MDC to seek elusive answers about ruffed grouse

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A public-private partnership will determine the practicality of once again restocking grouse.

JEFFERSON CITY–Jason Isabelle wants to know if the ruffed grouse has a future in Missouri. The Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation (QUWF) wants to help Isabelle answer that question, and other states are watching.

Isabelle’s duties as a resource scientist for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) include studying ruffed grouse, handsome, forest-dwelling birds three or four times the size of a bobwhite quail. He inherited the duty from a line of biologists going back to the early 1940s, when MDC launched its first grouse-restoration effort.

Those efforts, which ended in the mid-1990s, transplanted more than 4,000 grouse from other Midwestern states to the best available habitat in Missouri. Most of the birds went to the central Ozarks, north-central and east-central Missouri.

Ruffed grouse persist in very small numbers in a few of the original restoration areas, including an area known as the River Hills Conservation Opportunity Area in Callaway, Montgomery and Warren counties. However, grouse numbers have dwindled to the point where the Conservation Commission closed the ruffed-grouse hunting season last year based on a recommendation from MDC biologists. The most likely cause of their decline is inadequate habitat.

“Ruffed grouse need a mosaic of old and young forests to prosper,” said Isabelle. “They need areas where timber harvests or storms have removed or killed all the trees, creating early-successional forest habitat. They just can’t survive without scattered areas of disturbance in a larger forest setting. Over the course of the last several decades, the amount of young forest habitat has declined substantially throughout the southern portion of the ruffed grouse’s range.”

That accounts for the relative abundance of grouse that existed in Missouri in the early 1800s. Although Missouri is at the southwestern edge of the species’ natural range, early settlers cut down trees for fuel and building material, creating a patchwork of clear cuts, young forest and mature timber that was made to order for ruffed grouse. Missouri’s grouse boom was short-lived, however. It went bust from a one-two punch of relentless market hunting and large-scale logging that denuded vast areas of Missouri’s timberlands.

Conservationists are optimists by nature, so when QUWF approached MDC about giving ruffed-grouse restoration another try, Isabelle set aside earlier discouragements and considered the possibilities.

“Over the past decade, there has been an ongoing effort to increase the amount of early-successional forest habitat in the River Hills region of east-central Missouri,” said Isabelle. “This effort has involved a number of partners conducting habitat work on both public and private lands.”

Working cooperatively with the Missouri Resource Assessment Partnership and the USDA Forest Service, MDC plans to conduct a systematic evaluation of potential grouse habitat within the River Hills Conservation Opportunity Area. With that information, said Isabelle, MDC will be in a position to decide whether another attempt at grouse restoration makes sense.

Missouri is not the only state examining its ruffed-grouse management options. Other states on the southern edge of the ruffed grouse’s range have documented declines similar to the one seen here. Isabelle said other states in the southern portion of grouse range will be watching closely to see what comes of studies in the Show-Me State.

Goals of Missouri’s ruffed-grouse studies will include determining:

· The quality and quantity of available habitat in the River Hills Conservation Opportunity Area.

· The likelihood of establishing a self-sustaining grouse population.

· What it will take to manage for and sustain a grouse population in the future.

“We need answers to these questions to make wise choices about grouse management in Missouri,” said Isabelle. “Once we have answers, we will work with QUWF to explore ways that we might be able to help grouse rebound, including the possibility of restocking grouse in an area where they once seemed to thrive.”

MDC Director Bob Ziehmer said he views cooperation with QUWF as the first step in what could be a significant restoration effort in the future.

“Grouse are a special, unique part of Missouri’s natural heritage,” said Ziehmer. “We don’t want to lose them if we can help it, but we face some big challenges. Missouri’s landscape has changed dramatically over the course of the last several decades, and grouse population declines elsewhere show this is a widespread and complicated issue with lots of uncertainty.”

QUWF Director Craig Alderman said Missouri’s grouse population is near a tipping point.

“Without continued cooperation between MDC and QUWF members to scientifically evaluate and restore these wonderful birds, our grandchildren may never have the opportunity see a ruffed grouse in Missouri,” said Alderman, “and that would be tragic.”

-Jim Low-

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Waterfowl Hunting Forecast

Image by Arthur Chapman via Flickr

Duck numbers burgeon, but weather, habitat will determine hunter success

With duck numbers at an all-time high, Missouri

needs only a little luck for a memorable hunting season

JEFFERSON CITY–The number of breeding ducks surpassed all previous records this year, setting the stage for a bountiful harvest. All Missouri hunters need now is the right weather to push ducks into the Show-Me State and keep them here.

This year’s North American breeding-duck population was estimated at 45.6 million. That is 35 percent above the long-term average. This was only the fifth time in the survey’s history that the total duck population exceeded 40 million. In fact, this year’s breeding-duck population was the largest ever recorded since federal officials began counting waterfowl in 1955.

Missouri’s most popular waterfowl species, the mallard, went to the nesting grounds with 9.2 million individual ducks last spring. Nearly as numerous were blue-winged teal, which entered the breeding season with 8.9 million ducks, up 91 percent from the long-term average.

The northern shoveler was the next-most-numerous duck species, with 4.4 million individuals. That was an impressive 98-percent increase from the long-term average. However, redhead ducks take the prize for most-improved numbers this year. Their population estimate of 1.4 million is 106 percent above the long-term average.

Other duck species above long-term averages include:

n  Gadwalls, 3.3 million, up 80 percent

n  Green-winged teal, 2.9 million, up 47 percent

n  Canvasbacks, 700,000, up 21 percent

Numbers of northern pintails – 4.4 million – were up 26 percent from last year, but the progress they have made over the past few years only brings them even with the long-term average.

Only two of the top 10 hunted duck species were below their long-term averages this year. The combined total of 4.3 million lesser and greater scaup was about the same as last year but down 15 percent long-term. And while American wigeon remained fairly numerous at 2.1 million, their numbers were down 20 percent long-term.

Missouri’s waterfowl season begins Oct. 29 in the North Zone, Nov. 5 in the Middle Zone and Nov. 24 in the South zone. Season lengths, bag limits and other details are available in the Waterfowl Hunting Digest 2011-2012, which is available wherever hunting permits are sold or at mdc.mo.gov/node/5646/.

While hunters are sure to be thrilled by the prospect of a possible record fall flight of ducks, old hands know that two other factors – weather and habitat – play critical roles in making a good hunting season.

Weather is an imponderable this early in the season. No one can say when the onset of winter in the upper Midwest and central Canada will send large numbers of ducks south toward Missouri. Just as unpredictable is the onset of wintery conditions that will chase the birds into Arkansas. A long interval between those two events means plenty of opportunity to hunt. A fast transition from autumn to winter shortens hunters’ window of opportunity.

That leaves habitat for hunters to ponder. Migrating ducks need high-energy food to replenish reserves for the next leg of their arduous journeys. They also need water where they can rest. In years when these requirements are scarce, ducks are less inclined to linger in Missouri. This year, highly variable wetland conditions across the Show-Me State creates some uncertainty when predicting the outlook for the upcoming season. Weather patterns, migration timing, and food availability ultimately will shape the 2011-2012 waterfowl season.

“Scouting is going to be very important to hunters’ success this year,” said Resource Scientist Doreen Mengel, with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). “We had a wet spring followed by hot, dry weather late in the summer and into fall. That made creating the growing conditions that result in good food resources for ducks a special challenge. As a result, the availability of crops and seed-producing native plants is spotty, too. You can’t count on areas that have provided food for ducks in the past to be productive this year.”

Mengel said the distribution of water also will be different than normal this year. Flooding along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers created pools and left standing water in some normally dry areas. The availability of so much additional wetland acreage will give ducks more room to spread out, making them harder to find.

On the other hand, portions of southwest Missouri have been particularly hard-hit by drought. As a result, some low-lying land that usually fills up with autumn rainfall is completely dry this year. Many of these areas have an abundance of food plants, but without standing water, they will not attract ducks as they usually do, unless heavy rains arrive in the coming weeks.

“If you find a spot with both food and water this year, you probably will do well,” said Mengel. “Hunters who rely on past experience to plan their hunts could be in for an unwelcome surprise. I recommend taking your dog out for some conditioning runs in areas you like to hunt, so you can figure out where the water and the food are before the season opens.”

MDC’s managed wetland areas provide the most reliable waterfowl hunting on public land. Most have fair to excellent food to attract migrating ducks this year.  These areas are equipped to pump water into wetland pools even in dry years. However, if river levels are too low, it may preclude pumping on some areas.

One notable exception to generally good conditions on MDC wetlands is Bob Brown Conservation Area (CA) in Holt County. It is open to hunting this fall, but prolonged flooding left it with virtually no food or cover.

At the other end of the spectrum is Grand Pass CA, one of the state’s most productive duck-hunting destinations. This 5,000-acre area on the Missouri River in Saline County experienced crop failure in its west-refuge area, and crop yield was reduced in other pools. However, crops in other pools did well, and natural vegetation in Pools 5, 6, 8 and 9 is in good to excellent condition.

Flooding also caused losses of crops and native food plants at other MDC wetland along Missouri’s two big rivers. You can call ahead to learn about conditions on specific areas, using the information on pages 18 and 19 of the Waterfowl Hunting Digest. For twice-weekly reports on conditions at MDC wetland areas during the hunting season, visit http://bit.ly/qQM1YH.

This year’s superabundance of ducks is partly due to a run of good luck with weather the past several years, resulting in abundant moisture across the prairie pothole region of north-central United States and central Canada. However, good luck with the weather would not have produced so many ducks – and millions of nongame birds that nest in the same areas – without sustained habitat restoration efforts by government and private conservation organizations.

MDC, along with Ducks Unlimited and other groups, has invested millions of dollars over the past 50 years to provide places for migrating ducks to rest and feed. MDC currently is restoring some of its oldest managed wetland areas through the Golden Anniversary Wetland Initiative.In addition to providing superb hunting opportunities, wetland conservation in Missouri improves ducks’ physical condition and nesting success.

Similar efforts have helped protect and restore waterfowl nesting habitat. In the past five years alone, MDC has helped enhance and restore nearly a quarter of a million acres of prime breeding habitat in Canada and positively influenced an additional 1.2 million acres.

-Jim Low-

Motorists should be alert for deer near roadways

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Fall landscape changes and the rutting season prompt increased deer activity.

By Bill Graham, MDC

KANSAS CITY, Mo -- White-tailed deer are on the move as autumn progresses, and that includes crossing highways. Drivers can take steps to reduce the chances of deer-vehicle accidents.

Deer encounters near roads increase in late October because the cooler weather makes them more active and there is disturbance in their regular haunts as farmers harvest crops, said Joe DeBold, urban wildlife biologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). He added that as autumn foliage falls to the ground, deer are prompted to look for new hiding places.

“Then the peak season for deer movement usually occurs around the first three weeks of November during the rut, or breeding season,” DeBold said. “These changes increase the chances that deer may dart in front of moving vehicles.”

He noted that deer are most active during evening, dusk and dawn hours.

“Drivers should be alert, slow down and drive cautiously,” DeBold said, “especially when driving through wooded or rural areas. Keep an eye on the shoulders, ditches and field edges. Often deer can be seen feeding or waiting to cross a road. Sometimes they try to dart across a road as a vehicle approaches. Be especially alert on roadways posted with deer crossing signs.”

Motorists should use high-beam headlights at night when possible for a wider field of vision. “Watch for deer silhouettes or eyes glowing in the headlights,” he advised. “When one deer is spotted, more are often close behind.”

Slowing down is the best defense. If a deer does dart into the road, avoid panic braking or swerving, which can cause accidents.

Rural areas are not the only place where deer-vehicle strikes occur. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, in 2010, almost one-third of the traffic crashes involving deer happened in urban areas.

“If a vehicle does strike a deer, the motorist should immediately call 911 and report any injuries and the location of the accident,” DeBold said. “If the deer is still alive, the driver should wait for law enforcement personnel to arrive at the scene.”

He added that any motorist wanting to keep the meat, hide or antlers from a deer killed on the highway must contact a conservation agent in the county where the accident occurred and request a disposition form before taking the deer into possession.

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Open house planned Oct. 29 at Castlewood State Park

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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., OCT. 17, 2011 -- The public is invited to bring their ideas to an open house on Saturday, Oct. 29 at Castlewood State Park near Ballwin. The open house will be held from noon to 3 p.m. just east of the park office.

Recent accomplishments at the park and future plans will be highlighted during the open house. Visitors are invited to share comments on the park’s services and operations. Recent accomplishments includepainting two picnic shelters and the interior of shelter restrooms. Staff also continued the ongoing project of removal of an exotic species (bush honeysuckle) from the park. 

The open house is part of an ongoing effort by Missouri State Parks to ensure citizens have input on facilities and services offered in state parks and historic sites.

Castlewood State Park is located off of Highway 141, west on Big Bend Road to Ries Road and then left on Ries Road. The park entrance is at the intersection of Kiefer Creek and Ries roads. People requiring special services or accommodations to attend the meeting can make arrangements by calling Castlewood State Park directly at 636-227-4433or by calling the Missouri Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For information about state parks and historic sites, visitmostateparks.com.

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Conservation Action October 2011

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The Conservation Commission met Oct. 13 and 14 at Conservation Department Headquarters in Jefferson City.  Commissioners present were:

Don R. Johnson, Festus, Chair

Don C. Bedell, Sikeston, Vice Chair

Becky L. Plattner, Grand Pass, Secretary

The Commission:

• Received presentations from:

Ø  Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation Executive Vice President Rick Thom concerning Foundation activities.

Ø  Outreach and Education Division Chief Mike Huffman about plans to celebrate the Conservation Department’s 75^th anniversary.

Ø  Fisheries Division Chief Chris Vitello regarding Fisheries Division activities.

Ø  Fisheries Management Biologist Shane Bush regarding the Table Rock Lake National Fish Habitat Initiative Project.

• Approved entering into a contract with SMI-CO Construction, Inc., Odessa, for the construction of the Bennett Spring Fish Hatchery Raceway Renovations Project in Laclede County at a total estimated cost of $920,238.

·       Approved the designation of a new 1,280-acre natural area, Western Star Flatwoods Natural Area, on the Mark Twain National Forest in Phelps County.

·       Approved removing two areas from the Missouri Natural Area System located on the Mark Twain National Forest:

Ø  Hayden Bald Natural Area, a 40-acre area in Ozark County designated in 1984.

Ø  Overcup Oak Sink Natural Area, a 5-acre natural area in Shannon County designated in 1983.

• Approved the purchase of 300 acres in Jefferson County as an addition to LaBarque Creek Conservation Area. The majority of the purchase to be funded by private donation.
• Suspended hunting and/or fishing privileges of one Missouri resident for Wildlife Code violations and affirmed actions taken by Missouri courts suspending privileges of one Missouri resident. Those whose privileges were suspended are: Logan D. Byrn, Downing, hunting privileges, until 8/9/2012; and Scott W. Probasco,Unionville, all sport privileges, one year.
• Approved the suspension or revocation of all hunting and fishing privileges of 287 people who are not in compliance with applicable child support laws. Privileges suspended for noncompliance are reinstated once the Division of Child Support Enforcement notifies MDC that suspendees have come into compliance with the required laws.
• Suspended privileges of 188 nonresidents under the provisions of the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact.
• Set its next regular meeting for Dec. 14 and 15 in Jefferson City.

This document is provided for public information only and is not an official record of the Missouri Department of Conservation or Missouri Conservation Commission.

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Halloween event planned Oct. 29 at Onondaga Cave State Park

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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., OCT. 17, 2011 – If you enjoy decorating your campsite, join the annual tradition at Onondaga Cave State Park near Leasburg and be recognized at  the campsite decorating contest Oct. 29.

            Campers are invited to decorate their campsite and participate in a costume contest for all ages. A trick-or-treat event is traditionally organized by campers in the afternoon. In the evening, campers are invited to sit around a campfire making s'mores and listening to spooky stories. Everyone is invited to bring their own stories, including ones suitable for young children. Winners of the campsite decorating contest will be announced at the storytelling.

            Campsites are still available for the weekend of this event, but are expected to go quickly so reservations are recommended.  

            Onondaga Cave State Park is located seven miles south of the Leasburg exit off of Interstate 44 on Highway H.  For more information about these events, contact the park at 573-245-6576 or the Missouri Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf).  For more information about Missouristate parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com.

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Halloween storytelling event planned Oct. 28 at Bollinger Mill State Historic Site

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MISSOURI HIKING TRAILS

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., OCT. 14, 2011 – Get in the spirit of Halloween by attending the annual Halloween storytelling event at 7 p.m. Oct. 28 at Bollinger Mill State Historic Site near Burfordville. Storyteller Marilyn Kinsella will weave her stories from personal experience as well as perform folk and historical tales and literary stories. The storytelling will be held around a bonfire and visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. Apple cider and popcorn will be provided.

Kinsella began her storytelling career in 1981 while teaching in the St. Louis metro area. She has been a full-time freelance professional storyteller since 2002 and can often be found performing in the St. Louis and southern Illinois areas.

Bollinger Mill State Historic Site is the site of a Civil War-era mill where visitors can learn how corn and wheat were ground into meal and flour by water power, just as it was done long ago. Burfordville Covered Bridge, the oldest of the four remaining covered bridges in the state, was built in 1858 and stretches 140 feet across the White River, which powers the mill. To get to the historic site at113 Bollinger Mill Road, take Highway 34 to Highway HH in Cape GirardeauCounty.

For more information on the event, contact the site at 573-243-4591 or the Missouri Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com.

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