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Report Archives |
Southwest
Washington Wildlife Reports
Sandra Jonker, Wildlife Program Manager
November 23, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Maintenance: Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven repaired fence around perennial ponds and fixed part of the property line fence along the Sheep Canyon Rd. Van Leuven chipped several piles of limbs and replaced posted signs: "Seasonal Road Closure" sign on the Soda Springs Unit and 3 "Safety Zone" signs on the Sondino Unit near residences. Manager Van Leuven also assisted residents in retrieving hounds that had been lost for several days.
Game Division
Elk Season: Biologist Anderson reports that elk harvest in the south Cascades was lower than normal this year during the modern firearm season. Although weather conditions were ideal for tracking and locating elk, lower than expected numbers of elk were reported to be harvested in the Lewis River, Wind River, and West Klickitat units. An increase in cow permits over the past 3 years and sever winters are considered some of the reasons for a reduced herd size and harvest in these units.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtles: Biologists Anderson and Holman met with Frank and Kate Slavens to discuss the western pond turtle data base and data entry needs for 2009. The Slavens are in the process of reducing their time in working on the western pond turtle project, and plans are being developed for that transition. The Slavens have worked on the western pond turtle project for over 20 years and their gradual retirement from the western pond turtle project will be a major change for WDFW – their dedication and commitment to the western pond turtle project is very much appreciated.
November 17, 2009
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| The largest buck seen so far this year was taken by Deb Ross of Woodland. |
Game Division
St. Helens Elk Herd Management: Regional Wildlife Biologists, Customer Service, Staff, and volunteers spent considerable time collecting organs, tissue, and data associated with the body condition evaluation of the Mt. St. Helens elk population. Those elk hunters who have received antlerless elk permits for several Game Management Units within the herd area are being asked to collect the following: incisors, heart including pericardium, both kidneys, and a small portion of the liver. The samples will be pooled into geographic areas and evaluations will be made to determine, age, body condition, and analyze trace minerals. Thanks to all the antlerless elk hunters who have done their part to help WDFW in this important effort.
SW Washington Goose Season: Training of new employees took place this week and staff participated from WDFW Waterfowl Program, Region 5, and USFWS. Employees that operate checks stations were instructed on proper technique for identifying geese to subspecies and how to operate the check stations. Many thanks to Mikal Moore of the Waterfowl Program for her assistance and expertise. Her presentation was very helpful in implementing this training.
Opening day for the goose season found many hunters in the fields and generally the harvest was good. Approximately 200 geese were checked on the opening weekend of goose season with the Cackler being the most common bird harvested. The limit of 2 Cacklers per day did reduce the overall harvest as many hunters commented they did see many other birds flying. No Dusky geese were checked.
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| Employees that operate checks stations were instructed on proper technique for identifying geese to subspecies and how to operate the check stations. | ||
November 9, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Pheasant Release: Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven worked with District Biologist Anderson to organize the pheasant release this week. Two high school students from Glenwood assisted Manager Van Leuven in picking up the pheasants in Goldendale and releasing them at the Hatchery Unit. Five additional volunteers assisted by either releasing birds or transporting them to Goldendale from a pick-up point in Toppenish. Volunteer involvement in this release was key and the release would not have been possible without their assistance. The activity went well with 70 pheasants placed at the Hatchery Unit, 50 at the Gun Club property, and 25 at the Finn Ridge Road site. No problems were reported.
Game Division
Landowner Meeting: District 10 biologists, Regional Program Manager, and Law Enforcement staff meet with landowners regarding the August elk hunts with Master Hunters in the Boistfort area. Landowners were very vocal in their sentiments about the hunts and the MH program. Their input will be used to develop future hunt strategies to help with elk damage in the Boistfort area.
Elk Parts collection: Both District 9 and 10 biologists organized elk organ collection stations as part of the Mt St Helens elk study being conducted in Region 5. This effort is being conducted to provide information on elk body condition. Eleven collection sites are available to hunters with antler less permits who received a package with instructions, diagrams, and bags to submit internal organs and teeth from harvested elk in selected units. Hunter participation is voluntary and we appreciate the assistance with this effort.
In addition, Biologist Anderson was contacted by numerous elk hunters requesting information on population status and hunting prospects for the south end of Region 5. Early feedback coming from hunter camps indicates a high turnout for the Lewis River and West Klickitat units. Heavy snow fall came into the south Cascades on Friday morning at 3000 ft. elevation, which had hunters concerned about access to their favorite camping locations.
November 2, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Shillapoo Wildlife Area
Waterfowl Hunter Surveys: As part of the ongoing survey to measure hunter success and satisfaction in the field, this week four waterfowl hunters who had completed their trip for the day were interviewed. All four hunters were on the South Unit and took 15 ducks in a total of 9 hours hunted. Hunters are asked to rate their hunts on a scale of 1 to 5. Two of the hunters were quite pleased with their hunts and rated their experiences as 5’s while the other two rated their hunts as a 1 and a 2 noting only a few birds flying that day and a conflict with another hunter during their hunt. The survey effort this year is intended to get a better sense of waterfowl hunters’ success and satisfaction on the Wildlife Area and will culminate with a mail survey at the end of the season to gather their opinions on a variety of topics concerning waterfowl hunting management on the area.
BPA Cost Share Documentation: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins documented cost share information for Federal Fiscal Year 2009 into BPA’s PISCES contract management system. The information includes the value of non BPA contributions to management of the Shillapoo Wildlife Area. Cost share items this year included both cash and in-kind items provided by WDFW as well as other organizations including volunteer groups.
Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Spears Unit Abandoned Vehicle Removal: After a long process with the help of our Law Enforcement personnel and a lot of persistence, the three abandoned vehicles on the Spears Unit were finally removed. These vehicles had no ownership records or VIN numbers with which to track down the owners, so it was necessary to bring in the Lewis County code Enforcement Officer to verify that the vehicles were abandoned. A Junk Vehicle Verification Affidavit form was issued for each vehicle and then notarized / validated by the Department of Licensing. Only then could we contact a hulk hauler to remove the vehicles. The Verification form serves as the title so the cars can be sold as as scrap.
Spears Unit Unlawful Dumping: A very large dumpsite was discovered on the Spears Unit, while the abandoned vehicles mentioned above were being removed. The volume of trash would have filled the bed of a full size truck and contained household garbage. CWA staff systematically searched the garbage for about an hour looking for identifying information. The individuals who dumped the trash worked very hard to disguise their identities cutting names of receipts and avoiding placing mail items in the trash. However, persistence again paid off and the incriminating evidence has been forwarded to Enforcement.
Brim Bar Unit: CWA staff met with the Lower Columbia fish recovery biologist, Cowlitz tribe, WDFW Habitat Program biologist, Tacoma Power and Inter-fluve engineer on the 90 percent as-built of the Brim Bar Side channel design. This is a Cowlitz Tribe fish recovery project, which includes new spawning channels, woody debris placement, and engineered log jams. The project is located on the Wildlife Area Brim Bar Unit.
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Town Meeting: Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven was invited to attend an informal meeting with the mayor of Goldendale, a reporter from the Goldendale Sentinel, and a number of city residents. Residents of Goldendale have been openly discussing the presence/problem of deer within the city, and people are sharply divided on what should be done, if anything. Some people enjoy the deer and feed them while others are angry with the deer eating garden plants, and many people are concerned about the traffic hazard they present. Officer Bolton has discussed this issue with the city several times. Manager Van Leuven shared observations with the group regarding a study of suburban deer in Clark County, provided the group with copies of the "Wildlife Feeding . . . Just Say No!" handout, and requested the public library to add the two books by Russell Link: Living with Wildlife in the Pacific Northwest and Landscaping for Wildlife in the Pacific Northwest to their collection.
Seasonal Closure: As part of the Wildlife Area management plan for seasonal closures beginning November 1, Wildlife Area manager Van Leuven closed the gates on South Breaks Road, Old Headquarters Road, and Anderson Road on the Wildlife Area.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Wolf Public Meeting: Region 5 staff attended the Vancouver public meeting on the draft wolf management and conservation plan. Approximately 75 members of the public were in attendance and several gave verbal testimony for and against the draft plan. This meeting is part of a series of 12 public meetings held throughout the state for public input regarding the draft plan. The draft plan is open to public comment until January 8, 2010 and it is available on the WDFW website.
Columbia White Tail Deer Relocation: Region 5 staff worked with the WDFW vet to finalize a deer handling protocol for the upcoming relocation of deer in the spring of 2010. A new process for handling the deer is being developed to improve animal care and survival. Ear tags were also ordered for the deer to keep track of individuals during the transplant and release
October 26, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Shillapoo Wildlife Area
Waterfowl Hunter Survey: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins interviewed waterfowl hunters on the opening day of duck season at the Shillapoo Wildlife Area. This year we are conducting a survey to measure hunter success and satisfaction in the field. This survey will be followed by a voluntary mail survey at the end of the season to gauge hunters’ opinions of a variety of other topics concerning waterfowl hunting on the Wildlife Area. Although other hunters were known to be out, Calkins was able to contact a total of 12 hunters after their hunts. Two South Unit hunters harvested four ducks with a total of six hunt hours. Ten hunters who hunted a total of 22 hours on the Vancouver Lake Unit harvested only two ducks. No hunters were found on the North Unit. Part of our field survey this year asks hunters to rate their hunt for the day on a scale of 1 to 5 with five being the best. The average rating on the South Unit was 3.5 and 2.5 on the Vancouver Lake Unit. All of the hunters at Vancouver Lake cited conflicts with a local rowing club as the reason for their lower ratings.
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| Cross logs and bracing have been added to the wood pile structures intended to reduce erosion of the mudflow and also trap sediment due to river movement on site. | One of several completed engineered logjam structures that in combination with lateral woodpile type structures are intended to deflect the river at high flows away from erosion prone bank areas. |
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Monitoring Activities: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins collected clip plot samples from four different areas on the mudflow, which will be air dried for a period of several weeks and weighed to evaluate potential differences in elk forage production due to enhancement and maintenance treatments that have been applied. We hope to sample at least two more sites before winter arrives. In addition, two photo points were retaken as a visual method of monitoring change.
Stabilization Projects: The Cowlitz Tribe and Lower Columbia River Fisheries Enhancement Group completed repair work on three structures that were significantly damaged during high flows last winter. The repair work included additional bracing to help hold the structures in place. The photo at right illustrates the cross logs and bracing that have been added to the wood pile structures that are intended to reduce erosion of the mudflow and also trap sediment due to river movement on site. WDFW’s construction crews continued work on the larger project upstream where erosion has been worst in recent years. This project employs four different types of structures with the same goals of reducing erosion and trapping sediments. The photo at right illustrates one of several completed engineered logjam structures that in combination with lateral woodpile type structures are intended to deflect the river at high flows away from erosion prone bank areas. Work on this project that is funded by a Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program grant is expected to be completed by the end of October.
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| The largest buck seen so far this year was taken by Deb Ross of Woodland. |
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| Damage from illegal firewood theft is destruction of oak trees up to 8 inches in diameter and a few broken conifers. |
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Deer Hunter Surveys: Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven conducted hunter surveys on the weekend to gauge hunter participation and success. Some camping areas were full, but other parts of the Wildlife Area were lightly utilized for camping. There were a substantial number of hunters on the Wildlife Area, with very few problems noted. Recent showers (and snow) prompted a lifting of the burn ban, and most camps had fires going on Saturday when it rained in the middle of the day. Bright fall colors, moderate temperatures, and clear air made for pleasant camping weather and everyone was in good spirits.
Manger Van Leuven observed the following:
The largest buck seen so far this year was taken by Deb Ross of Woodland. She and her husband were hunting together when they encountered this handsome animal near Anderson Road, on the Soda Springs Unit.
There were 4 unattended campfires and several instances of people camping in "new" places along the Sheep Canyon Road instead of using customary campsites that have already been worn bare. Manager Van Leuven had to put one unattended campfire out twice. The second time, Officer Bolton was with Manager Van Leuven; and when the people using that camp returned, they received a citation.
Firewood Theft: Manager Van Leuven and Officer Bolton followed up on a report from hunters that a person is using a log skidder to steal firewood from the Wildlife Area. Tracks from a large piece of equipment and numerous broken and uprooted oak trees were noted. The majority of the damage is destruction of oak trees up to 8 inches in diameter and a few broken conifers. The Klickitat County Sheriff's office has been contacted for assistance on this case.
Game Division
Glenwood Valley: Biologist Anderson met with community members and DNR to discuss modern firearm elk season and safety in the Glenwood Valley. A large elk population associated with state timber land, agriculture, and residential areas have escalated the concern that something needs to be done to reduce safety concerns with hunter/public interactions. WDFW is assisting the community with discussion on resolutions to the issue. Our goal is to work with the community to reduce public safety concerns and continue to provide hunter access to the local elk population.
Modern Firearm Deer Season Opener: Biologist Holman and volunteer Renan operated a deer hunting check station in Game Management Unit 568 (Washougal) through opening weekend of rifle deer season. Four-hundred-fifty hunters were checked over the course of the two-day effort. Eleven deer and six grouse were checked. The check station is located near the town of Yacolt and serves as an entrance point into approximately 30,000 acres of Weyerhaeuser’s Mt. St. Helens Tree Farm. Access to the forestland is facilitated by members of the Yacolt Burn Sportsman’s Club and partially funded through an ALEA grant. Thanks to the members of the Club for their efforts to facilitate free public access to this popular deer hunting location.
Hunting Season Preparations: Region 5 Biologists worked on preparations for the upcoming goose and elk seasons; including staffing of goose check stations, checking equipment, and preparing barrels and signs for elk parts collection program.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Wind Power: Biologist Anderson met with habitat division and wildlife research staff to discuss the Juniper Canyon wind power project in Klickitat County. The primary wildlife issue with this project is the presence of ferruginous hawk and golden eagle territories associated with the project. The ferruginous hawk is a state threatened species and regional staff have concerns that wind power development near these sites will compromise WDFW's ability to implement recovery guidelines and protect critical habitat.
Western Pond Turtle Habitat Management: Biologist Holman conducted a site visit to provide input and monitor the progress of a forest thinning designed to improve habitat for western pond turtles on Forest Service managed land in Skamania County. Approximately 17 acres of what will eventually be roughly 250 acres has been completed. The thinning is designed to remove crowded Douglas fir trees and create growing space for Oregon white oak. Additionally, placement of logs into various ponds (for turtle basking), snag creation (for birds, insects, small mammals, and eventually wood recruitment into the ponds), as well as understory burning of debris associated with the forest product removal will all be part of the project. Thanks to the U.S. Forest Service Staff members associated with conducting this project.
October 19, 2008
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Columbain White tailed deer: A group of people from WDFW, USFWS, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, and a local Safari Club chapter met to build some pens on the release site for the next translocation of Columbian White tailed deer. The deer will be medicated to reduce stress and pens allow the deer to recover where needed. The island is not accessible by road and so the crew and supplies needed to be transported by boat to the work site. Many hands made the project go well and the work was accomphished in short order. The next phase of this project will be to finish the pens just prior to the re-location in March. Thanks go to Erik White, CIT wildlife biologist, for securing help from the local SCI chapter.
BIRDFEST: Biologist Anderson attended the annual BIRDFEST event organized by the Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. WDFW participated by assisting with evening field trips with the public to view sandhill cranes coming to roost at dusk. This year's crane tour provided perfect weather for viewing and approximately 500 sandhill cranes came in at dusk to provide viewers with spectacular photo and scoping opportunities. In addition, WDFW provided maps, posters, and other materials about our programs at the community center during the day on Saturday and Sunday. This year's attendance at the festival far exceeded past years participation as nice weather and new events attracted lots of participation.
Game Division
Mt. St. Helens Elk Parts Collections: Region 5 Wildlife Program biologists assembled over 600 packages for antlerless elk permit holders in GMUs 520, 522, 524, 550, 556, 560, and 572 this week. These packets contain information for the hunters on the upcoming organ collection projectin the St. Helens elk herd area. Hunters are being asked to submit heart, kidney, liver, and teeth samples to biologists in an effort to assess body condition of cow elk harvested in these GMUs. The packets will be mailed in the coming weeks and will arrive to the hunters about 10 days before the start of their hunt.
Region 5 Deer Management: Biologist Holman prepared and conducted a combination of “Thank You” letters, e-mails, and phone calls to parties involved in collection of annual deer productivity surveys in the Region. Several timber companies, various agencies, WDFW Staff, members of Sportsman / Conservation organizations, and at large volunteers make up the Regional deer survey effort. Data compiled from these sources is used for one of the inputs into the Regional deer population modeling effort. Thanks again to all those who participated.
October 12, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Fence and Gate Damage: Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager addressed incidents of gate and fence damage. An illegal gate had been erected on the Wildlife Area property line and the WDFW property line fence was cut to do so. Manager VanLeuven repaired the fence as this was providing acces to an abandoned road as well as to areas where motor vehicle use is restricted due to seasonal road closures. "No Offroad Vehicles" were posted. In addition, a gate was repaired on the Wildlife Area/Western Pacific Timeber property line. The fence was damaged by people driving over it which, as a reult, allowed cattle that were permitted to graze on WDFW land to escape onto to Western Pacific Timber land.
Game Division:
2010 Season: Region Five wildlife and law enforcement program staff met this week to discuss the Boistfort and Toledo August damage hunts. This year's hunts exposed much dissatisfaction from participating landowners with the hunt structures in both areas. Hunter surveys were also conducted before the meeting to gauge hunter success and to seek input on problems they encountered with gaining access. Recommendations for change to each hunt in 2010 will be decided upon in late November.
October 5, 2008
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| Purple Loosestrife Trend - 2007 - 2009 [Click image to enlarge] |
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Shillapoo Wildlife Area
Watchable Wildlife Sightings: The fall migration is in full swing on the Vancouver Lowlands with new arrivals showing up daily. Several thousand Canada Geese can now be seen in the harvested cornfields, along with Sandhill Cranes, white-fronted geese, and the occasional snow goose. While working in the Vancouver Lake Unit one day this week, Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald saw 50-60 American White Pelicans flying that appeared to have just taken flight off from Vancouver Lake, and later noticed another seven resting on the lake. Northern Pintails, green-winged teal, gadwalls, mallards, egrets, and several shorebird species are also becoming common sites along the wetland ponds.
Purple Loosestrife Control: Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald has completed the work for this year on controlling purple loosestrife in all three units of the Wildlife Area. Control work consisted of cutting, pulling, and herbicide applications every 5-14 days between late June and late September in order to control the spread of the plant on the Wildlife Area. An approximate 60 acre area in the North Unit, which had the highest density of the plant on the Wildlife Area, was surveyed for the third consecutive year to monitor the trend of the plant occurrence. The area was surveyed by counting the number of live plants treated during control work. The assumption was made that if an individual plant had been treated previously (sprayed, pulled, or cut) it would not be counted a second time. The survey showed a declining trend of 39% between 2007 and 2008, a decline of 34% between 2008 and 2009, with an overall decline of 60% over the three year period. The attached graph summarizes the counts over the three year survey period.
Game Division:
Pheasant Season Opener: Regional Staff conducted car counts at Pheasant Release Sites at Woodland Bottoms and the Shillapoo Wildlife Area on opening day. Car counts are used in this program to monitor hunter use and as a mechanism to adjust the number of birds allocated to each location in future seasons. The counts also give us a sense of trends in participation in the program as a whole. A total of 123 pheasant hunter cars were counted on the Shillapoo Wildlife Area and 21 were present at Woodland Bottoms by 8:30 AM on the opener. This represents a 13% drop at Shillapoo and a 28% decline at Woodland Bottoms from last year’s opener. The primary topic of discussion with hunters contacted was the license fee increase that recently went into effect that probably contributed, at least partially, to the reduction of hunter numbers.
St. Helens Land Access Program: Wildlife Program Manager Jonker and Wildlife Scientific Technician Pyzik have conducted 4 WDFW orientations thus far for the St. Helens Land Access program with 2 more scheduled in November. The focus of this cooperative effort between WDFW, Weyerhaeuser, and several volunteer organizations is to facilitate additional week day motorized access during special elk permit seasons on the Weyerhaeuser St. Helens Tree farm. A WDFW press release was sent out in addition to e-mails sent to all St. Helens Land Access volunteers from the last 2 years reminding them of this volunteer effort. The WDFW St. Helens Land Access Program website sign-up page was re-activated (http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/volunteer/sainthelens/index.html) and has been successfully used, with 95 volunteers signed up to date to volunteer on specific dates. The St. Helens Tree Farm has been open to walk-in only and closed to motorized access; however, portions of the tree farm may be opened for motorized access during this week’s muzzleloader special permit elk hunts only – hunters are encouraged to call the Weyerhaeuser hotline at (866) 636-6531 for the most up to date openings and closures on the farm.
Training:
MOCC Training: Multiple Region 5 employees attended the agency boat (MOCC) training this week. District Biologist Miller was lead instructor for this session and coordinated the logistics for the class and other instructor participation. The training exposed students to various types of boats and proper operating procedures. The boat portion of the class worked students through multiple maneuvers on the water, visual distress signaling techniques, emergency procedures, and trailer maneuvering skills. The classroom portion covered boat lighting, safe operating, radio communication, safety equipment requirements, and much more. All students passed the class and met the agency requirement for boat operation training.
September 28
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Shillapoo Wildlife Area
Youth Pheasant Hunt: Although attendance was down, youth who took part in this year’s opening of the youth pheasant hunt found good weather and no shortage of birds. Over two dozen young hunters took part in mentored hunts this year, which is down significantly from previous seasons. The local Pheasants Forever chapter and the Vancouver Wildlife League sponsored separate events for the kids. WDFW extends their thanks and appreciation to the members of these groups that contributed their time to help youth get a safe start to the sport.
In addition on the Klickitat Wildlife Area, birds were released for Youth Pheasant Hunt at the Goldendale Hatchery Unit (40 birds) and the Gun Club Property (22 birds). The Gun Club property is a 480 acre parcel with a nice variety of habitats. Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven toured this property with the owner.
Annual Reporting: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins completed the annual report and also entered required information into BPA’s PISCES contract management system. This is an annual requirement that must be completed to maintain our funding contract with BPA. The annual report summarizes accomplishments and challenges encountered during the past contract period October 1, 2008 through September 30 2009. Once BPA approves the report it should be available through their website.
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| WDFW engineers replaced a culvert blown out by flooding, repaired the channel breaches, and removed the sediment that had plugged channels and culverts throughout the unit. |
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| Breaches in the road berm and a rotted standpipe prompted CWA staff to replace the standpipe in efforts to restore Spears Mill Pond. |
Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Davis Lake Project – Flood Repairs and Ditch Maintenance: The Cowlitz Wildlife Area staff have been working on this project since 2006 but back-to-back flood events set back the work that was already completed. FEMA funds were applied for and secured and the HPA was modified to accommodate the scope of the work needed to complete the project. Due to the changes necessary, the project had to go through the SEPA checklist review process and be approved by both the Department of Ecology and the Corps of Engineer. Once all funding, permits, and approvals were in place.
Spears Mill Pond Standpipe Replacement: The Spears Mill Pond (27 acres) had been losing water for many years and emergent growth was gradually filling in and reducing the availability of open water habitat. The discovery of breaches in the road berm and a rotted standpipe prompted CWA staff to investigate options to restore the pond. CWA staff submitted the SEPA checklist for review. The JARPA and DNS were submitted to all the agencies and the project was approved. This area floods extensively during winter so hopefully flooding will recharge the pond and no pumping will be required. If pumping is necessary, then water will be drafted next summer 2010 in accordance with the water right. Once it is determined that the pond is holding water then the pond will be appraised by the fish program to determine suitability as a warm water fishery.
Game Division
Hunting Access: Biologist Holman repaired, re-signed, and removed debris from entrance points to forestlands managed by Hancock Forest Management in Klickitat County. Located primarily in the northwestern portion of Klickitat County and situated mostly within GMU 578 (West Klickitat), Hancock allows free, non-motorized public access for hunting on approximately 85,000 acres of forestland. The access points are generally located at gates and are identified by signage related to Hancock’s conduct regulations and WDFW “No Unauthorized Motorized Access – Feel Free to Hunt”.
Game Management Unit Boundaries: Officer Meyers and Biologist Holman posted new signs and removed old signs along GMU boundaries in the Columbia River Gorge area. Specifically, portions of GMUs 568 (Washougal), 572 (Siouxon), 574 (Wind River), and 578 (West Klickitat) were made easier to identify in the field with new signage. Those hunting these units during the 2009 seasons should be aware of significant changes to unit boundaries. The new GMU boundaries feature major geographic features such as rivers and highways. Please check the 2009 Big Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet for details.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle: The western pond turtle field staff reports that 77 western pond turtle eggs have hatched at the Klickitat Wildlife Area over the last couple weeks. The Oregon Zoo has received 63 of these animals, which is the maximum their facility can handle over the winter. The remaining juvenile turtles are scheduled to go to The Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle by this weekend.
All the western pond turtle nests have been checked and eggs and or young have been removed from the ground. There are still several unhatched turtle eggs so the potential number of turtles available for the head start program should increase. By the end of September, we will have a good idea of how many turtles will be available for release back into the wild next summer.
Tour of Columbia River Islands: District Wildlife Biologist Miller participated in a tour of some islands in the Longview area that are candidates for fish restoration/habitat projects. One of the projects involves Cottonwood Island where USFWS, Cowlitz Tribe of Indians, and WDFW are planning a Columbia White Tail Deer (CWTD) re-location in March of 2010. Another project on Hump/Fisher Island will also need to include some planning to ensure that CWTD movement is not impacted by the creation of a cross island channel. Terrestrial wildlife issues were shared with the group and hopefully the projects can benefit all species.
September 21
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Toutle River Stabilization Projects: Regional Wildlife Program Manager Jonker and Wildlife Area Manager Calkins met with State Representative Orcutt to visit the stabilization projects on the Wildlife Area where work has been occurring to attempt to stabilize a portion of the remaining mudflow on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area to protect elk winter range habitat. Calkins explained the rationale behind the project design and the group walked to several of the structures and discussed alternatives that could be considered in the future. A site where recent forage enhancement work was completed by Volunteer Mike Braaten was also visited. Later in the week Calkins was joined by representatives from the regional fisheries enhancement group and the Cowlitz Tribe to visit two future project sites and discuss potential project designs. Construction work on the project now under way is on hold until Mid October to avoid potential conflicts with hunting seasons.
Forage Enhancement: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins applied 2000 pounds of limestone pellets to the “Boulder Flat” forage enhancement site by ATV. This is a continuation of work under a grant project funded by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation that began last spring. We hope to have work complete and the site planted by the end of October. Work remaining to be completed includes applying more lime, harrowing the site to control moss, scarifying the soil, and spreading a seed mix over the area. Once the seed germinates, a light application of fertilizer will be applied to enhance growth. Additional fertilizer and lime applications will be necessary in future years to maintain this site and assure long-term success of the project.
Game Division
Black-tailed Deer Composition Surveys: Biologist Holman along with help from volunteers associated with the Yacolt Burn Sportsman’s Club conducted spotlighting surveys for deer in Game Management Unit 568 (Washougal). Approximately 140 deer were observed during the 5-hour effort. The results of the survey will be pooled with the remainder of the Regional deer composition data and used as an input into the Sex Age Kill population model. Thanks to the Yacolt Burn Sportsman’s Club for their ongoing volunteer support to the Agency.
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| This cow elk died between April and August of this year and was collared as part of a new population study on the St. Helens elk herd. |
In addition, District 10 biologists Miller and Prince conducted a spotlight survey for deer in the Winston GMU 520 this week. Despite three hours of effort, only six deer were found. All of the deer seen were does. This low number was discouraging, but could be a result of the hunter pressure currently in the area. Surveys in the future will be focused on areas with limited human activity to try and get better results.
Collar Retrieval: Biologists Holman and Prince hiked onto the Pumice Plain area of the Mount St. Helens Monument to retrieve an elk collar that was emitting a mortality signal. The cow elk died between April and August of this year and was collared as part of a new population study on the St. Helens elk herd. The hike in to retrieve the collar was approximately 6 miles and the elk died on a rather steep vegetated hill (PumicePlainCollar 006.JPG). No evidence of cause of death was found.
NGO Meeting: Biologist Holman gave a presentation to approximately 35 members of the Yacolt Burn Sportsman’s Club at their monthly meeting. The presentation featured discussion of new hunting regulations, deer populations, the Mt. St. Helens elk study, and wolves in Washington. The Yacolt Burn Sportsman’s Club continues its ongoing work to facilitate hunting access, coordinate with landowners (Weyerhaeuser), and conduct hunter education courses in Clark County. WDFW appreciates their efforts in this regard and many members of the hunting public benefit directly and indirectly from their dedication to these tasks.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Natural Areas Conference/Beacon Rock: Biologist Anderson assisted Beacon Rock State Park personnel with a field trip as part of the Natural Areas Conference in Vancouver. This international conference brought people together for a week long program on natural areas land management. As part of the schedule, field trips were conducted mid-week to several natural areas in western Washington. Beacon Rock State Park was one of the locations and the field trip focused on old growth, wetlands, talus and invasive weed management. In addition, the group learned about the cooperative wildlife program developed between Sate Parks and WDFW for the management and protection of peregrine falcon and western pond turtle habitat.
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| The first lateral structure at the upper end of the Toutle River stabilization project area and an associated logjam under construction. |
September 14
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Livestock: Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven responded to a report of trespass livestock near the entrance to Stinson Flat Campground. Ten cows and 4 calves were found bedded down adjacent to the Glenwood Highway. Manager Van Leuven noted ear tag numbers, descriptions of the animals, and brands that all belonged to the same owner. Manager Van Leuven contacted the owner requesting that the animals be removed from the Wildlife Area
Game Division
Archery Elk Season: Biologist Anderson checked archery elk hunters in the Lewis River unit near Mt Adams. Hunting pressure is very high in the wilderness area as archery hunters were contacted at all access points on the west and south sides of Mt Adams. No reports of elk taken three days into the hunt with little sign and very few elk seen or heard. Other hunters were contacted in the Siouxon unit and no reports of elk taken from those hunters. One cougar was taken in the Lewis River unit.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Mazama’s Pocket Gophers: Biologist Holman compiled historic records of Mazama’s pocket gophers in Clark County. Some records are very old (late 1800’s) and the locations are general, i.e. 10 miles northeast of Vancouver. Other locations are more recent and offer better detail.
A field visit was conducted targeting publically accessible locations within the apparent historic range of the species. Specifically, road easements, parks, and cemeteries were explored for any surface evidence of the gophers. While plenty of activity by moles was detected in these locations, no conclusive evidence of gophers was found.
Eagle Management: A conference call regarding an eagle nest in the approach zone of the Centailia-Chehalis Airport was held this week. Participating were the FAA, USFWS, a consultant to the Centrailia - Chehalis airport, and WDFW. The USFWS is going to allow the take of the eagle nest (under threat to human safety) when new rules under the Bald and Golden Eagle Act are adopted at the end of this month. WDFW will also issue a permit under our rules to allow take of this nest, dependent upon the USFWS issuing their permit. Eric Cummins from Olympia Diversity staff assisted on the call and was very helpful in identifying appropriate mitigation/compensation measures for the loss of this nest location.
September 8
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Eagle Island Design: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins attended a Technical Oversight Group meeting to review potential projects for future work on Eagle Island which, pending a land transfer, will become a satellite of the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area. The consultant Inter-Fluve has been retained by the Lower Columbia Fish Recovery Board to lead the planning project that will develop three proposals to benefit Lewis River fish populations for future grant applications.A total of 14 potential projects were reviewed . Portions of three of these were combined into one project concept designed in part to maintain flow to the channel on the north side of the island. This project will be developed by Inter-Fluve to the 90% design level while two others will be brought to a 30% level. Other partners in the process include representatives from the Clark County Legacy Lands Office and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. At the current time the Tribe is planning to be the sponsor on the first project grant application.
Sediment Management Planning: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins and District Fisheries Biologist Dammers attended a site visit with the US Army Corps of Engineers to discuss two action items they are proposing to control sediment movement in the Toutle River system. Two representatives from NOAA Fisheries were also in attendance. The first site visited was just upstream of I-5 where they would like to reactivate a sump to remove sediment from the lower river before it moves into the Cowlitz. The second site was the sediment retention area just upstream of the existing Sediment Retention Dam that will soon become a part of the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area. In this area their plan includes installation of “geotubes” six feet in height spanning the valley to trap sediment in this upstream area. Concerns including movement of fish and impacts to elk and fish habitat were discussed as well as potential ways to address these concerns. The group agreed that regular meetings would be helpful in developing these projects that the Corps hopes to get under way as early as summer 2010.
Game Division
Hunting Access: Biologist Holman sorted out hunting access issues in GMUs 560 (Lewis River) and 572 (Siouxon). Various landslides, culvert removals, and washouts along with some residential development have combined with road repairs and bridge replacements to change the layout of hunting access in the western portion of these units .Of particular note to interested hunters as the seasons approach include repairs to the USFS 99, 83, and 25 Roads within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and the continued closure of the USFS 54 Road and DNR 1000 Road (due to a huge landslide), which continue to block convenient access to the northwestern portion of the Siouxon GMU. Those seeking specific information related to road and trail access should contact the Gifford Pinchot National Forest Headquarters in Vancouver at 360-891-5009 or the Washington State Department of Natural Resources Pacific Cascade Headquarters in Castle Rock at 360-577-2025.
Hunter Access Programs: Biologist Anderson completed a Hunt by Written Permission contract with the Columbia Land Trust (CLT) for ownership they have in the Klickitat River Canyon. This is the first hunting access agreement we have worked on with the CLT and WDFW is pleased to continue our partnership with this organization.
Another landowner in eastern Klickitat County that was signed up in our Feel Free to Hunt program experienced a major fire this summer that burned 98% of his 3,000 acre parcel that was under contract with WDFW. He has requested that we terminate the hunting program until his property rebounds from the fire. He has asked WDFW to help him where possible with a habitat restoration project.
August 31
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Stabilization Project: The WDFW engineering crew has made substantial progress on several of the planned structures intended to protect elk winter range habitat and stabilize the Toutle River. As of August 8th, the first lateral structure was nearly complete, work started on a second structure, and several logjam and “wood jack” structures had been partially built. We also received surplus woody material from the Washington Department of Transportation this week, at no cost, that will be incorporated into some of the structures. The photo at right depicts the first lateral structure at the upper end of the project area and an associated logjam under construction.
Shillapoo Wildlife Area
BPA Contract Activities: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins made minor changes to the Fiscal Year 10 line item budget to reflect a decrease in WDFW’s indirect rate, entered the Statement of Work into WDFW CAPS contract tracking system, and began entering allotment information into the CAPS Financial database for the upcoming Shillapoo Wildlife Area Contract with Bonneville Power. An estimated budget accrual, which estimates expenditures through the end of the fiscal year on the current contract, was also completed. In addition, Calkins began preparing information for the annual environmental compliance review of our planned activities on several items proposed in the new statement of work with the potential for ground disturbance.
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| The harvest of the wheat fields on the Klickitat Wildlife Area that are leased to a local farmer. |
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Wheat Field Harvest: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven monitored progress on the harvest of the wheat fields on the Klickitat Wildlife Area that are leased to a local farmer. The combine and grain truck arrived on Wednesday and harvest began the same day (KWA-WheatHarvest.JPG). The harvested wheat is sent to the grain elevator where it is accounted for and divided according to the cropshare agreement, with a share of the crop going to WDFW.
Game Division
Harvest Data: Biologists Prince and Holman represented Region 5 at a meeting designed to discuss big game harvest data collection, management, and use. A variety of issues related to the topic were discussed at the meeting including: the new presentation of the harvest data to the public, investigations as to the accuracy of the data, internal use of the data, desires for modification to the existing system, etc. Interested parties should review the WDFW website and select Harvest Data from the Hunting page. New features of the harvest data presentation include summaries of harvest by WDFW District, summaries that combine general season and permit harvest, and details of the antler sizes of harvested deer and elk.
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| Biologist Anderson organized the release of 50 western pond turtles hatchlings to a wetland on State Parks property in the Columbia River Gorge. | |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtles: Biologist Anderson organized the release of 50 western pond turtles hatchlings to a wetland on State Parks property in the Columbia River Gorge. This release site represents the fourth population in the Gorge and makes recovery of this endangered species closer to reality. We appreciate State Parks enthusiasm for support of our reintroduction effort and their involvement with plans for western pond turtle habitat development. Field efforts will continue this season into September with collection of hatchlings from this year’s head start program. Turtles collected from nests will be transported to the Oregon and Woodland Park Zoos.
August 24
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
River Stabilization Project: Construction work began August 17th on the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program grant project on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area that is intended to help stabilize the North Fork Toutle River on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area. The previous week was spent mobilizing equipment, delivering 860 logs to the project site, and distributing them to specific structure locations over a one-half mile of floodplain. WDFW engineering crews will be building the project that includes four different types of structures. One of the designs is similar to those built further downstream in 2007. The project can be easily observed from the Weyerhaeuser Forest Learning Center on State Route 504.
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area and Klickitat Wildlife Area
PR Reporting: Wildlife Area Managers Calkins and VanLeuven completed the federally required reports of activities for Fiscal Year 2009 for the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area (and satellite units) and the Klickitat Wildlife Area, respectively. The reports have been submitted to program staff in Olympia for review and finalization. The reports summarize accomplishments, expenditures, and hours worked on non-maintenance activities from July 2008 through June 2009.
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| The annual mountain goat survey by helicopter was conducted this week with a total of 276 goats recorded. |
Game Division
Mountain Goat Surveys: Region 5 completed its annual mountain goat surveys this week . Seven blocks within the Goat Rocks survey unit were surveyed from a helicopter. A total count of 276 goats was recorded. This number is about the same as last year’s count of 268, but the distribution of the goats has shifted slightly.
Mt. Rainier Elk Surveys: Region 5 conducted one of four flights this year of the South Rainier herd within the boundary of Mt. Rainier National Park. These surveys are in cooperation with the USGS, NPS, Muckleshoot Tribe, and Puyallup Tribe and are aimed at creating a monitoring protocol for elk within the park. This is the second year of the project. The WDFW portion of the flight classified 153 elk within the parks sub-alpine zone.
Region 5 Deer Management: Biologist Holman completed the annual PR report for Region 5 deer. The report details hunter effort and harvest, population trends, survey methodologies and results, and habitat conditions for the period encompassing July 2008 through June 2009. Not surprisingly, total deer harvest, hunter success and overall deer population were all lower than those of recent years. Presumably this is due to the severity of the 2007-08 winter.
GMU Boundary Signs: Biologist Anderson removed all GMU boundary signs between 574 (Wind River) and 578 (West Klickitat), and between 578 (West Klickitat) and 388 (Grayback) hunting units. Boundaries from these units were changed during the last 3-year hunting season evaluation. New boundaries were moved from small forest roads to major rivers and highways as a way to simplify GMU identification for the hunting public. In addition, these new unit boundaries will be easier to enforce by wildlife agents.
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Biologists Prince and Miller assisted the PSAMP team in capturing scoters in Puget Sound this week. |
August 17
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Swofford Pond: Wildlife Area staff and inmates from the Cedar Creek correctional facility completed trail maintenance on the Swofford Pond hiking trail (1.25 miles one-way). Most of the work included removal of fallen trees and cutting back brush and grass.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Scoter Captures: Biologists Prince and Miller assisted the PSAMP team in capturing scoters in Puget Sound this week. The birds are molting and can be coaxed into a fine mesh net suspended in the water. Once the birds are in the net, it takes many hands to remove them from the net and get them into bags and boxes to prepare them for banding and installing a limited number of radio collars. Animal safety is very important to avoid injury to the birds and the crew works very diligently to handle the birds with care. Once back to the processing area, the crew separates the birds into individual boxes for holding. WDFW employees, volunteers, and a crew from Simon Frazier University provide the crew needed to make this project successful. During this past week over 200 birds were captured in Oak Harbor and Padilla Bay.
Game Division
Elk Damage: Biologist Anderson met with Agent Vance to discuss Trout Lake Valley elk damage issues. Several options are being discussed including hunting and habitat management issues. Most damage issues develop in the spring when snow melt exposes the valley floor to early green up.
Band-tailed Pigeon: Biologist Anderson conducted a follow-up evaluation of band tail pigeon use at the Klickitat Hatchery. There have been observations throughout the years of pigeons using mineral springs found along the Klickitat River. Water samples were taken to evaluate mineral content of the springs reported to be used by band tail pigeons.
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| Biologists are collecting water samples from Band-tailed pigeon sites to ascertain which minerals are targeted by the birds. |
August 10
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Bald Eagle Mortality: The necropsy results have been returned for the bald eagle found dead during the late winter near Trout Lake that Biologist Anderson sent to the Fish and Wildlife Health lab in Madison Wisconsin. The chemistry results indicated a lead concentration of 34.67 ppm, thus the diagnosis is lead poisoning.
Game Division
Hunting Pamphlet Reviews: Biologist Holman reviewed draft versions of the Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game pamphlet and the Cougar pamphlet. Significant changes relevant to Region 5 are included in both documents. Prospective cougar hunters are reminded to review pages 50-51 in the 2009 Big-Game Hunting Seasons and Regulations pamphlet. Those interested in pursuing cougars with the aid of dogs should review the specific cougar pamphlet which will be issued during the first half of August. The Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game pamphlet will be available near the end of the month.
Band-tailed pigeon mineral site evaluation: Biologists Anderson and Holman assisted U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Manager Sanders in collection of samples from band-tailed mineral sites. Sanders is collecting water samples from sites throughout Washington, Oregon and California to ascertain which minerals are targeted by the birds. Additionally, Sanders maintains captive birds at a research facility where trials of diet versus mineral intake and bird condition are evaluated in detail. Goals of the study include evaluation of the statistical validity of using mineral site counts to monitor overall band-tail populations and establish hunting seasons. Also, development of methods for creating and enhancing the mineral sites will be generated through this work.
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August 3, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Range Survey: Manager Van Leuven completed the report write-up on the range survey that was conducted in June on and around the Klickitat Wildlife Area. The survey transects were established and surveyed for the first time in 1952. These sites were revisited in 1955, 1960, 1968, and in 1979. The survey was last done thirty years ago, and in that time interval, some of the transects underwent significant changes in the plant composition and abundance. For example, among perennial plants at Transect 4 near Stinson Flat Campground, grasses decreased in abundance by 27%, while forbs increased by 28%. Of more importance, perennial plants at Transect 4 have increased in abundance by 724%, while annuals have decreased by 54%. Past records suggest that the site was heavily disturbed between 1952 and 1979, and results of the new survey indicate that the plant community is maturing toward a more forb-dominated makeup under current land management. In the photo at right, Jim Hill of the Central Klickitat Conservation District is preparing to record the vegetation found along 100 feet of tape on Transect 4. This long-term study allows managers to learn how local plants respond to different management practices, as well as assess the current condition of the range.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologist Holman met with U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Staff at the Pierce National Wildlife Refuge to review habitat management activities, plan future habitat work, and discuss water levels. Extensive blackberry management (summer mowing and fall spraying) has significantly improved the upland habitats on the Refuge over the past two years. Additional blackberry removal has been undertaken by hand in the most turtle-sensitive areas (nesting habitat). Water levels are low on the Refuge but manipulation of water-control structures and a little maintenance has combined to maintain enough water in the ponds to provide both aquatic habitat and refugia for the turtles. Future plans include development of additional wetlands at Pierce. Thanks to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Staff for their commitment to maintain and improve turtle habitat on the refuge.
Bald Eagle Mortality: Biologist Anderson sent an adolescent female bald eagle for necropsy to the Fish and Wildlife Health lab in Madison Wisconsin. This bird was found dead during the late winter near Trout Lake. A fragment of lead bullet was found in the gizzard and was first initially recognized in a radiograph of the whole body. Acute lead poisoning is suspected as the cause of death of this bird. Lead poisoning is of major concern in many raptor deaths due to the presence of lead found throughout our environment.
Conboy NWR Review: Biologist Anderson attended a field review for the Conboy NWR CCP. The CCP process brings together a variety of stakeholders to review future plans for fish and wildlife habitat management on the refuge. Major topics for discussion included water management, sandhill cranes, Oregon spotted frogs, elk, and forest and wetland enhancement. A variety of organizations including the USFWS, Yakima Indian Nation, WDFW, Ducks Unlimited, and the Mt Adams Resource Stewards were in attendance.
Scoter captures: District Biologist Miller assisted the PSAMP crew with scoter captures this week in Padilla Bay (male scoter.jpg). This project focuses on capture of molting scoters to install leg bands and a few radio transmitters to monitor movements and survival of surf and white winged scoters. The birds are coaxed into a net that entangles them and they float to the surface of the water. The PSAMP crew has developed a very efficient and well organized process that maintains a high level of people and animal safety while capturing a large number of birds. District 10 staff will continue to assist throughout the summer.
July 27, 2009
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| The annual releases of head-started juvenile western pond turtles are significant milestones in the management of the species. |
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| Region 5 biologists investigated a report of peregrines on a previously unused cliff along the Lower Columbia River. |
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Post Harvest Tour: Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven and Department of Natural Resources District Manager Stocks toured the North Beeks Timber area that was selectively harvested in 2007. Specifically, sites were visited that had concentrations of squirrel nests. It appeared that important western gray squirrel habitat had been protected according to standard guidelines. The biggest, old douglas fir trees that supported nests at the time of previous surveys conducted by manager Van Leuven still had nests, and several showed evidence of very recent use by squirrels. In addition, a couple nests that probably were built after the timber harvest were observed as well.
Fuel Reduction: Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven checked progress on a fuels reduction project at Leidl Park Campground. A Department of Natural Resources crew has been working on this project and some of the work was very nicely done. The WCC crew will be chipping the piles of limbs starting next week.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle: Western Pond Turtle Management / Environmental Education. Biologist Holman partnered with Oregon Zoo Conservation Division Manager David Shepherdson and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Refuge Manager Jim Clapp to conduct a day of environmental education and outreach centered on the annual release of western pond turtles at the Pierce Unit of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Biologist Holman discussed western pond turtles in general, the head-start program, the western pond turtle recovery goals, etc., and fielded questions regarding this State Endangered species. Additionally, older western pond turtles (from prior releases) and western painted turtles were captured for display during the event. In excess of 75 children / students were in attendance. Grade-school-aged children (Skamania County Gorge Explorers), Skamania Youth Success Program, students associated with the Americorps Program, participants in the Federal Youth Conservation Corps, and interns and students associated with the Portland Zoo made up most of the participants. Crew leaders and associated agency leads along with media folks pushed the number in attendance to around 100.
The annual releases of head-started juvenile western pond turtles are significant milestones in the management of the species. 2009 marks the tenth year of releases at the Pierce Refuge site. Concurrent with the release at Pierce Refuge, Biologist Anderson facilitated the release of head-started pond turtles at Beacon Rock State Park. 2009 marks the third year of releases at Beacon Rock. Additional animals were also released at the Sondino Ponds and Bergen Road western pond turtle sites.
Personnel from the Portland Zoo and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service gathered video and still photographs as well as conducting interviews during the event. This material was passed on to KATU television (Portland channel 2), and text from their report is available on-line (http://www.katu.com/news/51320542.html).
Peregrine Falcons: Region 5 biologists investigated a report of peregrines on a previously unused cliff along the Lower Columbia River. While there, one peregrine was seen flying through the area, but it made no stops at cliff being observed. Many eagles were also seen using the area around and above the cliff. There have been new sightings of falcons along the Lower Columbia in the past couple of years using cliffs that descend directly into the river. This site will be checked next breeding season for activity
Game Division
Operation Dark Goose: All of the geese that were radio-collared during this year's banding effort were monitored this week. The geese are all still active and alive and still in the vicinity of Miller Sands Island. They will continue to be monitored as opportunity exists and if not harvested during the hunting season, they will help aid in locating dark birds to band next year.
July 20, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Davis Lake 3-Acre Forage Field Rehabilitation: The CWA staff has been working on rehabilitating a 3-acre forage field / timber clearing; the field was likely used for pasturing animals historically and was almost entirely engulfed in blackberry when the project to rehabilitate this forage field began approximately 4 years ago. To date the blackberry is approximately 80 percent eradicated and this week staff were able to mow the field. The field will be monitored throughout the summer and will likely be sprayed again later this year if blackberry returns. Other broadleaf weeds such as thistle species have been targeted as well.
Trout Hatchery – Brim Bar High Flow Channel Restoration: Wildlife Area and Department staff met on sight with members of the Cowlitz Tribe of Indians, Tacoma Power, and Lower Columbia Fish Enhancement Group to discuss progress on the habitat restoration project. This project will include connectivity of the channel to the main-stem of the Cowlitz River, the placement of woody debris, and creation of multiple pools. Final engineered plans should be available in November from the environmental engineering firm of Inter-Fluve.
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| WCC crew working on Units 1 and 3; the standing trees were selected for retention, the culled trees appear as slash in the foreground. |
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Oak Habitat Enhancement: The Wildlife Area manager worked with the WCC crew and a private contractor (who provided the chipper and an operator) to complete the chipping of oak slash on two of the three oak thinning units. All of the work involving power equipment on these thinning units is now done. The photos at right depict the WCC crew working on Units 1 and 3; the standing trees were selected for retention, the culled trees appear as slash in the foreground.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Streaked Horn Lark Surveys: Biologist Miller assisted USFWS and TNC in conducting surveys for larks on dredge material islands in the lower Columbia River. While out, Miller also investigated a new falcon eyrie report. No falcons were observed. TNC is evaluating a technique to improve lark habitat on dredge islands that have heavy ground cover established by disking to expose sand. Some impacts to other species have been noted; geese shifted nesting locations on Miller Sands Spit in response to the change in ground cover.
Western Pond Turtle: Field telemetry to locate nesting western pond turtles has ended for this year. The field crew headed by Biologist Slavens has located 20 turtles nests which should yield approximately 100 hatchlings for release in the summer of 2010. Bullfrog egg mass removal will continue for another two weeks, with 30 egg masses removed so far.
Juvenile head start turtles from 2008 will be released in the Columbia River Gorge this week. The release will take place at Pierce National Wildlife Refuge and will be covered by the media.
Peregrine Falcons: Biologist Anderson is completing surveys for several peregrine falcon nesting territories in the Columbia River Gorge. At least two sites have young that have just fledged from their nest sites in the last couple weeks. Biologist Anderson got lucky and caught a photo of one of the juveniles perched on a cliff over the river.
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| Juvenile Peregrine falcon |
Band-tailed Pigeon Population Monitoring: Biologist Holman completed the Band-tailed pigeon survey at the Kalama River mineral spring site. Three-hundred-seventeen pigeons arrived at the site during the survey. The survey results are similar to last year's when 350 of the birds were documented using the site.
Band-tails are monitored annually at mineral sites throughout Washington, Oregon, California and British Columbia. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service compiles this data for the continent and thus evaluates the status of the population. Recent trends in the population are positive. Those interested in hunting band-tails are reminded that special certification is required to do so. Check the Migratory Game Bird / Small Game hunting pamphlet when it becomes available near the end of August for details.
Game Division
Dark goose: Radio collar geese in the vicinity of Miller Sands were checked while out on the Lark survey: all radios were operational and the birds were still in the general location of capture.
July 13, 2009
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| Elk and Columbian white-tailed deer images captured from cameras set on lower Columbia River islands |
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| Operation Dark Goose: The capture and banding of geese in the lower Columbia took place this week. |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Sandhill Cranes: Biologist Anderson conducted follow-up sandhill crane nesting surveys in with the USFWS in Klickitat County. Most cranes have completed nesting and several pairs currently have colts (juvenile birds). In addition, a total of 5 juveniles have been banded this year as part of the breeding season survey. Water levels have been stable on Conboy Refuge this spring and summer, contributing to the success of several nesting pairs.
Columbian White Tailed Deer: Biologist Miller and volunteer Howell collected 4 cameras from lower Columbia River islands. The task was complicated by dense vegetation and a vigorous mosquito hatch. These cameras record images of wildlife and help the CWTD managers determine what percentage of deer are the endangered white tails or are the black tail variety. We found one camera set that recorded a bull elk on one of the Oregon islands, which was a bit of a surprise. The cameras also allow biologists to get a bit of information on animal condition, note the hair loss syndrome on the picture of a buck.
Game Division
Band-Tailed Pigeon Surveys: Surveys of band-tailed pigeons arriving at mineral sites have been initiated in Region 5. Mineral springs are important for mineral intake by adult pigeons, especially during the nesting season. Large concentrations of birds congregate at these sites, especially during the summer months. In the Pacific Northwest, mineral sites most likely provide high sodium and to a lesser degree calcium in the diet as a supplement to the bird’s food requirements. Long-term trends in the use of such sites serve as indicators of overall population. These surveys are part of a coordinated effort to monitor band-tailed pigeon populations in the Northwest. The survey protocol for band-tail mineral sites prescribes a single visit to each location during the period encompassing July 10-20. Surveyors count all arriving and departing pigeons beginning 30 minutes prior to sunrise and concluding at noon.
Biologist Holman completed the band-tailed pigeon mineral site survey at the Cedar Creek Wildlife Area site. A total of 163 pigeons arrived at the mineral spring during the course of the survey. The result at the Cedar Creek site is somewhat higher than those of recent years, but within the normal range of detections.
July 6, 2009
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Peregrine Falcon Monitoring: Biologist Holman teamed with Pacificorps Biologist Emmerson to investigate a suspected falcon eyrie near Yale reservoir. Emmerson had witnessed a pair of falcons defending a cliff face earlier in the spring and suspected a nesting pair. On the follow up visit, however, only one adult falcon was observed and documentation of a nesting location is not possible at this time.
Game Division
Operation Dark Goose: The capture and banding of geese in the lower Columbia took place this week. The target geese resemble the Dusky subspecies and the collar and banding effort is focused on marking dark birds that should not be counted as Duskys at check stations. A total of 181 birds were caught and 73 were the dark birds. Region 5 would like to thank Don Kraege, Joe Evenson, Bryan Murphie, and Ruth Milner for assisting with this year’s effort, without their help the project would not have taken place. Help from ODFW, FWS, and volunteers made the day a fun and productive effort.
Cowlitz Valley Hunt Preparation: A joint meeting was held between Region 5 Law Enforcement and Wildlife Programs to develop the process for conducting the new Hunt Master hunt in the upper Cowlitz Valley. The meeting was very productive and a good plan was developed to implement the hunt.
June 29
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Davis Lake Field Rehabilitation (Temple Road): The CWA staff have been trying to establish a grass stand on the Davis Lake fields off Temple Road (approximately 30 acres) ever since the reed canary grass was chemically controlled two years ago. High water two winters in a row has compromised seeding efforts by rotting the seed and promoting the establishment of rush species. The fields finally dried out enough to allow ATV access on to the fields so that staff could broadcast seed onto the bare areas (15 acres) and harrow / drag the ground for better soil contact with the seed. A site visit to the site shows that the seed is germinating nicely. There are a lot of rush species still in the fields, but as the grass grows much of the annual species should be displaced. Next Spring will show how the fields are doing.
Proposed Property Acquisition: CWA staff met with Chuck Leidy WDFW Lands Agent and a representative from State Parks on a possible acquisition along the Tilton River consisting of just over 100 acres of river flood plain with a mixed deciduous/conifer timber cover. Elk and deer use the property and it provides recreational access for fishing and non-consumptive uses such as swimming. This acquisition meets objectives and would make a nice addition to the Wildlife Area.
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| Biologist Miller planned and led a boat safety class in Vancouver with participants from Fish, Hatcheries, and Wildlife programs. |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Land Conservation: Biologist Anderson met with representatives from the Columbia Land Trust and Mt. Adams Resource Stewards to discuss community forestry around the Glenwood Valley of Klickitat County. Both conservation organizations are exploring the concept of forest management on a small scale to support working families and small communities. This effort, if successful, could be an example of the potential for conservation groups to work with forest land managers to keep working forests productive for rural communities.
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologists Anderson and Holman met with a U.S. Forest Service silviculturist at the Bergen Road turtle site. The majority of the site is owned and managed by the Forest Service and lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Habitat improvement for a variety of species including the State Endangered western pond turtle is a priority for USFS and WDFW. Proposed habitat manipulation for the site include continuation of an effort to thin all Douglas firs less than 8” over approximately 300 acres, initiation of the federal NEPA process that would prescribe a more aggressive forest prescription designed to release oaks and pines within the fir stands, prescribed burns, snag creation, control of inappropriate access (ATVs), and treatment of invasive plants.
Game Division
Operation Dark Goose: Biologist Miller flew the Miller Sands area to locate brooding flocks of geese to prepare for capture on June 30. Several flocks were observed and few of the birds were capable of flight. This project is a joint effort with ODFW and USFWS to leg band and collar dark geese that resemble the Dusky subspecies.
Training
MOCC: Biologist Miller, in his role as Wildlife Program Master Instructor, planned and led a boat safety class in Vancouver this week. Students from the Fish, Hatcheries, and Wildlife program participated. Instructors from Fish, Enforcement, Wildlife, and Administration provided the lecture and on water expertise. Unfortunately Miller had recently injured his back and he was unable to participate in all the events. Our thanks go to Region 5 staff and administration for allowing us to hold the class at the office and for contributing vessels to the training. Another class will be held at the end of September.
June 22
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Grazing: Cattle were moved off the WDFW grazing permit area. Manager VanLeuven checked on the range and completed a Grazing Evaluation form for each of the two subunits. VanLeuven took down signs that advise people to close the gates and replaced various signs that had been knocked over by cattle.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Peregrine Falcon Site Monitoring: Biologist Holman again monitored a falcon site in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The site is in a remote location and requires an extensive hike to a suitable observation location. Both adult falcons were observed at the site and two young were visible in the eyrie. Thanks to raptor biologist Flemming for his assistance with the survey.
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologists Holman and Anderson concluded the trapping effort at the Bergen Road site. All equipment including boats, traps, anchors, etc. has been removed from the site. Population estimations from this year’s trapping at Bergen will be developed by Science Division Staff
Game Division
Elk Management: Biologist Anderson discussed elk damage issues with the enforcement division associated with Trout Lake and Glenwood Valleys. Plans include evaluation of current hunting seasons, firearm restriction options, and elk area special hunt options. These two areas that are located in Klickitat County have historically been one of our Region’s most popular hunting areas. The combination of rich agricultural and forest lands associated with excellent escape cover make this area popular with hunters. The associated damage issues in this area also creates a challenge in balancing hunting demand and damage issues.
June 15
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Range Survey: Manager VanLeuven worked with Natural Resource Conservation Service staff Hill and Pomerinke to initiate a range survey sampling effort. This is funded by the Coordinated Range Management group. The sampling sites are on and around the Soda Springs Unit. This is a collaborative effort with Hill and Pomerinke conducting most of the field work and VanLeuven keying in the data and summarizing the results.
Washington Conservation Corps (WCC): The WCC crew has begun work at the KWA again this year. Currently they are working on a small fencing project that is intended to exclude livestock from part of a pond on the Soda Springs Unit. The pond is used as breeding habitat by tree frogs and possibly other amphibians each spring. This pond is also an important watering site for cattle, so part of the pond will remain available for that purpose. The first posts were placed this week, around the perimeter of the pond. More posts will be added as the water level recedes, and four strands of fence wire will be put up after that. The part of the pond that cattle will have access to (under an existing grazing permit) will have material placed on the pond bottom that will provide a harder surface for the animals to walk on, thereby reducing the amount of mud suspended in the water.
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| Tree tubes in disarray |
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Tree planting Maintenance: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins and volunteer Howard walked about one mile of this spring’s riparian planting along the Toutle River repairing and securing tree tubes on cottonwood and conifer seedlings. The tree tubes are an important aspect of this project as they provide protection from dehydration as well as damage from ungulates and small mammals. In some areas the tubes were found in disarray having been dislodged from the rebar stakes by either elk or wind. Close to 400 trees were checked during the day with only a few found to be uprooted by elk or dead due to planting shock. Each tree tube checked had additional zip ties added to increase the chances that the tube will stay in place. Tubes and rebar from dead trees were retrieved and will be stored for future use.
Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Spears Mill Pond Recharge Project: During the course of pumping water into the 25-acre millpond, it was discovered that the existing water control structure had failed due to oxidation. The pond was only holding water because a beaver pond had been constructed around the water control structure partially impounding water. The standpipe will need to be replaced sometime this summer. Assistant manager Vanderlip has completed a JARPA and SEPA checklist. The SEPA checklist has been submitted to the agency’s SEPA desk for posting online for public review. If a DNS is issued, the JARPA will be submitted for an HPA.
Davis Lake Field Rehabilitation (Temple Road): The CWA staff has been trying to get a grass stand established on the Davis Lake fields off Temple Road (approximately 30 acres) ever since the reed canary grass was chemically controlled two years ago. High water two winters in a row has compromised seeding efforts by rotting the seed and promoting the establishment of rush species. The fields finally dried out enough to get ATV’s into the fields so that we could broadcast seed onto the bare areas and harrow / drag the ground for better soil contact with the seed. Approximately 15 acres were re-seeded at a rate of about 25 pounds to the acre.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Peregrine Falcons: Biologists from Region 5 conducted peregrine falcon surveys last week in Clark and Lewis Counties. The site in Clark County was checked and minimal activity was observed, none of which indicated successful nesting. WDFW staff and USFS staff observed the site in Lewis County and one possible, short-lived peregrine call was heard, but no birds were observed. This site has not been visited in a few years, so recent status is not known. Hopefully, both sites can be visited again in the coming weeks to verify the original findings and to check for more activity.
Biologist Holman assisted USFS Biologist Wainwright with monitoring a falcon site in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The site is in a remote location and requires an extensive hike to a suitable observation location. One adult falcon was observed at the site and young could be heard calling from the eyrie. However, the complex topography and heavy forest surrounding the site made viewing the young impossible. An additional visit has been scheduled to determine the number of chicks present at the site.
Western Pond Turtles: Biologist Slavens reports that we now have 11 western pond turtle nests in the ground at our Klickitat County site. Most of these nests were found over the last 3 days. Most nesting attempts should be complete by the end of next week. In addition, bullfrog egg masses are being removed and a total of 7 have been located. We have a volunteer from Sydney, Australia that has been helping and she will be leaving next week and will be replaced by four interns from the Oregon Zoo for the remainder of the project.
June 8
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
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| Grading Sheep Canyon Road |
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Road Maintenance: The WDFW Road Maintenance crew worked on the Soda Springs Unit this week, and graded approximately 5-1/2 miles of roads. In addition, rock was added to the road in the Canyon Creek Campground where large puddles form in spring. Rock was also placed on the South Breaks Road. This road has been difficult to repair or maintain due to persistent soil moisture in spring, such that the appropriate time to work on it never coincides with the best time to grade the other roads. The rock surface should stand up to traffic better than the native soil surface did. Two turnouts were added to provide places for people to either park or turn around. These were needed because people often become stuck in mud when they attempt to do either of these things. By the end of June, the first mile of the South Breaks Road will have a rock surface.
Wildflower update: Flowers blooming now on the Soda Springs Unit include bicolored cluster lily, hyacinth cluster lily, taper-tip onion, mule ears, Columbia frasera, western blue flag (iris), several species of lupine, red columbine, woods rose, balsamroot, slender godetia, and showy downingia. Deerbrush is also beginning to bloom.
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Shillapoo Wildlife Area
Lakebed Plantings: Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald planted 20 acres of Barley this week in the North Unit of the Shillapoo Wildlife Area for wintering migratory birds. The plantings were in three old agricultural fields in the Shillapoo lakebed, which floods seasonally and provides habitat for thousands of wintering birds in the area as well as hunting opportunities for many people every year.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Streaked Horned Lark Surveys: Biologists Prince and Miller participated in the first round of streaked-horned lark surveys on specified islands in the Columbia River stretching from Kalama to Grays Bay. The surveys are organized by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and are being conducted by WDFW, USFWS, and TNC staff. Some of the islands surveyed contain experimental plots or areas that were disked with different intensities by TNC this winter. Larks are detected by sight and sound and each island will be surveyedthree times during the summer. Lark presence was distributed among many of the islands and seemed to be consistent with last year's findings.
Peregrine Falcons: Biologist Anderson conducted follow-up visits to 4 peregrine falcon nesting territories in the Columbia River. Three of the 4 sites are occupied, two sites appear to be still feeding young, and another site has failed. Additional survey will be conducted over the next two- three weeks to determine the outcomes of all historic sites in the Columbia River Gorge.
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologist Holman summarized western pond turtle capture data for the 2009 effort at the Bergen Road site and made comparisons to previous trapping years. The number of western pond turtles captured per day of trapping effort has increased steadily over the years with the introduction of young animals raised in the “Head Start” program. In 2009 an average of 22 turtles were captured per day of trapping at the site. In comparison, just 2 turtles were captured per day during 2002. This increase in the number of animals encountered per day of trapping effort is another indication of the success of western pond turtle management in the Columbia River Gorge.
Game Division
Goose survey: Biologists Miller and Prince checked the area around Miller Sands Island for dark goose broods. The weather was poor and very few broods were observed. The radio collared goose was detected later in the week and is believed to be at Miller Sands or south of there. Another brood survey will be conducted on June 17th and hopefully more flocks will be observed for the banding project scheduled for the end of June.
May 26
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| Wildlife Area Manager Calkins fertilized approximately 45 acres of elk winter range forage areas on the mudflow using a small tractor and broadcast spreader. |
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Forage Maintenance: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins fertilized approximately 45 acres of elk winter range forage areas on the mudflow. The work was done using a small tractor and broadcast spreader. This is part of an integrated program to enhance forage production for elk on several selected sites on the wildlife area by applying lime, fertilizer, and using other techniques. Sampling we conducted last year suggested a 40% increase in production in one treated area when compared to an untreated site. This year we will be able to expand the acreage treated due to support we are receiving from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation that will allow us to purchase additional materials.
Scotch Broom Control: WDFW’s Western Washington Weed Crew spent several days on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area spraying scotch broom. The crew used ATV mounted and backpack sprayers to get to and treat individual plants on the rough terrain. Although hampered by rain on one of the days, the crew worked long hours and covered approximately 350 acres in the eastern portion of the Wildlife Area. This crew has been instrumental in helping us reduce the scotch broom infestation here and their help is greatly appreciated.
Klickitat Wildlife AreaVaux’s Swifts: Manager VanLeuven surveyed for Vaux’s Swifts at the old Icehouse on the Mineral Springs Unit. 354 swifts were observed going into the chimney to roost overnight. Most of the activity occurred between 8:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
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| WDFW and Longview Timber discuss buffer zones and leave trees for bald eagle and falcon habitat and nesting. |
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| WDFW biologist Hancock Timber to discuss a cooperative wetland enhancement project on their lands in Klickitat County. |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle Management: Trapping of western pond turtles continues at the Bergen Road site. Through the first 7 days of effort, a total of 153 turtle captures have been recorded and 79 individual turtles have been identified. The current trapping effort is being conducted for the purpose of population estimation so that a robust method of estimating the population may be further developed in the future.
While the great majority of the turtles present at this site are those reintroduced through the “Head-Start” program, a particular highlight of the effort to date is the location of a wild juvenile western pond turtle. Measuring 91 mm and weighing 100 grams, the young turtle is roughly four-years-old and exceeds the size that bull frogs are able to ingest. Presence of the young turtle is a very positive indication that the Bergen Road western pond turtle population is robust and that habitat acquisitions and enhancements have helped perpetuate the species at this location.
Bald Eagle and Falcon Management: Biologists Miller and Prince met with a representative of Longview Timber to discuss a bald eagle issue along the Toutle River and a falcon issue along the Columbia River. Buffer zones and leave trees for the eagle were developed on site and a BEMP will be developed with new maps the landowner will provide. Falcon issue was also discussed along the Columbia River near Nassa Point. Input from Survey Manager Cummins was helpful in developing a starting point for discussions on buffer zones and access management for the Peregrine territory. The meeting with Longview Timber was productive and positive as the landowner is sensitive to wildlife issues and willing to work with WDFW to provide habitat and still accomplish their goals.
Wetlend Management: Biologist Anderson met with Hancock Timber to discuss a cooperative wetland enhancement project on their lands in Klickitat County. Hancock owns approximately 80 acres of habitat that is currently being used by sandhill cranes. The proposed project would evaluate the potential for developing crane nesting habitat by increasing the amount of water available throughout the spring and early summer months. In addition, trees would be removed from wet meadows to open the area for sandhill crane use of the site. The Columbia Land Trust is participating in discussions regarding this project and will assist with grant development for funding.
May 18, 2000
Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Forage Enhancement Projects: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Volunteers Braaten and Vance fertilized an estimated 95 acres of elk forge enhancement sites that had been planted last year and this spring. It took the two approximately three days to cover the four sites. In addition to the fertilizer application, some areas were harrowed as a measure to control moss and some areas were also over seeded to improve the plant stands. Most of this work was funded through two Volunteer Cooperative Grants that Braaten had received from WDFW. Work will begin this spring on a fifth site that will be reseeded this fall with funding from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Fencing: Manager VanLeuven has completed the fencing project on the Sondino Unit of the Klickitat Wildlife Area.
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| Western pond turtle floating hoop trap. |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologists Anderson and Holman initiated trapping for western pond turtles at the Bergen Road site. Thirty-four traps have been set in four water bodies at the site. Traps will be checked daily through May 22 in an effort to monitor this sub-population of western pond turtles. New for this year is the deployment of hoop-style traps that are suspended over the water (i.e., floating nets). These traps are baited with fish and allow access to portions of water bodies that don’t have convenient vegetation to tie to and, because the traps float, animals can’t be accidentally drowned while captive. See the photo at right of a floating hoop trap.
Western Pond Turtle trapping at the Klickitat ponds was completed this last week. A grand total of 30 adult females were equipped with transmitters for this year’s "head start" program. This represents the highest number of females that will be monitored for nesting since the program began in 1991.
Vaux’s Swifts: Klickitat resident Ramsey surveyed for Vaux's swifts at the Old Icehouse, on the Mineral Springs Unit, on Saturday evening. He reported that an estimated 300 swifts went into the chimney to roost between about 8:30 and 9:00 p.m. This Saturday survey was part of a statewide Vaux's swift survey effort. The survey coordinator indicated that according to early reports, this was the second highest count in the state for a single known site.
Game Management DivisionSafety Training: Create an agency environment that nurtures professionalism, accountability, enthusiasm, and dedication in order to attract, develop, and retain a workforce that can successfully carry out the mandate of the agency
Boat Safety: Biologist Miller, in his role as Wildlife Program Master MOCC (Motorboat Operation and Certification Course) instructor, spent time this week working on preparations for the upcoming MOCC class in Vancouver. This training has a large logistical component that needs to be coordinated in advance of the actual class. Some time will need to be spent on Lacamas Lake in the next week or two to prepare for the water exercises that we do as a part of the training. Boats were also arranged for this project and some repair was done to the 20' Alumaweld in preparation for the class.
ATV Training: Region 5 Wildlife Program staff safely completed ATV training this week - this training fulfills a mandatory training requirement. The course is a thorough hands-on class that was taught by Law Enforcement Officer Valentine.
May 11, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Fencing and Grazing Management: Manager VanLeuven worked with the Department of Natural Resources/Larch Corrections crew on a fencing project near Lyle to implement replacements, repairs, and preparations for new fence construction. While working on another fence repair project, the WCC crew notified manager VanLeuven about stray cattle on the Soda Springs Unit. 22 cows with calves were found on WDFW property. Manager VanLeuven contacted and worked with the owner to remove the cattle as well as check the fence line and discuss needed repairs. The owner of the cattle was responsive and committed to repair the fence to ensure his cattle would stay on his property.
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| Grazing management monitoring photo point in the Klictitat Wildlife Area. |
Manager VanLeuven visited all six grazing monitoring photo points and took photos for this year's monitoring effort. Manager VanLeuven assessed the range readiness, made fence repairs, ensured a stock watering trough operates correctly, and also posted signs advising people to close gates after they drive through.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologist Holman made preparations for conducting western pond turtle captures at the Bergen Road site. Tasks associated with preparation for trapping include hauling of traps, boats, and associated equipment to each of the 5 primary water bodies at the site; preparing data recording forms and equipment; and construction of new traps. Trapping will be conducted in May and/or June depending on weather.
In spite of the weather this week, the turtle crew at Sondino Ranch did rather well. They captured 40 turtles for a grand total of 200 this season. 6 additional transmitters were placed on females for a total of 26 for the year. Two wild hatchling turtles were captured and now are at the Oregon Zoo. That makes 3 from Pond B and one from the path to the northeast of Pond A on its way from the nest to the water.
Game Division
St. Helens Wildlife Area Winter Mortality Count: The 2009 winter elk mortality count on the Mount St. Helens Wildlife Area was completed this week with the help of WDFW staff and about 20 RMEF volunteers. The preliminary data indicate approximately 35 elk died on the mudflow this winter. The locations of these mortalities will be checked next week with past locations to verify each carcass/bone pile was from this year's winter; and a more accurate number will be reported when this task is completed. Many thanks to the volunteers for their help with this survey.
Lower Columbia River Dark Goose Project: As a part of the effort to estimate the size of the dark goose population, Biologists Miller and Prince and volunteers Jarvis and Howell re-examined the dark goose nests documented on the April 20 survey. The goal was to determine how many of the nests were hatched, abandoned, or destroyed, for input into a population estimate. We found all the documented nests and found that about 30% were still incubating and the rest were hatched. Some abandoned eggs were found associated with most of the hatched nests. The egg float data will be added to the information we gathered during the nest search to establish the time line to band the birds this summer.
May 4, 2009
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle Management: Western pond turtle trappingis going well at Sondino Ponds in Klickitat County. The field team headed by Kate Slavens has caught a grand total of 160 turtles. Transmitters have been placed on a total of 20 females, ensuring another successful season for the "head start program". One wild hatchling was caught this last week and it was taken to the Oregon Zoo and placed with the 2008 "head start" group. All 2008 turtles from the Oregon Zoo will be released in the Columbia River Gorge this summer.
Golden Eagle Mortality: Biologist Anderson reports a golden eagle mortality from the Goodnoe Wind Farm in eastern Klickitat County. The bird appears to be a young female and it is uncertain if it is part of a breeding pair or a migratory bird. The bird had a broken wing and leg and was located immediately below a wind turbine.
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| Operation Dark Goose: Biologists and volunteers set traps to catch dark geese for monitoring this week. |
Game Division
Operation Dark Goose: Biologists Miller and Prince and volunteersHowell and Jarvis attempted to catch dark geese this week. The goal was to radio collar some of the birds so that they could be found later in the summer and to band their broods as well as other adults. We tried using a CODA net gun and a hoop trap. The hoop trap showed the most promise for the future and recently we caught 1 bird in this trap and radio collared the goose. The birds consistently out flew the net gun. We are exploring acquisition of several hoop traps for next year. These dark geese cause confusion at check stations, as they resemble the Dusky Canada goose that has a restricted harvest. WDFW and ODFW cooperate on banding these birds to reduce check station problems.
8th Western States and Provinces Deer and Elk Workshop: Biologists Prince and Holman were among WDFW Staff in attendance at the 8th Western States and Provinces Deer and Elk Workshop, held this year in Spokane. The conference features speakers from various State and Provincial wildlife agencies, University researchers, tribal deer and elk specialists, conservation organizations, as well as students. Presentations on many research topics including, habitat based population modeling, elk responses to human activities including roads and hunting, predation, sex-age-kill population modeling, habitat improvement projects, sight-resight population modeling, sources of mortality in black-tailed and mule deer as well as elk, effectiveness of wildlife fencing and crossing structures on highways, hunter opinions, mule and black-tailed deer genetics and a the Hairloss Syndrome. Thanks to all those who presented at the workshop.
April 27
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area
Oak Enhancement: Manager VanLeuven met with National Wild Turkey Federation Biologist McMasters to plan the work for the habitat enhancement project that will occur on the Wildlife Area. VanLeuven wrote the prescription for the forest thinning work to be implemented this spring and worked with WDFW staff to finalize the details.
Collaborative Partnership: Manager VanLeuven discussed a long-standing problem with Western Pacific Timber regarding cattle escapement, public use of a gated road, as well as unauthorized vehicle access on roads on state and timber company owned lands. This has been a problem for at least 15 years, and manager VanLeuven has been working with adjacent landowners to develop a better way to restrict vehicle access as well as prevent livestock escapement.
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| WDFW thanks all the volunteers who made it possible to plant 14,000 rooted trees and shrubs along the Toutle River. |
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Tree Plantings Completed: Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald and Technician Fox recently finished the final phase of this year's tree planting effort on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area. Over the past several weeks a total of 14,000 rooted trees and shrubs were planted along the Toutle River and another 2,000 were planted on a portion of Bear Creek. In total over three miles of streamside area was planted. The planting mix was made up of red and sitka alder, black cottonwood, pacific ninebark, salmonberry, red-osier dogwood, cascara, western red cedar, noble, grand and douglas fir, and sitka spruce. 1,100 of the trees that are more likely to be browsed by elk had 3 or 4 foot tree protectors placed over them to help assure establishment. The larger planting is part of a larger project to stabilize the river and protect elk forage areas. Wood structures will be constructed later this year as the final phase of that work. The Bear Creek planting is part of a project sponsored by volunteer Mike Braaten who received a grant through WDFW's Volunteer Cooperative Grants Program to enhance elk forage on about 20 acres and improve riparian habitat along the creek. Wildlife Area Manager Calkins would like to thank all of the volunteers who helped us plant these trees this year. Without their support we would not have been able to get all of this work accomplished in such a timely fashion. The volunteers helped under all sorts of conditions including warm weather, rain, and even snow (see tree protectors 4-09.JPG attached).
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Peregrine Falcon Nest Site Monitoring: Biologist Holman conducted a protocol visit to another peregrine falcon site in the Columbia River Gorge. A pair of falcons was present at the location and incubation was observed. Biologist Anderson conducted protocol visits to two peregrine falcon site in Klickitat County. A pair of peregrine falcons occupied both sites. Surveys for the birds will continue into the spring for occupancy with productivity surveys to be conducted in June as part of the statewide monitoring effort.
Western Pond Turtle Management: Western pond turtle trapping efforts continue at the Sondino Ponds site. Through April 22nd, seventeen adult female pond turtles have been captured and equipped with new radio telemetry transmitters. The female turtles will be followed to their nesting locations during June and July in support of the Head-Start program.
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| Region 5 staff, along with other WDFW staff, ODFW staff, and agency volunteers completed the annual Lower Columbia River goose nest survey. | |
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| Click chart for enlargement | |
Game Division
Goose Nest Survey: Region 5 staff, along with other WDFW staff, ODFW staff, and agency volunteers completed the annual Lower Columbia River goose nest survey. Five islands were surveyed for goose nests this year with a total of 364 nests found (1987-2008-GooseNestSurvey.pdf). This is very close to the number of nests found last year (363). "Dark" goose nests are also noted during the survey on Miller Sands Island. These birds are thought to be resident Dusky or "Wuskies" (western + dusky) geese. A total of 46 "dark" goose nests were found this year on Miller Sands, Main, and Miller Sands Spit combined. Last year's dark nest total was 55. An attempt was also made this year to capture some of these dark birds and attach radio collars in an effort to locate more birds in July when they are banded and collared in preparation for hunting season. We attempted to net gun the birds on the nest and collar them, but this was a lot more challenging then originally thought. Staff did have success with a hoop trap that was set the day before and caught a single bird. More emphasis is going to be put on using the hoop traps in the near future to get more birds collared.
Hunting Information: All landowners in Klicitat County that participate in the Hunt by Written Permission program were asked to submit their permits from 2008-2009 hunting season. Biologist Anderson received numerous phone calls from hunters that wanted to discuss the recent hunting season changes in the new pamphlet. Most questions were related to boundary changes in Klickitat County and modifications to the late muzzleloader deer season in 578. Most hunters indicated they understood the reasons for the changes although some indicated their preference for the original regulations.
Migration: Annual migration of birds, especially Canada geese is well underway. Listening early in the morning and early in the evening might reveal skeins of geese calling to each other as they move north to nesting grounds in Canada and Alaska. In this area the birds seem to follow the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean and then turn north to historical nest areas. They will be back in late September with new broods of young to winter in SW Washington.
April 20, 2009
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| Manager Van Leuven met with Trout Unlimited volunteer Fritsch on the Goldendale Hatchery Unit to plant about 25 willow cuttings along Spring Creek. |
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife AreaSpring Creek Planting: Manager Van Leuven met with Trout Unlimited volunteer Fritsch on the Goldendale Hatchery Unit to plant about 25 willow cuttings along Spring Creek. The Goldendale chapter of Trout Unlimited is planning a riparian planting project this fall as well.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Peregrine Falcon Nest Site Monitoring: Biologist Holman conducted a protocol
visit to a peregrine falcon site in the Columbia River Gorge. A pair of falcons
was present at the location but incubation could not be observed. Surveys for
the birds will continue into the spring for occupancy with productivity surveys
to be conducted in June.
Western Pond Turtle Management: Western pond turtle trapping efforts continue at the Sondino Ponds site. To date, 10 adult female pond turtles have been captured and equipped with new radio telemetry transmitters. The female turtles will be followed to their nesting locations during June and July in support of the Head-Start program.
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| Biologists Miller and Prince located the remains of a radio collared cow elk that was a part of the elk study that began this spring. |
Game Division
St Helens Elk study: Biologists Miller and Prince located the remains of
a radio collared cow elk that was a part of the elk study that began this spring.
During the first flight survey in early March the radio was transmitting a live
pulse; however, the radio was transmitting a mortality pulse during the second
flight survey in late March/early April. The carcass was found almost completely
intact. Only the front shoulders were displaced from the rest of the remains.
The animal's hide was also found a few yards away from the main portion of the
carcass. All the tissue and muscle had been consumed. Based upon the remains,
we think the elk was either killed by a large predator or died from winter conditions
and then was consumed by a large predator.
April 13, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area:Wildlife
Diversity Division
Peregrine Falcon Nest Site Monitoring: Biologist Holman conducted protocol
visits to two peregrine falcon nest locations in the Columbia River Gorge. A
pair of falcons was present at one location but the initial visit to the other
didn't reveal any falcons. Surveys for the birds will continue into the spring
for occupancy with productivity surveys to be conducted in June.
Sandhill Cranes: Biologist Anderson reports that breeding sandhill cranes have arrived in Klickitat County at Conboy NWR and surrounding area. WDFW and the USFWS met this week to discuss this season’s plans for sandhill crane nesting surveys. The first coordinated survey will take place during the last week of April to document early nesting attempts.
Game Division
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Elk Use Monitoring: Wildlife Area Manager
Calkins, Assistant Manager Hauswald, and Volunteer Malcom completed the final
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area winter elk monitoring count of the season from
the Weyerhaeuser Forest Learning Center. Three hundred twelve elk were counted
during the survey, which is consistent with most of the other counts this winter.
These counts are conducted at least once per month throughout the winter to
monitor elk use and their condition on the site. In general, the majority of
the elk in the area appear to be in good condition but a few show signs of physical
decline, which is typical for this time of year. While doing some work on the
site later, Hauswald located one elk that had apparently succumbed to winter
conditions. Winter mortality is normal in any big game population. WDFW is in
the process of reducing herd numbers through increased hunting effort in this
area due to concerns that the number of animals had become too high for the
available habitat to support. Even with a reduced number of animals, WDFW will
always expect some level of winter mortality in the herd, which will vary each
year depending upon habitat changes and winter severity as age, disease, and
other factors limit a portion of any population’s ability to survive the
winter.
April 6, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Cowlitz Wildlife AreaAnnual Report: The annual report for 2008 has been submitted to Tacoma Power. The report includes expenditures, 2008 performance activities, and next year’s planned activities. Tacoma Power will submit the report to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission as a requirement for their ongoing license.
Recreation Information – Riffe Lake Water Levels: Tacoma Power updates lake levels and other recreation information on its toll-free Fishing and Recreation Line every weekday at 1-888-502-8690.
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| WDFW employed the use of a helicopter to catch and relocate Columbian White-tailed deer. |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Columbia White-Tailed Deer Relocation: Biologists Miller and Prince assisted
USFWS staff and volunteers in the relocation of Columbian White-tailed deer.
The deer were moved from Tenasillahe Island to the Julia Butler Hansen National
Wildlife Refuge. The move was done as an effort to repopulate the refuge after
recent flood events drove deer off of the refuge and into the surrounding timberlands.
Twenty deer were successfully caught on Tenasillahe and released on the refuge.
The capture was contracted and most deer were caught using net guns fired from
a helicopter; a few deer were caught using a drive net. The deer were then blindfolded,
hobbled, and placed into bags for their air transport to the mainland. All does
released were outfitted with radio collars, while fawns and bucks were just
ear tagged; the collared deer will be closely monitored by refuge staff.
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologists Slavens and Holman initiated the western pond turtle trapping effort at the Sondino Ponds site. Fifty turtle traps were deployed in 6 water bodies at the site on April 1 and 2. The traps are a 50/50 split of floating traps that target basking turtles, and submerged baited nets that target feeding turtles. The trapping effort is the initial step in the annual process of conducting the head-start program. Trapping is needed to replace radio transmitters on adult females turtles so that they may be followed to their summer nesting sites.
Peregrine Falcon Surveys: Biologist Anderson visited one of two peregrine falcon territories this week as per the state/federal coordinated survey. This survey is part of a national survey to monitor peregrine falcon populations following their delisting a few years ago. The site visited this week was occupied and reports of other sites in the Columbia River Gorge indicate that many pairs are currently incubating eggs.
Game Division
St Helens Elk Project: The second round of elk surveys were flown this
week for the St Helens mark-resight project with Region 5 Biologists Holman,
Prince, Hauswald, Vanderlip; Deer and Elk Specialist McCorquodale, and GIS specialist
Duff. Final figures are not yet available for the entire survey. GIS specialist
Duff’s time and assistance with this project is greatly appreciated; as
can be seen in the photo of him entering data and navigating the survey units
(ResightFlight-Duff.JPG). Deer and Elk Specialist McCorquodale is principal
lead on this project and we also thank him for his expertise in implementing
this study and his ability to adapt to our large scale environment and challenges
in attempting to improve our elk information. Region 5 thanks all the survey
participants.
Turkey Season: Biologist Anderson has started to receive many phone calls from hunters interested in the spring turkey season in Klickitat County. Turkey hunting should be favorable this spring as the Klickitat population should have experienced low mortality due to mild winter conditions. Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager has observed many turkey hunters scouting the wildlife area to locate the places currently favored by the birds, as the youth turkey hunt is this weekend. Turkeys seem to be very mobile this time of year and it is not easy to predict where they will be found. Sunny weather is on the way and hunters should enjoy a good weekend outing.
March 30, 2009
Region
5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Elk Herd Population Monitoring: Biologist Holman and technician
Ridenour conducted elk surveys in the Trout Lake and Glenwood valleys, located
primarily in Game Management Unit 578 (West Klickitat). The valleys were simultaneously
covered with two vehicles on the evening of March 23 and the morning of March
26. Twelve groups of elk totaling 313 animals were observed on the 23rd, and
ten groups totaling 421 individuals were located on the 26th. The elk were primarily
located on Conboy National Wildlife Refuge, private agricultural fields in each
valley, as well as the Trout Lake Natural Area Preserve (DNR). Summaries and
classifications for these elk will be included in the overall effort to develop
a robust method of population estimation for the Mt. St. Helens Elk Herd.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Oregon Spotted Frogs: District biologist Anderson, with assistance from
biologist Holman and technician Ridenour, conducted a preliminary survey of
Oregon Spotted Frogs at the Trout Lake Natural Area Preserve. Egg mass surveys
were conducted as a method to estimate the health of the breeding population
for this Washington State endangered species. Follow-up surveys will be conducted
over the next two-week period to get a final count as a comparison to previous
years surveys.
March 23, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife
Area:
Oak Habitat Enhancement: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven met with National
Wild Turkey Federation biologist MaMasters to work out logistics of the planned
forest habitat enhancement project and select sites for treatment. Three units,
almost 100% oak stands, were marked out with flagging on the Soda Springs Unit.
The units range from 1.9 acre to 2.9 acres in size. A prescription for thinning
the trees was developed that would preserve the larger oaks while culling the
smaller competing trees. The forest inside the units and within 50 feet of the
units will be surveyed for presence of western gray squirrel nests and provisions
for protection of nests will be applied. The work is anticipated to begin in
late April and the scope of the project is limited to conform to the definition
of a Class I Forest Practice.
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife
Area:
Erosion Control Plantings: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins, Assistant Manager
Hauswald, and Technician Fox finished planting 500 Douglas fir, grand fir, noble
fir, sitka spruce and red cedar near the Toutle River. Each of these seedlings
had a 36" tree protector tube placed over them attached to a 5' piece of
rebar. This planting took approximately five days due to the distance that needed
to be covered (three miles) and the extra time required carrying and placing
the tree protectors. On March 21st Calkins and Hauswald were joined by thirteen
volunteers to plant red and sitka alder along the banks. On that day a total
of 3,400 trees were planted over an area about one-mile in length in approximately
5 hours. We would like to thank all of the volunteers for their effort. Planting
will continue for at least two more weeks including two more days when volunteers
will be helping.
Game Division
Region 5 Deer Management: The annual Spring survey of deer on and near
the Klickitat Wildlife Area was conducted on the 16th and 17th of March. Wildlife
Biologist Holman, Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven, Fisheries Biologist
Cady, retired Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager Morrison, and senior project student
Meyers conducted the survey. A total of 299 deer were observed during the effort
with 277 classified. The number of classified deer was significantly fewer than
the 18-year average of 514 deer.
Significant in addition to the total number of deer observed, is the annual ratio of fawns to adults. Young deer are more likely to succumb to harsh winter conditions and food shortages, therefore the ratio provides a barometer for winter severity. During severe winters, fawns suffer mortality at a greater rate than adults thereby reducing the ratio of fawns to adults.
 |
Grayback
GMU Spring Deer Survey Summary 1980-2009 |
This year's survey resulted in a ratio of 53 fawns per 100 adult deer. This ratio represents a value that is effectively equal to the mean ratio observed in the 30-year history of the survey. The 2009 survey indicates, that in spite of unusually cold December weather and high amounts of snowfall in western Washington, the deer present on or near the Klickitat Wildlife Area suffered little in the way of winter losses during 2008/09. Please see the attached figure illustrating the fawn to adult ratio recorded on the annual Spring Survey during the past 30 years and the number of deer classified during the past 18 years. Thanks to all those that participated in the annual spring survey.
 |
| Hoof rot problem among elk in SW Washington has increased in its distribution and intensity in the last few years and hopefully this WDFW project will begin to shed some light on the causes. |
Hoof Rot Study: Region 5 Biologists Prince, Holman, and Miller assisted WDFW staff Veterinarian Mansfield and Biologist Rowan in the examination of elk in SW Washington that were affected by hoof rot. Eight elk were collected and a wide variety of tissue and organ samples were collected for evaluation by Washington State University staff. Three elk of the eight were taken for study control purposes and the same specimens were submitted for analysis. The meat from the control animals was donated to charity. All elk were collected from areas with elk damage so that we could help solve damage problems while collecting animals for analysis.
This hoof rot problem has increased in its distribution and intensity in the last few years and hopefully this project will begin to shed some light on the causes. WDFW receives many phone calls from citizens and hunters about limping elk and this effort is the beginning of a process to answer some questions about this situation. This project was made possible by the cooperation of Law Enforcement Staff in Lewis and Cowlitz counties who helped identify landowners with sick elk and assisted in the collection process. Their help is very much appreciated.
Winter
Conditions
District 10, including
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. The remainder of January was relatively dry with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Temperatures during the first half of February ranged from near record highs to near record lows, but only moderate precipitation fell with moderate snow amounts. The latter part of the month was relatively mild but some low elevation snowfall occurred. Below normal temperatures were common during the first half of March and one significant low elevation snow event resulted in up to 9" of snow on the Wildlife Area. However, this condition lasted only a few days. The past week has been warmer and wet with showers or rain mixed with sun breaks.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for mixed rain and snow though the week with snow levels ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the mid 30's to low 50's, which is a bit cool but within the normal range.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and above normal precipitation.
The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and near normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on March 19th, show a heightened chance of below average temperatures and equal chances of above or below normal precipitation for April. The Apr-Jun outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but a heightened chance of below normal precipitation in a portion of the South Cascades.
Habitat: South slopes are generally snow free to about 2500 feet but snow is present to about 1,000 feet on some North facing slopes. The Wildlife Area is currently clear of snow. Growth is increasing in grasses on the Wildlife Area and it appears we are to the point where forage is increasing on the site. Some early shrubs (willow, Indian plum) are showing signs of bud break.
Snow Depths:
Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 15.4 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 114.3 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 108.6 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 44.0 in. Depth increased at all these sites over the past week. Snowpack is now above normal for these locations.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): 18"; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report (closed); Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report (closed); Cougar (2,200 feet): 40"+36" new; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 50"+ 48" new.
Animal Concentrations: 88 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a survey on March 5th. Since that time we have begun our spring tree planting and are seeing numbers that are in line with that count. We are not attempting to count the animals but rather are trying to avoid disturbing them. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: Most animals observed appear to be in good condition with only a few showing signs of decline in body condition. These signs include rough coats or thin appearance.
Mortality: None found during tree planting work or otherwise reported this week.
Public Contacts: Conducted an interview with a local Portland Reporter this week. Topics covered included stabilization and forage enhancement projects, winter conditions, feeding issues, and hunting seasons. The public is reminded that the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area is closed to public access through April 30th to minimize disturbance and associated energy demands to animals wintering there.
March 16, 2009
Game Division
Elk Sightability Survey: Deer and Elk Specialist Mc Corquodale, Biologists
Prince, Holman, Calkins, Hauswald, Miller, and GIS specialist Duff conducted
winter elk surveys in District 10 all of last week. Portions of GMUs 522 (Loowitt),
520 (Winston), 524 (Margaret), 550 (Coweeman) and 556 (Toutle) were aerially
surveyed during the effort. All radio-collared animals were located and the
final number of elk observed will be reported when tallied. We would like to
extend our appreciation to helicopter pilot Hagerman for his time and expertise
in flying wildlife surveys.
As collected in District 9 last week, details related to habitat and survey variables as well as elk locations and survey routes were recorded in addition to total elk numbers, sex, and age composition in support of the development of a sightability model for the Mt. St. Helens elk herd. These habitat / survey variables will be balanced against the locations of radio-marked elk that evade detection during aerial surveys. The conditions found at the locations of the marked animals provide the capacity to mathematically correct population estimates for elk that are not seen during surveys.
Winter
Conditions
District 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. The remainder of January was relatively dry with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Temperatures during the first half of February ranged from near record highs to near record lows, but only moderate precipitation fell with moderate snow amounts. The latter part of the month was relatively mild but some low elevation snowfall occurred. Snow and rainfall amounts were minor during the first week of March but temperatures were slightly below normal. Temperatures have been below normal and significant snow fell over the last weekend and early in the week. Up to 9" accumulated on the Wildlife Area. Clear skies have melted much of the low elevation snow since, particularly on south facing slopes.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for mixed rain and snow though the week, with snow levels ranging from 1,500 to 5,500 feet. Temperatures should range from the low 30's to mid-40’s, which is below normal
- The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and above normal precipitation.
- The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and above normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No change. The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on February 19th, show below average temperatures and equal chances of above or below normal precipitation for March. The March-May outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but equal chances of above or below precipitation.
Habitat: Snow is present in most areas above 1,000 feet but south slopes are clearing up. The Wildlife Area is currently mostly clear of snow. Some growth has been noted in grasses on the site and there is still some forage remaining on the site. Some areas, particularly those that were fertilized last year, have been grazed more heavily than others. Use has been highest near the east end of the mudflow.
Snow Depths:
- Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 13.0 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 98.0 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 92.5 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 36.3 in. Depth increased slightly at all these sites over the past week. Snowpack is near normal for these locations.
- Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): No report; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report (closed); Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report (closed); Cougar (2,200 feet): 40"+6" new; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 50"+12" new.
Animal Concentrations: 88 elk were observed on the wildlife area during a survey on March 5, 2009. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: Most animals observed appear to be in good condition with only a few showing signs of decline in body condition. These signs include rough coats or thin appearance.
Mortality: None reported this week.
Public Contacts: Received a request for an interview with a local Portland Reporter. This is scheduled for next week. The public is reminded that the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area is closed to public access through April 30th to minimize disturbance and associated energy demands to animals wintering there.
March 9, 2009
 |
| Columbia White-Tailed Deer Camera Project: FLIR technology is being used to estimate the sub-species composition on the islands in the Lower Columbia River. FLIR can detect deer but not identify sub-species. |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Columbia White-Tailed Deer Camera Project: District Wildlife Biologist
Miller and volunteer Dan Howell retrieved data cards and re-located cameras
on three islands near Longview this week. This USFWS project is designed to
help estimate the sub species composition on the islands in the Lower Columbia
River that are surveyed by FLIR technology. FLIR can detect deer but not identify
sub species, so the cameras are used to sub sample the deer on the islands.
Images were taken of both Columbia White-Tailed Deer and Black-Tailed Deer.
Cameras were re-located to continue sampling.
Western Pond Turtle: Biologist Anderson presented a proposal to the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) for funding of the western pond turtle project in the Columbia River Gorge. WDFW currently has funding for this project through 2009, and this proposal is for work beginning in Fiscal Year 2010 and beyond. This week’s presentation was for the Independent Scientific Review Panel (ISRP) staff for their final recommendations to BPA. Project proposals are designed to mitigate for wildlife populations affected by the Federal Columbia River Power System (hydro projects). BPA has been one of our primary financial sponsors for the last 8 years and is responsible for the successes we have had in recovery of the western pond turtle population in the Columbia River Gorge.
Game Division
Mt. St Helens Elk Count: Biologists Miller and Prince completed the fifth
count this season of elk on the Mount St. Helen's Wildlife Area this week. Eighty-eight
elk were observed during the count. No compositional data were taken due to
fog and increasing snowfall. Elk condition was also hard to determine because
of the low visibility. The final winter count will take place at the beginning
of April. Elk numbers on the mudflow have been relatively low this year as compared
to last year.
Elk Composition / Sightability Surveys: Biologist Holman with plenty of help from Biologist Prince, Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven, Shillapoo / St. Helens Wildlife Area Manager Calkins and Assistant Manager Hauswald, conducted winter elk surveys in District 9. Portions of GMUs 554 (Yale), 568 (Washougal), 572 (Siouxon) and 560 (Lewis River), were aerially surveyed during the effort. A total of 219 elk were located during the survey flights with an observed ratio of 48 calves: 100 cows: 23 bulls.
In addition to total elk numbers, sex and age composition, details related to habitat and survey variables as well as elk locations and survey routes were recorded in support of the development of a sightability model for the Mt. St. Helens elk herd. Specifically, elk activity, % of snow cover, % of vegetation cover, vegetation type, and lighting were all categorized for future analysis in the development of the model. During future surveys in District 10, these habitat / survey variables will be balanced against the locations of radio-marked elk that evade detection during aerial surveys. The conditions found at the locations of the marked animals provide the capacity to mathematically correct population estimates for elk that are not seen during surveys.
Hoof Rot Project: Plans are nearly complete for the collection of elk that are symptomatic of hoof rot in SW Washington. We have names and locations of several places that will allow us to access their property to collect the elk to collect internal organs and legs for pathology exam at Washington State University. Limited number of healthy elk will also be collected for control purposes from areas with documented elk damage.
Winter
Conditions
District 10, including
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. The remainder of January was relatively dry with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Temperatures during the first half of February ranged from near record highs to near record lows, but only moderate precipitation fell with moderate snow amounts. The latter part of the month was relatively mild but some low elevation snowfall occurred. Snow and Rainfall amounts were minor during the first week of March but temperatures were slightly below normal.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for some rain and snow through the week, with snow levels ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the mid 20s to mid-40s, which is below normal
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and near normal precipitation.
The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and near normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No Change The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on February 19th, show below average temperatures and equal chances of above or below normal precipitation for March. The March-May outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but equal chances of above or below precipitation.
Habitat: Currently there is about 1/2 inch of fresh snow at 2,000 feet but for the most part slopes below this elevation are almost snow free. The Wildlife Area is currently mostly clear of snow. Some growth has been noted in grasses on the site and there is still forage remaining on the site. Some areas, particularly those that were fertilized last year, have been grazed more heavily than others. Use has been highest near the east end of the mudflow.
Snow Depths:
Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 12.1 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 86.3 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 81.8 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 33.4 in. Depth increased at the first three sites listed but decreased at the Pepper Creek location over the past week. Snowpack is slightly below average for these locations.Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): 10"; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report (closed); Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report (closed); Cougar (2,200 feet): 40"+3" new; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 50"+6" new.
Animal Concentrations: 88 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a survey on March 5, 2009. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: Weather conditions precluded good observation of animal condition during the survey this week. However, during recent animal capture event during the week of February 17th, approximately 25% of young animals were displaying a rough pelage.
Mortality: None reported this week.
Public Contacts: No contacts this week pertinent to winter conditions. The public is reminded that the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area is closed to public access through April 30th to minimize disturbance and associated energy demands to animals wintering there.
District 9:
Past Weather: Some new snow was reported above 3000 ft this week in the south Cascades. Temperatures are normal for this time of year and snow pack is below normal for the south Cascades.
Winter Severity: The south facing slopes at the Klickitat Wildlife Area are open and forage habitat is available. There is little concern for the severity of this year's winter conditions in Skamania County and the western portion of Klickitat County. The eastern portions of Klickitat County have had lower snowfall accumulation this winter and deer are in good condition
Habitat: Habitat is open and continued green up is seen on south facing slopes. Forage habitat has increased for big game and lower elevation valleys are receiving more use.
Animal Concentrations: Large elk concentrations (150-200) have been seen in the Trout Lake area.
Animal Condition: Animals appear to be in good condition.
Mortality: None documented or reported at this time.
Public Contacts: None received this week.
March 2, 2009
Region 5 Wildlife Areas:
Klickitat Wildlife Area:Shillapoo Wildlife Area:
Herons Return to Previously Abandoned Rookery Site: Earlier this winter
Wildlife Area Manager Calkins observed several nests in a stand of trees on
the wildlife area that at one time was home to a Great Blue Heron Colony numbering
over 300 nests. This week Calkins returned to the site and observed at least
two herons on nests, confirming that the site is once again being used by nesting
herons. One of the measures identified in the wildlife area plan was to plant
additional cottonwoods to eventually replace some of the mature trees, many
of which had died and fallen while the rookery was active. 1,500 trees have
been planted over the past three years as part of that effort. We were never
able to determine a cause for the abandonment of this site by the birds several
years ago who moved their nest site to another part of the wildlife area. Many
birders will welcome their return, as this is a location where they can be seen
easily from a nearby road without creating disturbance to the nest site.
Field Activities: Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald and Technician Fox replaced a 500 foot section of fence along Lower River Road. The replacement was necessary in part to discourage unauthorized off-road travel across the wildlife area. Placement of tree tubes and mats continues at three tree planting locations. We have also started some weed spraying for poison hemlock.
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife
Area
Erosion Control Projects: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins met with engineers
from the Habitat Program to discuss recent erosion issues and design criteria
for a large scale stabilization project funded by the Washington Wildlife and
Recreation Program. Construction work is planned for this coming summer. Prior
to that time we plan to complete the planting phase of the project. We plan
to plant approximately 14,000 rooted trees and shrubs, an undetermined number
of willow cuttings, and spread a grass/clover seed mix over about three miles
of the erosion prone bank area.
Volunteers Needed: Volunteers are needed in late March and early April to help with the tree planting effort described in the item above. Interested individuals should send a message to teamvancouver@dfw.wa.gov to receive a schedule and other information. All WDFW volunteers are required to register and complete an orientation checklist prior to participation in agency work.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Gray Squirrel (WGS): Biologist Anderson participated in a meeting
to discuss landscape planning and development of PHS guidelines for management
of the western gray squirrel. At issue is the need to present the public (with
an emphasis on counties) with information on ways to work with WDFW to control
land development and protect critical WGS habitat areas. WDFW would like to
take more of a landscape approach to protect WGS habitat areas for eventual
recovery of the species. Our goal is to provide management recommendations that
guide county planners to comply with Growth Management requirements for T &
E species like the WGS.
Townsend's Big-Eared Bats: Biologist Holman assisted the U.S. Forest Service in conducting hibernacula surveys for Townsend's Big-Eared bats. During winter, the bats enter a state of hibernation or torpor and remain largely inactive for extended periods of time while attached to the ceilings and walls of caves. During this period the bats are sensitive to increases in temperature, which can cause them to wake and use valuable energy while increasing their metabolic rate. Due to this sensitivity, the Forest Service implements seasonal closures of the caves to public entrance and does not advertise the location of this important wildlife habitat. Initial survey results indicate slightly more total bats than during the most recent comprehensive survey effort, which took place in 2006.
Game Division
Washington Waterfowl Presentation: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins attended
the monthly meeting of the Lower Columbia Chapter of Washington Waterfowl Association
and gave a presentation covering the history, goals, recent accomplishments,
and future projects on the Shillapoo Wildlife Area. Following the presentation,
Calkins fielded questions for about an hour on topics ranging from management
of hunting blinds on the area to budget cuts and layoffs in the agency.
Winter
Conditions
District 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. The remainder of January was relatively dry with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Temperatures during the first half of February ranged from near record highs to near record lows, but only moderate precipitation fell with moderate snow amounts. The latter part of the month was relatively mild but some low elevation snowfall occurred.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for some rain through the week with snow levels ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the mid 30's to mid-40s, which is within the normal range.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and above normal precipitation.
The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and near normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No change. The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on February 19th, show below average temperatures and equal chances of above or below normal precipitation for March. The March-May outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but equal chances of above or below precipitation.
Habitat: Currently there is about three inches of fresh snow at 2,000 feet with lesser amounts below. The Wildlife Area is currently mostly clear of snow. Some growth has been noted in grasses on the site and there is still forage remaining on the site. Some areas, particularly those that were fertilized last year, have been grazed more heavily than others. Use has been highest near the east end of the mudflow.
Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 8.3 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 83.7 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 78.1 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 34.6 in. Depth increased at the first three sites listed but decreased at the Pepper Creek location over the past week. Snowpack is slightly below average for these locations.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): 10"; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report (closed); Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report (closed); Cougar (2,200 feet): 36"+6" new; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 48"+6" new.
Animal Concentrations: No surveys since 334 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a survey on February 2nd. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas. A survey is planned for next week.
Animal Condition: Most animals observed appear to be in good condition with only a few showing signs of decline in body condition. These signs include rough coats or thin appearance.
Mortality: None reported this week.
Public Contacts: A number of inquiries have been received regarding access to the Wildlife Area and shed antler hunting. The public is reminded that the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area is closed to public access through April 30th to minimize disturbance and associated energy demands to animals wintering there.
District 9:
Past Weather: Weather in the south Cascades this past week has been moderate. Some new snow has accumulated above 3500 ft. Temperatures have been normal for this time of the year, and the snow pack is below normal.
Winter Severity: The south facing slopes at the Klickitat Wildlife Area are open and forage habitat is available.
Habitat: Habitat is open and some green up is seen on south facing slopes below 2000 ft and forage habitat has increased for big game.
Animal Concentrations: No unusual concentrations seen due to inclement conditions.
Animal Condition: Animals appear to be in good condition.
Mortality: None documented or reported at this time.
Public Contacts: None received this week.
February 23, 2009
 |
| A fire on the Klickitat Wildlife Area was located about 800 feet lower in elevation, and was about 1/10 acre in size. The fire posed very little risk to resources and by the next day DNR presumed the fire was out. |
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Response
to Fire Report: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven was contacted by Department
of Natural Resources staff regarding a plume of smoke rising from the east side
of the Klickitat River Canyon in T5N R14E S6. Manager VanLeuven assisted with
investigating the fire report and observed the fire from the top of the ridge
between Sheep Canyon and the Klickitat River. The fire was located about 800
feet lower in elevation, to the west, and was about 1/10 acre in size. The fire
posed very little risk to resources and by the next day DNR presumed the fire
was out.
Wind Power: District Biologist Anderson participated in the review and EIS meeting for the proposed Windy 2 wind power project in Klickitat County. Of primary concern with this project is the proximity of this new project to an established golden eagle territory. Jim Watson, with the research division, has provided comprehensive field data on local home range use of the area by the golden eagle pair. It is obvious from his work that additional wind turbines placed in this area will increase the probability of turbine/eagle interactions in the future. Multiple wind turbine facilities are being proposed in Klickitat County and the challenge is to determine what the cumulative impacts will be on wildlife communities once the facilities are in operation.
Colombian white Tailed Deer FLIR: Information was received this week on the results of recent FLIR surveys on the islands of the lower river. Noteworthy were the 30 deer in the Willow Grove area, 6 on Fisher Island, and 110 on Puget Island. Willow Grove/Fisher Island has been the site of previous efforts to relocate CWTD. The Puget Island number is encouraging because the next re-location project will use Puget Island as a source for deer to be transplanted to Cottonwood Island near Kelso. The refuge mainland had very poor numbers and USFWS is discussing strategies to boost that population.
Game Division
Science Goal: Promote development and responsible use of sound and objective
science to inform decision-making
St Helens Elk Study: Region 5 staff Prince, Holman, Calkins, Miller, and Jonker assisted the Deer and Elk Specialist McCorquodale and WDFW Veterinarian Mansfield in the capture and radio collaring of 55 elk in the western portion of the St Helens herd. A total of 55 elk were outfitted with radio collars to help with a new population estimation technique that involves re-sighting the elk in spring surveys. Forty-four cows and 11 bull elk were captured and released alive.
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| Region 5 staff Prince, Holman, Calkins, Miller, and Jonker assisted the Deer and Elk Specialist McCorquodale and WDFW Veterinarian Mansfield in the capture and radio collaring of 55 elk in the western portion of the St Helens herd. | |||
In addition to the radio collar effort, body condition and pregnancy status were documented for females. Some very preliminary observations suggest that cows on the St Helens mudflow that are not pregnant but were lactating (from last year) have a very low body fat percentage. Cows that are not lactating and are pregnant have a very good body condition for this time of year. In the industrial forest areas nearby non-pregnant, lactating females had 1-2 % body fat, which is very poor. The non-lactating, pregnant females had an 8-9 % body fat, which is adequate. This pregnant versus non-pregnant variation may suggest an every other year breeding cycle, which is well documented in the Pacific North West.
Five GPS radio collars were installed in the effort. These collars will provide detailed habitat information by recording locations several times during the day and storing the data in the collar. The data will be retrieved next year by catching the elk again and downloading the information.
Our project would not have been successful without the skill of our pilot, Jess Hagerman, and the efforts of John and Rachael Cook with the body condition and pregnancy examinations.
Winter
Conditions
District 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. The remainder of January was relatively dry with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Temperatures during the first half of February ranged from near record highs to near record lows, but only moderate precipitation fell with moderate snow amounts. The past week has been mild and warm.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for some rain though the week with snow levels ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the mid 30's to mid-40's which is within the normal range.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and above normal precipitation.
The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and above normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on February 19th, show below average temperatures and equal chances of above or below normal precipitation for March. The March-May outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but equal chances of above or below precipitation.
Habitat: Slopes below 2000 feet are mostly snow free, South slopes to higher elevations.
Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 1.3 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 77.1 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 69.0 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 35.6 in. Depth has decreased at all sites over the past week. Snowpack is below average for these locations.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): 10"; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report (closed); Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report (closed); Cougar (2,200 feet): 36"; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 48".
Animal Concentrations: No surveys since 334 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a survey on February 2nd. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: The majority of the animals observed appear to be in good condition, with a few animals that appeared thin and/or have rough pelage. We have not yet seen any animals in an obvious state of physical distress.
Mortality: None reported this week.
Public Contacts: None received this week
District 9:
Past Weather: Weather has been cold at night, but daytime temperatures have been warm and snow is melting at elevations below 5,000 ft. Temperatures for February are above normal and snow pack is well below normal for this time of year.
Winter Severity: The south facing slopes at the Klickitat Wildlife Area continue to be open and forage habitat is available. There is still little concern for the severity of this year's winter conditions in Skamania County and the western portion of Klickitat County. The eastern portions of Klickitat County have had lower snow fall accumulation this winter and deer are reported in good condition.
Habitat: Habitat is open and some green up is seen on south facing slopes and forage habitat has increased for big game.
Animal Concentrations: No unusual concentrations seen due to inclement conditions.
Animal Condition: Animals appear to be in good condition.
Mortality: None documented or reported at this time.
Public Contacts: None received this week.
February 17, 2009
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Shillapoo Wildlife Area: Tree and Shrub Plantings: Wildlife Area
Assistant Manager Hauswald and Technician Fox have been planting trees and shrubs
at several riparian and oak habitat restoration sites within the Shillapoo Wildlife
Area. The effort is funded by Bonneville Power through their wildlife mitigation
program for the dams on the Columbia River. Tree and shrub species being planted
include snowberry, wild rose, red-osier dogwood, western crab apple, Oregon
ash, Oregon white oak, hawthorne, blue elderberry, black cottonwood, and serviceberry.
Diversity Division Wetland Development: Biologist Anderson met with a consultant at Beacon Rock State Park (BRSP) to review plans for evaluation of a wetland enhancement project. The initial steps will be to install piezeometers at the site for one year of ground water monitoring prior to a full site evaluation. The state park has agreed to consider this project in order to increase habitat for the western pond turtle.
Game
Management Division
RMEF Grants: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins has received notice that the Rocky Mountain Elk
Foundation has funded two grants for elk forage enhancement work on the Mt.
St. Helens Wildlife Area. Each grant is in the amount of $5,000. The grant funds
will be used to purchase materials needed to increase production of some of
the existing forage producing areas and to rehabilitate one forage site that
has declined in production. The work will begin this spring and continue through
late fall. Both grants were, in part, possible due to the work of Volunteer
Mike Braaten who has received separate grants from WDFW for similar work that
provided a portion of the funding needed to match the Elk Foundation's investment
in the projects.
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first-time goose hunter with a very nice western Canada goose and a check-station table with the day's harvest from a successful party. |
SW Washington Canada Goose Season Area 2A: The Canada goose hunting season in Area 2A concluded on January 25. The 2008-09 hunt offered average success per hunter among those checking geese at check stations, although overall hunting effort and harvest is considerably higher than that of recent years. Collectively the State-operated hunter check stations located at Vancouver, Ridgefield Marina, Woodland, and Cathlamet, along with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service station at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge reported a total of 1409 hunters having harvested a total of 2826 geese. This makes an average of 2.0 birds per hunter among those who brought geese to the check stations. The total harvest of geese is somewhat higher than the 2007-08 season. However, this number is inflated by the fact that snow and greater white-fronted geese are now included in the tally, where they weren't in years prior.
See photos at right of a first-time goose hunter with a very nice western Canada goose and a check-station table with the day's harvest from a successful party. Those interested in participating in the Area 2A goose hunt during 2009-10 are encouraged to review the special requirements that are detailed in the Waterfowl Hunting Pamphlet. The special seasons in 2A are designed to protect populations of the dusky Canada goose. During the 2008-09 season, the dusky Canada goose made up approximately 1.5% of the total harvest and the federally allocated harvest quota was not reached. This allowed WDFW to continue the season through the scheduled end of the hunt period. Thanks to all the waterfowl hunters for their participation in the complex season.
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| Multiple staff members from the Wildlife Program in Region 5 participated in helicopter safety training this week. |
Training: Multiple staff members from the Wildlife Program in Region 5 participated in helicopter safety training this week. The course covered standard operating procedures for wildlife surveys and for capture efforts. The participants that will be involved in next week*s Mt. St. Helen's elk captures also took part in a field exercise. The field exercise provided staff with the opportunity to practice the proper loading and off-loading techniques when the ship is in a toe-in landing mode. Unconventional landing positions are common in wildlife capture operations and will likely be used in the captures next week. Region 5 would like to thank deer and elk specialist McCorquodale for putting on the training session as well as thank pilot Hagerman for his exceptional piloting skills that are a critical element for these types of techniques.
Winter ConditionsDistrict 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. The remainder of January was relatively dry with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Temperatures during the first half of February ranged from near record highs to near record lows, but only moderate precipitation fell with moderate snow amounts.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for mixed rain and snow though the week, with sun breaks and snow levels ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the low 30's to mid-40*s, which is within the normal range.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and near normal precipitation. The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and near normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No Change. The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on January 15th show below average temperatures and above average precipitation for February. The Feb-April outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but normal precipitation. The Mar-May map shows equal chances of either above or below normal temperature and precipitation.
Habitat: Snowfall amounts at low elevations were minor this week probably not limiting forage availability. Assuming the forecast is correct this should remain true for the near term.
Snow Depths: Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 4.5 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 80.4 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 71.7 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 38.6 in. Depth has increased at all sites over the past week. Snowpack is near average for these locations.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): 10"; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report (closed); Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report (closed); Cougar (2,200 feet): 4' + 6" new snow; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 5'+ 12" new snow.
Animal Concentrations: No surveys since 334 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a survey on February 2nd. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: No new observations. The majority of the animals observed appear to be in good condition, with a few animals that appeared thin and/or had rough pelage. We have not yet seen any animals in an obvious state of physical distress.
Mortality: An individual called inquiring about the date the Wildlife Area would open to the public. He indicated that he had found winterkills above SR 504 in the Margaret GMU. He did not provide a number.
Public Contacts: None received this week
District 9:
Past Weather: Weather changed back to more normal winter conditions with new snow down to 500 ft. Temperatures have been colder but snow pack is well below normal for this time of year.
Winter Severity: No Change. The south facing slopes at the Klickitat Wildlife Area are open and forage habitat is available. There is little concern for the severity of this year's winter conditions in Skamania County and the western portion of Klickitat County. The eastern portions of Klickitat County have had lower snow fall accumulation this winter and deer are in good condition.
Habitat: Habitat is open and some green up is seen on south facing slopes and forage habitat has increased for big game.
Animal Concentrations: No unusual concentrations seen due to inclement conditions. Several deer have been seen crossing state road 141 and this is an indication that conditions have opened up and animals are moving about more freely.
Animal Condition: Animals appear to be in good condition.
Mortality: None documented or reported at this time.
Public Contacts: None received this week.
February 9, 2008
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle: Biologist Anderson completed BPA requirements for
the 2009-2010 western pond turtle contract with Bonneville Power Administration.
This year (starting March 1) we will be working with a budget of $ 89,000 to
implement another year of turtle conservation in the Columbia River Gorge.
Sandhill Cranes: Biologist Anderson completed sandhill crane nesting and banding protocol documents. These reports outline the protocol used for monitoring the sandhill crane population in Klickitat County.
Peregrine Falcon: Biologist Prince and District Biologist Miller evaluated a cliff along the Columbia River in order to make recommendations to a local timber company for management of a peregrine falcon site this week. Although fog did not allow for a clear view of the cliff, one falcon was seen and calls were heard while observing the site. A little up the river another site was confirmed. Toward the end of last nesting season, a falcon was heard at the cliff, but no birds were seen. This week, two birds were seen at the cliff and they were displaying territorial behavior. A GPS point was taken and the information will be entered into the database for long-term monitoring. Additional visits to the first site will be made during this nesting season to confirm nesting activity.
Game Division
Mt. St. Helens Monthly Elk Count: Biologist Prince conducted the fourth
mudflow elk count of the winter this week. Three hundred and thirty-four elk
were seen on the mudflow during the count. The mudflow was almost entirely free
of snow and forage is still available. The count of 334 if still below the approximately
400 animal carrying capacity, and winter conditions have remained mild. The
next count will take place at the beginning of next month, unless a drastic
change in conditions warrants a second count in February.
Mt. St. Helens Elk study: A meeting of the State Deer and Elk Specialist and Region 5 staff was held this week to finalize details of an upcoming capture of elk in the St Helens herd. Radio collars will be installed on numerous elk in 5 Game Management Units in February to facilitate a mark/re-sight population estimate program. Aircraft safety training is scheduled and surveys for resighting have been scheduled for March. Some of the collars will be GPS collars that record the animals* location and will produce fine-grained data on habitat use and movements. At the time of capture, body condition information will be gathered to help biologists understand elk health in the St Helens herd.
Elk Hoof Rot project: Plans are being finalized to collect elk in Region 5 to determine the cause of the hoof rot that is being observed in elk, particularly in Cowlitz and Lewis Counties. WDFW will work with landowners experiencing damage to collect and necropsy elk for pathology examination by WSU vet school. WDFW staff veterinarian and vet tech will be assisting as well as Law Enforcement officers and biologists.
Winter Conditions
District 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. We have seen relatively dry conditions since with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Rivers are back to normal flows.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for mixed rain and snow though the week, with snow levels ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the high 20's to mid-40s, which is a bit cool but close to the normal range.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and below normal precipitation. The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for below normal temperatures and below normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No Change. The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on January 15th show below average temperatures and above average precipitation for February. The Feb-April outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but normal precipitation. The Mar-May map shows equal chances of either above or below normal temperature and precipitation.
Habitat: Areas below 2500 feet are currently snow free, which may change in the week ahead. The western end of the wildlife area was visited this week to begin tree grass planting near the river. A surprising amount of green forage remains available on the site. It also appeared that the recent warmer weather may have allowed some growth by grasses. There is also a lot of matted grass covering much of the green material due to the heavy snows early in the winter. This should not limit forage availability and may act as mulch keeping the soil warmer creating better growing conditions as spring approaches.
Snow Depths: Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 4.0 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 69.6 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 64.9 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 35.8 in. Depth has decreased at all sites over the past week. Snowpack is near average for these locations.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): No report; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report; Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report; Cougar (2,200 feet): 4' + 3" new snow; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet 5'+ 5" new snow.
Animal Concentrations: 334 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a survey on February 2nd. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: The majority of the animals observed appear to be in good condition, with a few animals that appeared thin and/or had rough pelage. We have not yet seen any animals in an obvious state of physical distress.
Mortality: None reported.
Public Contacts: Program Manager Jonker was contacted by the owner of EcoPark resort on SR 504 with concerns about apparent disease in elk he is feeding on the property. Disease spread due to concentrating animals has always been a concern of WDFW with regard to feeding big game animals and one of the reasons we discourage the practice by private individuals.
District 9:
Past Weather: Weather has continued to moderate and snow is melting at elevations below 5000 ft. Temperatures are above normal and snow pack is below normal.
Winter Severity: The south facing slopes at the Klickitat Wildlife Area are open and forage habitat is available. There is little concern for the severity of this year's winter conditions in Skamania County and the western portion of Klickitat County. The eastern portions of Klickitat County have had lower snow fall accumulation this winter and deer are in good condition.
Habitat: Habitat is open and some green up is seen on south facing slopes and forage habitat has increased for big game.
Animal Concentrations: No unusual concentrations seen due to inclement conditions.
Animal Condition: Animals appear to be in good condition.
Mortality: None documented or reported at this time.
Public Contacts: None received this week.
February 2, 2009
Region
5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Enforcement activities: Manager VanLeuven received
a call from a Klickitat Wildlife Area neighbor who heard rifle shots near his
house and thought it came from KWA property. The neighbor provided the license
number to Manager VanLeuven who notified Officer Vance. WDFW Law Enforcement
officers met the vehicle on Highway 142 and documented illegal take. Manager
VanLeueven and Law Enforcement Officers appreciate the KWA neighbor's initiative
in helping WDFW.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Priority Habitats and Species Updates: Regional PHS Biologist Labbe facilitated
a mapping update and information gathering session for Clark, Skamania, and
Klickitat Counties. Wildlife Area Managers Calkins and VanLeuven along with
Biologist Holman represented the Wildlife Program during the all-day session.
Fish and Wildlife Officers Meyers, Hart, Vance, and Bolton participated as well.
Additionally, local Staff from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest
Service, Department of Natural Resources, and the Columbia Land Trust participated
in the effort. Good progress was made during the effort to identify, shrub-steppe,
riparian zones, important waterfowl areas, oak habitat, western pond turtle
habitat, deer winter range, non-forested balds, aspen stands, westside prairie,
etc.
Western Pond Turtle: Biologists Anderson and Holman completed the final annual report to Bonneville Power Administration for western pond turtle project activities during 2007 and 2008. Biologist Anderson also started developing the budget and proposal for the next contract year - 2009-2010. In addition, Endangered Species Coordinator Allen, Program Manager Jonker, and Biologist Anderson submitted a proposal to BPA for continuation of the Western Pond Turtle project for 2010-2018 funding.
Peregrine Falcon: Biologist Prince made a site visit this week to a Peregrine Falcon site along the Columbia River in Wahkiakum County. The visit was to assess the conditions surrounding the site and provide the landowner with mitigation recommendations for an upcoming timber cutting. The fog prevented the cliff from being seen, but later visits by land or from the river in the spring will determine if the site is active and what type of protections it will need to stay viable.
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| A luncheon was held to thank all who participated in the St. Helens Land Access Program. |
Game
Management Division
St. Helens Land Access Program: A luncheon was held to thank all who
participated in the St. Helens Land Access Program, which is a cooperative effort
between WDFW, Weyerhaeuser, and several volunteer organizations to facilitate
additional motorized access to the northern portion of the St. Helens Tree Farm
during special elk permit seasons. Wildlife Program Manager Jonker provided
a summary presentation of this year's program and then opened the floor to a
productive discussion including program highlights, insights, questions, suggestions,
and ideas to improve the program. We would like to thank all the volunteers,
Weyerhaeuser staff, and WDFW staff for making this another safe and successful
year. Representative Ed Orcutt joined the luncheon and thanked everyone for
all their hard work.
Winter Conditions
District 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage and causing some erosion of forage areas on the Wildlife Area. We have seen dry conditions since with moderate to cool temperatures and only minor snow amounts. Rivers are back to normal flows.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for seasonable conditions through the end of next week, including some snowfall in relatively minor amounts primarily above 2500 feet. Moderate levels of precipitation mixed with clear skies are expected with snow levels ranging from below 1,500 to above 6,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the low 30's to the low-50's, which is near average.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and near normal precipitation. The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and near normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No Change. The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on January 15th show below average temperatures and above average precipitation for February. The Feb-April outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but normal precipitation. The Mar-May map shows equal chances of either above or below normal temperature and precipitation.
Habitat: No observations on the Wildlife Area this week. Based on an observation on 01/23, there is still forage available on the wildlife area. Although some snow fell this week, the amounts were minor.
Snow Depths: Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 7.9 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 73.0 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 67.9 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 17.7in. Depth has increased at the first three sites but decreased at the Pepper Creek location by about 18 inches.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): No report; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report; Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report; Cougar (2,200 feet): 4' + 3" new snow; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet 5'+ 6" new snow.
Animal Concentrations: No formal surveys since 270 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a count on 01/09. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas. A survey on the Wildlife Area is planned for next week.
Animal Condition: While on the Wildlife Area on 01/23, the majority of the animals observed appeared to be in good condition, with a few animals that appeared thin and/or had rough pelage.
Mortality: None reported.
Public Contacts: No new contacts to report.
District 9:
Past Weather: The high temperature was 42o; the low temperature was -7o. Approximately 2 inches of snow fell early in the week. By Thursday most of the new snow had melted away.
Snow Depth: South-facing hillsides are free of snow on the Klickitat Wildlife Area and most other areas have patches of snow interspersed with bare ground. Average maximum snow depth is 4 inches; many areas have thinner snow cover. The remaining snow has become quite dense, but does not have a crust.
Habitat: Approximately three fourths of the forage is now exposed as the snow has been melting on the Wildlife Area. South Cascades snow pack melting below 3500'.
Animal Concentrations: None observed. However, more road kills are being seen as animals move about more freely.
Animal Condition: Appear in good condition.
Mortality: Roadkill only on Highway 141.
Public Contacts: Received a report of shooting on the Klickitat Wildlife Area. WDFW Law Enforcement officers were notified and responded to the incident.
January 26, 2009
Region
5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Range Plant Survey: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven
met with Jim Hill of Natural Resource Conservation Service to discuss implementation
of a range plant survey project. This project is funded by a grant from the
Coordinated Range Management program. The plan is to collect a new set of data
at transects that were established in 1952 as part of a statewide range survey.
This will give local information on long-term range trends. Trend information
should be useful to range managers in Klickitat County. The Central Klickitat
District of the Natural Resource Conservation Service will lead the project,
and will be assisted by WDFW. Another meeting will be held next week to determine
staffing and training needs.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologists Anderson and Holman collaborated
to write a summary of activities related to the management of western pond turtles
in the Columbia River Gorge for 2007 and 2008. The report details work activities
associated with Bonneville Power Administration funding during the time span.
The paper documents Head-Starting efforts, population augmentations, habitat
enhancements, population monitoring efforts, etc. Two highlights from the two-year
span include the reintroduction of western pond turtle juveniles into a fourth
location in the Gorge and the release of the 1000th head-started juvenile. In
addition, Biologist Anderson is initiating the scope of work and budget for
next year*s funded western pond turtle project.
Game
Management Division
Hoof Rot: Biologist Prince sent five legs from three different elk to
the Washington Animal Diagnostics Lab in Pullman this week. Three of the legs
shipped had deformed hoofs and were showing obvious signs of hoof rot. Biologist
Prince also did some "scouting" in western Lewis County for the upcoming
hoof rot study. Two different groups of elk were seen; one numbering over forty
and the other had just seven animals. Both groups contained multiple limping
animals. Healthy groups of animals are also needed for the study to serve as
controls; so further "scouting" will be required in the surrounding
area.
Winter Conditions
District 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades; raising some streams above flood stage. We have seen dry conditions since with moderate temperatures and continued snowmelt. Rivers continue to recede slowly.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for seasonable conditions through the end of next week, including a cold snap over the weekend through Monday. Moderate levels of precipitation mixed with clear skies are expected with snow levels ranging from below 1000 to above 4,000 feet. Temperatures should range from the low 20's to mid-50's, which is a below average.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and near normal precipitation. The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for near normal temperatures and above normal precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No Change. The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on January 15th show below average temperatures and above average precipitation for February. The Feb-April outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but normal precipitation. The Mar-May map shows equal chances of either above or below normal temperature and precipitation.
Habitat: The Wildlife Area is snow free except for small patches where drifts had been deeper in early January. Based on observations on 01/23, there is still forage available on the Wildlife Area. North facing slopes are generally snow free to 2000 feet and south facing slopes to as high as 3000 feet.
A general assessment of flood damage was conducted this week on-site. Recent flooding caused erosion along most of the edge of the mudflow causing some additional forage habitat losses. In some localized areas the river cut in as much as 50 feet.
Snow Depths: Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 0.3 in.; June Lake (3,340 feet): 67.6 in.; Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 61.5 in.; Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 35.1. Depth has decreased at all these sites over the past week.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): No report; Johnson Creek (2400 ft): No report; Wakepish (2,800 feet): No report; Cougar (2,200 feet): 4' according to 1/23 report; Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 5+' according to 1/23 report.
Animal Concentrations: No formal surveys since 270 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a count on 01/09. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: While on the Wildlife Area on 01/23, the majority of the animals observed appeared to be in good condition, with a few animals that appeared thin and/or had rough pelage.
Mortality: None reported.
Public Contacts: No new contacts to report.
District 9:
Past Weather: Very dry and warm weather through the first half of December, followed by roughly two-weeks of unseasonably cold and snowy weather during the second half of December. Moderated conditions through January - cool days, cold nights, very dry.
Short-term forecast: Return to warmer, wetter weather that may bring minor snowfall to southwest Cascades
Snow Depth: Snow depth in the southwestern Cascades has moderated from 4-5 feet following the December storms to 2-3 feet following significant warm rainfall and some flooding. At lower elevations (below 1000'), most areas are now snow-free. The Klickitat Wildlife Area has lost most of its snow and conditions are favorable.
Habitat: Still primarily snow-covered above 1500'.
Animal Concentrations: Both elk and deer concentrated at lower-elevation portions of their range.
Animal Condition: Weakened deer have begun to succumb; elk likely still have reserves available. No reports from Klickitat Wildlife Area of animals in poor condition.
Mortality: No additional mortalities reported this week.
Public Contacts: No additional contacts this week.
January 19, 2009
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Wetland Project: NAWCA Grant - Biologist Anderson met with Columbia Land
Trust and members of the Bonaham family to discuss conservation projects in
the Panakanic Valley of Klickitat County. The Bonaham's own approximately 250
acres of prime wetland and upland meadows currently being used by sandhill cranes.
The goal of the meeting was to discuss future family desires for management
of the land and to include conservation as part of their plan. The family is
open to potential conservation easements for development rights and would consider
habitat improvement for nesting sandhill cranes.
Columbian White-tailed Deer: Biologist Prince assisted with DNA collection from Columbian White-tailed deer on Julia Butler Hansen Refuge this week. Darts specially designed to collect these samples were used. The dart hits the animal and then bounces off with a small sample of tissue lodged in the tip of the dart. The samples are being collected as part of an effort to determine how similar the JBH deer are to the Roseburg, OR population and to also determine if any breeding between black-tailed deer and the Columbian white-tails takes place.
Flood Impacts to CWTD: USFWS report that most of the CWTD have left the JBH refuge in Cathlamet. In a recent survey, only 3 deer were observed. Groups of deer have been observed off refuge to the north. In the 1996 flood the deer left the refuge and did not come back after the waters receded. Biologist will continue survey efforts to monitor the return of the deer as the refuge dries out.
Camera Surveys: District Wildlife Biologist Miller assisted refuge personnel to establish camera-monitoring stations on the islands in the Columbia River this week. The cameras aid in the population survey effort to identify subspecies of deer on the islands when FLIR surveys are flown.
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| Post-season
Buck to Doe Ratio Click image to enlarge |
Game
Management Division
Region 5 Post-Season Deer Surveys: Biologist Holman compiled the results
of post-season deer surveys conducted in GMU 388 (Grayback) and 382 (East Klickitat).
During the effort a total of just over 700 deer were classified with a combination
of aerial and ground surveys employed. Please see the graph at right summarizing
the post-season deer survey results from 2003 through 2008 in these two important
Region 5 GMUs. Note that although located in Region 5, and containing mule and
black-tailed deer as well as hybrid animals, GMU 388 is now managed as a mule-deer
area. A three-point or larger antler restriction for all user-groups was implemented
in 2006 and the general rifle season was shortened to 14 days. During the period
spanning 2003 through 2005, Grayback was hunted under a more liberal two-point
restriction and offered a longer general rifle season. Post-season buck to doe
ratios under prior management strategy averaged just 8 bucks per 100 does annually.
The survey indicates that this change in management strategy has resulted in
improved post-hunting-season escapement of bucks in GMU 388. WDFW will continue
to monitor the post-season deer population in GMUs 388 and 382 in future years.
Hoof Rot Study: Biologist Prince picked up four legs from two different elk from Law Enforcement this week. The legs were put into the freezer and will be sent to the lab for analysis next week. A WDFW LE officer dispatched one of the cows because the animal was very emaciated and not able to stand; the hoofs were deformed and showed signs of hoof rot. The other cow was harvested in a Wildwood damage hunt. The elk was observed limping, but the hoofs do not show any obvious signs of disease. Region 5 will begin its formal hoof rot study in March.
Winter Conditions
District 10, including Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area:
Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages. For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have since moderated. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred during the first part of January causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades raising some streams above flood stage. We have seen dry conditions since with moderate temperatures and continued snowmelt. Rivers continue to recede slowly. Temperature inversions over the past week have resulted in warmer conditions at higher elevations than in the lower lying valleys.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for continued dry conditions through the middle of next week. There is some chance of precipitation beginning Wednesday or Thursday with snow levels above 4,000 feet. Valley temperatures should range from the low 30's to near 50, which is near the normal condition for the time period.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for below average temperatures and below average precipitation. The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for below average temperatures and below average precipitation.
Long-term forecast: The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps issued on January 15th, show below average temperatures and above average precipitation for February. The Feb-April outlook map also suggests below average temperatures but normal precipitation. The Mar-May map shows equal chances of either above or below normal temperature and precipitation.
Habitat: No new direct observations on the wildlife area this week. The site should be snow free now. Due to conflicts with other work we have been unable to assess any flood damage on the ground this week. The Toutle has continued to recede and is reaching near normal levels for this time of year at the Tower Rd. gauge.
Snow Depths: Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 6.8 in., June Lake (3,340 feet): 69.7 in., Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 66.3 in., Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 35.4 in. Depth has decreased at all these sites over the past week.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): 24' on 1/12, Johnson Creek (2400 ft): unknown on 1/12, Wakepish (2,800 feet): unknown due to inaccessibility, Cougar (2,200 feet) 5+' according to 1/13 report, Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): 7+' according to 1/13 report.
Animal Concentrations: No surveys since 270 elk were observed on the wildlife area during a count on 01/09, which continues to be at a much lower level than we have seen in recent years. No reports of unusual concentrations of animals have been received in other areas.
Animal Condition: With the exception of the animal noted below, animals that we have been able to observe closely appear to be in good health. No obvious outward signs of physical decline have been noted.
Mortality: To date we have not seen any winter kill animals and have not yet received any reports from members of the public or other sources. Law Enforcement did dispatch an elk near the wildlife area on private property that was in poor condition and appeared to be have symptoms of hoof rot.
Public Contacts: Responded to an information request from Representative Orcutt.
District 9:
Past Weather: Very dry and warm weather through the first half of December, followed by roughly two-weeks of unseasonably cold and snowy weather during the second half of December.
Short-term forecast: Extended period of warm, moderate weather. Highs are forecasted for 50+ degrees with lows above freezing. Little precipitation in forecast.
Snow Depth: Snow depth in the southwestern Cascades has moderated from 4-5 feet following the December storms to 2-3 feet following significant warm rainfall and some flooding. At lower elevations (below 1000'), most areas are now snow-free. The Klickitat Wildlife Area has lost most of its snow and conditions are favorable.
Habitat: Still primarily snow-covered above 1500'.
Animal Concentrations: Both elk and deer concentrated at lower-elevation portions of their range.
Animal Condition: Weakened deer have begun to succumb; elk likely still have reserves available. No reports from Klickitat Wildlife Area of animals in poor condition.
Mortality: One report of a dead fawn and one report of a dead elk calf. No mortality reports at the Klickitat Wildlife Area.
Public Contacts: No additional contacts this week.
January 12, 2009
Region
5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area: Winter Monitoring: Biologists Miller and
Prince conducted an additional count of elk on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
on January 9th to assess the situation after the weather events. 270 elk were
observed on the Wildlife Area, which continues to be at a much lower level than
we have seen in recent years. Small groups of elk were also observed along the
SR 504 corridor. The attached photos illustrate the different conditions.
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| An elk count was conducted to assess the situation after the recent weather events. These photos illustrate the different conditions. | |||
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| Shillapoo
Wildlife Area-South Unit -
Unlawfully Baited Field Click image to enlarge |
Shillapoo Wildlife Area: Unlawfully Baited Field: Assistant Manager Hauswald noticed a cornfield early in the week in which an unknown party had purposely knocked down over 5,000 square feet of standing corn and scattered some of the corn to the center of the field. After notifying Law Enforcement of the situation, Officer Hart concurred that the field is considered baited due to the unlawful scattering of corn to attract waterfowl. The field was posted "NO HUNTING IN THIS FIELD DUE TO SCATTERING OF BAIT--UNLAWFULLY BAITED AREA*, and will remain closed until all the scattered corn is gone.
Cowlitz Wildlife Area: Spears Mill Pond Recharge Project: The millpond on the Spears Unit has been losing water due to evapotranspiration for quite some time. This millpond provides deep-water habitat for wintering waterfowl and is the main reason this property was purchased. Historically, the mill maintained water levels by drafting from nearby Siler Creek. The infrastructure is still evident so it was believed that a water right existed. Lands agent Chuck Leidy was put to task to research whether a water right existed and it was established that a surface water right is in effect as is a storage / impoundment permit. AHB Scott Brummer was contacted to determine what provisions needed to be put in place to protect fish while exercising the water right to recharge the millpond. For administrative purposes, a JARPA was completed and submitted to Scott Brummer. We will begin working on this project as soon as weather allows us to access the site.
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| Snow accumulations at the Wildlife Area and the headquarters building. |
Snow Accumulations: The winter storm deposited quite the snow accumulations at the Wildlife Area and the headquarters building lost a gutter and had a broken water line.
Tacoma Recreational Information: Tacoma Power updates lake levels and other recreation information on its toll-free Fishing and Recreation Line every weekday at 1-888-502-8690.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Flooding
Impacts Colombian White tailed deer (CWTD): The lowland flooding this week is
causing serious problems for the CWTD at Cathlamet. Water crossing the Highway
inundated the Refuge and the deer were forced to stay long the dikes and roadways.
In prior floods of this magnitude, deer starved to death and were hit by cars
on SR 4. The USFWS has worked with Wahkiakum County to close the road along
the Elochoman River to reduce stress on the deer. As of Friday, 1 fawn was hit
and killed on SR 4. Refuge personnel are distributing supplemental feed in hopes
the deer will utilize it. The floodwaters will drain out via a system of ditches
and tide gates. WDFW biologists will be working closely with the USFWS on this
situation.
Mid Winter Waterfowl: Biologist Anderson completed the mid winter waterfowl survey from Bonneville Dam to the John Day Dam. Difficult weather conditions early in the week made surveying slower than normal. Final count results have not been completed but it appears that large numbers of waterfowl were using the Columbia River this year.
Biologist Holman completed the mid-winter waterfowl survey from the mouth of the Washougal River, up the Columbia to Bonneville dam. The results of the survey tallied: 1,833 ducks (primarily scaup on the Columbia River), 247 Canada geese (mostly westerns), and 113 tundra swans. This year's survey included nearly identical numbers of ducks but fewer geese as compared to the 2008 survey. Those interested in viewing the tundra swans on Franz Lake can expect to find the birds as they have regularly been using this habitat recently and 82 individuals were identified there during the survey. Additional species present at Franz Lake included canvasbacks, mallards, ring-necked ducks, goldeneyes, and buffleheads.
Biologist Prince conducted mid-winter waterfowl surveys in western Lewis County this week. Most routes were completed; however, recent flooding events are causing a few to be postponed until the weekend. There is plenty of water available for waterfowl right now, but the earlier cold weather may have caused an earlier than normal continuation south for the birds. Some routes have a lot of available water, but bird numbers seem to be lower than in the past. One spot of interest is the pond at the water treatment plant in Centralia, off of Goodrich Rd; over a thousand widgeon, 200 pintails, and trumpeter swans were seen there.
Winter
Conditions
District 10, including
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area: Past Weather: Weather conditions in November
and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December
that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures
and near record snowfall in some areas. Snow depths varied between drainages.
For example, snow depths in the Lewis drainage were much deeper than in the
adjacent Toutle watershed. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions
have begun to moderate. Warm temperatures and heavy rains occurred over the
past week, causing rapid snow melt in the South Cascades and raising some streams
above flood stage.
Short-term forecast: Forecast for the South Washington Cascades is for some rain over the weekend with snow levels ranging from 2000 to 6000 feet. Little precipitation is expected next week. Valley temperatures should range from the low 30's to near 50.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for above average temperatures and below average precipitation. The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for above average temperatures and below average precipitation.
Long-term forecast: No Change. The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps show equal chances of either above or below average temperatures and precipitation for January. The Jan-Mar and Feb-Apr. maps indicate a heightened chance of below average temperatures throughout the state but equal chances of either above or below average precipitation.
Habitat: Only patches of snow remain at the east end of the Wildlife Area and during the survey this week it was apparent that forage still remained on the mudflow and most elk observed were feeding at the time.
There was only a skiff of snow at 2500 feet, which would not preclude access to forage. Areas below that elevation are predominantly snow free.
Although the recent flood event has caused erosion concerns again, it appears that the impact may be relatively minor even though the flows have not yet returned to normal levels. We will have a better idea of the full impact next week when the river settles down.
Snow Depths: Snowtel Sites: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 11.2 in., June Lake (3,340 feet): 74.6 in., Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 72.6 in., Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 39.6 in. Depth has decreased at all these sites over the past week.
Snow Parks: Skate Creek (1,500 feet): 24' on 1/5, Johnson Creek (2400 ft): inaccessible on 1/5, Wakepish (2,800 feet): unknown due to inaccessibility, Cougar (2,200 feet) unknown due to inaccessibility, Marble Mountain (2,700 feet): unknown due to inaccessibility.
Animal Concentrations: 270 elk were observed on the Wildlife Area during a count on January 09, which continues to be at a much lower level than we have seen in recent years. Small groups of elk were also observed along the SR 504 corridor.
Animal Condition: Animals that we have been able to observe closely appear to be in good health. No obvious outward signs of physical decline have been noted.
Mortality: To date we have not seen any winter kill animals and have not yet received any reports from members of the public or other sources.
Public Contacts: We have spoken with the individual leading the private feeding effort near Swift Reservoir. He indicated that he was going to continue. Longview Daily News and The Columbian both printed stories about the current status of winter conditions, elk, and the emergency winter-feeding decision process based on our past reports and staff interviews.
Winter
Conditions
District 9: Past Weather:
Very dry and warm weather through the first half of December, followed by roughly
two-weeks of unseasonably cold and snowy weather during the second half of December.
Short-term forecast: Extended period of warm, moderate weather. Highs are forecasted for 50+ degrees with lows above freezing. Little precipitation in forecast.
Snow Depth: Snow depth in the southwestern Cascades has moderated from 4-5 feet following the December storms to 2-3 feet following significant warm rainfall and some flooding. At lower elevations (below 1000'), most areas are now snow-free. The Klickitat Wildlife Area has lost most of its snow and conditions are favorable.
Habitat: Still primarily snow-covered above 1500'.
Animal Concentrations: Both elk and deer concentrated at lower-elevation portions of their range.
Animal Condition: Weakened deer have begun to succumb; elk likely still have reserves available. No reports from Klickitat Wildlife Area of animals in poor condition.
Mortality: Four reports of deer mortalities; two post-rut bucks and two hairloss fawns. No mortality reports at the Klickitat Wildlife Area.
Public Contacts: Several members of the public have contacted us regarding concentrations of elk and the previously noted deer mortalities.
January 5, 2009
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| The western portion of the mudflow (at left) was almost snow free at the time of the survey but snow covered most of the eastern portion of the site (at right). | |
Region
5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area: Winter Elk Count: Wildlife Area Manager
Calkins and Assistant Manager Hauswald conducted a count of elk on the Mt. St.
Helens Wildlife Area on December 30th and assessed winter range conditions in
the vicinity. Weather conditions were ideal and a total of 282 elk were observed
on the Wildlife Area during the survey from the Weyerhaeuser Forest Learning
Center. The western portion of the mudflow was almost snow free at the time
of the survey but snow covered most of the eastern portion of the site. The
photos illustrate the different conditions. A brief visit to the western portion
of the wildlife area revealed that there is still natural forage available on
the ground and elk that were observed at close range appeared to be in good
condition. South facing slopes above the Wildlife Area and to the west also
had forage available and many open areas were almost snow free up to about 1500
feet in elevation. Snow depth above this point was variable due to drifting
and melting conditions. Some locations had up to one foot of snow cover up to
about 2500 feet but some patches were only covered with 1-2 inches of snow that
had fallen the night before. Small groups of elk were seen resting or feeding
along the Highway 504 corridor from Silver Lake up to about the 2000 foot elevation
and these animals also appeared to be in good condition.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Western Gray Squirrels: Biologist Anderson initiated contacts in the
Underwood area of Skamania for future western gray squirrel surveys. This particular
area has not been formally surveyed for several years and it is unclear as to
the current distribution of this state threatened species in this area. Of specific
concern is the increase in the eastern gray squirrel population in this area
and how the two species are currently overlapping in available habitat. The
USFS has agreed to fund a portion of the surveys due to development concerns
in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Game
Management Division
Region 5 Post-Season Deer Surveys: Biologist Holman and Klickitat Wildlife
Area Manager VanLeuven conducted an aerial survey of the post-hunting season
deer herd in GMU 388 (Grayback). The survey conditions were good with relatively
clear skies, little wind and a largely snow-covered backdrop for the effort.
Initial results appear promising and a summary of this-year's post-season deer
surveys in the Grayback and East Klickitat Game Management Units will be the
topic of a future weekly report.
SW Washington Canada Goose Season Area 2a: The Canada goose hunting season in Area 2A continues. Through the end of December, the hunt has offered average success per hunter among those checking geese at check stations, though overall hunting effort and harvest is considerably higher than that of recent years. Collectively the State-operated hunter check stations located at Vancouver, Ridgefield Marina, Woodland, and Cathlamet, along with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service station at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge reported a total of 998 hunters having harvested a total of 2034 geese. This makes an average of 2.0 birds per hunter among those who brought geese to the check stations. The total harvest of geese is nearly double the sum for this time-period in 2007. However, this number is somewhat inflated by the fact that snow and greater white-fronted geese are now included in the tally where they weren't in years prior.
Goose season continues on the 3-days per week schedule (Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday) until January 25th 2009. Those interested in participating in the Area 2A goose hunt are encouraged to review the special requirements that are detailed in the Waterfowl Hunting Pamphlet. The special seasons in 2A are designed to protect populations of the dusky Canada goose.
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| Region
Five Deer Productivity Survey Results 1995-2008 |
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| Region
Five Estimated Fawn:Doe Ratio 1995-08 - W 90% C.I. Click chart for enlargement |
Region 5 Deer Herd Composition Surveys: Biologist Holman compiled the black-tail and mule deer herd composition surveys that have been completed in Region 5 during 2008. The surveys are conducted annually during the period beginning August 15 and continuing through September 30th. These data are used to estimate the annual ratio of fawns to does throughout the Region. This productivity data is then used as one of the inputs into the Region's Sex - Age - Kill method of population estimation. The 2008 effort involved the classification of 750 deer and resulted in a fawn to doe ratio of 36:100. The 2008 ratio of 36 fawns per 100 does represents a return to poor productivity in Region 5, following the difficult winter of 2007-08.
Wildlife Program Staff along with volunteers actively conducted surveys as well as documenting any deer seen during other work (or play) activities during this time period. Thanks to all those that helped out with the deer surveys, especially the members of the Yacolt Burn Sportsman's Club and employees and contractors for SDS, ORM, and Sierra Pacific timber companies, as well as U.S. Forest Service Staff. Please see the attached figure detailing the fawn to doe ratio and number of deer included in the effort from 1995-2008.
Winter Conditions Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area: Past Weather: Weather conditions in November and early December were extremely mild and warm. It was not until mid-December that we experienced our first winter storms, which resulted in very cold temperatures and near record snowfall. The series of storms lasted over a week but conditions have begun to moderate. As of December 30, snow had melted off most of the western portion of the Wildlife Area and patches of ground on the east end were almost snow free. Additional melting followed by snow has occurred since that time.
Short-term forecast: Temperatures over the next week are expected to range from the high 20's to low 40's. Rain (or snow) is expected throughout the forecast but probably at moderate levels. Snow levels will range from below 1,000 up to 6,000 feet.
The 6-10 day outlook for Washington is for above average temperatures and above average precipitation. The 8-14 day outlook for Washington is for above average temperatures and below average precipitation.
Long-term forecast: The National Weather Service long-range outlook maps show equal chances of either above or below average temperatures and precipitation for January. The Jan-Mar and Feb-Apr. maps indicate a heightened chance of below average temperatures throughout the state but equal chances of either above or below average precipitation.
Habitat: Based on an observation on December 30 near the western end of the wildlife area, there is still a considerable amount of herbaceous forage on the mudflow. This may be attributable to the low numbers of elk on the site during the fall period and the recent snow cover. To avoid disturbing the herd we did not venture far enough into the site to evaluate use of browse type forage, however; usage rates of these plants can presumed to be high during the recent snow event.
Open south slopes below 1500 feet were almost snow free and similar conditions also existed within some conifer stands. Habitat condition within a portion of the commercial forests where thinning has occurred within the past few years is improving. The increased light penetration has allowed natural understory plants that produce forage to reestablish.
Some minor erosion of winter forage area has occurred again this year, however; is at least partially offset by two forage enhancement projects that were completed in the fall. Our greatest concern with erosion at this time is that the only road on the wildlife area is now directly threatened in the middle of its length. Should the roadway be impacted, it would limit or preclude our ability to do any work at the east end of the Wildlife Area.
Snow Depths: Spirit Lake (3,120 feet): 21.4 in., June Lake (3,340 feet): 92.8 in., Sheep Canyon (4,030 feet): 80.9 in., Pepper Creek (2,140 feet): 50.7 in.
Animal Concentrations: Two counts of elk on the site have occurred to date. Thirty-three elk were observed on 12/08 and 282 were present on 12/30. Small groups of elk were observed in forest lands above the Wildlife Area and also along the SR 504 corridor from Silver Lake to the 2,000 foot elevation marker.
Animal Condition: Animals that we have been able to observe closely appear to be in good health. No obvious outward signs of physical decline were noted.
Mortality: To date we have not seen any winter kill animals and have not yet received any reports from members of the public or other sources.
Public Contacts: We have heard from both parties that sponsored private winter-feeding operations in the Mt. St. Helens vicinity last year who were concerned with the conditions last month. Based on these conversations we believe that both are feeding elk again (off of SR 504 and in the vicinity of Swift Reservoir). Inquiries as to the current status have also been received from Representative Orcutt and the Longview Daily News.
December 29, 2008
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| Manager VanLeuven continues clearing snow accumulation at the KWA headquarters to keep it open for public access. | |
Region
5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area Snow: Manager VanLeuven continues clearing snow
accumulation at the KWA headquarters to keep it open for public access.
Wildlife
Diversity Division
Wetland Enhancement: Biologist Anderson met with the Underwood Conservation
District to discuss potential wetland enhancement projects in Klickitat County.
This effort is enhanced by the current proposal being submitted to NAWCA for
additional wetland and oak habitat work in the Columbia River Gorge. WDFW and
the Underwood Conservation District are focusing current efforts in the Rattlesnake
Creek drainage, which has a variety of special wildlife species including nesting
sandhill crane habitat.
Game
Management Division
Winter Conditions: The Columbia River Gorge has recently experienced
high snow accumulations especially at lower elevations down to sea level. Deer
have been seen in small groups foraging on exposed shrubs. Elk are scarce and
few are visible as most are probably in deep cover. Currently snow is light
and with colder weather, deer appear to be able to travel easily with little
ice or crust built up above ground level.
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