs at the intermediate and sub-drainage scales. Results at all spatial scales suggest that Pacific giant salamanders and larval tailed frogs occur lower in the drainage network, and metamorphosed tailed frogs and torrent salamanders occur higher in the drainage network. This study demonstrates the importance of examining headwater stream amphibian habitat at multiple spatial scales, provides insights on linkages between amphibian responses across spatial scales, and shows that broad-scale variables (e.g., the presence of forested bands or the percentage of stream length with forested bands) can be used to assess management approaches for stream amphibian communities. Geophysical characteristics such as stream aspect may also help identify areas that should not be harvested if protection of amphibian habitat is an objective. Close

• 452. [Article] Selection of day roosts by female long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) in forests of the central Oregon Cascades

  Measuring habitat selection by bats is complicated by their intricate life cycle. Scaling habitat measurements to reflect a hierarchal habitat selection process can help to define habitat associations ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Selection of day roosts by female long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) in forests of the central Oregon Cascades Author: Ormsbee, Patricia Measuring habitat selection by bats is complicated by their intricate life cycle. Scaling habitat measurements to reflect a hierarchal habitat selection process can help to define habitat associations of bats. I assessed day roost habitat of female long-legged myotis at four scales: the roost structure, micro-habitat surrounding the roost, the stand level, and landscape level. I radio-tracked 16 female long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) for an average of eight days per bat, July through August of 1993, 1994, and 1995 in two drainages in the central Oregon Cascades (Quentin Creek and Lookout Creek) to locate day roost structures. Forty-one day roost structures were identified, of which 1 was a rock face, 4 were green trees, and 36 were snags. The average height of all roost structures was 40 m (SE=2.5). The average dbh for all snags and trees used as day roosts was 100 cm (SE=6.1). Large snags including partially live, hollow western redcedar trees (Thuja plicata) averaging 97 cm dbh (SE=6.6) and 38 m (SE=2.8) high were the most commonly used roost structures. Individuals radio-marked at the same night roost did not use one common day roost. Individual bats were found roosting in one roost for several days, or using multiple day roosts within discrete roost areas. The area which encompassed one night roost and all known day roosts covered 3,258 ha in the Quentin Creek drainage and 6,391 ha in Lookout Creek. I compared physical characteristics and habitat within 20 meters of 33 roost snags with 66 randomly selected snags. The odds that a snag is used as a day roost is associated with roost height; given height, the odds of use is associated with the height of the stand within 20 meters of the snag. There is some indication that the presence of an open canopy around the snag, and the percentage of bark on the snag also could be factors that influence the selection of snags as day roosts. The frequency of occurrence of roost structures within young and late seral stands did not differ from what was expected to occur by chance in these two stand conditions. Roosts did not occur in stands with a harvest history vs. stands without a harvest history disproportionate to availability. I compared the distance to class I (largest) through class IV (smallest) streams between 34 day roosts and 102 randomly selected points. Day roosts were located closer to streams than randomly selected locations in both Lookout and Quentin Creek drainages with 1 exception (Lookout class III). In two cases day roosts were significantly closer to streams than randomly selected locations. Day roosts tended to be closer to streams where night roosts were located than did randomly selected points, regardless of stream class. Title: Selection of day roosts by female long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) in forests of the central Oregon Cascades Author: Ormsbee, Patricia Measuring habitat selection by bats is complicated by their intricate life cycle. Scaling habitat measurements to reflect a hierarchal habitat selection process can help to define habitat associations of bats. I assessed day roost habitat of female long-legged myotis at four scales: the roost structure, micro-habitat surrounding the roost, the stand level, and landscape level. I radio-tracked 16 female long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) for an average of eight days per bat, July through August of 1993, 1994, and 1995 in two drainages in the central Oregon Cascades (Quentin Creek and Lookout Creek) to locate day roost structures. Forty-one day roost structures were identified, of which 1 was a rock face, 4 were green trees, and 36 were snags. The average height of all roost structures was 40 m (SE=2.5). The average dbh for all snags and trees used as day roosts was 100 cm (SE=6.1). Large snags including partially live, hollow western redcedar trees (Thuja plicata) averaging 97 cm dbh (SE=6.6) and 38 m (SE=2.8) high were the most commonly used roost structures. Individuals radio-marked at the same night roost did not use one common day roost. Individual bats were found roosting in one roost for several days, or using multiple day roosts within discrete roost areas. The area which encompassed one night roost and all known day roosts covered 3,258 ha in the Quentin Creek drainage and 6,391 ha in Lookout Creek. I compared physical characteristics and habitat within 20 meters of 33 roost snags with 66 randomly selected snags. The odds that a snag is used as a day roost is associated with roost height; given height, the odds of use is associated with the height of the stand within 20 meters of the snag. There is some indication that the presence of an open canopy around the snag, and the percentage of bark on the snag also could be factors that influence the selection of snags as day roosts. The frequency of occurrence of roost structures within young and late seral stands did not differ from what was expected to occur by chance in these two stand conditions. Roosts did not occur in stands with a harvest history vs. stands without a harvest history disproportionate to availability. I compared the distance to class I (largest) through class IV (smallest) streams between 34 day roosts and 102 randomly selected points. Day roosts were located closer to streams than randomly selected locations in both Lookout and Quentin Creek drainages with 1 exception (Lookout class III). In two cases day roosts were significantly closer to streams than randomly selected locations. Day roosts tended to be closer to streams where night roosts were located than did randomly selected points, regardless of stream class. Close

• 453. [Article] Ecology of mallard ducklings on Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, California

  The ecology of female mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and their broods was studied during 1988-90 on Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, California. Survival of 127 radio-marked ducklings from 64 broods ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Ecology of mallard ducklings on Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, California Author: Mauser, David M. The ecology of female mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and their broods was studied during 1988-90 on Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, California. Survival of 127 radio-marked ducklings from 64 broods was 0.18 to 10 days of life, and 0.37 and 0.34 to fledging for 1988, 1989, and 1990, respectively. For the 3 years of the study, 49.2% of hens lost their entire brood; 81.2, 36.8, and 37.5% in 1988, 1989, and 1990, respectively. Ninety-three percent of mortality occurred on or before 10 days of life. No significant differences were detected in the proportion of radio-marked ducklings lost from early hatched or late hatched nests. A variety of predators consumed radio-marked ducklings; however, 49% of the cases of mortality were a result of an unknown predator. During 1989 and 1990, 3 radio-marked ducklings from 16 hens which appeared to lose their entire brood were fledged by other brood hens, and of 29 radio-marked ducklings that reached 44 days of life, 6 (20.7%) had joined other broods. Movements, home range, and habitat use were determined for 27 radio-marked broods. Relocation movements (>1000 m in 24 hrs) occurred in 12 of the 27 broods, primarily in the first week and after the fourth week of life. In 1989, significantly fewer radio-marked ducklings from broods hatching in permanent marshes survived to fledge compared to those originating in seasonal wetlands. Mean size of home ranges was 1.27 ± 0.47 km² and 0.62 ± 0.21 km² in 1989 and 1990, respectively. Most habitat selection by brood rearing hens occurred at the second order, (selection of home range area). Hens selected seasonally flooded wetlands with a cover component and avoided open or permanently flooded habitats. Estimated recruitment (females fledged/adult female in the spring population), proportional change in population size, and number of fledged young varied markedly during the 3 years of the study. Estimated recruitment was 0.31, 1.26, and 0.83 for 1988, 1989, and 1990, respectively. The estimated proportional change in population size ranged from 0.73 in 1988 to 1.29 and 1.04 during 1989 and 1990, respectively. Number of fledged young ranged from 915 in 1988 to 6,102 in 1989. Movements, habitat use, and survival of postbreeding radio-marked mallard hens were also determined. From mid-April to early August, 5,279 exposure days without the loss of a radio-marked hen were tallied. Of the 4 hens which emigrated from the study area, all were unsuccessful in rearing a brood. Unsuccessful hens moved to surveyed areas north of the study area significantly sooner than successful hens. Canals were the primary habitat utilized by postbreeding hens in 1988 while mixed seasonal and emergent permanent marsh were the most frequently used habitats in 1989 and 1990. Open seasonal and mixed seasonal marshes were the most frequently utilized habitats by incubating hens. Radio-marked hens moved a mean distance of 1,350 m from the nest to suspected feeding areas. Title: Ecology of mallard ducklings on Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, California Author: Mauser, David M. The ecology of female mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and their broods was studied during 1988-90 on Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, California. Survival of 127 radio-marked ducklings from 64 broods was 0.18 to 10 days of life, and 0.37 and 0.34 to fledging for 1988, 1989, and 1990, respectively. For the 3 years of the study, 49.2% of hens lost their entire brood; 81.2, 36.8, and 37.5% in 1988, 1989, and 1990, respectively. Ninety-three percent of mortality occurred on or before 10 days of life. No significant differences were detected in the proportion of radio-marked ducklings lost from early hatched or late hatched nests. A variety of predators consumed radio-marked ducklings; however, 49% of the cases of mortality were a result of an unknown predator. During 1989 and 1990, 3 radio-marked ducklings from 16 hens which appeared to lose their entire brood were fledged by other brood hens, and of 29 radio-marked ducklings that reached 44 days of life, 6 (20.7%) had joined other broods. Movements, home range, and habitat use were determined for 27 radio-marked broods. Relocation movements (>1000 m in 24 hrs) occurred in 12 of the 27 broods, primarily in the first week and after the fourth week of life. In 1989, significantly fewer radio-marked ducklings from broods hatching in permanent marshes survived to fledge compared to those originating in seasonal wetlands. Mean size of home ranges was 1.27 ± 0.47 km² and 0.62 ± 0.21 km² in 1989 and 1990, respectively. Most habitat selection by brood rearing hens occurred at the second order, (selection of home range area). Hens selected seasonally flooded wetlands with a cover component and avoided open or permanently flooded habitats. Estimated recruitment (females fledged/adult female in the spring population), proportional change in population size, and number of fledged young varied markedly during the 3 years of the study. Estimated recruitment was 0.31, 1.26, and 0.83 for 1988, 1989, and 1990, respectively. The estimated proportional change in population size ranged from 0.73 in 1988 to 1.29 and 1.04 during 1989 and 1990, respectively. Number of fledged young ranged from 915 in 1988 to 6,102 in 1989. Movements, habitat use, and survival of postbreeding radio-marked mallard hens were also determined. From mid-April to early August, 5,279 exposure days without the loss of a radio-marked hen were tallied. Of the 4 hens which emigrated from the study area, all were unsuccessful in rearing a brood. Unsuccessful hens moved to surveyed areas north of the study area significantly sooner than successful hens. Canals were the primary habitat utilized by postbreeding hens in 1988 while mixed seasonal and emergent permanent marsh were the most frequently used habitats in 1989 and 1990. Open seasonal and mixed seasonal marshes were the most frequently utilized habitats by incubating hens. Radio-marked hens moved a mean distance of 1,350 m from the nest to suspected feeding areas. Close

• 454. [Article] Polygyny in the bobolink : habitat quality and the adaptive complex

  The adaptiveness of polygyny in passerines poses a particularly intriguing problem. The altricial young of this group require extended parental care, but young of polygynous pairings generally lack the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Polygyny in the bobolink : habitat quality and the adaptive complex Author: Martin, Stephen George, 1941- The adaptiveness of polygyny in passerines poses a particularly intriguing problem. The altricial young of this group require extended parental care, but young of polygynous pairings generally lack the undivided attention of the male which young of monogamous pairings receive. Polygynous offspring may thus be undernourished and experience greater mortality. Hence, the selection for polygyny in populations where unmated males are available suggests that an uneven distribution of ecological factors affecting breeding success permits females settling in excellent habitat to raise more offspring unassisted by a polygynous male than can be produced with full male cooperation in a less suitable area. This study's central objective was to determine if male Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) pairing success was correlated with specific ecological factors within their territories, and if territory to territory differences in quality were sufficient to account for the selection of this mating pattern. In addition, I examined those adaptive modifications of breeding biology and parental behavior which served to minimize reproductive failure at nests not attended by males. Measures of various structural features of the vegetation were made at 1921 randomly-located sample points within an 11.3 ha sedge-grass meadow in south central Wisconsin. The data from sample points falling within bachelor-occupied territories were grouped and statistically compared with values from territories of other mating classes, and with values from 388 sample points which surrounded nest cups. In addition, the breeding biology of a large number of color-banded individuals was intensively studied over five breeding seasons. These observations included carefully standardized recordings of adult time-budgetings. Morphological and behavioral differences between males and inter-territorial differences in food abundance were of minor importance in female mate choice compared to the enormous habitat disparities between different territory classes. Areas defended by bachelors, monogamists, bigamists and trigamists differed significantly in the density of large forbs which provided the only satisfactory nest concealment at the time nesting commenced. Furthermore, significant (P < 0.01) discrepancies existed between these territories in the distribution and abundance of almost all habitat features characterizing nesting ares (per cent coverage of grasses, sedges and forbs, shading properties of the vegetation, and the vegetative foliage height profile). Bachelor territories were deficient in features important in female nest site selection and were thus unsatisfactory for breeding. The quality of monogamous and bigamous territories was improved over that in bachelor holdings, and trigamists occupied the most satisfactory habitat. Thus, when some males are forced into habitats too marginal for successful breeding, this polygynous system grants each female an opportunity to nest in a satisfactory location. Bobolink males generally assisted only their first (primary) female in feeding and brooding nestlings. A number of interrelated adaptations (the adaptive complex) functioned to circumvent heavy reproductive failure at secondary nests, where males did not aid. Secondary clutch sizes were significantly smaller than primary egg sets. This, combined with asynchronous hatching which promoted rapid brood reduction, brought brood size into correspondence with food transfer capabilities of secondary females. Moreover, male flexibility in feeding unusually large secondary broods and in caring for secondary nestlings late in the season increased secondary nesting success. Two of a series of other adaptive patterns were: (1) an optimization of the food delivery tempo of primary pairs, which probably extended breeding longevity; (2) a postponement of energy expenditure by yearling males in territorial and sexual advertisement behavior until special circumstances permitted opportunistic establishment in good habitat. This decreased unnecessary competition with older, experienced males. Title: Polygyny in the bobolink : habitat quality and the adaptive complex Author: Martin, Stephen George, 1941- The adaptiveness of polygyny in passerines poses a particularly intriguing problem. The altricial young of this group require extended parental care, but young of polygynous pairings generally lack the undivided attention of the male which young of monogamous pairings receive. Polygynous offspring may thus be undernourished and experience greater mortality. Hence, the selection for polygyny in populations where unmated males are available suggests that an uneven distribution of ecological factors affecting breeding success permits females settling in excellent habitat to raise more offspring unassisted by a polygynous male than can be produced with full male cooperation in a less suitable area. This study's central objective was to determine if male Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) pairing success was correlated with specific ecological factors within their territories, and if territory to territory differences in quality were sufficient to account for the selection of this mating pattern. In addition, I examined those adaptive modifications of breeding biology and parental behavior which served to minimize reproductive failure at nests not attended by males. Measures of various structural features of the vegetation were made at 1921 randomly-located sample points within an 11.3 ha sedge-grass meadow in south central Wisconsin. The data from sample points falling within bachelor-occupied territories were grouped and statistically compared with values from territories of other mating classes, and with values from 388 sample points which surrounded nest cups. In addition, the breeding biology of a large number of color-banded individuals was intensively studied over five breeding seasons. These observations included carefully standardized recordings of adult time-budgetings. Morphological and behavioral differences between males and inter-territorial differences in food abundance were of minor importance in female mate choice compared to the enormous habitat disparities between different territory classes. Areas defended by bachelors, monogamists, bigamists and trigamists differed significantly in the density of large forbs which provided the only satisfactory nest concealment at the time nesting commenced. Furthermore, significant (P < 0.01) discrepancies existed between these territories in the distribution and abundance of almost all habitat features characterizing nesting ares (per cent coverage of grasses, sedges and forbs, shading properties of the vegetation, and the vegetative foliage height profile). Bachelor territories were deficient in features important in female nest site selection and were thus unsatisfactory for breeding. The quality of monogamous and bigamous territories was improved over that in bachelor holdings, and trigamists occupied the most satisfactory habitat. Thus, when some males are forced into habitats too marginal for successful breeding, this polygynous system grants each female an opportunity to nest in a satisfactory location. Bobolink males generally assisted only their first (primary) female in feeding and brooding nestlings. A number of interrelated adaptations (the adaptive complex) functioned to circumvent heavy reproductive failure at secondary nests, where males did not aid. Secondary clutch sizes were significantly smaller than primary egg sets. This, combined with asynchronous hatching which promoted rapid brood reduction, brought brood size into correspondence with food transfer capabilities of secondary females. Moreover, male flexibility in feeding unusually large secondary broods and in caring for secondary nestlings late in the season increased secondary nesting success. Two of a series of other adaptive patterns were: (1) an optimization of the food delivery tempo of primary pairs, which probably extended breeding longevity; (2) a postponement of energy expenditure by yearling males in territorial and sexual advertisement behavior until special circumstances permitted opportunistic establishment in good habitat. This decreased unnecessary competition with older, experienced males. Close

• 455. [Article] Hydraulic predictors and seasonal distribution of Manayunkia speciosa density in the Klamath River, CA, with implications for ceratomyxosis, a disease of salmon and trout

  The freshwater polychaete Manayunkia speciosa was identified as an obligate host of the salmonid parasite Ceratomyxa shasta in 1997, prompting increased research on the small benthic invertebrate. Ceratomyxa ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Hydraulic predictors and seasonal distribution of Manayunkia speciosa density in the Klamath River, CA, with implications for ceratomyxosis, a disease of salmon and trout Author: Jordan, Michelle S. The freshwater polychaete Manayunkia speciosa was identified as an obligate host of the salmonid parasite Ceratomyxa shasta in 1997, prompting increased research on the small benthic invertebrate. Ceratomyxa shasta infection in fish can cause mortality, and presents a disease risk for both hatchery and wild salmon and trout. Ceratomyxa shasta is endemic to rivers of the Pacific Northwest, and its effects have been particularly well documented in the Klamath River, Oregon and California. One option for managing C. shasta impacts is by decreasing densities of M. speciosa through habitat manipulation, thus decreasing amplification of the parasite. The Klamath River is regulated by irrigation and hydropower dams, thus manipulating the hydrograph to destabilize habitat is a possibility. Decreasing habitat through flow manipulation requires a thorough understanding of the hydraulic environment of polychaete habitat, and how that environment changes with discharge. This thesis proposes an influence diagram of physical variables driving M. speciosa density, and investigates several of them. Samples were collected for enumerating M. speciosa density from nine sites in the Klamath River over 15 months, and seasonal density changes were examined, as were the relationships between density and hydraulic variables (depth, average velocity, substrate size, Reynolds number, Froude number). Density increased directly with depth and inversely with velocity, and was greater on small (silt, sand) and large (boulder, bedrock) substrate relative to medium substrate (gravel, cobble). Density was highest in the summer (July, August, September), and there was evidence that summer densities were influenced by spring discharges through the mechanism of substrate mobilization. Differences in infection prevalence among seasons and habitats were also investigated; however, very low overall incidence of infection limited any conclusions. Based on these results, it is recommended that habitat modeling for management of M. speciosa populations include a habitat stability component that incorporates s whether peak discharge the previous year surpassed a stability threshold. Title: Hydraulic predictors and seasonal distribution of Manayunkia speciosa density in the Klamath River, CA, with implications for ceratomyxosis, a disease of salmon and trout Author: Jordan, Michelle S. The freshwater polychaete Manayunkia speciosa was identified as an obligate host of the salmonid parasite Ceratomyxa shasta in 1997, prompting increased research on the small benthic invertebrate. Ceratomyxa shasta infection in fish can cause mortality, and presents a disease risk for both hatchery and wild salmon and trout. Ceratomyxa shasta is endemic to rivers of the Pacific Northwest, and its effects have been particularly well documented in the Klamath River, Oregon and California. One option for managing C. shasta impacts is by decreasing densities of M. speciosa through habitat manipulation, thus decreasing amplification of the parasite. The Klamath River is regulated by irrigation and hydropower dams, thus manipulating the hydrograph to destabilize habitat is a possibility. Decreasing habitat through flow manipulation requires a thorough understanding of the hydraulic environment of polychaete habitat, and how that environment changes with discharge. This thesis proposes an influence diagram of physical variables driving M. speciosa density, and investigates several of them. Samples were collected for enumerating M. speciosa density from nine sites in the Klamath River over 15 months, and seasonal density changes were examined, as were the relationships between density and hydraulic variables (depth, average velocity, substrate size, Reynolds number, Froude number). Density increased directly with depth and inversely with velocity, and was greater on small (silt, sand) and large (boulder, bedrock) substrate relative to medium substrate (gravel, cobble). Density was highest in the summer (July, August, September), and there was evidence that summer densities were influenced by spring discharges through the mechanism of substrate mobilization. Differences in infection prevalence among seasons and habitats were also investigated; however, very low overall incidence of infection limited any conclusions. Based on these results, it is recommended that habitat modeling for management of M. speciosa populations include a habitat stability component that incorporates s whether peak discharge the previous year surpassed a stability threshold. Close

• 456. [Article] Terrestrial lichen and bryophyte communities of the Blue Mountains in Northeast Oregon

  Although terrestrial lichens and bryophytes are common in upland plant communities of the Blue Mountains in northeast Oregon, research on cryptogam communities in this region is wanting. Studies have shown ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Terrestrial lichen and bryophyte communities of the Blue Mountains in Northeast Oregon Author: Hardman, Amanda Although terrestrial lichens and bryophytes are common in upland plant communities of the Blue Mountains in northeast Oregon, research on cryptogam communities in this region is wanting. Studies have shown that lichens and bryophytes can reduce soil erosion and increase soil fertility in other semiarid habitats of North America. Understanding the particular roles terrestrial lichens and bryophytes play in their ecosystems and how they react to anthropogenic disturbances is part of making sound management decisions. Managers in the Blue Mountains are now dealing with heavy fuel loads in forested habitats that were impacted by mountain pine beetles, western spruce budworm infestations, Douglas fir dwarf mistletoe, and drought from the 1970's into the 1990's. To better understand how cryptogam communities respond to fuels reduction treatments in insect impacted Abies grandis classified forests of the central Blue Mountains, we compared species composition of logged and burned stands to stands that have not been treated in forty years. We found early colonizing species to be much more frequent in treated sites (logged and burned) while later seral species occurred more often in untreated stands. Because untreated stands had more microsite heterogeneity (coarse woody debris as well as bare soils) there was generally a higher diversity of species than in treated sites. A comparison of the composition of cryptogam communities in these degraded forests to 'healthy' stands in the central Blue Mountains is difficult because unaffected stands are scarce and literature on such communities previous to the insect epidemics is lacking. To get a better idea of the potential that exists for terrestrial lichen and bryophyte community composition, this research was expanded to other common upland habitats in the area. In total 53 sites in five different plant community types were investigated (Abies grandis, Pinus ponderosa, Pinus contorta, Poa secunda grasslands, and Artemisia rigida steppe). Lichen and bryophyte composition and environmental characteristics were compared across sites using multivariate analyses. This research has provided some basic information on community composition in upland habitats of the Blue Mountains. Soil characteristics had the strongest correlation to community composition. Habitats with sparsely vegetated, shallow, rocky soils (bunchgrass, Artemisia rigida, Pinus ponderosa) had very different cryptogam presence than those with deep soils covered by coarse woody debris and denser vegetation (Abies grandis and Pinus contorta forests). While investigating dry bunchgrass habitat of the region an unattached form of Grimmia ovalis was found on many sites with shallow soils and sparse vegetation. Although this moss is commonly known on rock in western North America, it has not yet been reported as unattached in North America. It has, however, been recorded from Africa and Venezuela. Unattached mosses, or moss balls, form when a force, such as frost heaving, cleaves a moss clump from a substrate. That same force, or another, will rotate the clump exposing alternating sides to growth. The formation of moss balls in northeast Oregon are likely created by freeze thaw cycles. More research on their biology and habitat is needed to verify this theory. Title: Terrestrial lichen and bryophyte communities of the Blue Mountains in Northeast Oregon Author: Hardman, Amanda Although terrestrial lichens and bryophytes are common in upland plant communities of the Blue Mountains in northeast Oregon, research on cryptogam communities in this region is wanting. Studies have shown that lichens and bryophytes can reduce soil erosion and increase soil fertility in other semiarid habitats of North America. Understanding the particular roles terrestrial lichens and bryophytes play in their ecosystems and how they react to anthropogenic disturbances is part of making sound management decisions. Managers in the Blue Mountains are now dealing with heavy fuel loads in forested habitats that were impacted by mountain pine beetles, western spruce budworm infestations, Douglas fir dwarf mistletoe, and drought from the 1970's into the 1990's. To better understand how cryptogam communities respond to fuels reduction treatments in insect impacted Abies grandis classified forests of the central Blue Mountains, we compared species composition of logged and burned stands to stands that have not been treated in forty years. We found early colonizing species to be much more frequent in treated sites (logged and burned) while later seral species occurred more often in untreated stands. Because untreated stands had more microsite heterogeneity (coarse woody debris as well as bare soils) there was generally a higher diversity of species than in treated sites. A comparison of the composition of cryptogam communities in these degraded forests to 'healthy' stands in the central Blue Mountains is difficult because unaffected stands are scarce and literature on such communities previous to the insect epidemics is lacking. To get a better idea of the potential that exists for terrestrial lichen and bryophyte community composition, this research was expanded to other common upland habitats in the area. In total 53 sites in five different plant community types were investigated (Abies grandis, Pinus ponderosa, Pinus contorta, Poa secunda grasslands, and Artemisia rigida steppe). Lichen and bryophyte composition and environmental characteristics were compared across sites using multivariate analyses. This research has provided some basic information on community composition in upland habitats of the Blue Mountains. Soil characteristics had the strongest correlation to community composition. Habitats with sparsely vegetated, shallow, rocky soils (bunchgrass, Artemisia rigida, Pinus ponderosa) had very different cryptogam presence than those with deep soils covered by coarse woody debris and denser vegetation (Abies grandis and Pinus contorta forests). While investigating dry bunchgrass habitat of the region an unattached form of Grimmia ovalis was found on many sites with shallow soils and sparse vegetation. Although this moss is commonly known on rock in western North America, it has not yet been reported as unattached in North America. It has, however, been recorded from Africa and Venezuela. Unattached mosses, or moss balls, form when a force, such as frost heaving, cleaves a moss clump from a substrate. That same force, or another, will rotate the clump exposing alternating sides to growth. The formation of moss balls in northeast Oregon are likely created by freeze thaw cycles. More research on their biology and habitat is needed to verify this theory. Close

• 457. [Article] Response of brood-rearing habitat of sage grouse to prescribed burning in Oregon

  Decline of western sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus phaios) in Oregon may be related to the reduced availability of foods in upland sagebrush (Artemisia)-grasslands used for brood-rearing. The goal ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Response of brood-rearing habitat of sage grouse to prescribed burning in Oregon Author: Pyle, William H. (William Hanson), 1957- Decline of western sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus phaios) in Oregon may be related to the reduced availability of foods in upland sagebrush (Artemisia)-grasslands used for brood-rearing. The goal of this study was to determine primary foods of chicks and the short-term response of brood-rearing habitat to prescribed burning at Hart Mountain, Oregon. Analysis revealed that food use by 44 chicks and availability at collection locations differed (P > 0.001) among forb and insect taxa. Eleven forb and insect genera were used selectively (primary foods) and collectively composed 58% of the diet by aggregate mass. Primary foods included Cichorieae (Crepis sp., Agoseris spp., Taraxacum sp.), milkvetches (Astraqalus spp.), microsteris (Microsteris sp.), desertparsley (Lomatium spp.) and ground-dwelling beetles (Scarabaeidae, Tenebrionidae). Compared with 1-5 week-old chicks, 6-10 week-old chicks consumed less (P < 0.05) annual forbs (36 and 14%) and ground-dwelling insects (32 and 16%) but more perennial forbs (30 and 55%) and sagebrush (2 and 16%) by aggregate mass. Response of brood-rearing habitat to prescribed burning was evaluated in sagebrush-bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata) communities with a randomized block design established in stands where shrub cover exceeded 35%. Within blocks, habitat response was evaluated for 2 growing seasons on 4 plots used as controls, 3 plots burned in November 1987, and 4 plots burned in March 1988. Fall burning increased (P < 0.05) frequency of Cichorieae. Other primary foods, including microsteris, desert-parsley, and ground-dwelling beetles, were not influenced by burning. Additionally, spring and fall burning reduced shrub cover and increased total forb cover and diversity, but grasses and insect orders were not substantially influenced. Although prescribed burning increased habitat heterogeneity, its utility may be limited as a food enhancement practice. Primary forbs and insects responded inconsistently and sagebrush, which serves as both food and cover, responded negatively. Evaluation of brood-rearing habitat should be based on several criteria including an understanding of the interaction between land-use practices and availability of primary foods of chicks. Title: Response of brood-rearing habitat of sage grouse to prescribed burning in Oregon Author: Pyle, William H. (William Hanson), 1957- Decline of western sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus phaios) in Oregon may be related to the reduced availability of foods in upland sagebrush (Artemisia)-grasslands used for brood-rearing. The goal of this study was to determine primary foods of chicks and the short-term response of brood-rearing habitat to prescribed burning at Hart Mountain, Oregon. Analysis revealed that food use by 44 chicks and availability at collection locations differed (P > 0.001) among forb and insect taxa. Eleven forb and insect genera were used selectively (primary foods) and collectively composed 58% of the diet by aggregate mass. Primary foods included Cichorieae (Crepis sp., Agoseris spp., Taraxacum sp.), milkvetches (Astraqalus spp.), microsteris (Microsteris sp.), desertparsley (Lomatium spp.) and ground-dwelling beetles (Scarabaeidae, Tenebrionidae). Compared with 1-5 week-old chicks, 6-10 week-old chicks consumed less (P < 0.05) annual forbs (36 and 14%) and ground-dwelling insects (32 and 16%) but more perennial forbs (30 and 55%) and sagebrush (2 and 16%) by aggregate mass. Response of brood-rearing habitat to prescribed burning was evaluated in sagebrush-bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata) communities with a randomized block design established in stands where shrub cover exceeded 35%. Within blocks, habitat response was evaluated for 2 growing seasons on 4 plots used as controls, 3 plots burned in November 1987, and 4 plots burned in March 1988. Fall burning increased (P < 0.05) frequency of Cichorieae. Other primary foods, including microsteris, desert-parsley, and ground-dwelling beetles, were not influenced by burning. Additionally, spring and fall burning reduced shrub cover and increased total forb cover and diversity, but grasses and insect orders were not substantially influenced. Although prescribed burning increased habitat heterogeneity, its utility may be limited as a food enhancement practice. Primary forbs and insects responded inconsistently and sagebrush, which serves as both food and cover, responded negatively. Evaluation of brood-rearing habitat should be based on several criteria including an understanding of the interaction between land-use practices and availability of primary foods of chicks. Close

• 458. [Article] Survival and nest site characteristics of translocated mountain quail on Steens Mountain, Oregon

  Mountain Quail (Oreortyx pictus) populations have declined in the eastern portion of their range during the last century. However, few studies have investigated the nesting habitat and survival of Mountain ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Survival and nest site characteristics of translocated mountain quail on Steens Mountain, Oregon Author: Nelson, Jamie N. Mountain Quail (Oreortyx pictus) populations have declined in the eastern portion of their range during the last century. However, few studies have investigated the nesting habitat and survival of Mountain Quail translocated into an area from which they have been extirpated. We translocated 217 wild Mountain Quail (Oreortyx pictus) from southwestern Oregon to Steens Mountain in southeastern Oregon to re-establish a population in this former part of their range. We measured habitat characteristics at 45 nest sites and 90 random sites to identify which habitat characteristics are important in Mountain Quail nest site selection. We found that canopy cover of shrubs, trees, and rocks, and shrub height 8 m from the nest were the 2 most important characteristics influencing Mountain Quail nest-site selection. Mean shrub height at nest sites was approximately 1 m tall and mean canopy cover was 28%. Managing habitat for shrubs of this height and a similar density of canopy cover will increase habitat suitable for Mountain Quail reproduction. When selecting future release sites, shrub height and canopy cover should be of primary consideration. In addition to determining what habitat attributes Mountain Quail select for nesting, we also estimated survival rates for 135 radio-collared Mountain Quail for the 5-month period following translocation and looked at the effects of year, sex, time, linear and quadratic time trends, body condition, and weather covariates to see if they explained variation in survival rates. Year, sex, and a quadratic time trend were the most important factors explaining variation in survival in this study. Survival was higher in 2005 than 2006 and was higher for females in both years of the study. Survival was lowest during the first 2 weeks after the release suggesting that improving survival during this initial time period may improve overall chances of a successful translocation. Selecting release sites that provide adequate cover from raptors and other predators may be critical for survival of Mountain Quail following a translocation. Title: Survival and nest site characteristics of translocated mountain quail on Steens Mountain, Oregon Author: Nelson, Jamie N. Mountain Quail (Oreortyx pictus) populations have declined in the eastern portion of their range during the last century. However, few studies have investigated the nesting habitat and survival of Mountain Quail translocated into an area from which they have been extirpated. We translocated 217 wild Mountain Quail (Oreortyx pictus) from southwestern Oregon to Steens Mountain in southeastern Oregon to re-establish a population in this former part of their range. We measured habitat characteristics at 45 nest sites and 90 random sites to identify which habitat characteristics are important in Mountain Quail nest site selection. We found that canopy cover of shrubs, trees, and rocks, and shrub height 8 m from the nest were the 2 most important characteristics influencing Mountain Quail nest-site selection. Mean shrub height at nest sites was approximately 1 m tall and mean canopy cover was 28%. Managing habitat for shrubs of this height and a similar density of canopy cover will increase habitat suitable for Mountain Quail reproduction. When selecting future release sites, shrub height and canopy cover should be of primary consideration. In addition to determining what habitat attributes Mountain Quail select for nesting, we also estimated survival rates for 135 radio-collared Mountain Quail for the 5-month period following translocation and looked at the effects of year, sex, time, linear and quadratic time trends, body condition, and weather covariates to see if they explained variation in survival rates. Year, sex, and a quadratic time trend were the most important factors explaining variation in survival in this study. Survival was higher in 2005 than 2006 and was higher for females in both years of the study. Survival was lowest during the first 2 weeks after the release suggesting that improving survival during this initial time period may improve overall chances of a successful translocation. Selecting release sites that provide adequate cover from raptors and other predators may be critical for survival of Mountain Quail following a translocation. Close

• 459. [Article] Distribution of Ceratomyxa shasta (Myxozoa) and habitat preference of the polychaete host, Manayunkia speciosa in the Klamath River

  Ceratomyxa shasta is a myxozoan parasite of salmonids and requires the freshwater polychaete, Manayunkia speciosa to complete its life cycle. The parasite’s distribution is currently limited to the Pacific ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Distribution of Ceratomyxa shasta (Myxozoa) and habitat preference of the polychaete host, Manayunkia speciosa in the Klamath River Author: Stocking, Richard W. Ceratomyxa shasta is a myxozoan parasite of salmonids and requires the freshwater polychaete, Manayunkia speciosa to complete its life cycle. The parasite’s distribution is currently limited to the Pacific Northwest region of North America and has been reported to cause substantial losses of both wild and hatchery salmonids. The spatial and seasonal distribution of C. shasta can vary considerably both within and between river systems. This variation was thought to be a result of specific habitat requirements limiting polychaete distribution and abundance. Field studies were conducted in the Klamath River basin where C. shasta is suspected to have caused high losses in migrating juvenile salmonids. The purpose of this study was to document the host-parasite distribution of C. shasta in the river, assess its ability to cause disease, and study aspects of the polychaetes habitat ecology. This is the first study to report the broad-scale distribution of M. speciosa in a river and the various characteristics of those populations. The seasonal distribution of C. shasta in the Klamath River was investigated by exposing separate groups of C. shasta-susceptible rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) at monthly intervals during the study. The spatial distribution was assessed by one basin-wide exposure. The ability of C. shasta to cause disease in native Klamath River salmonids was investigated by exposing fall Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha; Iron Gate Hatchery strain), along with the known susceptible strains of rainbow trout. The distribution and habitat preferences of M. speciosa were investigated by collecting benthic habitat samples from a variety of habitat types. Where populations were identified, sampling was conducted at a finer scale to study aspects of those populations such as size, density, and age-structure. The distribution and prevalence of C. shasta infection in populations of M. speciosa were determined by using a pooled prevalence strategy on several polychaete populations throughout the Klamath River. Ceratomyxa shasta, with few exceptions, was only detected in exposure groups from the main-stem Klamath. The parasite could be detected from April until November when water temperatures reached 6˚C. It is likely the parasite could be detected beyond the temporal limits of this study. Prevalence of infection was high with little mortality in rainbow trout exposures groups above Iron Gate dam (Upper Klamath River). Mortality was 100% for rainbow trout exposure groups below Iron Gate Dam (Lower Klamath River). Fall Chinook salmon demonstrated a high level of resistance to the parasite above Iron Gate Dam compared to the rainbow trout, but suffered nearly 50% mortality below the dam. This suggests that resistance of native stocks to the parasite can be overwhelmed in the Lower Klamath River and provides further evidence that infectious dose is high relative to the Upper Klamath River. The polychaete host, M. speciosa, was found to occur throughout the Klamath River and was often located in slow flowing depositional habitats such as pools and reservoirs. River populations were highly aggregated into small areas whereas reservoir populations were large, widespread and centered at the inflow area. Sand-organic matter substrates and mat-forming epilithic algae were primary microhabitats. Flow velocity, habitat stability and life traits such as dispersal ability appear to be primary factors limiting distribution and abundance of the polychaete. Populations of M. speciosa tested for the prevalence of C. shasta infection demonstrate a low mean prevalence of 0.27% with areas of elevated infection (4.8 and 8.3%) located just downstream of Iron Gate Dam. This suggests that this area may be the primary source of infectious actinospores contributing to the high juvenile salmonid mortality observed in the Lower Klamath River. Title: Distribution of Ceratomyxa shasta (Myxozoa) and habitat preference of the polychaete host, Manayunkia speciosa in the Klamath River Author: Stocking, Richard W. Ceratomyxa shasta is a myxozoan parasite of salmonids and requires the freshwater polychaete, Manayunkia speciosa to complete its life cycle. The parasite’s distribution is currently limited to the Pacific Northwest region of North America and has been reported to cause substantial losses of both wild and hatchery salmonids. The spatial and seasonal distribution of C. shasta can vary considerably both within and between river systems. This variation was thought to be a result of specific habitat requirements limiting polychaete distribution and abundance. Field studies were conducted in the Klamath River basin where C. shasta is suspected to have caused high losses in migrating juvenile salmonids. The purpose of this study was to document the host-parasite distribution of C. shasta in the river, assess its ability to cause disease, and study aspects of the polychaetes habitat ecology. This is the first study to report the broad-scale distribution of M. speciosa in a river and the various characteristics of those populations. The seasonal distribution of C. shasta in the Klamath River was investigated by exposing separate groups of C. shasta-susceptible rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) at monthly intervals during the study. The spatial distribution was assessed by one basin-wide exposure. The ability of C. shasta to cause disease in native Klamath River salmonids was investigated by exposing fall Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha; Iron Gate Hatchery strain), along with the known susceptible strains of rainbow trout. The distribution and habitat preferences of M. speciosa were investigated by collecting benthic habitat samples from a variety of habitat types. Where populations were identified, sampling was conducted at a finer scale to study aspects of those populations such as size, density, and age-structure. The distribution and prevalence of C. shasta infection in populations of M. speciosa were determined by using a pooled prevalence strategy on several polychaete populations throughout the Klamath River. Ceratomyxa shasta, with few exceptions, was only detected in exposure groups from the main-stem Klamath. The parasite could be detected from April until November when water temperatures reached 6˚C. It is likely the parasite could be detected beyond the temporal limits of this study. Prevalence of infection was high with little mortality in rainbow trout exposures groups above Iron Gate dam (Upper Klamath River). Mortality was 100% for rainbow trout exposure groups below Iron Gate Dam (Lower Klamath River). Fall Chinook salmon demonstrated a high level of resistance to the parasite above Iron Gate Dam compared to the rainbow trout, but suffered nearly 50% mortality below the dam. This suggests that resistance of native stocks to the parasite can be overwhelmed in the Lower Klamath River and provides further evidence that infectious dose is high relative to the Upper Klamath River. The polychaete host, M. speciosa, was found to occur throughout the Klamath River and was often located in slow flowing depositional habitats such as pools and reservoirs. River populations were highly aggregated into small areas whereas reservoir populations were large, widespread and centered at the inflow area. Sand-organic matter substrates and mat-forming epilithic algae were primary microhabitats. Flow velocity, habitat stability and life traits such as dispersal ability appear to be primary factors limiting distribution and abundance of the polychaete. Populations of M. speciosa tested for the prevalence of C. shasta infection demonstrate a low mean prevalence of 0.27% with areas of elevated infection (4.8 and 8.3%) located just downstream of Iron Gate Dam. This suggests that this area may be the primary source of infectious actinospores contributing to the high juvenile salmonid mortality observed in the Lower Klamath River. Close

• 460. [Article] Ecology of populations of Van Dyke's salamanders in the Cascade Range of Washington State

  The Van Dyke's salamander (Plethodon vandyke,) is a rare species endemic to Washington State. It has been found in cool moist microhabitats along streams, splash zones of waterfalls, and headwater seeps. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Ecology of populations of Van Dyke's salamanders in the Cascade Range of Washington State Author: McIntyre, Aimee P. The Van Dyke's salamander (Plethodon vandyke,) is a rare species endemic to Washington State. It has been found in cool moist microhabitats along streams, splash zones of waterfalls, and headwater seeps. We explored the association of the Van Dyke's salamander with hydrologic condition, geomorphology, disturbance characteristics, and vegetation structure in first- and second-order streams, and headwater seeps in the Cascade Range of Washington. We conducted salamander surveys and measured habitat characteristics at 50 streams and 40 seeps May-October 2000-2002. We described Van Dyke's salamander occurrence in stream and seep sites at three spatial scales: between sites, within sites, and between microhabitat sites. Using presence and absence as the response, we fit logistic regression models predicting Van Dyke's salamander occurrence. To identify the model that best fit the data, we ranked a priori models using Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). Results were consistent for both stream and seep sites, at all three spatial scales. Best approximating models indicated that Van Dyke's salamander occurrence at sites was related to geological and hydrological habitat characteristics that provided hydnc and thermal stability. The probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence along streams was associated with habitat characteristics that protected salamanders from exposure, provided a source cover, and stream habitat types providing splash zone areas. Between streams, Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was positively associated with the proportion of valley walls with canopy cover <5%, the proportion of the stream channel dominated by bedrock, boulder, or soil substrates, and additional stream channels entering the main channel. Within streams, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence increased with the presence of non-forested areas, the presence of bedrock dominated stream habitat types, and the presence of vertical or V-shaped valley wall morphology. Between microhabitat sites, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence increased with an absence of trees, the presence of seeps, and the presence of small cobble sized substrates. The probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence in seeps was associated with habitat characteristics that protected salamanders within the larger landscape, provided a moisture gradient from dry to saturated, and the presence of cover objects. Between seeps, Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was positively associated with seep faces having a dry and sheeting hydrology, and with seep faces >5 m high. Within seeps, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was negatively associated with seeps that had proportionately more point measures of total overhead cover that were >25%. Between microhabitat sites, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was positively associated with an increase in the percent cover of small cobble, small gravel, and bedrock substrates. We conducted mark-recapture surveys of the Van Dyke's salamander at two high-gradient stream sites located within the Cascade Range of Washington State, June-November 2002. Sites known to support populations of the Van Dyke's salamander were chosen, and were ecologically different. One site, lacking significant overstory and located within the blast zone created by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, was surveyed 10 times. The other site, located in an old-growth coniferous stand, was surveyed 11 times. Abundance of salamanders at the blast zone site was estimated to be 458 (95% Cl: 306-739). Abundance of salamanders at the old-growth site was estimated to be 100 individuals (95% Cl: 61-209). Capture probabilities were extremely low (5 = <0.10) for all trapping occasions at both sites, with an average capture probability for the two sites of 0.038 (range = 0.02-0.09). Analysis of movement patterns suggested that most individual salamanders had home ranges <2 m, at least when moving on or near the surface. Individuals were recaptured under the same cover object as initial capture 36% of the time, and 89% of the recaptured individuals moved <2 m. Our results indicated that populations of the Van Dyke's salamander were rare on the landscape, even within the species documented range. Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was associated with geological and hydrological habitat characteristics that created microhabitats favorable for a species that is especially sensitive to heat and drying due to physiological constraints. Animals were difficult to detect due to fossorial habits and low capture probabilities, and it is likely that the Van Dyke's salamander was not detected even at sites where it existed. Life history characteristics, such as lunglessness and fossorial habits, low capture probabilities, and low abundances make it difficult to manage for and protect the Van Dyke's salamander. However, habitat associations may be used to identify and protect habitats suitable for Van Dyke's salamander occurrence. Title: Ecology of populations of Van Dyke's salamanders in the Cascade Range of Washington State Author: McIntyre, Aimee P. The Van Dyke's salamander (Plethodon vandyke,) is a rare species endemic to Washington State. It has been found in cool moist microhabitats along streams, splash zones of waterfalls, and headwater seeps. We explored the association of the Van Dyke's salamander with hydrologic condition, geomorphology, disturbance characteristics, and vegetation structure in first- and second-order streams, and headwater seeps in the Cascade Range of Washington. We conducted salamander surveys and measured habitat characteristics at 50 streams and 40 seeps May-October 2000-2002. We described Van Dyke's salamander occurrence in stream and seep sites at three spatial scales: between sites, within sites, and between microhabitat sites. Using presence and absence as the response, we fit logistic regression models predicting Van Dyke's salamander occurrence. To identify the model that best fit the data, we ranked a priori models using Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). Results were consistent for both stream and seep sites, at all three spatial scales. Best approximating models indicated that Van Dyke's salamander occurrence at sites was related to geological and hydrological habitat characteristics that provided hydnc and thermal stability. The probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence along streams was associated with habitat characteristics that protected salamanders from exposure, provided a source cover, and stream habitat types providing splash zone areas. Between streams, Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was positively associated with the proportion of valley walls with canopy cover <5%, the proportion of the stream channel dominated by bedrock, boulder, or soil substrates, and additional stream channels entering the main channel. Within streams, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence increased with the presence of non-forested areas, the presence of bedrock dominated stream habitat types, and the presence of vertical or V-shaped valley wall morphology. Between microhabitat sites, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence increased with an absence of trees, the presence of seeps, and the presence of small cobble sized substrates. The probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence in seeps was associated with habitat characteristics that protected salamanders within the larger landscape, provided a moisture gradient from dry to saturated, and the presence of cover objects. Between seeps, Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was positively associated with seep faces having a dry and sheeting hydrology, and with seep faces >5 m high. Within seeps, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was negatively associated with seeps that had proportionately more point measures of total overhead cover that were >25%. Between microhabitat sites, the probability of Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was positively associated with an increase in the percent cover of small cobble, small gravel, and bedrock substrates. We conducted mark-recapture surveys of the Van Dyke's salamander at two high-gradient stream sites located within the Cascade Range of Washington State, June-November 2002. Sites known to support populations of the Van Dyke's salamander were chosen, and were ecologically different. One site, lacking significant overstory and located within the blast zone created by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, was surveyed 10 times. The other site, located in an old-growth coniferous stand, was surveyed 11 times. Abundance of salamanders at the blast zone site was estimated to be 458 (95% Cl: 306-739). Abundance of salamanders at the old-growth site was estimated to be 100 individuals (95% Cl: 61-209). Capture probabilities were extremely low (5 = <0.10) for all trapping occasions at both sites, with an average capture probability for the two sites of 0.038 (range = 0.02-0.09). Analysis of movement patterns suggested that most individual salamanders had home ranges <2 m, at least when moving on or near the surface. Individuals were recaptured under the same cover object as initial capture 36% of the time, and 89% of the recaptured individuals moved <2 m. Our results indicated that populations of the Van Dyke's salamander were rare on the landscape, even within the species documented range. Van Dyke's salamander occurrence was associated with geological and hydrological habitat characteristics that created microhabitats favorable for a species that is especially sensitive to heat and drying due to physiological constraints. Animals were difficult to detect due to fossorial habits and low capture probabilities, and it is likely that the Van Dyke's salamander was not detected even at sites where it existed. Life history characteristics, such as lunglessness and fossorial habits, low capture probabilities, and low abundances make it difficult to manage for and protect the Van Dyke's salamander. However, habitat associations may be used to identify and protect habitats suitable for Van Dyke's salamander occurrence. Close

• 461. [Article] Linkages between mangrove forests and coral reefs : quantifying disturbance effects and energy flow between systems

  Interface habitats are considered valuable natural systems, tightly linked to adjacent habitats through the flow of matter and energy. However, there is limited research on mechanisms of connectivity such ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Linkages between mangrove forests and coral reefs : quantifying disturbance effects and energy flow between systems Author: Granek, Elise F. Interface habitats are considered valuable natural systems, tightly linked to adjacent habitats through the flow of matter and energy. However, there is limited research on mechanisms of connectivity such as movement of organisms and particulate matter and ways in which anthropogenic disturbance to interface habitats may affect immediate and adjacent ecosystems. Mangrove forests, a common interface habitat in tropical coastal zones, once lined much of the tropical and subtropical shores worldwide. However, anthropogenic influences on these systems have led to a ~35% reduction in mangrove area over the last fifty years. In light of the perceived importance of mangrove forests as coastal habitat, the rapid decline of this habitat type, and the potential implications of mangrove habitat loss to adjacent ecosystems, it is important to build upon the current state of knowledge for mangrove forests. The chapters in this dissertation report on the following topics. First I review the published literature to examine the available evidence for connections between mangrove forests and coral reefs. I synthesize previous research findings, highlight areas of future research priorities, and propose a conceptual model of how areas of mangrove disturbance and resulting impacts on coral reefs are related. Second, I assess the effects of mangrove clearing on the immediate habitat. I examine how the physical environment changes following mangrove clearing by examining abiotic factors. I also measure changes in algal biomass and diversity to determine what effects physical changes have on the primary producer community. My results indicate that mangrove clearing has dramatic effects on both the physical and biotic environment. Based on measured changes in abiotic and biotic conditions, K. Frasier and I investigate how larval and zooplankton communities differ between intact and cleared mangrove areas. We find that diversity and community composition differ between intact and cleared mangrove areas, highlighting an additional effect of mangrove disturbance with potential implications for adjacent systems. To address the unanswered question of whether and how abiotic and biotic changes in cleared mangrove areas impact adjacent coral reefs, I repeat and expand upon the study I had conducted on abiotic and biotic changes following mangrove removal. The results in the immediate habitat indicate that the effects of mangrove disturbance are broad. Results from the reefs indicate that mangrove disturbance does have effects on adjacent coral reefs. To determine the relative importance of mangrove-derived nutrients to adjacent coral reef ecosystems and to examine how distance from mangroves to reefs and clearing of mangroves affected energy transfer, I sample sessile reef invertebrates. I employ carbon, nitrogen and sulfur stable isotope analysis as a tool to evaluate whether sessile invertebrates: corals, sponges, a bivalve and feather duster worm, utilize mangrovederived nutrients. Though the pattern varies by taxon, this research provides evidence that sessile reef invertebrates utilize mangrove-derived nutrients. Finally, I examine the effect of two consecutive storm events, the 2005 Tropical Storm (later Category 5 Hurricane) Wilma and the subsequent Tropical Storm Gamma, on the coastal zone. The retention rate of field equipment following storm events provides a picture of how coastal protection changes following anthropogenic mangrove disturbance and the implications of continuing mangrove loss as storm frequency and intensity increase in parallel with climate change. These studies provide new evidence on the effects of disturbance to mangroves on coastal and reef systems. Many new research areas are raised by the results presented here. However, these data provide a useful framework for considering conservation and management strategies for mangrove forest – coral reef systems. Title: Linkages between mangrove forests and coral reefs : quantifying disturbance effects and energy flow between systems Author: Granek, Elise F. Interface habitats are considered valuable natural systems, tightly linked to adjacent habitats through the flow of matter and energy. However, there is limited research on mechanisms of connectivity such as movement of organisms and particulate matter and ways in which anthropogenic disturbance to interface habitats may affect immediate and adjacent ecosystems. Mangrove forests, a common interface habitat in tropical coastal zones, once lined much of the tropical and subtropical shores worldwide. However, anthropogenic influences on these systems have led to a ~35% reduction in mangrove area over the last fifty years. In light of the perceived importance of mangrove forests as coastal habitat, the rapid decline of this habitat type, and the potential implications of mangrove habitat loss to adjacent ecosystems, it is important to build upon the current state of knowledge for mangrove forests. The chapters in this dissertation report on the following topics. First I review the published literature to examine the available evidence for connections between mangrove forests and coral reefs. I synthesize previous research findings, highlight areas of future research priorities, and propose a conceptual model of how areas of mangrove disturbance and resulting impacts on coral reefs are related. Second, I assess the effects of mangrove clearing on the immediate habitat. I examine how the physical environment changes following mangrove clearing by examining abiotic factors. I also measure changes in algal biomass and diversity to determine what effects physical changes have on the primary producer community. My results indicate that mangrove clearing has dramatic effects on both the physical and biotic environment. Based on measured changes in abiotic and biotic conditions, K. Frasier and I investigate how larval and zooplankton communities differ between intact and cleared mangrove areas. We find that diversity and community composition differ between intact and cleared mangrove areas, highlighting an additional effect of mangrove disturbance with potential implications for adjacent systems. To address the unanswered question of whether and how abiotic and biotic changes in cleared mangrove areas impact adjacent coral reefs, I repeat and expand upon the study I had conducted on abiotic and biotic changes following mangrove removal. The results in the immediate habitat indicate that the effects of mangrove disturbance are broad. Results from the reefs indicate that mangrove disturbance does have effects on adjacent coral reefs. To determine the relative importance of mangrove-derived nutrients to adjacent coral reef ecosystems and to examine how distance from mangroves to reefs and clearing of mangroves affected energy transfer, I sample sessile reef invertebrates. I employ carbon, nitrogen and sulfur stable isotope analysis as a tool to evaluate whether sessile invertebrates: corals, sponges, a bivalve and feather duster worm, utilize mangrovederived nutrients. Though the pattern varies by taxon, this research provides evidence that sessile reef invertebrates utilize mangrove-derived nutrients. Finally, I examine the effect of two consecutive storm events, the 2005 Tropical Storm (later Category 5 Hurricane) Wilma and the subsequent Tropical Storm Gamma, on the coastal zone. The retention rate of field equipment following storm events provides a picture of how coastal protection changes following anthropogenic mangrove disturbance and the implications of continuing mangrove loss as storm frequency and intensity increase in parallel with climate change. These studies provide new evidence on the effects of disturbance to mangroves on coastal and reef systems. Many new research areas are raised by the results presented here. However, these data provide a useful framework for considering conservation and management strategies for mangrove forest – coral reef systems. Close

• 462. [Article] Giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) and humans in the lower Yasuní Basin, Ecuador : spacio-temporal activity patterns and their relevance for conservation

  Giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) and humans in the Lower Yasuní Basin (Ecuador) have similar food and space requirements: they consume comparable arrays of fish species, and they use similar aquatic ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) and humans in the lower Yasuní Basin, Ecuador : spacio-temporal activity patterns and their relevance for conservation Author: Carrera-Ubidia, Paola M. Giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) and humans in the Lower Yasuní Basin (Ecuador) have similar food and space requirements: they consume comparable arrays of fish species, and they use similar aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Resource partitioning could facilitate coexistence by allowing each species exclusive access to some resources. My research examines the correlations between the use of spatial resources by giant otters and humans and the hydrological pulse of their ecosystem. My objectives were (1) to estimate the extent of terrestrial and aquatic habitat available for giant otters and humans;(2) to recognize the main patterns of space occupancy and its overlap between them; (3)to explain these patterns in relation to natural gradients in the watershed; (4) to describe the giant otter’s diet; and (5) to depict the foraging activities of giant otters and humans relative to the distribution of prey. Between October 2004 and March 2005, I surveyed the Jatuncocha and Tambococha Creeks (Yasuní National Park) for direct and indirect signs of giant otters and humans, and I collected giant otter scat. Habitat availability was estimated by a geo-referenced map model that integrated virtual and field data, portraying four seasonal scenarios. Space use overlaps between giant otters and humans are a function of water level and the distance between terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The floodplain comprises 43% of the total study area during the flooding season, and is reduced to 25% of the total area at minimum water levels. Polygons obtained containing suitable habitat for giant otters are in average 41% larger than those obtained for humans; these contain areas that are inaccessible to humans (isolated pools and swamps, tributaries, and the upper portions of the main channel). Differences in space availability for and use by giant otters and humans depend on water level fluctuations. Area occupancy by both species is proportional to the estimated availability; but more so for giant otters, as humans increase area occupancy during the driest periods. Giant otter activity was primarily concentrated around the largest tributaries of each creek, and secondarily wherever the distance between suitable terrestrial and aquatic habitat was smaller. Human activity signs were distributed along the hydrographical gradient, i.e. in the lower portion of the Jatuncocha System (lagoon) or in the middle portion of the Tambococha Creek (large tributary). To identify correlations between habitat use by giant otters and humans and prey availability, I analyzed scat samples and collected fish along several creek stretches. Giant otters consumed at least 47 of the 73 species available for them. Identifiable hard parts in the scat samples consisted primarily of Hoplias malabaricus (11.3%), Hypselecara termporalis (5.3%), Acestrorrhynchus sp. and Prochilodus nigricans (4.9% each). Foraging activity of giant otters was positively correlated with fish abundance and relative diversity, with some exceptions. Human activity patterns were related to fish abundance and diversity in Tambococha, but showed less correlation to fish distribution in Jatuncocha. Overlap in resource availability and habitat use by otters and humans is highly variable. In the floodplain, extent and depth are critical variables that determine the distribution of resources in time and space, as well as the amount of resource partitioning possible. Competitive interactions during stressful conditions could be reduced by ensuring the availability of exclusive resources for giant otters during the driest periods, allocating suitable habitats within a short distance from one another along the longitudinal gradient of each watershed. Locally adapted and biologically sound regulations within this and comparable areas of the YNP could promote the persistence of giant otters without compromising the well-being of the local human inhabitants. Title: Giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) and humans in the lower Yasuní Basin, Ecuador : spacio-temporal activity patterns and their relevance for conservation Author: Carrera-Ubidia, Paola M. Giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) and humans in the Lower Yasuní Basin (Ecuador) have similar food and space requirements: they consume comparable arrays of fish species, and they use similar aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Resource partitioning could facilitate coexistence by allowing each species exclusive access to some resources. My research examines the correlations between the use of spatial resources by giant otters and humans and the hydrological pulse of their ecosystem. My objectives were (1) to estimate the extent of terrestrial and aquatic habitat available for giant otters and humans;(2) to recognize the main patterns of space occupancy and its overlap between them; (3)to explain these patterns in relation to natural gradients in the watershed; (4) to describe the giant otter’s diet; and (5) to depict the foraging activities of giant otters and humans relative to the distribution of prey. Between October 2004 and March 2005, I surveyed the Jatuncocha and Tambococha Creeks (Yasuní National Park) for direct and indirect signs of giant otters and humans, and I collected giant otter scat. Habitat availability was estimated by a geo-referenced map model that integrated virtual and field data, portraying four seasonal scenarios. Space use overlaps between giant otters and humans are a function of water level and the distance between terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The floodplain comprises 43% of the total study area during the flooding season, and is reduced to 25% of the total area at minimum water levels. Polygons obtained containing suitable habitat for giant otters are in average 41% larger than those obtained for humans; these contain areas that are inaccessible to humans (isolated pools and swamps, tributaries, and the upper portions of the main channel). Differences in space availability for and use by giant otters and humans depend on water level fluctuations. Area occupancy by both species is proportional to the estimated availability; but more so for giant otters, as humans increase area occupancy during the driest periods. Giant otter activity was primarily concentrated around the largest tributaries of each creek, and secondarily wherever the distance between suitable terrestrial and aquatic habitat was smaller. Human activity signs were distributed along the hydrographical gradient, i.e. in the lower portion of the Jatuncocha System (lagoon) or in the middle portion of the Tambococha Creek (large tributary). To identify correlations between habitat use by giant otters and humans and prey availability, I analyzed scat samples and collected fish along several creek stretches. Giant otters consumed at least 47 of the 73 species available for them. Identifiable hard parts in the scat samples consisted primarily of Hoplias malabaricus (11.3%), Hypselecara termporalis (5.3%), Acestrorrhynchus sp. and Prochilodus nigricans (4.9% each). Foraging activity of giant otters was positively correlated with fish abundance and relative diversity, with some exceptions. Human activity patterns were related to fish abundance and diversity in Tambococha, but showed less correlation to fish distribution in Jatuncocha. Overlap in resource availability and habitat use by otters and humans is highly variable. In the floodplain, extent and depth are critical variables that determine the distribution of resources in time and space, as well as the amount of resource partitioning possible. Competitive interactions during stressful conditions could be reduced by ensuring the availability of exclusive resources for giant otters during the driest periods, allocating suitable habitats within a short distance from one another along the longitudinal gradient of each watershed. Locally adapted and biologically sound regulations within this and comparable areas of the YNP could promote the persistence of giant otters without compromising the well-being of the local human inhabitants. Close

• 463. [Article] Breeding and foraging ecology of Caspian terns nesting on artificial islands in the Upper Klamath Basin, California

  Availability of suitable nesting habitat that is free of nest predators and provides access to adequate prey resources within commuting distance is a major factor limiting seabird populations. Caspian ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Breeding and foraging ecology of Caspian terns nesting on artificial islands in the Upper Klamath Basin, California Author: Patterson, Allison (Allison Glider) Availability of suitable nesting habitat that is free of nest predators and provides access to adequate prey resources within commuting distance is a major factor limiting seabird populations. Caspian terns (Hydroprogne caspia) in western North America have shifted their breeding habitat from naturally occurring habitats in interior wetlands, lakes, and rivers to primarily human-created habitats in coastal bays and estuaries. This shift has brought Caspian terns into conflict with fisheries of conservation concern, in particular anadromous salmonids. Prior to the 2010 breeding season, three artificial islands were built in the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex as alternative nesting habitat for Caspian terns currently nesting at the world's largest colony for the species, near the mouth of the Columbia River, Oregon. I investigated the efficacy of habitat creation (island building) and social attraction (decoys and recorded vocalizations) for establishing new breeding colonies in the Upper Klamath Basin, California. In 2010, approximately 258 pairs of Caspian terns attempted to nest on the new islands and raised an average of 0.65 fledglings/breeding pair; in 2011, 222 pairs attempted to nest and raised an average of 0.11 fledglings/breeding pair. Competition with California and ring-billed gulls (Larus californicus and L. delawarensis) for nesting space, gull predation on Caspian tern eggs and chicks, low water levels, and depredation by great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) were the primary factors limiting colony development and productivity, especially in 2011. The immediate response by Caspian terns to habitat creation and social attraction in the Upper Klamath Basin demonstrates that these can be effective restoration techniques to establish new breeding colonies where nesting habitat is a major limiting factor; however, continued management of other limiting factors (e.g., control of on-colony predators and competitors) will likely be necessary to promote the development of established, self-sustaining breeding colonies on these artificial islands. Efforts to conserve and restore seabird colonies can be compromised by low prey availability within foraging distance of the breeding colony. I used GPS telemetry to study the fine-scale foraging behavior of Caspian terns nesting at two newly established colonies and cluster analysis to discriminate behavioral states based on movement characteristics. Terns breeding at the Sheepy Lake colony spent less time at the colony (52% of the day) than terns breeding at the Tule Lake colony (74%). Caspian terns breeding at Sheepy Lake foraged more extensively than terns breeding at Tule Lake; the foraging trips of Sheepy Lake terns lasted longer (median = 186 min) and were longer-distance (27 km) compared to those of Tule Lake terns (55 min and 6 km, respectively). Between-colony differences in foraging behavior corresponded to 5% lower average body mass of breeding adults and significantly lower size-adjusted body mass of chicks at the Sheepy Lake colony compared to the Tule Lake colony. Proximity to high-quality foraging areas influenced the foraging behavior and parental care of breeding Caspian terns, which in turn had effects on nesting success. The successful use of GPS telemetry to study the fine-scale foraging behavior of Caspian terns represents a significant advance in our ability to investigate the foraging ecology of this species and other moderate-sized seabirds. Title: Breeding and foraging ecology of Caspian terns nesting on artificial islands in the Upper Klamath Basin, California Author: Patterson, Allison (Allison Glider) Availability of suitable nesting habitat that is free of nest predators and provides access to adequate prey resources within commuting distance is a major factor limiting seabird populations. Caspian terns (Hydroprogne caspia) in western North America have shifted their breeding habitat from naturally occurring habitats in interior wetlands, lakes, and rivers to primarily human-created habitats in coastal bays and estuaries. This shift has brought Caspian terns into conflict with fisheries of conservation concern, in particular anadromous salmonids. Prior to the 2010 breeding season, three artificial islands were built in the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex as alternative nesting habitat for Caspian terns currently nesting at the world's largest colony for the species, near the mouth of the Columbia River, Oregon. I investigated the efficacy of habitat creation (island building) and social attraction (decoys and recorded vocalizations) for establishing new breeding colonies in the Upper Klamath Basin, California. In 2010, approximately 258 pairs of Caspian terns attempted to nest on the new islands and raised an average of 0.65 fledglings/breeding pair; in 2011, 222 pairs attempted to nest and raised an average of 0.11 fledglings/breeding pair. Competition with California and ring-billed gulls (Larus californicus and L. delawarensis) for nesting space, gull predation on Caspian tern eggs and chicks, low water levels, and depredation by great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) were the primary factors limiting colony development and productivity, especially in 2011. The immediate response by Caspian terns to habitat creation and social attraction in the Upper Klamath Basin demonstrates that these can be effective restoration techniques to establish new breeding colonies where nesting habitat is a major limiting factor; however, continued management of other limiting factors (e.g., control of on-colony predators and competitors) will likely be necessary to promote the development of established, self-sustaining breeding colonies on these artificial islands. Efforts to conserve and restore seabird colonies can be compromised by low prey availability within foraging distance of the breeding colony. I used GPS telemetry to study the fine-scale foraging behavior of Caspian terns nesting at two newly established colonies and cluster analysis to discriminate behavioral states based on movement characteristics. Terns breeding at the Sheepy Lake colony spent less time at the colony (52% of the day) than terns breeding at the Tule Lake colony (74%). Caspian terns breeding at Sheepy Lake foraged more extensively than terns breeding at Tule Lake; the foraging trips of Sheepy Lake terns lasted longer (median = 186 min) and were longer-distance (27 km) compared to those of Tule Lake terns (55 min and 6 km, respectively). Between-colony differences in foraging behavior corresponded to 5% lower average body mass of breeding adults and significantly lower size-adjusted body mass of chicks at the Sheepy Lake colony compared to the Tule Lake colony. Proximity to high-quality foraging areas influenced the foraging behavior and parental care of breeding Caspian terns, which in turn had effects on nesting success. The successful use of GPS telemetry to study the fine-scale foraging behavior of Caspian terns represents a significant advance in our ability to investigate the foraging ecology of this species and other moderate-sized seabirds. Close

• 464. [Article] Lichen communities and caribou habitat in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA

  Lichens play many important roles in subarctic terrestrial ecosystems by fixing nitrogen, colonizing rock and gravel, stabilizing otherwise bare soil, adding significantly to vegetation biodiversity and ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lichen communities and caribou habitat in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA Author: Nelson, Peter, 1970- Lichens play many important roles in subarctic terrestrial ecosystems by fixing nitrogen, colonizing rock and gravel, stabilizing otherwise bare soil, adding significantly to vegetation biodiversity and serving as the primary food for caribou in the winter. In these chapters, I analyzed lichen community and ecological trait structure along environmental gradients, map lichens using some of their unique spectral properties to generate lichen maps and study caribou habitat selection patterns in relation to lichens and other habitat variables. Morphological and life history traits of lichens influence their ecological roles through physiological limitations imposed by their form and photobionts, the algal or cyanobacterial partner. In chapter 2, I analyzed the lichen traits in relationship to environmental gradients, other forms of vegetation and time since fire in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Lichens with different photobionts reached different maxima along environmental gradients, these corresponding to variable water availability or specific biotic factors thought to favor that photobiont. Green algal lichens were most abundant in the alpine whereas cyanolichens peaked where shrub cover increased. Tripartite lichens were most abundant in middle elevation, mossy areas. Lichen growthforms peaked along desiccation and water absorption gradients. Lichens with small vegetative propagules were most abundant in lowland forests. Recent fire favored simple, Cladonia-form lichens with soredia that grow on wood whereas erect branched fruticose lichens, the "reindeer lichens", had only partially recovered 20-100 years after fire. These results imply interacting forces of water regulation, dispersal and optimum conditions for photosynthesis drive lichen trait frequency and abundance. The fungal partner within the lichen symbiosis produces many unique compounds that are often brightly colored. Other studies have attempted to map lichens using their distinctive spectral properties but no study has yet to target specific lichen compounds in order to better model lichen cover. In chapter 3, I focused on one yellow lichen compound, usnic acid, as the target for modeling lichen cover using Landsat 7 ETM+ satellite data. Usnic lichen cover had non-linear relationships with the three best predictors; elevation, blue and near-infrared bandpasses. Using these three predictors, I generated an usnic lichen map for Denali, which I use in chapter 4 for analyzing caribou habitat selection. I also modeled and mapped other vegetation groups corresponding to caribou diet items used later. My results show that some lichens may be directly mapped from space by targeting this specific compound produced by the fungus. Caribou depend on lichens for up to 66% of their winter diet but other factors, such as snow, affect their access to the lichens. In chapter 4, I analyzed caribou habitat selection over 20 years in Denali using vegetation maps from chapter 3, climate data and other environmental variables. Over the two-decade period, caribou selected middle elevation, open areas with high graminoid cover and earlier snow-free dates. As each winter progressed, caribou aggregated where there was higher lichen cover and earlier snow-melt. Caribou selected habitat differently between years, which I collapsed into three different habitat/year groups: (1) years where most animals were in low elevation, flat terrain where there was low lichen and conifer cover but high graminoid and shrub cover with variable snow; (2) years caribou went to middle elevations with deeper snow and rugged terrain and moderate graminoid and lichen cover; and (3) years where caribou were dispersed west in low elevation woodlands with high lichen cover. My results show interacting factors determine caribou habitat selection at multiple spatial scales, specifically the importance of open, tussock tundra and long-term trends in snow melt at long time scales and lichen and snow-melt at shorter time scales. This research improves our understanding of the regional distribution and abundance of lichens in relation to higher plants, fire, and caribou. Title: Lichen communities and caribou habitat in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA Author: Nelson, Peter, 1970- Lichens play many important roles in subarctic terrestrial ecosystems by fixing nitrogen, colonizing rock and gravel, stabilizing otherwise bare soil, adding significantly to vegetation biodiversity and serving as the primary food for caribou in the winter. In these chapters, I analyzed lichen community and ecological trait structure along environmental gradients, map lichens using some of their unique spectral properties to generate lichen maps and study caribou habitat selection patterns in relation to lichens and other habitat variables. Morphological and life history traits of lichens influence their ecological roles through physiological limitations imposed by their form and photobionts, the algal or cyanobacterial partner. In chapter 2, I analyzed the lichen traits in relationship to environmental gradients, other forms of vegetation and time since fire in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Lichens with different photobionts reached different maxima along environmental gradients, these corresponding to variable water availability or specific biotic factors thought to favor that photobiont. Green algal lichens were most abundant in the alpine whereas cyanolichens peaked where shrub cover increased. Tripartite lichens were most abundant in middle elevation, mossy areas. Lichen growthforms peaked along desiccation and water absorption gradients. Lichens with small vegetative propagules were most abundant in lowland forests. Recent fire favored simple, Cladonia-form lichens with soredia that grow on wood whereas erect branched fruticose lichens, the "reindeer lichens", had only partially recovered 20-100 years after fire. These results imply interacting forces of water regulation, dispersal and optimum conditions for photosynthesis drive lichen trait frequency and abundance. The fungal partner within the lichen symbiosis produces many unique compounds that are often brightly colored. Other studies have attempted to map lichens using their distinctive spectral properties but no study has yet to target specific lichen compounds in order to better model lichen cover. In chapter 3, I focused on one yellow lichen compound, usnic acid, as the target for modeling lichen cover using Landsat 7 ETM+ satellite data. Usnic lichen cover had non-linear relationships with the three best predictors; elevation, blue and near-infrared bandpasses. Using these three predictors, I generated an usnic lichen map for Denali, which I use in chapter 4 for analyzing caribou habitat selection. I also modeled and mapped other vegetation groups corresponding to caribou diet items used later. My results show that some lichens may be directly mapped from space by targeting this specific compound produced by the fungus. Caribou depend on lichens for up to 66% of their winter diet but other factors, such as snow, affect their access to the lichens. In chapter 4, I analyzed caribou habitat selection over 20 years in Denali using vegetation maps from chapter 3, climate data and other environmental variables. Over the two-decade period, caribou selected middle elevation, open areas with high graminoid cover and earlier snow-free dates. As each winter progressed, caribou aggregated where there was higher lichen cover and earlier snow-melt. Caribou selected habitat differently between years, which I collapsed into three different habitat/year groups: (1) years where most animals were in low elevation, flat terrain where there was low lichen and conifer cover but high graminoid and shrub cover with variable snow; (2) years caribou went to middle elevations with deeper snow and rugged terrain and moderate graminoid and lichen cover; and (3) years where caribou were dispersed west in low elevation woodlands with high lichen cover. My results show interacting factors determine caribou habitat selection at multiple spatial scales, specifically the importance of open, tussock tundra and long-term trends in snow melt at long time scales and lichen and snow-melt at shorter time scales. This research improves our understanding of the regional distribution and abundance of lichens in relation to higher plants, fire, and caribou. Close

• 465. [Article] Endangered Species Act Biological Opinion and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Essential Fish Habitat Conservation Recommendations for the NOAA Marine Operations Center-Pacific Relocation Yaquina Bay (6th field HUC 171002040303) Lincoln County, Oregon

  The Opinion is a 91 page document. It is accompanied by a two page cover letter summarizing the findings.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Endangered Species Act Biological Opinion and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Essential Fish Habitat Conservation Recommendations for the NOAA Marine Operations Center-Pacific Relocation Yaquina Bay (6th field HUC 171002040303) Lincoln County, Oregon Author: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Marine Fisheries Services, Northwest Region The Opinion is a 91 page document. It is accompanied by a two page cover letter summarizing the findings. Title: Endangered Species Act Biological Opinion and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Essential Fish Habitat Conservation Recommendations for the NOAA Marine Operations Center-Pacific Relocation Yaquina Bay (6th field HUC 171002040303) Lincoln County, Oregon Author: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Marine Fisheries Services, Northwest Region The Opinion is a 91 page document. It is accompanied by a two page cover letter summarizing the findings. Close

• 466. [Article] Fine-scale parallel patterns in diversity of small benthic Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) in relation to the ecology of lava/groundwater habitats

  The published article is copyrighted by Wiley-Blackwell and can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fine-scale parallel patterns in diversity of small benthic Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) in relation to the ecology of lava/groundwater habitats Author: Noakes, David L. G., Kristjansson, Bjarni K., Skulason, Skuli, Snorrason, Sigurour S. The published article is copyrighted by Wiley-Blackwell and can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/. Title: Fine-scale parallel patterns in diversity of small benthic Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) in relation to the ecology of lava/groundwater habitats Author: Noakes, David L. G., Kristjansson, Bjarni K., Skulason, Skuli, Snorrason, Sigurour S. The published article is copyrighted by Wiley-Blackwell and can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/. Close

• 467. [Article] A Comprehensive Approach for Habitat Restoration in the Columbia Basin

  To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Taylor ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A Comprehensive Approach for Habitat Restoration in the Columbia Basin Author: Naiman, Robert J., Smith, Courtland L., Rieman, Bruce E., et al., Pearcy, William To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Taylor & Francis and can be found at: http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/ufsh20#.VUEib2MywS4. Title: A Comprehensive Approach for Habitat Restoration in the Columbia Basin Author: Naiman, Robert J., Smith, Courtland L., Rieman, Bruce E., et al., Pearcy, William To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Taylor & Francis and can be found at: http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/ufsh20#.VUEib2MywS4. Close

• 468. [Article] The role of body size in the foraging strategies and management of avian herbivores : a comparison of dusky Canada geese (Branta canadensis occidentalis) and cackling geese (B. hutchinsii minima) wintering in the Willamette Valley of Oregon

  Body size explains much of the interspecific variation in the physiology, behavior, and morphology of birds, such as metabolic rate, diet selection, intake rate, gut size, and bill size. Based on mass-specific ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The role of body size in the foraging strategies and management of avian herbivores : a comparison of dusky Canada geese (Branta canadensis occidentalis) and cackling geese (B. hutchinsii minima) wintering in the Willamette Valley of Oregon Author: Mini, Anne E. Body size explains much of the interspecific variation in the physiology, behavior, and morphology of birds, such as metabolic rate, diet selection, intake rate, gut size, and bill size. Based on mass-specific metabolic requirements and relative energetic costs of activities, being a certain body size has both advantages and disadvantages. In particular, avian herbivores such as geese possess a relatively simple digestive system, consume foods with low digestibility and poor nutrient content, and have increased energetic demands compared to other bird taxa; therefore, any effects of body size on foraging strategies should be readily apparent in this foraging guild. The influence of body size on the behavior and management of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) and Cackling Geese (B. hutchinsii) as avian herbivores has not been well studied. My dissertation explores the role of body size in comparative foraging behavior, habitat selection, and winter conservation planning for two congeneric geese, the Dusky Canada Goose (B. c. occidentalis; hereafter Duskys) and the Cackling Goose (B. h. minima; hereafter Cacklers). These two taxa share the same over-winter foraging environment (grass seed fields) in the same restricted geographic area (the Willamette Valley) during winter. Duskys and Cacklers differ by more than a factor of two in body size and have different relative bill sizes and social organization. Because of smaller body size, Cacklers have greater relative energy demands and less fasting endurance compared to Duskys; however, Cacklers have comparatively low energetic costs for flight and transport. Duskys, however, have higher total energy requirements than Cacklers. Additionally, Cacklers form large, high-density flocks and have a total over-wintering population size in the study area of about 200,000. Duskys occur in relatively small family groups and have a total over-wintering population size of about 13,000. My study demonstrated that interspecific differences in body size between Cacklers and Duskys was associated with differences in foraging behavior, movements, and habitat selection. Cacklers foraged a greater percentage of time (30%) in all habitats and across the entire winter compared to Duskys. Cacklers had higher peck rates (up to 100 pecks min⁻¹ greater) than Duskys in all foraging habitats expect pasture. The pecking rate of Cacklers was greatest in fields of young grass (200 pecks min⁻¹), which may indicate that Cacklers had relatively high intake rates in this foraging habitat. Based on differences in foraging behavior among habitats, Cacklers may have the foraging strategy of energy intake maximizers, whereas the foraging strategy of Duskys is more towards time-energy expenditure minimizers, at least for part of the winter. Cacklers moved across the landscape very differently from Duskys, exhibiting less site fidelity and greater commuting distances to foraging areas. Cacklers showed a preference for young grass during all periods of the winter, reaffirming that Cacklers are specialized grazers on short green forage, whereas Duskys preferred young grass and pasture. Fields of young grass were the preferred foraging habitat of Cacklers, had less standing crop biomass, and may have enabled higher foraging efficiencies, which may have led to higher intake rates. The ability of the landscape to support wintering geese changed across the winter because total available plant biomass fluctuated with the rate of grass regrowth. The estimated carrying capacity of the landscape for geese decline by almost one-half during mid-winter (mid-December to mid-February) compared to early winter or late winter periods. Although Cacklers have lower individual energy requirements compared to Duskys, due to a much larger target population size, Cacklers required 89% more foraging habitat than Duskys. Forage requirements encountered a bottleneck during mid-winter, when grass regrowth rates were low and day length was short. Commensurate with this pattern of forage availability, goose body condition declined during the mid-winter period. To support Pacific Flyway target populations for geese, approximately 18,000 ha of total grazing habitat in young and mature grass is needed in the Willamette Valley to support a total over-wintering population composed of 340,000 geese belonging to four subspecies. The role of body size in influencing the foraging behavior and decisions of over-wintering geese has important implications for conservation planning of goose populations. Small-bodied Cacklers are selective in field choice, yet more likely to redistribute across the landscape. Disturbances (e.g., hunting, hazing, or predation) will have a disproportionate effect on the movements of smaller-bodied geese compared to larger geese. These characteristics of Cacklers will make conservation planning to retain geese on public land more difficult. Coordinated management with private landowners and farming practices that maximize preferred goose foraging habitat on public lands may attract geese to utilize protected areas and minimize conflicts with agriculture in the Willamette Valley. Availability of resources during critical periods in winter is an important factor affecting the distribution of geese, but may affect small and large bodied geese differently. Management could be targeted during these critical time periods. By considering the role of body size in the context of life history characteristics, foraging behavior and habitat selection, appropriate management strategies can be developed and implemented to reduce the effects of agricultural depredation by geese, while promoting the future conservation of wintering geese in the Willamette Valley. Title: The role of body size in the foraging strategies and management of avian herbivores : a comparison of dusky Canada geese (Branta canadensis occidentalis) and cackling geese (B. hutchinsii minima) wintering in the Willamette Valley of Oregon Author: Mini, Anne E. Body size explains much of the interspecific variation in the physiology, behavior, and morphology of birds, such as metabolic rate, diet selection, intake rate, gut size, and bill size. Based on mass-specific metabolic requirements and relative energetic costs of activities, being a certain body size has both advantages and disadvantages. In particular, avian herbivores such as geese possess a relatively simple digestive system, consume foods with low digestibility and poor nutrient content, and have increased energetic demands compared to other bird taxa; therefore, any effects of body size on foraging strategies should be readily apparent in this foraging guild. The influence of body size on the behavior and management of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) and Cackling Geese (B. hutchinsii) as avian herbivores has not been well studied. My dissertation explores the role of body size in comparative foraging behavior, habitat selection, and winter conservation planning for two congeneric geese, the Dusky Canada Goose (B. c. occidentalis; hereafter Duskys) and the Cackling Goose (B. h. minima; hereafter Cacklers). These two taxa share the same over-winter foraging environment (grass seed fields) in the same restricted geographic area (the Willamette Valley) during winter. Duskys and Cacklers differ by more than a factor of two in body size and have different relative bill sizes and social organization. Because of smaller body size, Cacklers have greater relative energy demands and less fasting endurance compared to Duskys; however, Cacklers have comparatively low energetic costs for flight and transport. Duskys, however, have higher total energy requirements than Cacklers. Additionally, Cacklers form large, high-density flocks and have a total over-wintering population size in the study area of about 200,000. Duskys occur in relatively small family groups and have a total over-wintering population size of about 13,000. My study demonstrated that interspecific differences in body size between Cacklers and Duskys was associated with differences in foraging behavior, movements, and habitat selection. Cacklers foraged a greater percentage of time (30%) in all habitats and across the entire winter compared to Duskys. Cacklers had higher peck rates (up to 100 pecks min⁻¹ greater) than Duskys in all foraging habitats expect pasture. The pecking rate of Cacklers was greatest in fields of young grass (200 pecks min⁻¹), which may indicate that Cacklers had relatively high intake rates in this foraging habitat. Based on differences in foraging behavior among habitats, Cacklers may have the foraging strategy of energy intake maximizers, whereas the foraging strategy of Duskys is more towards time-energy expenditure minimizers, at least for part of the winter. Cacklers moved across the landscape very differently from Duskys, exhibiting less site fidelity and greater commuting distances to foraging areas. Cacklers showed a preference for young grass during all periods of the winter, reaffirming that Cacklers are specialized grazers on short green forage, whereas Duskys preferred young grass and pasture. Fields of young grass were the preferred foraging habitat of Cacklers, had less standing crop biomass, and may have enabled higher foraging efficiencies, which may have led to higher intake rates. The ability of the landscape to support wintering geese changed across the winter because total available plant biomass fluctuated with the rate of grass regrowth. The estimated carrying capacity of the landscape for geese decline by almost one-half during mid-winter (mid-December to mid-February) compared to early winter or late winter periods. Although Cacklers have lower individual energy requirements compared to Duskys, due to a much larger target population size, Cacklers required 89% more foraging habitat than Duskys. Forage requirements encountered a bottleneck during mid-winter, when grass regrowth rates were low and day length was short. Commensurate with this pattern of forage availability, goose body condition declined during the mid-winter period. To support Pacific Flyway target populations for geese, approximately 18,000 ha of total grazing habitat in young and mature grass is needed in the Willamette Valley to support a total over-wintering population composed of 340,000 geese belonging to four subspecies. The role of body size in influencing the foraging behavior and decisions of over-wintering geese has important implications for conservation planning of goose populations. Small-bodied Cacklers are selective in field choice, yet more likely to redistribute across the landscape. Disturbances (e.g., hunting, hazing, or predation) will have a disproportionate effect on the movements of smaller-bodied geese compared to larger geese. These characteristics of Cacklers will make conservation planning to retain geese on public land more difficult. Coordinated management with private landowners and farming practices that maximize preferred goose foraging habitat on public lands may attract geese to utilize protected areas and minimize conflicts with agriculture in the Willamette Valley. Availability of resources during critical periods in winter is an important factor affecting the distribution of geese, but may affect small and large bodied geese differently. Management could be targeted during these critical time periods. By considering the role of body size in the context of life history characteristics, foraging behavior and habitat selection, appropriate management strategies can be developed and implemented to reduce the effects of agricultural depredation by geese, while promoting the future conservation of wintering geese in the Willamette Valley. Close

• 469. [Article] Interactions and persistence of the mosquitocidal bacteria Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis

  Interactions between Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), persistence of insecticidal activity in the mosquito habitat, and suitability of enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Interactions and persistence of the mosquitocidal bacteria Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis Author: Donegan, Katherine K. Interactions between Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), persistence of insecticidal activity in the mosquito habitat, and suitability of enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting and quantifying bacterial endotoxin in the mosquito habitat were investigated. Interactions between the two bacterial species were examined by laboratory and field bioassays with larvae of Culex pipiens. In laboratory bioassays, B. sphaericus and Bti acted independently. Antagonistic interactions occurred with combinations of a low concentration of one bacterium with a high concentration of the second, however. In field bioassays, all interactions between Bti and B. sphaericus were antagonistic. Field bioassays with C. pipiens indicated no persistence of insecticidal activity of either Bti or B. sphaericus after two treatments and persistence of only B. sphaericus after 3 and 4 treatments. Organic matter and high temperatures adversely affected the accuracy of ELISA for detecting and quantifying bacteria in the mosquito habitat and may play a major role in detoxification of bacterial endotoxin in nature. Title: Interactions and persistence of the mosquitocidal bacteria Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis Author: Donegan, Katherine K. Interactions between Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), persistence of insecticidal activity in the mosquito habitat, and suitability of enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting and quantifying bacterial endotoxin in the mosquito habitat were investigated. Interactions between the two bacterial species were examined by laboratory and field bioassays with larvae of Culex pipiens. In laboratory bioassays, B. sphaericus and Bti acted independently. Antagonistic interactions occurred with combinations of a low concentration of one bacterium with a high concentration of the second, however. In field bioassays, all interactions between Bti and B. sphaericus were antagonistic. Field bioassays with C. pipiens indicated no persistence of insecticidal activity of either Bti or B. sphaericus after two treatments and persistence of only B. sphaericus after 3 and 4 treatments. Organic matter and high temperatures adversely affected the accuracy of ELISA for detecting and quantifying bacteria in the mosquito habitat and may play a major role in detoxification of bacterial endotoxin in nature. Close

• 470. [Article] Acute effects of sedimentation on Cumella vulgaris hart 1930 (cumacea)

  The ability of Cumella vulgaris to avoid burial under different rates of sedimentation and to recover from burial once buried was studied. Sedimentation rates higher than 0. 25 cm/mm are necessary to bury ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Acute effects of sedimentation on Cumella vulgaris hart 1930 (cumacea) Author: King, Alan Roy The ability of Cumella vulgaris to avoid burial under different rates of sedimentation and to recover from burial once buried was studied. Sedimentation rates higher than 0. 25 cm/mm are necessary to bury 50% of C. vulgaris with the deposition of 4 cm of sediment. Cumella vulgaris can swim several times faster than the sedimentation rates at which fine sand successfully buried it. Immatures and females swam at speeds of 0.25-1.5 cm/sec; males swam at speeds up to 5 cm/sec. Sinking speeds of live C. vulgaris were proportional to size and varied from 0.2-1.6 cm/sec. Cumella vulgaris should be able to avoid burial by dredging caused sedimentation. Dredging's most important impact on this species would most likely be long term changes in a bay which might reduce its habitat. Dead C. vulgaris were buried in their habitat in winter. Four days later one-half were successfully recovered by coring. When doing field studies of the acute effects of dredging on a habitat one needs to be aware that victims of burial may be recoverable for several days after death and may need to be distinguished from living animals. Title: Acute effects of sedimentation on Cumella vulgaris hart 1930 (cumacea) Author: King, Alan Roy The ability of Cumella vulgaris to avoid burial under different rates of sedimentation and to recover from burial once buried was studied. Sedimentation rates higher than 0. 25 cm/mm are necessary to bury 50% of C. vulgaris with the deposition of 4 cm of sediment. Cumella vulgaris can swim several times faster than the sedimentation rates at which fine sand successfully buried it. Immatures and females swam at speeds of 0.25-1.5 cm/sec; males swam at speeds up to 5 cm/sec. Sinking speeds of live C. vulgaris were proportional to size and varied from 0.2-1.6 cm/sec. Cumella vulgaris should be able to avoid burial by dredging caused sedimentation. Dredging's most important impact on this species would most likely be long term changes in a bay which might reduce its habitat. Dead C. vulgaris were buried in their habitat in winter. Four days later one-half were successfully recovered by coring. When doing field studies of the acute effects of dredging on a habitat one needs to be aware that victims of burial may be recoverable for several days after death and may need to be distinguished from living animals. Close

• 471. [Article] The Implicit Value of Waterway Characteristics and Boating Regulations

  Research Paper

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Implicit Value of Waterway Characteristics and Boating Regulations Author: Swett, Robert, Wells, Thomas, Larkin, Sherry Research Paper Title: The Implicit Value of Waterway Characteristics and Boating Regulations Author: Swett, Robert, Wells, Thomas, Larkin, Sherry Research Paper Close

• 472. [Article] Endangered Species Conservation on Private Land: Assessing the Effectiveness of Habitat Conservation Plans

  This is the author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Elsevier and can be found at: http://www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-envi...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Endangered Species Conservation on Private Land: Assessing the Effectiveness of Habitat Conservation Plans Author: Langpap, Christian, Kerkvliet, Joe This is the author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Elsevier and can be found at: http://www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-environmental-economics-and-management/. Title: Endangered Species Conservation on Private Land: Assessing the Effectiveness of Habitat Conservation Plans Author: Langpap, Christian, Kerkvliet, Joe This is the author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by Elsevier and can be found at: http://www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-environmental-economics-and-management/. Close

• 473. [Article] Life history strategies and tactics of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) Walbaum

  Traditional approaches to research and management of striped bass have tended to be mechanistic, numerically oriented, and based on limited life history information. In the study presented here, comprehensive ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Life history strategies and tactics of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) Walbaum Author: Eldridge, Maxwell B. Traditional approaches to research and management of striped bass have tended to be mechanistic, numerically oriented, and based on limited life history information. In the study presented here, comprehensive conceptual perspective was used in a multivariate study of life history and evolutionary adaptation of 10 striped bass populations representing the full geographic and ecologic diversity of striped bass. The colonization trajectory of populations originating from a small colonizing population from the Hudson River demonstrated how striped bass adapted in varying degrees of success in their reproduction, development, behavior, survival, and trophics to a range of western North American habitats. Habitats that were marginal through infrequent suitability for successful reproduction or survival of early life stages, or through limiting longevity, resulted in life history tactics that consisted of tradeoffs between life history traits, especially reproduction and development. Fishery management effects (exploitation and stocking) and habitat effects (water temperatures, freshwater inflows, forage and pollutants) influenced life history and evolutionary adaptive capacities of all populations. Highly variable and indeterminate environments also affected these capacities and related to year-class dominance. This helped to explain declines in five of the study's populations. Title: Life history strategies and tactics of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) Walbaum Author: Eldridge, Maxwell B. Traditional approaches to research and management of striped bass have tended to be mechanistic, numerically oriented, and based on limited life history information. In the study presented here, comprehensive conceptual perspective was used in a multivariate study of life history and evolutionary adaptation of 10 striped bass populations representing the full geographic and ecologic diversity of striped bass. The colonization trajectory of populations originating from a small colonizing population from the Hudson River demonstrated how striped bass adapted in varying degrees of success in their reproduction, development, behavior, survival, and trophics to a range of western North American habitats. Habitats that were marginal through infrequent suitability for successful reproduction or survival of early life stages, or through limiting longevity, resulted in life history tactics that consisted of tradeoffs between life history traits, especially reproduction and development. Fishery management effects (exploitation and stocking) and habitat effects (water temperatures, freshwater inflows, forage and pollutants) influenced life history and evolutionary adaptive capacities of all populations. Highly variable and indeterminate environments also affected these capacities and related to year-class dominance. This helped to explain declines in five of the study's populations. Close

• 474. [Article] Habitat use by opossums in an urban environment

  Habitat availability and use by an urban population of opossums were studied with radio telemetry in Corvallis, Oregon in 1981 and 1982. For non-den observations, residential neighborhood types were used ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Habitat use by opossums in an urban environment Author: Meier, Karen E. Habitat availability and use by an urban population of opossums were studied with radio telemetry in Corvallis, Oregon in 1981 and 1982. For non-den observations, residential neighborhood types were used about in the proportion available, agricultural/park/riverfront neighborhood types were used in higher proportion than available, and commercial/industrial neighborhood types were used in lower proportion than available. Surface types were also used in proportions different than available within home ranges. Structures and paved surfaces were used less than available, while unpaved surfaces were used in greater proportion than available. Dens were primarily located in man-made structures (76%) and in residential neighborhood types (79%). Unpaved surfaces accounted for 24% of dens, and no dens were found on paved surfaces. Home ranges were more stable and smaller than those reported in rural environments (means; male = 32.36 ha, female = 9.01 ha). Distances moved per night were also shorter than previously reported. Year-round availability of food, abundant den sites, and relative freedom from competitors and predators were proposed as reasons for the stable, small home ranges and success of opossums in an urban habitat. Title: Habitat use by opossums in an urban environment Author: Meier, Karen E. Habitat availability and use by an urban population of opossums were studied with radio telemetry in Corvallis, Oregon in 1981 and 1982. For non-den observations, residential neighborhood types were used about in the proportion available, agricultural/park/riverfront neighborhood types were used in higher proportion than available, and commercial/industrial neighborhood types were used in lower proportion than available. Surface types were also used in proportions different than available within home ranges. Structures and paved surfaces were used less than available, while unpaved surfaces were used in greater proportion than available. Dens were primarily located in man-made structures (76%) and in residential neighborhood types (79%). Unpaved surfaces accounted for 24% of dens, and no dens were found on paved surfaces. Home ranges were more stable and smaller than those reported in rural environments (means; male = 32.36 ha, female = 9.01 ha). Distances moved per night were also shorter than previously reported. Year-round availability of food, abundant den sites, and relative freedom from competitors and predators were proposed as reasons for the stable, small home ranges and success of opossums in an urban habitat. Close

• 475. [Article] Characterization of Benthic Condition and Organisms on the Oregon South Coast: A Rapid Evaluation of Habitat Characteristics and Benthic Organisms at the Proposed Reedsport Wave Park

  This project was a single assessment of the benthic habitat characteristics and organisms near the future Ocean Power Technologies Demonstration facility near Reedsport, OR, and a reference location. The ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Characterization of Benthic Condition and Organisms on the Oregon South Coast: A Rapid Evaluation of Habitat Characteristics and Benthic Organisms at the Proposed Reedsport Wave Park Author: Northwest National Marine Renewable Energy Center, Henkel, Sarah This project was a single assessment of the benthic habitat characteristics and organisms near the future Ocean Power Technologies Demonstration facility near Reedsport, OR, and a reference location. The goal of this project was to assess sediment characteristics, infaunal invertebrates, epifaunal invertebrates, and fish at the future installation site, inshore of the target site, and at a reference site. Specifically, CTD casts, box cores, and beam trawl collections were conducted at the sited in summer 2011. In summary, all assemblages sampled had distributions strongly driven by depth. Other factors contributing to the variability among sampling stations were potentially due to differences in temperature and dissolved oxygen, which co-vary with depth. In the following document we report in detail on the spatial variability of the habitat features and biological assemblages. Finally, we make recommendations for plans for future monitoring at these or similar sites. Title: Characterization of Benthic Condition and Organisms on the Oregon South Coast: A Rapid Evaluation of Habitat Characteristics and Benthic Organisms at the Proposed Reedsport Wave Park Author: Northwest National Marine Renewable Energy Center, Henkel, Sarah This project was a single assessment of the benthic habitat characteristics and organisms near the future Ocean Power Technologies Demonstration facility near Reedsport, OR, and a reference location. The goal of this project was to assess sediment characteristics, infaunal invertebrates, epifaunal invertebrates, and fish at the future installation site, inshore of the target site, and at a reference site. Specifically, CTD casts, box cores, and beam trawl collections were conducted at the sited in summer 2011. In summary, all assemblages sampled had distributions strongly driven by depth. Other factors contributing to the variability among sampling stations were potentially due to differences in temperature and dissolved oxygen, which co-vary with depth. In the following document we report in detail on the spatial variability of the habitat features and biological assemblages. Finally, we make recommendations for plans for future monitoring at these or similar sites. Close

• 476. [Article] Limiting factors assessment and restoration plan Rock Creek : tributary to Devil's Lake, Lincoln County, Oregon

  This document provides watershed restoration actions proposed to enhance the Coho Salmon population within the Rock Creek / Devils Lake basin in Lincoln County, Oregon. The stream is the principle tributary ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Limiting factors assessment and restoration plan Rock Creek : tributary to Devil's Lake, Lincoln County, Oregon Author: Bio-Surveys, LLC, Sialis Company This document provides watershed restoration actions proposed to enhance the Coho Salmon population within the Rock Creek / Devils Lake basin in Lincoln County, Oregon. The stream is the principle tributary of Devil’s Lake, a lake of natural origin that opens into the Pacific Ocean at the northern edge of Lincoln City, OR. The goal of the restoration effort has been to identify the dominant processes and habitat characteristics that currently limit the production of Coho salmon smolts in the basin, and to develop a prioritized list of actions (“prescriptions”) for removing the limitations in ways that normalize landscape and stream channel function. Restoration and assessment protocols used in developing the plan are described in “Midcoast Limiting Factors Analysis, A Method for Assessing 6th field subbasins for Restoration”, available at www.midcoastwatershedcouncil.org/GIS or by contacting the Midcoast Watersheds Council. Please refer to this document for detailed information on assessment, nomenclature, prioritization rationale and methodology. Title: Limiting factors assessment and restoration plan Rock Creek : tributary to Devil's Lake, Lincoln County, Oregon Author: Bio-Surveys, LLC, Sialis Company This document provides watershed restoration actions proposed to enhance the Coho Salmon population within the Rock Creek / Devils Lake basin in Lincoln County, Oregon. The stream is the principle tributary of Devil’s Lake, a lake of natural origin that opens into the Pacific Ocean at the northern edge of Lincoln City, OR. The goal of the restoration effort has been to identify the dominant processes and habitat characteristics that currently limit the production of Coho salmon smolts in the basin, and to develop a prioritized list of actions (“prescriptions”) for removing the limitations in ways that normalize landscape and stream channel function. Restoration and assessment protocols used in developing the plan are described in “Midcoast Limiting Factors Analysis, A Method for Assessing 6th field subbasins for Restoration”, available at www.midcoastwatershedcouncil.org/GIS or by contacting the Midcoast Watersheds Council. Please refer to this document for detailed information on assessment, nomenclature, prioritization rationale and methodology. Close

• 477. [Article] High-use destinations in wilderness :|bsocial and biophysical impacts, visitor responses, and management options

  Six high-use destination areas were studied in the Alpine Lakes, Mount Jefferson, and Three Sisters Wildernesses in Washington and Oregon. Exit interviews were conducted with visitors, and recreation impacts ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: High-use destinations in wilderness :|bsocial and biophysical impacts, visitor responses, and management options Author: Rocky Mountain Research Station (Ogden, Utah), Cole, David N., Hall, Troy E., Watson, Alan E., Spildie, David R. Six high-use destination areas were studied in the Alpine Lakes, Mount Jefferson, and Three Sisters Wildernesses in Washington and Oregon. Exit interviews were conducted with visitors, and recreation impacts and visitor encounter rates between groups were quantified. Encounter rates were extremely high and impacts were substantial but localized. Visitors were more concerned about high impact levels than high encounter rates. Management implications are explored. Title: High-use destinations in wilderness :|bsocial and biophysical impacts, visitor responses, and management options Author: Rocky Mountain Research Station (Ogden, Utah), Cole, David N., Hall, Troy E., Watson, Alan E., Spildie, David R. Six high-use destination areas were studied in the Alpine Lakes, Mount Jefferson, and Three Sisters Wildernesses in Washington and Oregon. Exit interviews were conducted with visitors, and recreation impacts and visitor encounter rates between groups were quantified. Encounter rates were extremely high and impacts were substantial but localized. Visitors were more concerned about high impact levels than high encounter rates. Management implications are explored. Close

• 478. [Article] Miami River watershed assessment : final report

  The purpose of this watershed assessment is to inventory and characterize watershed conditions of the Miami River watershed and to provide recommendations that address the issues of water quality, fisheries ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Miami River watershed assessment : final report Author: E&S Environmental Chemistry, Inc., Sullivan, Timothy J., White, Shawn, Snyder, Kai U., Raymond, Richard B., Binder, Susan K., Bischoff, Joseph M. The purpose of this watershed assessment is to inventory and characterize watershed conditions of the Miami River watershed and to provide recommendations that address the issues of water quality, fisheries and fish habitat, and watershed hydrology. This assessment was conducted by reviewing and synthesizing existing data sets and some new data collected by the watershed council, following the guidelines outlined in the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) watershed assessment manual (WPN 1999). Title: Miami River watershed assessment : final report Author: E&S Environmental Chemistry, Inc., Sullivan, Timothy J., White, Shawn, Snyder, Kai U., Raymond, Richard B., Binder, Susan K., Bischoff, Joseph M. The purpose of this watershed assessment is to inventory and characterize watershed conditions of the Miami River watershed and to provide recommendations that address the issues of water quality, fisheries and fish habitat, and watershed hydrology. This assessment was conducted by reviewing and synthesizing existing data sets and some new data collected by the watershed council, following the guidelines outlined in the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) watershed assessment manual (WPN 1999). Close

• 479. [Article] Biology and distribution of the Dicosmoecinae (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) in western North America

  Literature and museum records have been reviewed to provide a summary on the distribution, habitat associations and biology of six western North American Dicosmoecinae genera and the single eastern North American ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biology and distribution of the Dicosmoecinae (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) in western North America Author: Wisseman, Robert William Literature and museum records have been reviewed to provide a summary on the distribution, habitat associations and biology of six western North American Dicosmoecinae genera and the single eastern North American genus, Ironoquia. Results of this survey are presented and discussed for Allocosmoecus, Amphicosmoecus and Ecclisomvia. Field studies were conducted in western Oregon on the life-histories of four species, Dicosmoecus atripes, D. failvipes, Onocosmoecus unicolor and Ecclisocosmoecus scvlla. Although there are similarities between genera in the general habitat requirements, the differences or variability is such that we cannot generalize to a "typical" dicosmoecine life-history strategy. A common thread for the subfamily is the association with cool, montane streams. However, within this stream category habitat associations range from semi-aquatic, through first-order specialists, to river inhabitants. In feeding habits most species are omnivorous, but they range from being primarily detritivorous to algal grazers. The seasonal occurrence of the various life stages and voltinism patterns are also variable. Larvae show inter- and intraspecific segregation in the utilization of food resources and microhabitats in streams. Larval life-history patterns appear to be closely linked to seasonal regimes in stream discharge. A functional role for the various types of case architecture seen between and within species is examined. Manipulation of case architecture appears to enable efficient utilization of a changing seasonal pattern of microhabitats and food resources. Title: Biology and distribution of the Dicosmoecinae (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) in western North America Author: Wisseman, Robert William Literature and museum records have been reviewed to provide a summary on the distribution, habitat associations and biology of six western North American Dicosmoecinae genera and the single eastern North American genus, Ironoquia. Results of this survey are presented and discussed for Allocosmoecus, Amphicosmoecus and Ecclisomvia. Field studies were conducted in western Oregon on the life-histories of four species, Dicosmoecus atripes, D. failvipes, Onocosmoecus unicolor and Ecclisocosmoecus scvlla. Although there are similarities between genera in the general habitat requirements, the differences or variability is such that we cannot generalize to a "typical" dicosmoecine life-history strategy. A common thread for the subfamily is the association with cool, montane streams. However, within this stream category habitat associations range from semi-aquatic, through first-order specialists, to river inhabitants. In feeding habits most species are omnivorous, but they range from being primarily detritivorous to algal grazers. The seasonal occurrence of the various life stages and voltinism patterns are also variable. Larvae show inter- and intraspecific segregation in the utilization of food resources and microhabitats in streams. Larval life-history patterns appear to be closely linked to seasonal regimes in stream discharge. A functional role for the various types of case architecture seen between and within species is examined. Manipulation of case architecture appears to enable efficient utilization of a changing seasonal pattern of microhabitats and food resources. Close

• 480. [Article] Land management with ecological and economic objectives : developing a production possibility set of wildlife species persistence and timber harvest value using simulated annealing

  An integrated model combining a wildlife population simulation model, and timber harvest and growth models was developed to explore the tradeoffs between the likelihood of persistence of a wildlife species ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Land management with ecological and economic objectives : developing a production possibility set of wildlife species persistence and timber harvest value using simulated annealing Author: Calkin, David E. An integrated model combining a wildlife population simulation model, and timber harvest and growth models was developed to explore the tradeoffs between the likelihood of persistence of a wildlife species and timber harvest values on a landscape in the Central Oregon Cascades. Simulated annealing, a heuristic optimization technique, was used to identify harvest schedules that maximized the net present value of timber harvest relative to a given wildlife habitat constraint over a 100 year planning period. This habitat constraint was identified by a logit regression model that estimated the likelihood of species persistence from a series of weighted habitat scores developed from extensive simulation work within the wildlife population model. By solving this problem for a range of different species persistence constraints a production possibility frontier is developed that shows the relative tradeoffs between timber harvest value and likelihood of species persistence on this landscape. Although the results are specific to the wildlife species and the landscapes analyzed, the approach is general and may provide a structure for future models that will allow land managers and forest planners to become more informed about the tradeoffs among competing resources. Title: Land management with ecological and economic objectives : developing a production possibility set of wildlife species persistence and timber harvest value using simulated annealing Author: Calkin, David E. An integrated model combining a wildlife population simulation model, and timber harvest and growth models was developed to explore the tradeoffs between the likelihood of persistence of a wildlife species and timber harvest values on a landscape in the Central Oregon Cascades. Simulated annealing, a heuristic optimization technique, was used to identify harvest schedules that maximized the net present value of timber harvest relative to a given wildlife habitat constraint over a 100 year planning period. This habitat constraint was identified by a logit regression model that estimated the likelihood of species persistence from a series of weighted habitat scores developed from extensive simulation work within the wildlife population model. By solving this problem for a range of different species persistence constraints a production possibility frontier is developed that shows the relative tradeoffs between timber harvest value and likelihood of species persistence on this landscape. Although the results are specific to the wildlife species and the landscapes analyzed, the approach is general and may provide a structure for future models that will allow land managers and forest planners to become more informed about the tradeoffs among competing resources. Close

• 481. [Article] Nest trees of northern flying squirrels in the Sierra Nevada

  We examined the nest-tree preferences of northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) in an old-growth, mixed-conifer and red fir (Abies magnifica) forest of the southern Sierra Nevada of California. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Nest trees of northern flying squirrels in the Sierra Nevada Author: North, Malcolm P., Meyer, Marc D., Kelt, Douglas A. We examined the nest-tree preferences of northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) in an old-growth, mixed-conifer and red fir (Abies magnifica) forest of the southern Sierra Nevada of California. We tracked 27 individuals to 122 nest trees during 3 summers. Flying squirrels selected nest trees that were larger in diameter and taller than either random trees or large (.50-cm diameter at breast height) nearest-neighbor trees. Snags were used more often than live trees relative to their availability. Nest trees were usually close to riparian habitat; 86% of nest trees were ,150 m from a perennial creek. Flying squirrels selected red fir and avoided incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens). Mean distances between nest trees and size of core-nest areas were greater for males than for females. No detectable relationship was found between size of core-nest area and distance to a perennial creek. These results suggest that flying squirrels of the Sierra Nevada may require large trees and snags within 150 m of perennial creeks for their critical habitat needs. Title: Nest trees of northern flying squirrels in the Sierra Nevada Author: North, Malcolm P., Meyer, Marc D., Kelt, Douglas A. We examined the nest-tree preferences of northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) in an old-growth, mixed-conifer and red fir (Abies magnifica) forest of the southern Sierra Nevada of California. We tracked 27 individuals to 122 nest trees during 3 summers. Flying squirrels selected nest trees that were larger in diameter and taller than either random trees or large (.50-cm diameter at breast height) nearest-neighbor trees. Snags were used more often than live trees relative to their availability. Nest trees were usually close to riparian habitat; 86% of nest trees were ,150 m from a perennial creek. Flying squirrels selected red fir and avoided incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens). Mean distances between nest trees and size of core-nest areas were greater for males than for females. No detectable relationship was found between size of core-nest area and distance to a perennial creek. These results suggest that flying squirrels of the Sierra Nevada may require large trees and snags within 150 m of perennial creeks for their critical habitat needs. Close

• 482. [Article] Science to Soluntions: Grazing Management In Perspective: A Compatible Tool For Sage Grouse Conservation

  Research evaluating effects of livestock grazing on greater sage-grouse nest survival suggests that a variety of locally-appropriate range management strategies support grouse populations. A new Montana ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Science to Soluntions: Grazing Management In Perspective: A Compatible Tool For Sage Grouse Conservation Author: Sage Grouse Initiative Research evaluating effects of livestock grazing on greater sage-grouse nest survival suggests that a variety of locally-appropriate range management strategies support grouse populations. A new Montana study comparing effects of specialized grazing systems on ranches enrolled in the NRCS-led Sage Grouse Initiative (SGI) to ranches not enrolled in SGI grazing programs found no difference in nest survival: in both cases, long-term nest success (40-49%) was consistent with the rangewide survival rates of a stable sage grouse population. Researchers also reported heights of live and senesced grasses that were within a half-inch of each other on SGI-enrolled ranches versus non-enrolled ranches. The take-home message is that, done sustainably, grazing is a highly compatible land use for maintaining sage grouse populations, and is wholly preferred over habitat-destroying alternatives like cropland cultivation or subdivision development. Farm Bill-funded assistance through SGI to enhance grazing practices may contribute to protecting habitat by keeping ranching operations profitable and sustainable. Title: Science to Soluntions: Grazing Management In Perspective: A Compatible Tool For Sage Grouse Conservation Author: Sage Grouse Initiative Research evaluating effects of livestock grazing on greater sage-grouse nest survival suggests that a variety of locally-appropriate range management strategies support grouse populations. A new Montana study comparing effects of specialized grazing systems on ranches enrolled in the NRCS-led Sage Grouse Initiative (SGI) to ranches not enrolled in SGI grazing programs found no difference in nest survival: in both cases, long-term nest success (40-49%) was consistent with the rangewide survival rates of a stable sage grouse population. Researchers also reported heights of live and senesced grasses that were within a half-inch of each other on SGI-enrolled ranches versus non-enrolled ranches. The take-home message is that, done sustainably, grazing is a highly compatible land use for maintaining sage grouse populations, and is wholly preferred over habitat-destroying alternatives like cropland cultivation or subdivision development. Farm Bill-funded assistance through SGI to enhance grazing practices may contribute to protecting habitat by keeping ranching operations profitable and sustainable. Close

• 483. [Article] Science to Solutions: Sage Grouse Need Intact Landscapes For Long- Distance Movement

  Two new studies revealed unknown long-distance dispersal and migration movements in sage grouse that offer fresh insights for conservation. Using DNA from feathers dropped at leks, scientists discovered ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Science to Solutions: Sage Grouse Need Intact Landscapes For Long- Distance Movement Author: Sage Grouse Initiative Two new studies revealed unknown long-distance dispersal and migration movements in sage grouse that offer fresh insights for conservation. Using DNA from feathers dropped at leks, scientists discovered that some grouse (about 1% of populations) travel long distances to explore breeding areas up to 120 miles away—movements that can potentially boost populations and temper inbreeding. A separate satellite-telemetry study of sage grouse that migrate between Saskatchewan and Montana found that this population migrates annually up to 150 miles roundtrip between seasonal ranges. During migration, grouse use pathways through intact habitat and rest and refuel at stopover sites. Taken together, these findings underscore the need to conserve intact sagebrush habitats across large landscapes on both public and private lands to sustain sage grouse movement pathways, their populations, and genetic diversity. Title: Science to Solutions: Sage Grouse Need Intact Landscapes For Long- Distance Movement Author: Sage Grouse Initiative Two new studies revealed unknown long-distance dispersal and migration movements in sage grouse that offer fresh insights for conservation. Using DNA from feathers dropped at leks, scientists discovered that some grouse (about 1% of populations) travel long distances to explore breeding areas up to 120 miles away—movements that can potentially boost populations and temper inbreeding. A separate satellite-telemetry study of sage grouse that migrate between Saskatchewan and Montana found that this population migrates annually up to 150 miles roundtrip between seasonal ranges. During migration, grouse use pathways through intact habitat and rest and refuel at stopover sites. Taken together, these findings underscore the need to conserve intact sagebrush habitats across large landscapes on both public and private lands to sustain sage grouse movement pathways, their populations, and genetic diversity. Close

• 484. [Article] Some factors influencing the trends of salmon populations in Oregon

  Three factors were found to be significantly correlated with the fluctuations and trends in silver salmon production in Oregon. Logging was found to adversely affect the runs of salmon in later years. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Some factors influencing the trends of salmon populations in Oregon Author: Johnson, Donald R., Oregon. Fish Commission, Hodges, John I., McKernan, Donald L. (Donald Lynn), 1918-1979 Three factors were found to be significantly correlated with the fluctuations and trends in silver salmon production in Oregon. Logging was found to adversely affect the runs of salmon in later years. Exceptional winter floods seem to produce poor resulting runs. Low summer water flows also appear to produce lower than average runs on some rivers, while higher summer flows appear to be followed by an increase in the resultant runs. The intensity of fishing was also found to affect the subsequent productivity of the fisheries. Increases in fishing effort on the rivers studied were followed in succeeding cycles by a lower catch, and when the fishing effort declined the ensuing production of silver salmon generally increased. Other factors studied did not bear a significant relationship to the fluctuations or trends of productivity of silver salmon. Title: Some factors influencing the trends of salmon populations in Oregon Author: Johnson, Donald R., Oregon. Fish Commission, Hodges, John I., McKernan, Donald L. (Donald Lynn), 1918-1979 Three factors were found to be significantly correlated with the fluctuations and trends in silver salmon production in Oregon. Logging was found to adversely affect the runs of salmon in later years. Exceptional winter floods seem to produce poor resulting runs. Low summer water flows also appear to produce lower than average runs on some rivers, while higher summer flows appear to be followed by an increase in the resultant runs. The intensity of fishing was also found to affect the subsequent productivity of the fisheries. Increases in fishing effort on the rivers studied were followed in succeeding cycles by a lower catch, and when the fishing effort declined the ensuing production of silver salmon generally increased. Other factors studied did not bear a significant relationship to the fluctuations or trends of productivity of silver salmon. Close

• 485. [Article] Mason’s Run brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis): history, management challenges, and recommendations

  Graduation date: 2016

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Mason’s Run brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis): history, management challenges, and recommendations Author: Russell, Joseph D. III Graduation date: 2016 Title: Mason’s Run brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis): history, management challenges, and recommendations Author: Russell, Joseph D. III Graduation date: 2016 Close

• 486. [Article] Municipal Water Impacts on Steelhead Trout in the Gales Creek Watershed

  Graduation date: 2016

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Municipal Water Impacts on Steelhead Trout in the Gales Creek Watershed Author: Smith, Haley B. Graduation date: 2016 Title: Municipal Water Impacts on Steelhead Trout in the Gales Creek Watershed Author: Smith, Haley B. Graduation date: 2016 Close

• 487. [Article] Non-additive and non-stationary properties in the spatial distribution of a large marine fish population

  This is the author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by The Royal Society and can be found at: http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Non-additive and non-stationary properties in the spatial distribution of a large marine fish population Author: Ciannelli, Lorenzo, Chan, Kung-Sik, Bartolino, Valerio This is the author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by The Royal Society and can be found at: http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/. Title: Non-additive and non-stationary properties in the spatial distribution of a large marine fish population Author: Ciannelli, Lorenzo, Chan, Kung-Sik, Bartolino, Valerio This is the author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by The Royal Society and can be found at: http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/. Close

• 488. [Article] Seamounts, Ridges, and Reef Habitats of American Samoa

  This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published chapter [58] is copyrighted by Elsevier.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Seamounts, Ridges, and Reef Habitats of American Samoa Author: Kippers, Anthony A. P., Hirsch, Emily R., Fenner, Douglas, Wright, Dawn J., Smith, John R., Roberts, Jed T., Naar, David F., Clift, Leslie Whaylen, Hogrefe, Kyle R. This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published chapter [58] is copyrighted by Elsevier. Title: Seamounts, Ridges, and Reef Habitats of American Samoa Author: Kippers, Anthony A. P., Hirsch, Emily R., Fenner, Douglas, Wright, Dawn J., Smith, John R., Roberts, Jed T., Naar, David F., Clift, Leslie Whaylen, Hogrefe, Kyle R. This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published chapter [58] is copyrighted by Elsevier. Close

• 489. [Article] Final Report: Controlling Tall Oatgrass in Fender’s Blue Butterfly Habitats

  We report final results from a five-year field experiment evaluating the effects of different mowing regimes on groups of native and non-native grasses and forbs. The study site was a degraded prairie ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Final Report: Controlling Tall Oatgrass in Fender’s Blue Butterfly Habitats Author: Wilson, Mark V., Clark, Deborah Louise, 1950- We report final results from a five-year field experiment evaluating the effects of different mowing regimes on groups of native and non-native grasses and forbs. The study site was a degraded prairie at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge dominated by the pest plant Arrhenatherum elatius (tall oatgrass). Mowing treatments differed in time of year they were applied, mowing height, and removal of cut material. Treatments started in 1994 and continued through 1998. Title: Final Report: Controlling Tall Oatgrass in Fender’s Blue Butterfly Habitats Author: Wilson, Mark V., Clark, Deborah Louise, 1950- We report final results from a five-year field experiment evaluating the effects of different mowing regimes on groups of native and non-native grasses and forbs. The study site was a degraded prairie at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge dominated by the pest plant Arrhenatherum elatius (tall oatgrass). Mowing treatments differed in time of year they were applied, mowing height, and removal of cut material. Treatments started in 1994 and continued through 1998. Close

• 490. [Article] Benthic Habitat Mapping: eCognition Rule Set

  This publication consists of a rule set for benthic habitat classification implemented in eCognition (Trimble Navigation Limited). The details of the procedure are described in Parrish et al., 2016: http://www.jcronline.org/doi/abs/10.2112/SI76-017. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Benthic Habitat Mapping: eCognition Rule Set Author: O’Neil-Dunne, Jarlath P.M. , Parrish, Christopher E. , Dijkstra, Jennifer A. This publication consists of a rule set for benthic habitat classification implemented in eCognition (Trimble Navigation Limited). The details of the procedure are described in Parrish et al., 2016: http://www.jcronline.org/doi/abs/10.2112/SI76-017. The input to the classification consists of high-resolution true color orthophotos, seafloor DEMs from topobathymetric lidar, and gridded lidar reflectance and pulse shape deviation layers. The five output classes are: 1) low elevation (refers to areas deeper than the laser extinction depth), 2) sand, 3) dense eelgrass, 4) sparse eelgrass, and 5) mixed macroalgae and sand. Title: Benthic Habitat Mapping: eCognition Rule Set Author: O’Neil-Dunne, Jarlath P.M. , Parrish, Christopher E. , Dijkstra, Jennifer A. This publication consists of a rule set for benthic habitat classification implemented in eCognition (Trimble Navigation Limited). The details of the procedure are described in Parrish et al., 2016: http://www.jcronline.org/doi/abs/10.2112/SI76-017. The input to the classification consists of high-resolution true color orthophotos, seafloor DEMs from topobathymetric lidar, and gridded lidar reflectance and pulse shape deviation layers. The five output classes are: 1) low elevation (refers to areas deeper than the laser extinction depth), 2) sand, 3) dense eelgrass, 4) sparse eelgrass, and 5) mixed macroalgae and sand. Close

• 491. [Article] Biological assessment of the effects of national forest land and resource management plans and Bureau of Land Management land use plans on Canada lynx

  This biological assessment (BA) documents the potential effects of existing Forest Service (FS) Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMPs), or 'Forest Plans' and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land Use ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biological assessment of the effects of national forest land and resource management plans and Bureau of Land Management land use plans on Canada lynx Author: Rupe, John, Hickenbottom, J. Randal, Prevedel, David, Halekas, George, Hilliard, Mark, Summerfield, Bob, Aradahl, Jeff, Jackson, Lynn This biological assessment (BA) documents the potential effects of existing Forest Service (FS) Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMPs), or 'Forest Plans' and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land Use Plans (LUPs) on the Canada Lynx (Lynx canadensis), hereafter referred to as the lynx. LRMPs and LUPs are collectively referred to as 'Plans' in this document. In a Federal Register notice on July 8, 1998, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed a distinct population segment of the lynx within 16 states to be listed as threatened (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998a). This BA evaluates 57 LRMPs and 56 LUPs in 13 of these states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Montana, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. Title: Biological assessment of the effects of national forest land and resource management plans and Bureau of Land Management land use plans on Canada lynx Author: Rupe, John, Hickenbottom, J. Randal, Prevedel, David, Halekas, George, Hilliard, Mark, Summerfield, Bob, Aradahl, Jeff, Jackson, Lynn This biological assessment (BA) documents the potential effects of existing Forest Service (FS) Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMPs), or 'Forest Plans' and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land Use Plans (LUPs) on the Canada Lynx (Lynx canadensis), hereafter referred to as the lynx. LRMPs and LUPs are collectively referred to as 'Plans' in this document. In a Federal Register notice on July 8, 1998, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed a distinct population segment of the lynx within 16 states to be listed as threatened (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998a). This BA evaluates 57 LRMPs and 56 LUPs in 13 of these states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Montana, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. Close

• 492. [Article] Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus) Population and Habitat Survey in the McKenzie and Middle Fork Willamette Basins, 2001

  Our study area includes the three McKenzie populations, and a reintroduced population in the Middle Fork Willamette and tributaries above Hills Creek Reservoir. We monitored bull trout populations in the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus) Population and Habitat Survey in the McKenzie and Middle Fork Willamette Basins, 2001 Author: Taylor, Greg Our study area includes the three McKenzie populations, and a reintroduced population in the Middle Fork Willamette and tributaries above Hills Creek Reservoir. We monitored bull trout populations in the McKenzie and Middle Fork Willamette basins using a combination of sampling techniques that include spawning surveys, juvenile trapping, electronic fish counters, and night snorkeling. We continued to reintroduce bull trout fry from Anderson Creek (McKenzie Basin) to the Middle Fork Willamette above Hills Creek Reservoir in an attempt to rehabilitate the bull trout population in the Middle Fork Willamette Basin. By monitoring population trends and determining life history characteristics of bull trout in McKenzie and Middle Fork Willamette basins, we can make informed management decisions that will help maintain long term and sustainable bull trout populations in the upper Willamette Basin. Title: Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus) Population and Habitat Survey in the McKenzie and Middle Fork Willamette Basins, 2001 Author: Taylor, Greg Our study area includes the three McKenzie populations, and a reintroduced population in the Middle Fork Willamette and tributaries above Hills Creek Reservoir. We monitored bull trout populations in the McKenzie and Middle Fork Willamette basins using a combination of sampling techniques that include spawning surveys, juvenile trapping, electronic fish counters, and night snorkeling. We continued to reintroduce bull trout fry from Anderson Creek (McKenzie Basin) to the Middle Fork Willamette above Hills Creek Reservoir in an attempt to rehabilitate the bull trout population in the Middle Fork Willamette Basin. By monitoring population trends and determining life history characteristics of bull trout in McKenzie and Middle Fork Willamette basins, we can make informed management decisions that will help maintain long term and sustainable bull trout populations in the upper Willamette Basin. Close

• 493. [Article] Marine species invasions in estuaries and harbors

  The version of record is embargoed until 03-08-2016. The final peer reviewed, accepted manuscript is available without an embargo. The published article is copyrighted by Inter-Research and can be found ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Marine species invasions in estuaries and harbors Author: Briggs, John C. The version of record is embargoed until 03-08-2016. The final peer reviewed, accepted manuscript is available without an embargo. The published article is copyrighted by Inter-Research and can be found at: http://www.int-res.com/journals/meps/meps-home/. Title: Marine species invasions in estuaries and harbors Author: Briggs, John C. The version of record is embargoed until 03-08-2016. The final peer reviewed, accepted manuscript is available without an embargo. The published article is copyrighted by Inter-Research and can be found at: http://www.int-res.com/journals/meps/meps-home/. Close

• 494. [Article] Report and recommendations of salmon anchor habitat strategy work group

  The 2003 Oregon Legislature directed the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) to convene a citizen work group to review and evaluate the ODF Salmon Anchor Habitat Strategy for state forests in northwest ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Report and recommendations of salmon anchor habitat strategy work group Author: McCollister, Mark, Wilkeson, Ray, Hanneman, Paul, Westbrook, Helen, Moskowitz, Dave, Institute for Natural Resources, Griffith, John The 2003 Oregon Legislature directed the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) to convene a citizen work group to review and evaluate the ODF Salmon Anchor Habitat Strategy for state forests in northwest Oregon. In November, 2003 ODF contracted with the Institute for Natural Resources (INR) to support the SAH Work Group. INR designed and oversaw a process for the SAH Work Group that facilitated dialogue among interested parties, scientists, land management professionals, and policy makers. The goal was to illuminate the SAH policy, identify issues and develop recommendations while respecting the perspectives held by all parties. Title: Report and recommendations of salmon anchor habitat strategy work group Author: McCollister, Mark, Wilkeson, Ray, Hanneman, Paul, Westbrook, Helen, Moskowitz, Dave, Institute for Natural Resources, Griffith, John The 2003 Oregon Legislature directed the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) to convene a citizen work group to review and evaluate the ODF Salmon Anchor Habitat Strategy for state forests in northwest Oregon. In November, 2003 ODF contracted with the Institute for Natural Resources (INR) to support the SAH Work Group. INR designed and oversaw a process for the SAH Work Group that facilitated dialogue among interested parties, scientists, land management professionals, and policy makers. The goal was to illuminate the SAH policy, identify issues and develop recommendations while respecting the perspectives held by all parties. Close

• 495. [Article] Waterbird records for the Siletz River and some creeks in the Siletz/Logsden area of Lincoln County

  This article is based on a total of 204 observations, many of which were censuses. Between Siletz River Mile (RM) 50.0 and 50.6, Llewellyn made 151 observations of waterbirds during 1981-1993. He noted ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Waterbird records for the Siletz River and some creeks in the Siletz/Logsden area of Lincoln County Author: Bayer, Range D., 1947-, Llewellyn, Bob This article is based on a total of 204 observations, many of which were censuses. Between Siletz River Mile (RM) 50.0 and 50.6, Llewellyn made 151 observations of waterbirds during 1981-1993. He noted a total of 12 species; most were seen during several years. Hooded and Common mergansers and American Dippers nested or were seen with young. Llewellyn and other observers also made 37 other Siletz River observations in the Siletz/Logsden area. Most of the same species were seen as between RM 50.0 and 50.6, but one Bald Eagle was also noted feeding on a salmon carcass. Llewellyn and other observers made 16 observations of creeks in the Siletz/Logsden area. American Dippers were the most common and widespread species, and they also nested. For all sites, the individual observations are given. Title: Waterbird records for the Siletz River and some creeks in the Siletz/Logsden area of Lincoln County Author: Bayer, Range D., 1947-, Llewellyn, Bob This article is based on a total of 204 observations, many of which were censuses. Between Siletz River Mile (RM) 50.0 and 50.6, Llewellyn made 151 observations of waterbirds during 1981-1993. He noted a total of 12 species; most were seen during several years. Hooded and Common mergansers and American Dippers nested or were seen with young. Llewellyn and other observers also made 37 other Siletz River observations in the Siletz/Logsden area. Most of the same species were seen as between RM 50.0 and 50.6, but one Bald Eagle was also noted feeding on a salmon carcass. Llewellyn and other observers made 16 observations of creeks in the Siletz/Logsden area. American Dippers were the most common and widespread species, and they also nested. For all sites, the individual observations are given. Close

• 496. [Article] Waterbird records for West and East Ponds, South Beach Peninsula, Lincoln County

  In 1984-1986, Bayer made 171 and 67 waterbird censuses at West Pond and East Pond, respectively. From 1974 through June 1992, Bayer and others also made an additional 138 and 110 observations at West Pond ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Waterbird records for West and East Ponds, South Beach Peninsula, Lincoln County Author: Bayer, Range D., 1947- In 1984-1986, Bayer made 171 and 67 waterbird censuses at West Pond and East Pond, respectively. From 1974 through June 1992, Bayer and others also made an additional 138 and 110 observations at West Pond and East Pond, respectively. A total of 48 waterbird taxa were reported at West Pond, and 23 waterbird taxa were discovered at East Pond. At both Ponds, Great Blue Herons and Belted Kingfishers were common, but no waterbirds were observed nesting. The records for each census or observation are given, as well as each taxon's monthly maximal abundance. Title: Waterbird records for West and East Ponds, South Beach Peninsula, Lincoln County Author: Bayer, Range D., 1947- In 1984-1986, Bayer made 171 and 67 waterbird censuses at West Pond and East Pond, respectively. From 1974 through June 1992, Bayer and others also made an additional 138 and 110 observations at West Pond and East Pond, respectively. A total of 48 waterbird taxa were reported at West Pond, and 23 waterbird taxa were discovered at East Pond. At both Ponds, Great Blue Herons and Belted Kingfishers were common, but no waterbirds were observed nesting. The records for each census or observation are given, as well as each taxon's monthly maximal abundance. Close

• 497. [Article] How is biodiversity affected by cheatgrass invasion : a preliminary survey of terrestrial arthropods

  Poster from 2006 Cascades student poster session.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: How is biodiversity affected by cheatgrass invasion : a preliminary survey of terrestrial arthropods Author: Elliott, Stacie Poster from 2006 Cascades student poster session. Title: How is biodiversity affected by cheatgrass invasion : a preliminary survey of terrestrial arthropods Author: Elliott, Stacie Poster from 2006 Cascades student poster session. Close

• 498. [Article] Using network theory to prioritize management in a desert bighorn sheep metapopulation

  To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Springer ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Using network theory to prioritize management in a desert bighorn sheep metapopulation Author: Creech, Tyler G., Monello, Ryan J., Wehausen, John D., Epps, Clinton W. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Title: Using network theory to prioritize management in a desert bighorn sheep metapopulation Author: Creech, Tyler G., Monello, Ryan J., Wehausen, John D., Epps, Clinton W. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by Springer and can be found at: http://link.springer.com/journal/10980. Close

• 499. [Article] CreechTylerFisheriesWildlifeUsingNetworkTheory_SupplementaryMaterial.pdf

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: CreechTylerFisheriesWildlifeUsingNetworkTheory_SupplementaryMaterial.pdf Author: Creech, Tyler G., Monello, Ryan J., Wehausen, John D., Epps, Clinton W. Title: CreechTylerFisheriesWildlifeUsingNetworkTheory_SupplementaryMaterial.pdf Author: Creech, Tyler G., Monello, Ryan J., Wehausen, John D., Epps, Clinton W. Close

• 500. [Article] CreechTylerFisheriesWildlifeUsingNetworkTheory.pdf

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: CreechTylerFisheriesWildlifeUsingNetworkTheory.pdf Author: Creech, Tyler G., Monello, Ryan J., Wehausen, John D., Epps, Clinton W. Title: CreechTylerFisheriesWildlifeUsingNetworkTheory.pdf Author: Creech, Tyler G., Monello, Ryan J., Wehausen, John D., Epps, Clinton W. Close