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• 451. [Article] Food habits and species composition of neritic reef fishes off Depoe Bay, Oregon

  The distribution and trophic ecology of neritic reef fishes was studied to provide biological information useful in conserving these stocks. Houk and line fishing was conducted from July 1976 to July 1977 ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Food habits and species composition of neritic reef fishes off Depoe Bay, Oregon Author: Steiner, Richard George The distribution and trophic ecology of neritic reef fishes was studied to provide biological information useful in conserving these stocks. Houk and line fishing was conducted from July 1976 to July 1977 on neritic reefs within 5 km of the Oregon coast adjacent to Depoe Bay. Sampling was designed to determine the seasonal and depth variations in species composition of nearshore reef-fish communities, and to determine the trophic relationships within these species. The species composition of fish communities on reefs shoreward of the 20 m depth contour was markedly different from that on deeper (20-50 m) reefs. While fish communities on shallow reefs were dominated by black rockfish (Sebastes melanops), those on deeper reefs were dominated collectively by lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus), yelloweye rockfish (Sebastes ruberrirnus), and black rockfish. The mean lengths of the two most abundant species, black rockfish and lingcod, were decidedly longer on the deep reefs than on the shallow reefs. Several neritic reef fish species were seldom found shoreward of the 20-30 m depth interval, suggesting that this zone constitutes a functional boundary to the distribution of these species. The catch per unit of effort for black rockfish was significantly (p = .01) greater on shallow reefs (10-20 m) during summer and winter than it was during spring and fall. The species composition of catches in all reef areas changed seasonally due mainly to a significant (p = . 10) increase in lingcod abundance in reef areas during their winter spawning period. Analysis of stomach contents of the five principal species using Bray-Curtis dissimilarity indices revealed that these nearshore reef fish communities are relatively uncoupled trophic systems. This suggests that the principal species do not exclude one another from reef areas through competition for food, and thus, for purposes of conservation, can probably be considered separately. Because of the continuing increase in sport and commercial fishing effort on neritic reef fishes, it is increasingly possible that these stocks could be overexploited. Restriction of the lingcod fishery during their winter spawning period and a maximum size limit for lingcod are possible strategies to help insure adequate recruitment of these species. However, before such restrictions are considered, the role of offshore stocks of lingcod with regard to spawning and recruitment needs to be better understood. Title: Food habits and species composition of neritic reef fishes off Depoe Bay, Oregon Author: Steiner, Richard George The distribution and trophic ecology of neritic reef fishes was studied to provide biological information useful in conserving these stocks. Houk and line fishing was conducted from July 1976 to July 1977 on neritic reefs within 5 km of the Oregon coast adjacent to Depoe Bay. Sampling was designed to determine the seasonal and depth variations in species composition of nearshore reef-fish communities, and to determine the trophic relationships within these species. The species composition of fish communities on reefs shoreward of the 20 m depth contour was markedly different from that on deeper (20-50 m) reefs. While fish communities on shallow reefs were dominated by black rockfish (Sebastes melanops), those on deeper reefs were dominated collectively by lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus), yelloweye rockfish (Sebastes ruberrirnus), and black rockfish. The mean lengths of the two most abundant species, black rockfish and lingcod, were decidedly longer on the deep reefs than on the shallow reefs. Several neritic reef fish species were seldom found shoreward of the 20-30 m depth interval, suggesting that this zone constitutes a functional boundary to the distribution of these species. The catch per unit of effort for black rockfish was significantly (p = .01) greater on shallow reefs (10-20 m) during summer and winter than it was during spring and fall. The species composition of catches in all reef areas changed seasonally due mainly to a significant (p = . 10) increase in lingcod abundance in reef areas during their winter spawning period. Analysis of stomach contents of the five principal species using Bray-Curtis dissimilarity indices revealed that these nearshore reef fish communities are relatively uncoupled trophic systems. This suggests that the principal species do not exclude one another from reef areas through competition for food, and thus, for purposes of conservation, can probably be considered separately. Because of the continuing increase in sport and commercial fishing effort on neritic reef fishes, it is increasingly possible that these stocks could be overexploited. Restriction of the lingcod fishery during their winter spawning period and a maximum size limit for lingcod are possible strategies to help insure adequate recruitment of these species. However, before such restrictions are considered, the role of offshore stocks of lingcod with regard to spawning and recruitment needs to be better understood. Close

• 452. [Article] Predicting foundation bunchgrass species abundances: model-assisted decision-making in protected-area sagebrush steppe

  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 the author(s) ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Predicting foundation bunchgrass species abundances: model-assisted decision-making in protected-area sagebrush steppe Author: Esposito, Daniel M., Rodhouse, Thomas J., Sheley, Roger L., Mata-Gonzalez, Ricardo, Smith, Brenda S., Hoh, Shirley, Irvine, Kathryn 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 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: Predicting foundation bunchgrass species abundances: model-assisted decision-making in protected-area sagebrush steppe Author: Esposito, Daniel M., Rodhouse, Thomas J., Sheley, Roger L., Mata-Gonzalez, Ricardo, Smith, Brenda S., Hoh, Shirley, Irvine, Kathryn 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 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

• 453. [Article] The Oregon land use system: an assessment of selected goals : draft final report

  Prepared by The Institute for Natural Resources Oregon State University for the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Oregon land use system: an assessment of selected goals : draft final report Author: Institute for Natural Resources Prepared by The Institute for Natural Resources Oregon State University for the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development Title: The Oregon land use system: an assessment of selected goals : draft final report Author: Institute for Natural Resources Prepared by The Institute for Natural Resources Oregon State University for the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development Close

• 454. [Article] Unpacking docent practice in free choice science learning settings : a qualitative study documenting the what and whys of docent interpretive practice

  Museum settings including aquariums, zoos and science centers rely heavily on their volunteer docent populations to interact with and communicate science and conservation concepts to the visiting public. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Unpacking docent practice in free choice science learning settings : a qualitative study documenting the what and whys of docent interpretive practice Author: Good, Laura H. Museum settings including aquariums, zoos and science centers rely heavily on their volunteer docent populations to interact with and communicate science and conservation concepts to the visiting public. The interactions docents have with museum visitors are important to meeting the educational expectations of museums and improving public science literacy as a whole, yet research to date is limited around docent practice, docents' reflections on that practice nor the sources for docents to learn that practice. Thus, we have little understanding of the interpretive practice docents actually undertake whilst interacting with visitors, why they choose to enact particular strategies, and how they came to learn those practices. Using a grounded qualitative approach within a framework of mediated action and cultural historical activity theory, this case study utilized video observations of docent practice at a science center, pre and post observation interviews, and focus groups to 1) document docent practices for engaging visitors, 2) explain those practices from the docents' own perspectives, and 3) examine those practices from the point of view of how they align with teaching and learning theories and interpretive practice. Thematic analysis using constant comparative methods demonstrate four claims about docent practice: 1) docents view teaching in the museum as opportunities to spark interest with these new experiences. Practices are chosen to engage visitors in these experiences. Docents choose to highlight these experiences as they believe they are reasons to be engaged; 2) docents as teachers are perceptive about their audience. They pay attention to patterns and provide information in response to those patterns. Docents utilize a shared repertoire of practice and information in their community developed from understanding visitor patterns of interest; 3) docents care about their setting and the exhibits within it. They also care about the visitor experience as a whole, and have to be flexible when working with different types of learners. They believe that being a docent means balancing potentially conflicting roles; and 4) docents use interpretation as a pedagogy to engage visitors with science and create personally meaningful experiences. Analysis of significant interactions between docents and visitors shows that such practices are mediated through a variety of discursive and physical tools and implemented by docents as a means of engaging visitors with science and conservation. Moreover, most of these skills appear to be learned on-the-job within their communities of practice, and while specific docent actions and skills may be different across contexts, member checks with docents working in other museum settings demonstrate the resonance of the findings across contexts. The findings of the study are placed in the context of interpretation theories of communication as well as research on docents as lifelong, free-choice learners both facilitating and participating in societal STEM learning activity. Findings and methods of research from this study are valuable to the greater understanding of how docents learn and enact interpretive practice and the development of more effective professional development for docents in museum settings. Title: Unpacking docent practice in free choice science learning settings : a qualitative study documenting the what and whys of docent interpretive practice Author: Good, Laura H. Museum settings including aquariums, zoos and science centers rely heavily on their volunteer docent populations to interact with and communicate science and conservation concepts to the visiting public. The interactions docents have with museum visitors are important to meeting the educational expectations of museums and improving public science literacy as a whole, yet research to date is limited around docent practice, docents' reflections on that practice nor the sources for docents to learn that practice. Thus, we have little understanding of the interpretive practice docents actually undertake whilst interacting with visitors, why they choose to enact particular strategies, and how they came to learn those practices. Using a grounded qualitative approach within a framework of mediated action and cultural historical activity theory, this case study utilized video observations of docent practice at a science center, pre and post observation interviews, and focus groups to 1) document docent practices for engaging visitors, 2) explain those practices from the docents' own perspectives, and 3) examine those practices from the point of view of how they align with teaching and learning theories and interpretive practice. Thematic analysis using constant comparative methods demonstrate four claims about docent practice: 1) docents view teaching in the museum as opportunities to spark interest with these new experiences. Practices are chosen to engage visitors in these experiences. Docents choose to highlight these experiences as they believe they are reasons to be engaged; 2) docents as teachers are perceptive about their audience. They pay attention to patterns and provide information in response to those patterns. Docents utilize a shared repertoire of practice and information in their community developed from understanding visitor patterns of interest; 3) docents care about their setting and the exhibits within it. They also care about the visitor experience as a whole, and have to be flexible when working with different types of learners. They believe that being a docent means balancing potentially conflicting roles; and 4) docents use interpretation as a pedagogy to engage visitors with science and create personally meaningful experiences. Analysis of significant interactions between docents and visitors shows that such practices are mediated through a variety of discursive and physical tools and implemented by docents as a means of engaging visitors with science and conservation. Moreover, most of these skills appear to be learned on-the-job within their communities of practice, and while specific docent actions and skills may be different across contexts, member checks with docents working in other museum settings demonstrate the resonance of the findings across contexts. The findings of the study are placed in the context of interpretation theories of communication as well as research on docents as lifelong, free-choice learners both facilitating and participating in societal STEM learning activity. Findings and methods of research from this study are valuable to the greater understanding of how docents learn and enact interpretive practice and the development of more effective professional development for docents in museum settings. Close

• 455. [Article] Theory of Action for Pro-Environmental Behavior Change at Zoos & Aquariums

  In recent years, zoos and aquariums have become prominent centers for environmental education and have focused much of their organizational efforts towards conservation and inspiring conservation action ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Theory of Action for Pro-Environmental Behavior Change at Zoos & Aquariums Author: Canzoneri, Nicolette M. In recent years, zoos and aquariums have become prominent centers for environmental education and have focused much of their organizational efforts towards conservation and inspiring conservation action among visitors. However, there is little research available to support the efficacy of these efforts, especially in relation to the behavioral outcomes associated with much of their programming. Because of the global reach of zoos and aquariums; their unique ability to directly connect people to wildlife; the educational capacity being built within the industry; and their interest in understanding how to effectively encourage pro-environmental behavior through live animal experiences, research geared at unpacking the various approaches towards behavior change incorporated into programming at these facilities is an important gap to be filled. As such, my research sought to identify how programs are developed, implemented, and evaluated in zoos and aquariums. Additionally, I also investigated the colloquial usage of behavior change theories as part of program design. I specifically chose to study programming that incorporates live animals as this component is often mentioned by industry professionals as being an important part of programs and in fostering pro-environmental behavior. My research included four different Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited facilities located on the West Coast of the United States that resulted in data collection from ten interview participants, seven observations, and analysis of 22 pertinent documents (e.g., organization mission statements, strategic plans, and white papers). I analyzed this data in the form of a composite case which assimilated information gathered from each facility into the depiction of one, fictional case (the “West Coast Zoo and Aquarium”). The composite case highlights the typical program development process and describes differences in approaches between the education and husbandry departments at the zoo. Further analysis of the composite case uncovered a common theory of action for behavior change across locations: education programs coupled with animal experiences lead to behavior change. Unfortunately, this theory of action is missing components necessary for actual behavior change to be seen. I suggest an expanded model for program development incorporating applied behavior analysis techniques and community-based social marketing strategies to address the lack of behavioral theory incorporated into programming. This research assists in moving both the zoo and aquarium industry and the applied behavior analysis profession forward towards solutions that positively impact the environment. Title: Theory of Action for Pro-Environmental Behavior Change at Zoos & Aquariums Author: Canzoneri, Nicolette M. In recent years, zoos and aquariums have become prominent centers for environmental education and have focused much of their organizational efforts towards conservation and inspiring conservation action among visitors. However, there is little research available to support the efficacy of these efforts, especially in relation to the behavioral outcomes associated with much of their programming. Because of the global reach of zoos and aquariums; their unique ability to directly connect people to wildlife; the educational capacity being built within the industry; and their interest in understanding how to effectively encourage pro-environmental behavior through live animal experiences, research geared at unpacking the various approaches towards behavior change incorporated into programming at these facilities is an important gap to be filled. As such, my research sought to identify how programs are developed, implemented, and evaluated in zoos and aquariums. Additionally, I also investigated the colloquial usage of behavior change theories as part of program design. I specifically chose to study programming that incorporates live animals as this component is often mentioned by industry professionals as being an important part of programs and in fostering pro-environmental behavior. My research included four different Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited facilities located on the West Coast of the United States that resulted in data collection from ten interview participants, seven observations, and analysis of 22 pertinent documents (e.g., organization mission statements, strategic plans, and white papers). I analyzed this data in the form of a composite case which assimilated information gathered from each facility into the depiction of one, fictional case (the “West Coast Zoo and Aquarium”). The composite case highlights the typical program development process and describes differences in approaches between the education and husbandry departments at the zoo. Further analysis of the composite case uncovered a common theory of action for behavior change across locations: education programs coupled with animal experiences lead to behavior change. Unfortunately, this theory of action is missing components necessary for actual behavior change to be seen. I suggest an expanded model for program development incorporating applied behavior analysis techniques and community-based social marketing strategies to address the lack of behavioral theory incorporated into programming. This research assists in moving both the zoo and aquarium industry and the applied behavior analysis profession forward towards solutions that positively impact the environment. Close

• 456. [Article] Spring Chinook in the Willamette and Sandy Basins, Progress Reports 2006-2007

  Abstract -- The Willamette and Sandy rivers support intense recreational fisheries for spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Fisheries in these basins rely primarily on annual hatchery releases ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Spring Chinook in the Willamette and Sandy Basins, Progress Reports 2006-2007 Abstract -- The Willamette and Sandy rivers support intense recreational fisheries for spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Fisheries in these basins rely primarily on annual hatchery releases of 5–8 million juveniles. Hatchery programs exist in the McKenzie, Middle Fork Willamette, North and South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers mainly as mitigation for dams that blocked natural production areas. Some natural spawning occurs in most of the major basins and a few smaller tributaries upstream of Willamette Falls. The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted the Native Fish Conservation Policy (ODFW 2003a) and the Hatchery Management Policy (ODFW 2003b) in part to reduce adverse impacts of hatchery programs on wild native stocks. The Native Fish Conservation Policy recognizes that naturally produced native fish are the foundation for long-term sustainability of native species and hatchery programs, and the fisheries they support. Possible risks of artificial propagation programs have been well documented. Hazards include disease transfer, competition for food and spawning sites, increased predation, increased incidental mortality from harvest, loss of genetic variability, genetic drift, and domestication (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Hard et al. 1992; Cuenco et al. 1993; Busack and Currens 1995; NRC 1996; and Waples 1999). Hatcheries can also play a positive role for wild salmonids by bolstering populations, especially those on the verge of extirpation, by providing a genetic reserve as well as providing opportunities for nutrient enrichment of streams (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Cuenco et al. 1993). In the past, hatchery programs and fish passage issues were the focus of spring Chinook salmon management in the Willamette and Sandy basins. Limited information was collected on the genetic structure among basin populations, on abundance and distribution of natural spawning, on rearing and migrating of juvenile salmon, or on strategies for reducing risks that large hatchery programs pose for wild salmon populations. This study is being implemented to gather this information. A schematic of the study plan is shown in APPENDIX A. We conducted work in the main-stem Willamette River above Willamette Falls, and in the Middle Fork Willamette, McKenzie, North Santiam, South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers in 2006 and 2007. Basin descriptions and background information on management and fish runs can be found in subbasin plans developed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW 1988, ODFW 1992a, ODFW 1992b, and ODFW 1996). Task headings below cross reference the study plan outlined in APPENDIX A. This report covers tasks that were worked on in late 2005 through early fall 2007. Title: Spring Chinook in the Willamette and Sandy Basins, Progress Reports 2006-2007 Abstract -- The Willamette and Sandy rivers support intense recreational fisheries for spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Fisheries in these basins rely primarily on annual hatchery releases of 5–8 million juveniles. Hatchery programs exist in the McKenzie, Middle Fork Willamette, North and South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers mainly as mitigation for dams that blocked natural production areas. Some natural spawning occurs in most of the major basins and a few smaller tributaries upstream of Willamette Falls. The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted the Native Fish Conservation Policy (ODFW 2003a) and the Hatchery Management Policy (ODFW 2003b) in part to reduce adverse impacts of hatchery programs on wild native stocks. The Native Fish Conservation Policy recognizes that naturally produced native fish are the foundation for long-term sustainability of native species and hatchery programs, and the fisheries they support. Possible risks of artificial propagation programs have been well documented. Hazards include disease transfer, competition for food and spawning sites, increased predation, increased incidental mortality from harvest, loss of genetic variability, genetic drift, and domestication (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Hard et al. 1992; Cuenco et al. 1993; Busack and Currens 1995; NRC 1996; and Waples 1999). Hatcheries can also play a positive role for wild salmonids by bolstering populations, especially those on the verge of extirpation, by providing a genetic reserve as well as providing opportunities for nutrient enrichment of streams (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Cuenco et al. 1993). In the past, hatchery programs and fish passage issues were the focus of spring Chinook salmon management in the Willamette and Sandy basins. Limited information was collected on the genetic structure among basin populations, on abundance and distribution of natural spawning, on rearing and migrating of juvenile salmon, or on strategies for reducing risks that large hatchery programs pose for wild salmon populations. This study is being implemented to gather this information. A schematic of the study plan is shown in APPENDIX A. We conducted work in the main-stem Willamette River above Willamette Falls, and in the Middle Fork Willamette, McKenzie, North Santiam, South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers in 2006 and 2007. Basin descriptions and background information on management and fish runs can be found in subbasin plans developed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW 1988, ODFW 1992a, ODFW 1992b, and ODFW 1996). Task headings below cross reference the study plan outlined in APPENDIX A. This report covers tasks that were worked on in late 2005 through early fall 2007. Close

• 457. [Article] Conservation genetics of Kincaid's lupine : a threatened plant of western Oregon and southwest Washington grasslands

  Kincaid's lupine (Lupinus oreganus Heller) is a federally listed threatened species native to remnant grassland of western Oregon and southwestern Washington, and is the primary larval host plant of a ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Conservation genetics of Kincaid's lupine : a threatened plant of western Oregon and southwest Washington grasslands Author: Severns, Paul M. Kincaid's lupine (Lupinus oreganus Heller) is a federally listed threatened species native to remnant grassland of western Oregon and southwestern Washington, and is the primary larval host plant of a once thought extinct butterfly, Plebejus icarioides fenderi Macy. Past studies concerning Kincaid's lupine reproduction suggested that populations may suffer reductions in fitness and progeny vigor due to inbreeding depression, but no direct investigation into range-wide patterns of genetic variation has been undertaken. I used nuclear DNA and chloroplast DNA simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers to determine genet size and patterns of non-adventitious rhizomatous lupine spread, to estimate the number of genets within Kincaid's lupine populations, and to assess whether seed transfer for the purpose of genetic rescue is an appropriate genetics management strategy for Kincaid's lupine. Patterns of allelic diversity at nDNA SSR loci within study patches revealed that non-adventitious spread of rhizomes can extend to at least 27 m and may dominate a portion of a lupine patch or small population. However, genet spread and arrangement in study patches were sufficiently integrated such that interplantlet Bombus foraging flights exceeding 2 m had > 90% probability of occurring between different genets. Within-lupine patch genetic diversity was well-undersampled, refuting the supposition that Kincaid's lupine populations suffer from inbreeding depression due to small effective population sizes. Estimation of Kincaid's lupine abundance through leaf cover and inflorescence number was tightly correlated with plantlet number, a unit of vegetative and sexual growth, within lupine patches but the relationship was not consistent between patches within populations or between populations. We used genet to plantlet ratios (determined through genotyping) and plantlet density to estimate genet population size in Kincaid's lupine patches. Because of the strong correlation between cover and plantlet density, historically collected lupine abundance data could be used to estimate genet population size provided that plantlet density is calibrated to patch-specific cover measurements. Within patches and populations across the range of Kincaid's lupine there was little DNA evidence suggesting severe inbreeding. Only one of 24 populations and five study patches had strong statistical evidence of a recent genetic bottleneck despite the range-wide fragmentation of lupine populations and habitat. Mean population fixation index values for nearly half of the populations were near Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium expectations and only one small lupine population had a F-value > 0.20, suggestive of high inbreeding levels. Half of the populations actually had an excess of heterozygotes, suggesting that genetic diversity is not being lost. Chloroplast DNA coincides well with the observation that genetic diversity is not being lost through inbreeding or genetic bottlenecking in Kincaid's lupine. The mean number of cpDNA haplotypes per population was approximately 4 maternal lineages, which is very high for an animal pollinated plant with heavy seeds that have limited dispersal. Even relatively small populations of Kincaid's lupine had 2 or more cpDNA haplotypes, indicating that populations are not severely inbred. Both nuclear and chloroplast DNA SSR genetic marker diversity suggests that Kincaid's lupine does not require genetic rescue for effective conservation. Due to the longevity of Kincaid's lupine and the apparently large amount of within population genetic diversity, the encouragement of natural recruitment from vegetation management that improves habitat conditions is likely to maintain the relatively large amount of genetic diversity within Kincaid's lupine populations. Title: Conservation genetics of Kincaid's lupine : a threatened plant of western Oregon and southwest Washington grasslands Author: Severns, Paul M. Kincaid's lupine (Lupinus oreganus Heller) is a federally listed threatened species native to remnant grassland of western Oregon and southwestern Washington, and is the primary larval host plant of a once thought extinct butterfly, Plebejus icarioides fenderi Macy. Past studies concerning Kincaid's lupine reproduction suggested that populations may suffer reductions in fitness and progeny vigor due to inbreeding depression, but no direct investigation into range-wide patterns of genetic variation has been undertaken. I used nuclear DNA and chloroplast DNA simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers to determine genet size and patterns of non-adventitious rhizomatous lupine spread, to estimate the number of genets within Kincaid's lupine populations, and to assess whether seed transfer for the purpose of genetic rescue is an appropriate genetics management strategy for Kincaid's lupine. Patterns of allelic diversity at nDNA SSR loci within study patches revealed that non-adventitious spread of rhizomes can extend to at least 27 m and may dominate a portion of a lupine patch or small population. However, genet spread and arrangement in study patches were sufficiently integrated such that interplantlet Bombus foraging flights exceeding 2 m had > 90% probability of occurring between different genets. Within-lupine patch genetic diversity was well-undersampled, refuting the supposition that Kincaid's lupine populations suffer from inbreeding depression due to small effective population sizes. Estimation of Kincaid's lupine abundance through leaf cover and inflorescence number was tightly correlated with plantlet number, a unit of vegetative and sexual growth, within lupine patches but the relationship was not consistent between patches within populations or between populations. We used genet to plantlet ratios (determined through genotyping) and plantlet density to estimate genet population size in Kincaid's lupine patches. Because of the strong correlation between cover and plantlet density, historically collected lupine abundance data could be used to estimate genet population size provided that plantlet density is calibrated to patch-specific cover measurements. Within patches and populations across the range of Kincaid's lupine there was little DNA evidence suggesting severe inbreeding. Only one of 24 populations and five study patches had strong statistical evidence of a recent genetic bottleneck despite the range-wide fragmentation of lupine populations and habitat. Mean population fixation index values for nearly half of the populations were near Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium expectations and only one small lupine population had a F-value > 0.20, suggestive of high inbreeding levels. Half of the populations actually had an excess of heterozygotes, suggesting that genetic diversity is not being lost. Chloroplast DNA coincides well with the observation that genetic diversity is not being lost through inbreeding or genetic bottlenecking in Kincaid's lupine. The mean number of cpDNA haplotypes per population was approximately 4 maternal lineages, which is very high for an animal pollinated plant with heavy seeds that have limited dispersal. Even relatively small populations of Kincaid's lupine had 2 or more cpDNA haplotypes, indicating that populations are not severely inbred. Both nuclear and chloroplast DNA SSR genetic marker diversity suggests that Kincaid's lupine does not require genetic rescue for effective conservation. Due to the longevity of Kincaid's lupine and the apparently large amount of within population genetic diversity, the encouragement of natural recruitment from vegetation management that improves habitat conditions is likely to maintain the relatively large amount of genetic diversity within Kincaid's lupine populations. Close

• 458. [Image] The Water Report - Klamath water bank OR: USGS report

  	Only portions of issues of The Water Report are available in the Klamath Waters Digital Library. See the full report at http://www.thewaterreport.com/
  	Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Water Report - Klamath water bank OR: USGS report Author: Envirotech Publications Year: 2005, 2008, 2006 Only portions of issues of The Water Report are available in the Klamath Waters Digital Library. See the full report at http://www.thewaterreport.com/ Title: The Water Report - Klamath water bank OR: USGS report Author: Envirotech Publications Year: 2005, 2008, 2006 Only portions of issues of The Water Report are available in the Klamath Waters Digital Library. See the full report at http://www.thewaterreport.com/ Close

• 459. [Article] Climate Change, Its Effect on Migration Patterns of the Cackling Goose and White-Fronted Goose in the Willamette Valley, and Implications for Goose Management

  This thesis considers the question of whether climate change is affecting the migration patterns of geese in the Pacific Flyway, specifically cackling geese (Branta hutchinsii minima) and Pacific white-fronted ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Climate Change, Its Effect on Migration Patterns of the Cackling Goose and White-Fronted Goose in the Willamette Valley, and Implications for Goose Management Author: Warren, Kelly Year: 2010 This thesis considers the question of whether climate change is affecting the migration patterns of geese in the Pacific Flyway, specifically cackling geese (Branta hutchinsii minima) and Pacific white-fronted geese (Anser albifrons frontalis). Ancillary questions that are considered are as follows: • If global warming is affecting these species, what is the nature of the effects? • How are the changes affecting the human environment and what can be done about these effects? In 1994, the majority of the cackler population in the Pacific Flyway began to winter in Oregon’s Willamette Valley rather than in their historical wintering areas in California’s Central Valley. In recent years, the Pacific white-fronted goose has shown a change in behavior similar to that of cacklers just before their major shift. The reasons for this shift have not been clear, though climate change, agricultural shifts, or competition with other species were thought to be possible causes. Analyses of historical breeding and wintering surveys, bird band data, harvest data, agricultural data, and climate and weather data were undertaken in the course of this thesis to see if the cause or causes could be identified. The results showed that climate and weather data, i.e. an increase in average annual temperature coupled with occasional severe winters, most closely correlated with the cacklers’ shift northward. The data comparison revealed that there is a direct relationship between cacklers and a warming shift seen on the wintering grounds. There also was a secondary correlation between the northward shift and recent changes in agricultural crops in the Willamette Valley. Substantially less data are available for white-fronts, and the relationship between their recent migration changes and climate and/or other factors is much less clear. The following recommendations for management and further study are aimed at more completely understanding the scope and causes of migration shifts and formulating well-founded management plans for geese in the Pacific Flyway: • Continue research to determine if climate change is causing changes in goose population numbers and behavior. • Expand breeding ground flight surveys to include cacklers and habitat preference to learn how habitat change on the Y-K Delta is altering cackler behavior and breeding success. • Expand radio transmitter studies and collar programs for cacklers in Oregon and Washington to verify northerly wintering shifts. • Expand collar programs for cacklers wintering in the Willamette Valley to determine if the population is continuing to shift northward. • Expand banding programs for white-fronted geese to gather more data about migration patterns. • Develop models that will allow researchers and managers to correlate migration behavior with various environmental factors including climate change in order to: 1) determine which factors are causing migration changes in specific waterfowl populations and 2) allow managers to make changes to management plans in advance of rapid changes. • Inform the public about how it can assist in collar surveys or volunteer for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This will enable USFWS to have more concrete data and give the public an opportunity gain a greater understanding of geese and goose management. • Expand research on urban cackling geese to determine the nature and scope of their effect on the human environment and to devise management strategies. • Research energetics in migrating geese to determine whether the shift in migration patterns has its basis in climate change. • Increase data exchange and coordination among agencies. • Formulate and implement plans at the city and county levels to manage growing numbers of geese in urban areas. • Recognize and anticipate the possibility that goose populations may move into new wintering areas and formulate plans for management of those species. • Implement low cost techniques, such as more liberal bag limits and seasons, hazing, etc., to assist agricultural landowners in decreasing goose-related crop damage. Title: Climate Change, Its Effect on Migration Patterns of the Cackling Goose and White-Fronted Goose in the Willamette Valley, and Implications for Goose Management Author: Warren, Kelly Year: 2010 This thesis considers the question of whether climate change is affecting the migration patterns of geese in the Pacific Flyway, specifically cackling geese (Branta hutchinsii minima) and Pacific white-fronted geese (Anser albifrons frontalis). Ancillary questions that are considered are as follows: • If global warming is affecting these species, what is the nature of the effects? • How are the changes affecting the human environment and what can be done about these effects? In 1994, the majority of the cackler population in the Pacific Flyway began to winter in Oregon’s Willamette Valley rather than in their historical wintering areas in California’s Central Valley. In recent years, the Pacific white-fronted goose has shown a change in behavior similar to that of cacklers just before their major shift. The reasons for this shift have not been clear, though climate change, agricultural shifts, or competition with other species were thought to be possible causes. Analyses of historical breeding and wintering surveys, bird band data, harvest data, agricultural data, and climate and weather data were undertaken in the course of this thesis to see if the cause or causes could be identified. The results showed that climate and weather data, i.e. an increase in average annual temperature coupled with occasional severe winters, most closely correlated with the cacklers’ shift northward. The data comparison revealed that there is a direct relationship between cacklers and a warming shift seen on the wintering grounds. There also was a secondary correlation between the northward shift and recent changes in agricultural crops in the Willamette Valley. Substantially less data are available for white-fronts, and the relationship between their recent migration changes and climate and/or other factors is much less clear. The following recommendations for management and further study are aimed at more completely understanding the scope and causes of migration shifts and formulating well-founded management plans for geese in the Pacific Flyway: • Continue research to determine if climate change is causing changes in goose population numbers and behavior. • Expand breeding ground flight surveys to include cacklers and habitat preference to learn how habitat change on the Y-K Delta is altering cackler behavior and breeding success. • Expand radio transmitter studies and collar programs for cacklers in Oregon and Washington to verify northerly wintering shifts. • Expand collar programs for cacklers wintering in the Willamette Valley to determine if the population is continuing to shift northward. • Expand banding programs for white-fronted geese to gather more data about migration patterns. • Develop models that will allow researchers and managers to correlate migration behavior with various environmental factors including climate change in order to: 1) determine which factors are causing migration changes in specific waterfowl populations and 2) allow managers to make changes to management plans in advance of rapid changes. • Inform the public about how it can assist in collar surveys or volunteer for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This will enable USFWS to have more concrete data and give the public an opportunity gain a greater understanding of geese and goose management. • Expand research on urban cackling geese to determine the nature and scope of their effect on the human environment and to devise management strategies. • Research energetics in migrating geese to determine whether the shift in migration patterns has its basis in climate change. • Increase data exchange and coordination among agencies. • Formulate and implement plans at the city and county levels to manage growing numbers of geese in urban areas. • Recognize and anticipate the possibility that goose populations may move into new wintering areas and formulate plans for management of those species. • Implement low cost techniques, such as more liberal bag limits and seasons, hazing, etc., to assist agricultural landowners in decreasing goose-related crop damage. Close

• 460. [Article] An evaluation of the likelihood of successful implementation of the long term coral reef monitoring program on the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

  Coral reef ecosystems are the oceanic equivalent of tropical rainforests, in terms of biodiversity. The estimated 1,037,000 square kilometers worldwide of reef provide habitat for over one million species ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: An evaluation of the likelihood of successful implementation of the long term coral reef monitoring program on the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Author: Kylstra, Pam Coral reef ecosystems are the oceanic equivalent of tropical rainforests, in terms of biodiversity. The estimated 1,037,000 square kilometers worldwide of reef provide habitat for over one million species of plants and animals (Hinrichsen, 1997). Coral reefs are important to the economy of coastal nations because of the fisheries and tourism industries they support. Reef ecosystems provide a host of important natural services such as storm buffering, a protein source for islanders, breeding and nursery grounds for marine organisms, water filtration and a source of biomedically important products. Coral reef areas also have aesthetic and intrinsic value that is reason enough to protect them. Coral reefs are also among the most endangered ecosystems on Earth. Naturally occurring disturbances are compounded by the impacts of anthropogenic disturbance. Factors that threaten the health of coral reef ecosystems on a global scale include global warming, the continuing increase in coastal populations and associated impacts such as nutrient pollution, sedimentation and runoff, coral mining, ship groundings, overfishing, and recreational overuse. Globally, coastal areas accommodate about 60% of Earth's human population. A significant portion of the population lies within tropical regions. This population pressure subjects coral reef environments to effects of increased competition for coastal resources, increased coastal pollution and problems related to coastal construction. The synergistic effect of stressors has been the irreversible degradation worldwide of 10% of reefs and another 60% in critical condition leaving, only 30% as stable (Wilkinson, 1993). The coral reefs of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) are a good example of how the combination of increasing human population and the associated environmental pressure has resulted in degradation of the reef ecosystem. The CNMI has undergone significant change in economic and population growth within the past decade. To accommodate the rapid and continuing development of the tourism industry, numerous golf courses and resort hotels have been constructed on Saipan. The population of Saipan has increased over 30% in the last ten years. Currently, the local/resident population is 60,000 while the visitor population is 750,000 per year. This rapid growth has had serious ecological consequences. Coral roads have been converted to four lane highways and infrastructure such as septic tank systems has not been improved to meet higher demand. More and more development projects have been proposed without adequate consideration of environmental impacts. Conflicts over the use and conservation of marine and watershed resources continue to arise. The continuing decline of reef systems globally and in specific areas like the CNMI, highlights the need for effective methods of assessing change in nearshore ecosystems. This paper explores the ways that coral reef monitoring can provide information about reef health that serves to affect positive changes in management strategies for marine systems. Using a criteria drawn from case study comparisons of ongoing, well established coral monitoring programs and evaluation framework proposed by policy analysts Using criteria drawn from case, the Long Term Marine Monitoring Program (LTMMP) on Saipan, CNMI is evaluated. The evaluation provides insight about coral monitoring plan components that are essential to the effectiveness of coral reef monitoring programs. This report is an outgrowth of an internship the author performed with the CNMI Division of Environmental Quality on the island of Saipan from June to October of 1997. The University of Oregon Micronesia and South Pacific Program and the government of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CMNI) sponsored the internship project. The objectives of the internship were to assist in field data collection and continuing development of the ongoing Long Term Marine Monitoring Plan (LTMMP) Assist and instruct Marine Monitoring Team (MMT) members in basic computer skills, understanding of data applicability, management, interpretation and analysis, basic biology and resource management techniques as it relates to marine monitoring work Facilitate inter-governmental agency coordination of marine monitoring activities Assess likelihood of success and explore challenges facing Saipan in implementation of the monitoring program This report first describes functions and services provided by coral reefs and an introduction to the stresses and disturbances that compromise the health of reef systems globally. Using examples from case studies of established marine monitoring programs, this report considers how effective monitoring can reveal changes in the reef system over time, enabling conservation measures to be taken. It then turns to the island of Saipan and briefly describes the environmental and socio-economic framework within which the coral reef related provisions of the CNMI coastal management program are considered. This background information is used to evaluate the Long Term Marine Monitoring Plan currently in place on the CNMI. This evaluation provides insight into the challenges to implementation of coral reef monitoring plans and recommendations for improvements in the LTMMP on Saipan. Title: An evaluation of the likelihood of successful implementation of the long term coral reef monitoring program on the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Author: Kylstra, Pam Coral reef ecosystems are the oceanic equivalent of tropical rainforests, in terms of biodiversity. The estimated 1,037,000 square kilometers worldwide of reef provide habitat for over one million species of plants and animals (Hinrichsen, 1997). Coral reefs are important to the economy of coastal nations because of the fisheries and tourism industries they support. Reef ecosystems provide a host of important natural services such as storm buffering, a protein source for islanders, breeding and nursery grounds for marine organisms, water filtration and a source of biomedically important products. Coral reef areas also have aesthetic and intrinsic value that is reason enough to protect them. Coral reefs are also among the most endangered ecosystems on Earth. Naturally occurring disturbances are compounded by the impacts of anthropogenic disturbance. Factors that threaten the health of coral reef ecosystems on a global scale include global warming, the continuing increase in coastal populations and associated impacts such as nutrient pollution, sedimentation and runoff, coral mining, ship groundings, overfishing, and recreational overuse. Globally, coastal areas accommodate about 60% of Earth's human population. A significant portion of the population lies within tropical regions. This population pressure subjects coral reef environments to effects of increased competition for coastal resources, increased coastal pollution and problems related to coastal construction. The synergistic effect of stressors has been the irreversible degradation worldwide of 10% of reefs and another 60% in critical condition leaving, only 30% as stable (Wilkinson, 1993). The coral reefs of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) are a good example of how the combination of increasing human population and the associated environmental pressure has resulted in degradation of the reef ecosystem. The CNMI has undergone significant change in economic and population growth within the past decade. To accommodate the rapid and continuing development of the tourism industry, numerous golf courses and resort hotels have been constructed on Saipan. The population of Saipan has increased over 30% in the last ten years. Currently, the local/resident population is 60,000 while the visitor population is 750,000 per year. This rapid growth has had serious ecological consequences. Coral roads have been converted to four lane highways and infrastructure such as septic tank systems has not been improved to meet higher demand. More and more development projects have been proposed without adequate consideration of environmental impacts. Conflicts over the use and conservation of marine and watershed resources continue to arise. The continuing decline of reef systems globally and in specific areas like the CNMI, highlights the need for effective methods of assessing change in nearshore ecosystems. This paper explores the ways that coral reef monitoring can provide information about reef health that serves to affect positive changes in management strategies for marine systems. Using a criteria drawn from case study comparisons of ongoing, well established coral monitoring programs and evaluation framework proposed by policy analysts Using criteria drawn from case, the Long Term Marine Monitoring Program (LTMMP) on Saipan, CNMI is evaluated. The evaluation provides insight about coral monitoring plan components that are essential to the effectiveness of coral reef monitoring programs. This report is an outgrowth of an internship the author performed with the CNMI Division of Environmental Quality on the island of Saipan from June to October of 1997. The University of Oregon Micronesia and South Pacific Program and the government of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CMNI) sponsored the internship project. The objectives of the internship were to assist in field data collection and continuing development of the ongoing Long Term Marine Monitoring Plan (LTMMP) Assist and instruct Marine Monitoring Team (MMT) members in basic computer skills, understanding of data applicability, management, interpretation and analysis, basic biology and resource management techniques as it relates to marine monitoring work Facilitate inter-governmental agency coordination of marine monitoring activities Assess likelihood of success and explore challenges facing Saipan in implementation of the monitoring program This report first describes functions and services provided by coral reefs and an introduction to the stresses and disturbances that compromise the health of reef systems globally. Using examples from case studies of established marine monitoring programs, this report considers how effective monitoring can reveal changes in the reef system over time, enabling conservation measures to be taken. It then turns to the island of Saipan and briefly describes the environmental and socio-economic framework within which the coral reef related provisions of the CNMI coastal management program are considered. This background information is used to evaluate the Long Term Marine Monitoring Plan currently in place on the CNMI. This evaluation provides insight into the challenges to implementation of coral reef monitoring plans and recommendations for improvements in the LTMMP on Saipan. Close