POSTERS

POSTER PRESENTATIONS

P001 - 004 Aquatic Ecosystem Assessment and Conservation

P005 - 012 Inventory and Monitoring

P013 - 019 Conservation Issues Concerning Birds

P020 - 024 Landscape Ecology

P025 - 029 Spatial Ecology and Conservation

P031 - 037 Conservation Area Planning and Management

P038 - 040 Ecosystem Management

P043 - 050 Scientists, Managers and Policy Makers – Bridging the Gaps

P051 - 053 Education and Outreach

P054 - 055 Marine Conservation

P056 - 060 Conservation Issues Concerning the Great Lakes

P061 - 066 Conservation Issues Concerning Fish

P067 - 068 Aquatic Ecology

P069 - 074 Conservation Issues Concerning Amphibians and Reptiles

P075 - 080 Conservation Issues Concerning Mammals

P081 - 098 Conservation Genetics

P099 - 107 Population Dynamics

P108 - 115 Endangered Species

P116 - 119 Conservation Issues Concerning Invertebrates

P120 - 126 Alien and Invasive Species

P127 - 129 Grassland Ecology

P130 - 132 Conservation Issues Concerning Plants

P133 - 140 Disturbance and Restoration Ecology

NOTE: Some numbers not represented due to late cancellations.

Poster Presentations index

Aquatic Ecosystem Assessment and Conservation

P001 Cook, Terry, Mark Goering, Zach Ferdana, JOHN FLOBERG, Tracy Horsman, and Marcy Summers. The Nature Conservancy, 217 Pine Street, Suite 1100, Seattle, WA 98101, USA (jfloberg@tnc.org) (MG, ZF, JF, TH, MS); The Nature Conservancy, 490 Westfield Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901, USA (TC).

AN ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY-PUGET TROUGH-GEORGIA BASIN ECOREGION: AN ANALYSIS TO IDENTIFY, INTEGRATE AND PRIORITIZE AREAS OF FRESHWATER, TERRESTRIAL AND MARINE BIODIVERSITY SIGNIFICANCE

P002 STEWART, JANA, Steve Aichele, Alex Covert, Jim McKenna, and Dora Passino-Reader. U.S. Geological Survey – WRD, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI 53562, USA (jsstewar@usgs.gov) (JS); U.S. Geological Survey – WRD, 6520 Mercantile Way, Suite 5, Lansing, MI 48911, USA (SA); U.S. Geological Survey – WRD, 6480 Doubletree Avenue, Columbus, OH 43229, USA (AC); U.S. Geological Survey – BRD, Tunison Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences, 3075 Gracie Road, Cortland, NY 13045, USA (JK); U.S. Geological Survey – BRD, Great Lakes Science Center, 1451 Green Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA (DR).

THE GREAT LAKES AQUATIC GAP PROJECT FOR RIVERINE AND COASTAL SYSTEMS

P003 BRYCE, SANDRA, and Michael Bollman. Dynamac Corporation, 200 SW 35th Street, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA (bryce.sandy@epa.gov).

DEVELOPMENT OF A DISTURBANCE INDEX TO ASSESS THE CONDITION OF AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS

P004 KULKARNI, BALASAHEB GOVIND. M.R.A. Taherizadah, Department of Marine Zoology, The Institute of Science, Mumbai 400 032, India (balasaheb_k@hotmail.com).

DIVERSITY OF MACROBENTHOS AND WATER QUALITY INDEX IN GORAI CREEK OF MUMBAI (BOMBAY, WEST COAST OF INDIA)

Poster Presentations index

The Nature Conservancy, along with a variety of state, provincial, and federal partners, conducted an ecological assessment of the Willamette Valley-Puget Trough-Georgia Basin (WPG) ecoregion for the purpose of identifying and prioritizing biologically significant areas. This group of conservation areas represents our best attempt, given current knowledge, to depict a set of locations that, if properly managed, would conserve all biodiversity representative of this ecoregion. The assessment used a combination of coarse filter targets (ecological systems) and fine filter targets (species and natural communities) to identify terrestrial, freshwater, and marine areas of biological significance. The total number of targets used in the assessment was 867. Number and area goals for all targets were developed and used to identify the conservation areas using the SITES computer model. Separate model runs for terrestrial, freshwater, and marine targets were performed using three separate 'cost' or suitability indices. These indices, based upon such factors as road density, dam density, land ownership, zoning, landcover, etc. are used to help determine the most efficient selection of sites. Terrestrial, freshwater and marine sites were then integrated through GIS overlay and refined through expert review. Three hundred and forty-three areas of biological significance were identified during the assessment representing 24% of the total land and 9% of the total marine area of the ecoregion.

Poster Presentations index

THE GREAT LAKES AQUATIC GAP PROJECT FOR RIVERINE AND COASTAL SYSTEMS

An Aquatic Gap project is underway to map the biodiversity and habitat of aquatic species for riverine and coastal systems of the Great Lakes region. The project is part of the USGS National Gap Analysis Program with the goal of determining the gaps in the representation of these species and habitats within protected areas. For the riverine component, projects are underway in MI, NY, OH and WI where the U.S. Geological Survey is working with State natural resource agencies. The project will develop an ecological stream classification based on habitat characteristics that describe stream geology, geomorphology, temperature and flow using a valley segment classification approach. The stream valley segments will be linked to the occurrence of aquatic biota in order to map known and predicted distributions of aquatic species. Aquatic species occurrences will be overlaid with maps of protected areas to determine gaps in biodiversity conservation. For the coastal component, a pilot effort has begun to develop a habitat characterization for near-shore systems. Coastal units will be classified according to characteristics that relate to fish species including terrestrial shore type, slope, vegetation, wind and wave energy. Activities are being coordinated so that results are comparable across the Great Lakes region.

Poster Presentations index

P003 BRYCE, SANDRA, and Michael Bollman. Dynamac Corporation, 200 Southwest 35th Street, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA (bryce.sandy@epa.gov).

DEVELOPMENT OF A DISTURBANCE INDEX TO ASSESS THE CONDITION OF AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS

An objective of aquatic monitoring is to assess the condition of aquatic habitats and biota. To rationally interpret aquatic condition, we must identify the range of human activities and the risks they pose to aquatic ecosystems. Placing stream reaches and their watersheds on a human disturbance gradient is a prerequisite for distinguishing human disturbance from natural controls in aquatic systems and for interpreting biological response to disturbance. We describe a process that uses readily available sources, such as topographic maps, aerial photographs, and field information, as well as several metrics generated by a Geographic Information System (GIS) to identify and prioritize stream reach and watershed stressors for 31 streams in the Blue Mountains of Oregon, USA. All perceptible human alterations to riparian and upland areas were recorded and ranked, and a scoring system was developed that gave each watershed a discrete score. The resulting disturbance index provides a cost-effective method to directly compare the relative condition of watersheds in similar size classes and ecological regions. It can be used as a measure of condition in multivariate analyses or as an explanatory variable to evaluate the responsiveness of candidate metrics in indices of biotic integrity.

Poster Presentations index

P004 KULKARNI, BALASAHEB GOVIND. M.R.A. Taherizadah, Department of Marine Zoology, The Institute of Science, Mumbai 400 032, India (balasaheb_k@hotmail.com).

DIVERSITY OF MACROBENTHOS AND WATER QUALITY INDEX IN GORAI CREEK OF MUMBAI (BOMBAY, WEST COAST OF INDIA)

Water quality and diversity index of benthos can be used as an indicator of anthropogenic pressure on the creek, and such studies are helpful for conservation measures of marine ecosystem. Gorai creek is situated in the north part of Mumbai and extends to the Borivali area, covering a distance of four kilometers. To assess its ecological status, we monitored inertial benthos and physico-chemical characteristics of the creek water for two years. Due to the muddy nature of the substratum, macro benthos like mudskipper of Boleopthalmus SP, gastropods, Telescopium telescopium, and Potamides cingulates, were found at higher density. Moreover, higher density of crab uca sp. were also noted in muddy-sandy mix shore. This is the only creek around Mumbai where substantial density of mangroves was noted. Among the physico-chemical characteristics, except high level of nitrate (201.3 to 237.3 ug/l), dissolved oxygen (4.92 to 7.41 mg/l), carbon dioxide (13.30 to 21.25 mg/l), biochemical oxygen demand (1.41 to 2.46 mg/l), phosphate (10.49 to 21.72 ug/l), and salinity (16.60 to 35.32 ppt) found within the normal range. This study suggests conserving benthic diversity of the creek, which is essential for healthy marine ecosystem.

Poster Presentations index

Inventory and Monitoring

P005 DOLLAR, LUKE, Julie Pomerantz, Martel Jaonina, Leon Pierrot Rahajanirina, and Anna Kopitov. Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Duke University, A322 Levine Science and Research Center, Durham, NC 27708, USA (luke@duke.edu).

BIODIVERSITY AND HABITAT CONSERVATION STATUS OF A DRY DECIDUOUS FOREST IN WESTERN MADAGASCAR

P006 RUSTERHOLZ, KURT, Norm Aaseng, John Almendinger, and Dan Wovcha. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of Ecological Services, 500 Lafayette Road, PO Box 25, St. Paul, MN 5155, USA (kurt.rusterholz@dnr.state.mn.us) (KR, NA, DW); Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, 413 SE 13th Street, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (JA).

MINNESOTA'S NATIVE PLANT COMMUNITY CLASSIFICATION

P007 BOURDAGHS, MICHAEL. Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, 5013 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN 55811, USA (mbourdag@nrri.umn.edu).

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SAMPLING AREA, SPECIES RICHNESS, AND THE FLORISTIC QUALITY ASSESSMENT INDEX

P008 ZABER, DAVID J., and Michael J. Wiley. University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum, 1207 Seminole Highway, Madison, WI 53711, USA (zaber@facstaff.wisc.edu) (DJZ); University of Michigan, School of Natural Resources, 430 East University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA (MJW).

MONITORING BIODIVERSITY IN LANDSCAPE UNITS: CONTRASTING AQUATIC AND TERRESTRIAL INDICATORS

P010 UNDERWOOD, JARED, Ronald Rodriguez, and Clayton White. Department of Integrative Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA (jgu2@email.byu.edu) (JU, CW); USDA Forest Service, Dixie National Forest, Cedar City, UT 84720, USA (RR).

WINTER HABITAT AND DIFFERENTIAL MIGRATION OF NORTHERN GOSHAWKS (ACCIPITER GENTILIS)

P011 FORYS, ELIZABETH, Elizabeth DeVries, Alisa Mazzhocchi, and Mark Mueller. Biology Discipline, Eckerd College, 4200 54th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711, USA (forysea@eckerd.edu).

ESTIMATING THE NUMBER OF ROOF-NESTING LEAST TERNS FROM GROUND COUNTS

P012 TIMM, SARAH A., Christine M. Custer, and Douglas A. Olsen. U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Science Center, 575 Lester Avenue, Onalaska, WI 54650, USA (stimm@usgs.gov).

BOOTSTRAPPING TO CREATE NON-PARAMETRIC CONFIDENCE INTERVALS FOR SELECTION RATIOS OF FEEDING SITES OF GREAT BLUE HERONS ON THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER SYSTEM

Poster Presentations index

BIODIVERSITY AND HABITAT CONSERVATION STATUS OF A DRY DECIDUOUS FOREST IN WESTERN MADAGASCAR

The dry, deciduous forests of Madagascar have experienced a disproportionate amount of habitat destruction over the last fifty years. The Kirindy Mitea protected area is ranked among the highest priorities for research and management development. We conducted biodiversity and habitat groundtruthing surveys in November and December, 2001. We present new information on the carnivores, primates, and birds of Kirindy Mitea. Based on these surveys, we provide information on the possibility of a new subspecies of the Narrow-Striped Mongoose and range extensions for two bird species. Using remote sensing analysis of Landsat images from 1990 and 2000, we demonstrate that the Kirindy Mitea forest is undergoing a process of regeneration and likely recolonization from the surrounding forest corridor following pre-1990 deforestation events. Forest regeneration is an unfortunately rare occurrence in Madagascar. These results provide promise for the possibility of current and future conservation management initiatives in Kirindy Mitea.

Poster Presentations index

P006 RUSTERHOLZ, KURT, Norm Aaseng, John Almendinger, and Dan Wovcha. Division of Ecological Services, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 Lafayette Road, PO Box 25, St. Paul, MN 5155, USA (kurt.rusterholz@dnr.state.mn.us) (KR, NA, DW); Division of Forestry, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 413 Southeast 13th Street, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (JA).

MINNESOTA'S NATIVE PLANT COMMUNITY CLASSIFICATION

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ecologists have completed a new statewide native plant community classification focusing on forest and wetland communities, based on multivariate analysis of vascular plant data from more than 4500 vegetation samples from across the state. This hierarchical classification incorporates the DNR's Ecological Land Classification System at the higher levels and allows for classification of existing vegetation at the lowest levels of Native Plant Community Type and Subtype. This classification provides a framework for forest management and biodiversity protection. For example, the DNR Division of Forestry is currently developing management recommendations at the level of the Native Plant Community Class. Each Class was delineated using multivariate analysis of plot data with canopy tree data removed, informed by landform and soils data; as such, Classes are considered analogous to the concept of habitat type. Native Plant Community Types and Subtypes, determined using understory and canopy tree data, are the primary units used for mapping and as coarse filters for biodiversity conservation. Our presentation will illustrate how this classification has been used to map plant communites in a northern Minnesota state park.

Poster Presentations index

P007 BOURDAGHS, MICHAEL. Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, 5013 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN 55811, USA (mbourdag@nrri.umn.edu).

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SAMPLING AREA, SPECIES RICHNESS, AND THE FLORISTIC QUALITY ASSESSMENT INDEX

The Floristic Quality Assessment Index (FQAI) has been proposed as a tool that can identify natural areas, compare different sites regardless of plant community type, and assess anthropogenic impacts of an area. FQAI is based on a numerical score, called the coefficient of conservatism (C), which ranges from 0-10 and reflects the fidelity of a species to the natural habitats of a region. High C values show high fidelity to natural habitats. FQAI is then calculated by multiplying the mean C by the square root of the number of species (S) of a site. There has been little critical evaluation of FQAI, even though FQAI has been gaining popularity as an assessment tool. Data were collected from thirteen Great Lakes coastal wetlands to determine how sampling area affects FQAI. Data from a series of nested plots, and a comparison of two sampling methods, show that an increase in sampling area has no effect on mean C, but has a postive effect on FQAI, due to an increase in S. FQAI is therefore area sensitive. Users of FQAI should be aware of how area affects scores and ultimately any management decisions based upon those scores.

Poster Presentations index

MONITORING BIODIVERSITY IN LANDSCAPE UNITS: CONTRASTING AQUATIC AND TERRESTRIAL INDICATORS

Ecosystem management depends upon accurate assessment of ecological conditions. Diversity of selected taxa is often used as an indicator of the diversity of other taxa within common landscape units. We evaluated correspondence (at multiple scales) between fish and bird species diversity within and among watersheds in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan (LPM). Correlation between the relative diversity of fish and bird communities was examined across: (1) major river basins; (2) catchments within major river basins; and (3) individual catchments within the LPM. Data were from the Michigan Breeding Bird Atlas and the Michigan River Inventory. Datasets were linked via GIS system and used to estimate the diversity of fish and birds within landscape units. Estimates of relative diversity (species-area regression residuals) were compared via simple linear regression to evaluate correspondence between the two indicator taxa. Little correspondence was seen between patterns of fish and bird diversity within and across watersheds. At some scales of analysis significant negative correlations occurred indicating catchments with exceptional fish diversity had lower than average bird diversity and vice versa. The lack of correspondence between diversity indicators suggests caution in development and application of ecological indicators for assessment of species diversity in ecosystem management programs.

Poster Presentations index

WINTER HABITAT AND DIFFERENTIAL MIGRATION OF NORTHERN GOSHAWKS (ACCIPITER GENTILIS)

Questions surrounding the reproductive viability of the Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) began in the early 1990s. In 1991 there was a petition to place the goshawk on the endangered species list. Although the petition was denied, it was listed as a species of concern. While goshawk breeding biology is well known, important questions concerning possible fall migration and wintering areas remain basically unanswered. This study looks at goshawk wintering areas and types of habitat used at those sites. Goshawks were fitted with satellite telemetry backpacks and their movements were tracked. Some goshawks migrated south during winter months while some from adjacent nesting territories did not. The wintering areas for each bird were identified and analyzed using vegetative sampling methods in order to determine correlations between habitat structure and goshawk use. We found that many goshawks wintered in habitats very different from their breeding range. These areas tended to be fairly open pinion/juniper and sagebrush ecotones. The birds generally selected areas on the borders of theses habitat types. Since the pinion/juniper habitat has been much underrated by agency personal and other scientists in general, the presence of goshawks there during winter months adds an entirely new priority to such habitat.

Poster Presentations index

P011 FORYS, ELIZABETH, Elizabeth DeVries, Alisa Mazzhocchi, and Mark Mueller. Biology Discipline, Eckerd College, 4200 54th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711, USA (forysea@eckerd.edu).

ESTIMATING THE NUMBER OF ROOF-NESTING LEAST TERNS FROM GROUND COUNTS

The Least Tern nests on open beaches throughout North America. Due in part to habitat destruction, increased predation and disturbance, Least Tern numbers have decreased, and the species has begun nesting on flat gravel roofs. In Florida, > 80% of Least Tern colonies occur on roof-tops, but the number of Least Terns in these colonies is difficult to estimate. The purpose of this research was to census Least Terns from the ground. During the summer of 2002, three attempts were made to count Least Terns from the ground on 10 roofs by counting birds flying off the roof during 1, 3 and 5 minute intervals. These counts were compared using linear regression to roof top counts made from a bucket lift placed next to the buildings. All of the regressions were significant, but the earliest survey that was conducted at the beginning of the nesting season (late May), and the 3 minute counts produced the strongest regressions (r²=0.89, F=31.4, d.f.=9, p>0.005). These results indicate that ground counts might be an efficient method of monitoring Least Tern and other roof-nesting species.

Poster Presentations index

P012 TIMM, SARAH A., Christine M. Custer, and Douglas A. Olsen. U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Science Center, 575 Lester Avenue, Onalaska, WI 54650, USA (stimm@usgs.gov).

BOOTSTRAPPING TO CREATE NON-PARAMETRIC CONFIDENCE INTERVALS FOR SELECTION RATIOS OF FEEDING SITES OF GREAT BLUE HERONS ON THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER SYSTEM

Selection ratios are often used in resource selection studies to give an indication as to whether or not a particular resource (often a habitat) is being selected, avoided, or used in proportion to availability. Selection ratios are advantageous because they do not depend on what types of habitats are deemed available (unlike chi-squared tests). Confidence intervals do, however, depend on the assumption that selection ratios are normally distributed, something that appears to be true only if each category (selected and available sites) has a 'moderately large' (e.g. n ³ 5) sample size. When these assumptions do not hold, bootstrapping can be used to create confidence intervals free of distributional assumptions. Data from a study of Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) feeding sites in the Upper Mississippi River System are used as an example.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Issues Concerning Birds

P013 RAKOTOARISOA, JEAN ERIC. The Peregrine Fund, BP 4113, Antananarivo (101), Madagascar and Department of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, PO Box 4120, Normal, IL 61790-4120, USA (jerakot2@ilstu.edu).

BREEDING, FORAGING BEHAVIOR AND HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SCALY GROUND-ROLLER (AVES: BRACHYPTERACIAS SQUAMIGER) OF MADAGASCAR

P014 GIBSON, JULIE. Center for Biodiversity, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, 2420 Nicolet Drive, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (gibsjm24@uwgb.edu).

MICRO/MACROHABITAT ANALYSIS, PRODUCTIVITY, AND PREDATION OF NESTING WOODLAND RAPTORS IN THE UPPER PENINSULA OF MICHIGAN, USA

P015 BOCCUMINI, KRISTEN, Tedor Whitman, Linda Smith, Laura Thompson, and Rachel Wilson. The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Pomona, NJ 08240, USA (KB, LS); The Wetlands Institute, 1075 Stone Harbor Boulevard, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247, USA (TW); Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383-6493, USA (LT); Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, USA (RW).

THE OCCURRENCE OF BREEDING SONGBIRDS: USING DATA FROM THE SURVEY, MONITORING AVIAN PRODUCTIVITY AND SURVIVORSHIP (MAPS) TO TEST HYPOTHESES ABOUT VEGETATION AND EDGE EFFECTS

P016 GORRESEN, P. MARCOS, Richard J. Camp, Bethany L. Woodworth, and Thane K. Pratt. U.S. Geological Survey – BRD, Pacific Island Ecosystem Research Center, Hawaii Forest Bird Interagency Database Project, PO Box 44, Hawaii National Park, HI 96718, USA (marcos_gorresen@usgs.gov).

MODELING HAWAIIAN FOREST BIRDS: HABITAT ASSOCIATIONS, SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS AND POPULATION ESTIMATES

P017 ROSS, JEREMY D., Allan D. Arndt, Roger F.C. Smith, and Juan L. Bouzat. Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA (rossjd@bgnet.bgsu.edu) (JDR, JLB); Department of Zoology, Brandon University, Brandon, MB R7A 6A9, Canada (ADA, RFCS).

RE-EXAMINING THE HISTORICAL RANGE OF THE GREATER PRAIRIE CHICKEN, TYMPANUCHUS CUPIDO, THROUGH DNA ANALYSIS OF MUSEUM COLLECTIONS

P018 MARKS, DAVID R. Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, 2420 Nicolet Avenue, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (marksd@uwgb.edu).

LOCAL HABITAT AND LANDSCAPE EFFECTS ON THE AVIFAUNA WITHIN COASTAL WETLANDS OF THE WESTERN GREAT LAKES REGION

P019 Thompson, Frank R., III, John R. Sauer, and RICH W. PAGEN. USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station, University of Missouri–Columbia, 202 ABNR, Columbia, MO 65201, USA frthompson@fs.fed.us) (FRT, RWP); U.S. Geological Survey, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 11510 American Holly Drive, Laurel, MD 20708-4017, USA (JRS).

IS LANDSCAPE CHANGE DRIVING DECLINES IN BREEDING BIRD POPULATIONS IN THE NORTH CENTRAL UNITED STATES?

Poster Presentations index

BREEDING, FORAGING BEHAVIOR AND HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SCALY GROUND-ROLLER (AVES: BRACHYPTERACIAS SQUAMIGER) OF MADAGASCAR

The Scaly Ground-Roller, Brachypteracias squamiger, of Madagascar is classified as a vulnerable species by the IUCN. Despite its status, little information is available on the behavioral ecology and breeding biology of this endemic species. The Scaly Ground-Roller was studied during two breeding seasons from October 1997 to January 1999 in Masoala National Park. Of the 269 prey items observed, earthworms (55%) and centipedes (21%) were the most numerous prey-types taken (n= 4 individuals). Nests were placed in ground burrows with tunnels that measured less than 10 cm in diameter and less than 1 m in depth. A single egg clutch was laid in each nest (n=3 nests), and incubation and the nestling periods lasted 18 days and 24 days, respectively. Trees were only used for resting, perching when defending territories and roosting. A few times, individuals were seen foraging in clearcuts which suggests they might tolerate a certain degree of deforestation as long as the forest nest site is intact. The low reproductive rate (one young per nest) suggests that the species has a low ability to rebound from population decline and therefore is more vulnerable to demographic and environmental stochasticity.

Poster Presentations index

P014 GIBSON, JULIE. Center for Biodiversity, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, 2420 Nicolet Drive, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (gibsjm24@uwgb.edu).

MICRO/MACROHABITAT ANALYSIS, PRODUCTIVITY, AND PREDATION OF NESTING WOODLAND RAPTORS IN THE UPPER PENINSULA OF MICHIGAN, USA

The Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis and Red-Shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus are both listed as "Regional Forester Sensitive Species" on the Hiawatha National Forest (HNF) in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Political and legal issues associated with the status of these birds have demanded research on the specific habitat requirements of these species on National Forest lands. Nesting woodland raptors, particularly Northern Goshawk, Red-Shouldered Hawk and Red-Tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis have been monitored on the HNF with varying levels of intensity since the 1980's. I have identified 81 nest sites presently and/or previously used by these species within the last eight years (1995-2002). In this investigation I collected microhabitat variables in the field and macrohabitat characteristics through GIS. Using logistic regression comparing variables for each species to 49 random sites of similar habitat, I have created models identifying the best predictors of nesting species occurrence. This study also evaluates productivity and predation rates from 1996-2002. Results of this study will enable biologists to more accurately predict nesting success of woodland raptors in a managed forest context, will aid in evaluating species viability, and will assist in the development/refinement of management standards and guidelines for nesting woodland raptors.

Poster Presentations index

THE OCCURRENCE OF BREEDING SONGBIRDS: USING DATA FROM THE SURVEY, MONITORING AVIAN PRODUCTIVITY AND SURVIVORSHIP (MAPS) TO TEST HYPOTHESES ABOUT VEGETATION AND EDGE EFFECTS

MAPS is a standardized survey of breeding songbirds in the woodlands of North America by capturing birds in mist nets. Belleplain Forest in the coastal pinelands of southern New Jersey is one of many sites in which this annual survey is performed. We used four years of survey data (1999-2002) on the presence of songbird species at this site to examine the influence of vegetation and edge on the occurrence of songbird species. The study area borders a field and has two distinct vegetation types; one with an open canopy and ground cover and another with a closed canopy and little ground cover. We examined where species were captured regarding vegetation type and distance from edge. Our analyses show that certain species were captured significantly more often in one of the two vegetation types as well as certain distances from the forest edge. We suggest that our results can be used for forest management decisions in the NJ pinelands, an area with increased habitat fragmentation due to increasing development. In addition, we propose that our technique of using existing data to test hypotheses about songbird conservation has widespread application.

Poster Presentations index

MODELING HAWAIIAN FOREST BIRDS: HABITAT ASSOCIATIONS, SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS AND POPULATION ESTIMATES

Accurate information on population size is fundamental for conservation biology. To these ends, the Hawaii Forest Bird Interagency Database Project has developed a GIS-intensive revision and update of population estimates and distribution maps for the Hawaiian forest avifauna. We used GIS to integrate information on species densities at surveyed locations with habitat data derived from remote sensing and field sampling, and to develop predictive models at the landscape level. The models used an autoregressive method that incorporates a spatially autocorrelated error structure, thereby accounting for fine-scale autocorrelation in density and habitat variables. Coarse-scale autocorrelation was controlled with trend surface terms. Densities were predicted for all 1-hectare cells within a study area, and totaled to estimate population size. We analyzed data from 65 variable circular plot surveys within a 64,843-hectare study area on the northeastern slopes of the Island of Hawaii that encompasses the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge. Results are presented for 3 native (Hawaii Amakihi [Hemignathus virens], Hawaii Creeper [Oreomystis mana], and Akepa [Loxops coccineus]) and 1 alien (Japanese White-Eye [Zosterops japonicus]) bird species. Density surface maps based on models that incorporate habitat characteristics more accurately depict the relationships of bird density and habitat than inter- and extrapolation of survey site data alone. Species-habitat models provide an effective method for determining distribution and population size information essential for monitoring programs and conservation efforts.

Poster Presentations index

RE-EXAMINING THE HISTORICAL RANGE OF THE GREATER PRAIRIE CHICKEN, TYMPANUCHUS CUPIDO, THROUGH DNA ANALYSIS OF MUSEUM COLLECTIONS

Greater Prairie Chickens (GPC), once distributed across North American grasslands, have disappeared from Canada and portions of USA. Reintroduction efforts focus on restoring species within their historical range. Yet, under the prevailing following the plough hypothesis, GPC are assumed to have invaded the Canadian prairies as a result of range expansion after habitat modification by European settlers. Seventy-five specimens from museum collections were used to estimate the acquired range of the GPC and the expansion rate necessary to support the following the plough hypothesis. In addition, we performed mtDNA sequence analysis of 39 samples, comparing genetic diversity in original and expanded ranges. Provenance data indicated that by the early 1900's, GPC range extended to the northern limits of the mixed-grass prairie, requiring an estimated expansion rate of 20,000 km²/year over 20 years. Genetic analysis revealed no significant differences in levels of genetic diversity between original and expanded distributions. Overall, mean sequence diversity within ranges (0.017) was greater than between ranges (0.002). Phylogenetic analysis showed monophyletic grouping of some expanded and original haplotypes. These results suggest that the historical GPC range, prior to European settlement, included the mixed-grass prairies of Canada. GPC's Canadian status as an extirpated non-native species may need re-examination.

Poster Presentations index

P018 MARKS, DAVID R. Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, 2420 Nicolet Avenue, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (marksd@uwgb.edu).

LOCAL HABITAT AND LANDSCAPE EFFECTS ON THE AVIFAUNA WITHIN COASTAL WETLANDS OF THE WESTERN GREAT LAKES REGION

Although the relationships of birds to local habitat and larger-scale landscape variables have been the focus of many studies, surprisingly few investigations have focused on wetland systems, especially coastal wetlands. These wetlands are of particular concern because of the high degree of anthropogenic stress associated with coastal urbanization and residential development. Coastal ecosystems are highly dynamic in nature and the relationship between habitat and species distribution are often confounded by temporal change. I have studied the avifauna within 63 coastal wetlands of the western Great Lakes region along Lake Michigan and Lake Huron during 2001 and 2002. Local habitat and landscape variables at these sites were quantified and associated with presence/absence of individual bird species. The local habitat variables were sampled by a releve sampling method and landscape variables were analyzed using 7-band LandSat Thematic Mapper satellite images. Results identify the most influential predictors for several key species of wetland birds. I also will discuss the effectiveness of these methods for describing the ecological condition of coastal wetland birds and for long-term monitoring of wetland bird populations.

Poster Presentations index

P019 Thompson, Frank R., III, John R. Sauer, and RICH W. PAGEN. USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station, University of Missouri–Columbia, 202 ABNR, Columbia, MO 65201, USA (frthompson@fs.fed.us) (FRT, RWP); U.S. Geological Survey, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 11510 American Holly Drive, Laurel, MD 20708-4017, USA (JRS).

IS LANDSCAPE CHANGE DRIVING DECLINES IN BREEDING BIRD POPULATIONS IN THE NORTH CENTRAL UNITED STATES?

Breeding bird population trends determined from the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) indicate populations of some species are declining and others are increasing. It is unclear whether these declines are the result of changes in breeding, wintering, or migratory habitat or non-habitat factors. No studies have examined the relationship between changes in bird populations and changes in habitat at this scale because of a lack of spatially explicit data on habitat change. We used data from the BBS and a recent Landscape Change Assessment by the North Central Research Station to determine if changes in forest bird populations are related to changes in the amount of forest in the landscape (measured in 1-km pixels) surrounding BBS routes during the period 1980 to 2000. Preliminary results show a strong relationship for many species between mean bird abundance and the mean amount of forest during the time period. However, there was little support for models relating changes in bird population to changes in the amount of forest. These results suggest that while strong habitat relationships exist for some species, changes in breeding habitat did not seem to be driving population change. Several alternative hypotheses could explain these results. Habitat change may not be the primary factor driving population changes during this period. In fact, habitat changes were small compared to bird population changes. Alternatively, the remotely-sensed habitat data we used may not be able to detect finer scale habitat changes that could have been driving population change.

Poster Presentations index

Landscape Ecology

P020 BURTON, JULIA, Lee E. Frelich, Eric Zenner, and Meredith Cornett. Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, 115 Green Hall, 1530 Cleveland Avenue North, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA (burt0148@umn.edu) (JB, LEF, EZ); The Nature Conservancy of Minnesota, 394 Lake Avenue South, Duluth, MN 55802, USA (MC).

PREDICTING AND MAPPING FUTURE PLANT ASSEMBLAGES IN FORESTED LANDSCAPES

P021 FERRAZ, SILVIO, and David Theobald. Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1499, USA (sfbferra@cnr.colostate.edu).

SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL CHANGES IN LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE IN CENTRAL RONDÔNIA (BRAZILIAN AMAZON) – IMPLICATIONS FOR SPECIES CONSERVATION

P022 HOLCOMB, SHERRY S., Volker C. Radeloff, Roger B. Hammer, and Susan I. Stewart. Department of Forest Ecology and Management, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1630 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA (ssholcomb@facstaff.wisc.edu) (SSH, VCR); Department of Rural Sociology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1180 Observatory Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA (RBH); USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station, 1033 University Avenue, Suite 360, Evanston, IL 60201, USA (SIS).

HOUSING GROWTH 1940-2000 IN THE WESTERN U.S. AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO FOREST FRAGMENTATION

P023 HAWBAKER, TODD, Charlotte E. Gonzalez-Abraham, Volker C. Radeloff, Roger B. Hammer, and Susan I. Stewart. Department of Forest Ecology and Management, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1630 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA (tjhawbaker@wisc.edu) (TH, CEG, VCR); Department of Rural Sociology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1180 Observatory Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA (RBH); USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station, 1033 University Avenue, Suite 360, Evanston, IL 60201, USA (SIS).

RELATIVE AND CUMMULATIVE EFFECTS OF ROADS AND HOUSES ON FOREST FRAGMENTATION IN NORTHERN WISCONSIN

P024 RICHARDSON, BART, Faith Balch, Siobhan Boylan, Hannah Dunevitz, and Sharon Pfeifer. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Central Region, 1200 Warner Road, St. Paul, MN 55106, USA (bart.richardson@dnr.state.mn.us).

USING GIS TO ASSESS ECOLOGICALLY SIGNIFICANT NATURAL RESOURCE AREAS IN THE TWIN CITIES SEVEN-COUNTY METROPOLITAN AREA IN MINNESOTA, USA

Poster Presentations index

PREDICTING AND MAPPING FUTURE PLANT ASSEMBLAGES IN FORESTED LANDSCAPES

Forests in the Manitou Landscape on the North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota, USA do not currently reflect their potential in terms of late-successional, old-growth forests. The current forests are composed of early-successional species such as aspen (Populus tremuloides) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera), which may succeed along alternate pathways to potential communities of spruce and fir (Picea glauca and Abies balsamea), white pine (Pinus strobus) or northern hardwoods dominated by sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis). We predicted and mapped potential plant communities at the stand scale for the ~ 40,000 ha landscape by comparing current vegetation to the range of natural variation as predicted by vegetation at the time of the pre-European settlement land survey in Minnesota (late 1800's), land type association and the natural disturbance regime. Since all factors that affect plant assemblages could not be accounted for in the mapping process, the predictions are of questionable accuracy or absent in a few portions of the map. However, our map of potential vegetation will assist land managers by predicting locations of future old growth forests, although it is not intended to serve as a management prescription.

Poster Presentations index

P021 FERRAZ, SILVIO, and David Theobald. Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1499, USA (sfbferra@cnr.colostate.edu).

SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL CHANGES IN LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE IN CENTRAL RONDÔNIA (BRAZILIAN AMAZON) – IMPLICATIONS FOR SPECIES CONSERVATION

The Tropical Forest has been deforested in Rondônia state (western Brazilian Amazon) due to land conversion to pasture and agriculture since the 1970s. The fragmentation process has reduced over 58000 km² of the original habitat in the whole state (24%). We analyzed temporal changes in landscape structure in a typical disturbed watershed located at Ariquemes, central Rondônia. Annual Landsat TM/ETM+ images were analyzed to produce historic land use maps for the past 18 years, and landscape structure changes were evaluated at class level for Mature Forest. We measured the dynamics of landscape structure using fragmentation, core area and permeability indices at different spatial scales over 18 past years at annual intervals. We found different temporal patterns of fragmentation process that varied with spatial scale. These spatio-temporal patterns have varied consequences for species of conservation concern.

Poster Presentations index

HOUSING GROWTH 1940-2000 IN THE WESTERN U.S. AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO FOREST FRAGMENTATION

Human development is a major conservation challenge, yet spatially detailed studies of housing growth across large regions are lacking. Our objective was to assess changes in housing density in the Western United States between 1940 and 2000, and to relate the observed changes to forest cover. The analysis was based on 2000 U.S. Census data and the NLCD satellite classification for the 1990s. Historic housing densities were estimated based on the 'year housing unit built' question from the Census long form and assessed for every decade since 1940. Our results demonstrate a strong increase in housing density over the 60-year time span. Housing growth in rural areas was particularly pronounced in the 1970s and 1990s. Mid-level housing densities exhibited the largest increase in extent. Housing density exhibits little effect on forest abundance up to a threshold of about 1000 housing units per square kilometers, above which forest cover declines rapidly. However, even low levels of housing are positively correlated with higher forest fragmentation and negatively with the abundance of interior forests. A summary of housing growth by ecoregion identifies areas that have been particularly affected, thus potentially warranting special conservation efforts.

Poster Presentations index

RELATIVE AND CUMMULATIVE EFFECTS OF ROADS AND HOUSES ON FOREST FRAGMENTATION IN NORTHERN WISCONSIN

Both roads and houses impose structure on landscapes by directly removing habitat and by fragmenting remaining habitat. The objective of this study was to explore the relative and cumulative effects of houses and roads on landscape fragmentation in northern Wisconsin. We compared the response of landscape metrics as we varied the road-effect zone between 30 and 500 meters and the house-effect zone between 50 and 1000 meters. Current road and housing data were derived from air photos from 1997 to 1999. We analyzed terrestrial patches greater than 1 hectare remaining after removing the road-effect zone and house-effect zone from the surrounding landscape. Both roads and houses remove and subdivide habitat; however, the character and magnitude of the response depends on the respective zones widths. In northern Wisconsin, landscape structure is more sensitive to changes in the road-effect zone than the house-effect zone. When the road-effect zone is large, increasing the house-effect zone has little additional impact on landscape structure. Houses and roads have different effects on ecosystems. The results of this study provide insights into the range of scales over which the different effects of houses and roads are most important and their implications for land management and planning.

Poster Presentations index

USING GIS TO ASSESS ECOLOGICALLY SIGNIFICANT NATURAL RESOURCE AREAS IN THE TWIN CITIES SEVEN-COUNTY METROPOLITAN AREA IN MINNESOTA, USA

Using raster land cover data and working in ArcGrid, a series of GIS models were created to determine high quality, ecologically significant natural resource areas in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The region's habitat experts helped to select seven vegetative communities that provide important habitat and are sensitive to human disturbance. Those vegetative communities were assessed and ranked according to their ecological function. Finally, all native plant communities mapped by the Minnesota County Biological Survey were incorporated. The parameters used to assess the ecological function of the sites were size, shape, species diversity, proximity to other natural areas, and incompatible adjacent land uses. After assessing the quality of each area by habitat type, a composite model was created wherein the areas were merged and re-ranked based on their combined preliminary rankings. Corridors that allow for movement between natural resource areas were also mapped. Preliminary findings indicate that about 230,000 acres, or about 23% of the Metro Region, meet our criteria for Regional Significance. The models will be available to land use planners and local units of government as a DNR ArcView Extension.

Poster Presentations index

Spatial Ecology and Conservation

P025 MANOLIS, JAMES, George Host, Mark White, Smita Mehta, Howard Hoganson, Malcolm Jones, Lee Frelich, Josh Bixby, Susan Bergman, Thomas Crow, and William Befort. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources / Minnesota Forest Resources Council, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155, USA (jim.manolis@dnr.state.mn.us) (JM); Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, 5013 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN 55811, USA (GH, MW, MJ); Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, 1530 Cleveland Avenue North, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA (SM, LF); Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, North Central Experiment Station, 1861 Highway 169 East, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (HH, JB, SB); USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station, 1831 Highway 169 East, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (TC); Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Resource Assessment Unit, 413 Southeast 13th Street, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (WB).

PAST, PRESENT, AND POSSIBLE FUTURE FOREST SPATIAL PATTERNS IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA

P026 GORMAN, THOMAS A., John D. Erb, Brock R. McMillan, and Daniel J. Martin. Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University, Mankato, Mankato, MN 56001, USA (tom.gorman@dnr.state.mn.us) (TAG, BRM, DJM); Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (JDE).

HOME RANGE CHARACTERISTICS OF RIVER OTTERS IN SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA

P027 SCHULTE, LISA A., Anna M. Pidgeon, and David J. Mladenoff. USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station, 1831 Highway 169 East, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (laschulte@fs.fed.us) (LAS); Department of Forest Ecology and Management, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 120 Russell Labs, 1630 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA (AMP, DJM).

ONE HUNDRED FIFTY YEARS OF CHANGE IN FOREST BIRD HABITAT: USING HISTORICAL DATA TO SPATIALLY ESTIMATE SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS IN WISCONSIN

P028 ÖCKINGER, ERIK, Olle Hammarstedt, Sven G. Nilsson, and Henrik G. Smith. Department of Ecology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-223 62 Lund, Sweden (erik.ockinger@zooekol.lu.se) (EÖ, SGN, HGS); Svärmarev. 28, SE-247 35 Södra Sandby, Sweden (OH).

BUTTERFLY POPULATION CHANGES IN SOUTHERN SWEDEN DURING 20 YEARS

P029 CHEKUIMO, GEORGES HERBERT, William E. Kunin, Michael Pocock, and Rebecca Aston. PO Box 8047, Yaounde, Cameroon (chekuimo@hotmail.com) (CGH); Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 9JT, UK (WEK, MP, RA).

FRACTAL PATTERNS IN SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS OF SOME BRITISH SCARCE PLANTS

Poster Presentations index

PAST, PRESENT, AND POSSIBLE FUTURE FOREST SPATIAL PATTERNS IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA

Past, present, and possible future forest spatial patterns were examined in a 58,000 km² region in northern Minnesota. We assessed pre-European disturbance characteristics on 42 sample blocks (each 37,000 ha) by digitizing line-notes from the 1847-1910 Public Land Survey. We assessed recent historical change on 2,300 ha plots within the line-note blocks, using aerial photos from the 1930s, 1970s, and 1990s. To examine potential future change, we used an ecological model called LANDIS and a spatial management scheduler called DP-Space. Key findings suggest: 1) While we can rapidly alter forest landscapes to generate smaller patches (based on historic analyses), spatial modeling shows that it might take much longer to regenerate large patches. This has strong implications for conservation issues, particularly those related to managing existing large intact patches on the landscape. 2) Simple rules, such as "cut in large blocks" can result in unintended consequences in future spatial patterns. Models can anticipate those consequences and suggest ways to avoid them. 3) There are no "one-size-fits-all" solutions to spatial pattern management. Natural physiographic features and land-use history determine different constraints and opportunities across complex landscapes. Spatial analysis can help determine appropriate management for specific areas and balance different interests.

Poster Presentations index

HOME RANGE CHARACTERISTICS OF RIVER OTTERS IN SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA

The geographic range of the river otter Lontra canadensis has been increasing in North America for more than 25 years due to extensive reintroduction programs, increased water quality, and wetland restoration. In southern Minnesota, there are both native and reintroduced populations of river otters that are currently undergoing range expansion. However, little information on population size, geographic range, or dynamics of these populations is available. We examined home range characteristics of a naturally expanding population in an area that has received wetland restoration, but no reintroduction efforts. We monitored 20 river otters (11 male; 9 female) that were equipped with radio transmitter implants during fall 2001 - fall 2002 along portions of the Mississippi River, the Whitewater River, and the Zumbro River, all of which have been altered by human development. We estimated annual and seasonal home ranges for individual otters and compared home range characteristics between sexes and among age classes. Annual and seasonal home ranges were smaller for females than for males. In addition, home range size differed among seasons for both males and females. Knowledge of spatial requirements and resource use will enable the management and continued conservation of this recovering species.

Poster Presentations index

ONE HUNDRED FIFTY YEARS OF CHANGE IN FOREST BIRD HABITAT: USING HISTORICAL DATA TO SPATIALLY ESTIMATE SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS IN WISCONSIN

Evaluating bird population trends requires baselines, and population data from the late 1960s are frequently used. However in the northern Lake States forest conditions have been undergoing succession since the great cutover of the late 1800s; thus, we propose pre-Euroamerican settlement as an alternative baseline for bird habitat change assessment. We constructed models of bird-habitat relationships from published data, and mapped the presettlement and present habitat distribution of three forest birds: the Blackburnian Warbler, Black-Throated Green Warbler, and Pine Warbler. Historical habitat data were gathered from the original Public Land Survey records and current conditions were modeled from forest inventory data. Model robustness was assessed by comparing current habitat distribution to actual breeding bird locations from the Wisconsin Breeding Bird Atlas. All three bird species show an expansion in habitat range and a degradation in habitat quality since presettlement times. Range expansion has occurred largely because of forest incursion into previously open habitats, and because of the development of pine plantations. Sources of degradation include loss of hemlock and white pine from the northern hardwoods forests and loss of large trees. Our maps provide a powerful tool for assessing changes in bird distributions and population levels over the last 150 years.

Poster Presentations index

BUTTERFLY POPULATION CHANGES IN SOUTHERN SWEDEN DURING 20 YEARS

Butterfly populations have been observed to decline in several parts of Europe. One of the main reasons is probably the loss of natural and semi-natural grasslands. In 2002 we conducted a re-survey of butterflies at 13 sites in southern Sweden, that were previously surveyed in 1980-1982, using a standard transect-counting method. All sites were dominated by semi-natural grasslands, and the areas vary from 9 to 49 ha. Species were classified according to mobility, host-plant specificity, overwintering stage, and whether they were red-listed or not. The mean number of species per site decreased significantly from 29.8 to 24.1. Site area had a significant effect on the number of species per site, but not on changes in species numbers. The mean population size decreased significantly. However, the response differed between mobility classes; the most mobile species showed a population increase, while the less mobile species showed a population decrease. Neither host-plant specificity, overwintering stage, nor red-listing affected population change significantly. The fact that population declines are mobility-dependent confirm the importance of spatial factors for the conservation of butterflies. The decline of species numbers might be explained by changed land management.

Poster Presentations index

FRACTAL PATTERNS IN SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS OF SOME BRITISH SCARCE PLANTS

The analysis, measurement, and management of species abundance is central to ecology and conservation biology, but it has proved difficult to find a single index that adequately reflects the commonness or rarity of species across a range of spatial scales. The spatial distribution and fractal structure of two British scarce plants, Lobelia urens (heath lobelia) and Phyteuma orbiculare (round-headed rampion), have been examined at several different scales. The two species have similar degrees of local patchiness at scale coarser than 50 km, and have contrasting coarse-scale between 50 km and 1 km scale, but differed consistently in the slopes of their scale-occupancy curve distributions at scale finer than 1 km. The slope of the log-log plot of L. urens is not constant, but varies systematically with spatial scale, and from habitat to habitat at the same spatial scale. Abundance estimates suggest that the species P. orbiculare is found to be clumped at all scales, whereas L. urens is dispersed at intermediate scale. Fractal dimension analysis suggests that this changes through scale. The distribution varied in their pattern from highly clumped to randomly dispersed. Fair predictions of L. urens can be made from 50 m and 200 m.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Area Planning and Management

P031 DARNELL, TRACI, and Kathryn Sieving. Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 303 Newins-Ziegler Hall, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA (tracidarnell@hotmail.com).

MATRIX PERMEABILITY AND USE OF VEGETATED CORRIDORS BY ENDEMIC SOUTH-TEMPERATE RAINFOREST BIRDS: A TRANSLOCATION EXPERIMENT

P032 ZEIGLER, SARA, Philip Nyhus, and Ron Tilson. Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, PA 17604, USA (sara.zeigler@fandm.edu) (SZ, PN); Minnesota Zoo, 13000 Zoo Boulevard, Apple Valley, MN 55124, USA (RT).

GIS ANALYSIS OF VIABLE HABITAT FOR PANTHERA TIGRIS SUMATRAE IN SUMATRA, INDONESIA

P033 BERGEN, SCOTT, William F. Laurance, Mark A. Cochrane, Phillip M. Fernside, Patricia Delamonica, Christoper Barber, Sammya D'Angelo, and Tito Fernandes. Center for Environmental Literacy, Mt. Holyoke College, 100 Talcott, South Hadley, MA 01075, USA (sbergen@mtholyoke.edu) (SB); Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Apartado 2072, Balboa, Panama (WFL); Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA (MAC, CB); National Institute for Amazon Research, Caixa Postal 478, Manaus-Amazonas, 69011-970, Brazil (PMF); Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project, INPA, CP 478, Manaus, AM 69011-970, Brazil (PD, SDA, TF).

FACTORS AFFECTING DEFORESTATION, FRAGMENTATION AND PRISTINE FORESTS WITHIN THE BRAZILIAN AMAZON: EVALUATION OF THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY

P034 VORA, ROBIN S. Superior National Forest, 8901 Grand Avenue Place, Duluth, MN 55808, USA; Present address: USDA Forest Service, 1230 Northeast 3rd Street, Suite A262, Bend, OR 97701, USA (rvora@fs.fed.us).

POTENTIAL RESEARCH NATURAL AREAS, SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST, MINNESOTA, USA

P035 STROMMEN, SARAH, Anna Baggio, Melissa Lindsay, Scott Kidd, William Willers, and Beth McKechnie. Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness, 401 North 3rd Street, Minneapolis, MN 55401, USA (sarah@friends-bwca.org) (SS, ML); Wildlands League, Chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Toronto, ON M5V 3A8, Canada (AB); Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Manitoba Chapter, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2H6, Canada (SK, BM); Superior Wilderness Action Network, Sandstone, MN 55072, USA (WW).

COMPLETING A CANOE COUNTRY VISION: PRESERVING GREAT LAKES AND BOREAL WILD LANDS

P036 Bryer, Mark, Kristine Ciruna, Tracy Horsman, and PETER SKIDMORE. The Nature Conservancy, 4245 North Fairfax Drive, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203, USA (mbryer@tnc.org) (MB); The Nature Conservancy of Canada, 202-26 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1H9, Canada (KC); The Nature Conservancy of Washington, 217 Pine Street #1100, Seattle, WA 98101, USA (TH, PS).

INTERNATIONAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION: USING A FRESHWATER ECOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION TO GUIDE ACTION IN CANADA AND THE USA

P037 Asher, Robert, ROBERT COPPER, and Marc Ebbin. County of San Diego, Department of Planning and Land Use, Multiple Species Conservation Program Division, 5201 Ruffin Road, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92123, USA (RA); County of San Diego, 1600 Pacific Highway, Room 212, Mail Stop A6, San Diego, CA 92101, USA (robert.copper@sdcounty.ca.gov) (RC); 550 Montgomery Street, Suite 900, San Francisco, CA 94111, USA (ME).

SPECIAL AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN DEVELOPMENT AS INTEGRATED REGULATORY TOOL FOR THE OTAY WATERSHED IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Poster Presentations index

P031 DARNELL, TRACI, and Kathryn Sieving. Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 303 Newins-Ziegler Hall, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA (tracidarnell@hotmail.com).

MATRIX PERMEABILITY AND USE OF VEGETATED CORRIDORS BY ENDEMIC SOUTH-TEMPERATE RAINFOREST BIRDS: A TRANSLOCATION EXPERIMENT

Translocation experiments are underway to test the permeability of forest corridors relative to two matrix types (pasture and shrub fields) to movement by the Chucao Tapaculo (Scelorchilus rubecula), a forest understory bird endemic to South American temperate rainforest. These data will be used to parameterize a spatially explicit metapopulation model that will predict patch occupancies within real and hypothetically modified landscapes. Preliminary analysis of existing data (41 birds tested to date) show significant effects of matrix type on movement decisions that outweigh the importance of other landscape variables (e.g. patch area and nearest-patch distance). The number of days birds remained in release patches prior to dispersal (a measure habitat resistance) was significantly different among treatments, with dispersal occurring sooner for patches surrounded by dense shrubs, or adjoining corridors, than for patches surrounded by pasture. Our results support the hypothesis that matrix types differ in their resistance to animal movement, and that explicit consideration of matrix permeability is important for realism of metapopulation models.

Poster Presentations index

GIS ANALYSIS OF VIABLE HABITAT FOR PANTHERA TIGRIS SUMATRAE IN SUMATRA, INDONESIA

Due to habitat degradation, the Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae), once widely distributed across the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, is now confined to small populations in sparse habitat fragments. The objective of this project was to use a geographic information system to identify the last remaining viable tiger habitat on the island with satellite imagery, existing digital data, and published materials. Data from the USGS, WWF, ORNL, GFW, IFRIS, and EU-FIMP were processed, rectified, and analyzed in ArcGIS 8.2 and ERDAS Imagine 8.5 to produce a base map of Sumatra. The resulting base map contains thematic layers for forest cover, human population density, protected areas, and land cover types. These layers, their pixels representing 0.25 km², were used in a suitability model incorporating elevation, conservation status, human population density, and land use. This model generated a base map of comparative habitat suitability for the Sumatran tiger, indicating that areas within national parks provide the best habitat. Beyond this distinction, the lowland areas on the eastern coastline of the island provide crucial habitat and should be looked upon as priority land for tiger conservation in the future.

Poster Presentations index

FACTORS AFFECTING DEFORESTATION, FRAGMENTATION AND PRISTINE FORESTS WITHIN THE BRAZILIAN AMAZON: EVALUATION OF THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY

The future of the Brazilian Amazon is of recent interest and speculation. While road construction is generally accepted as the best predictor of deforestation, this factor alone is insufficient to accurately predict deforestation and fragmentation in a spatially explicit fashion. Other factors such as road improvements, hydroelectric projects, railways, utility corridors, timber exploitation, mining and river channelization have deforestation impacts as well. Conversely, indigenous nations, state reserves and federal ecological reserves protect areas from encroachment. These positive and negative factors effecting deforestation react synergistically with one another making predictions complex. Previous attempts at modeling the future Brazilian Amazon have fallen short of evaluating each of these factors' contribution to deforestation, forest fragmentation, and the preservation of large tracts of undisturbed forests. These factors have been evaluated in a spatially explicit fashion and the results are presented for the factors influence upon deforestation, fragmentation and non-fragmented forest preservation. The factors effecting deforestation were road improvements, hydroelectric, utility corridors, railways, new roads and river channelization (in order of greatest to least). Indigenous nations, state reserves and federal ecological reserves were predicted to prevent 11, 6.5 and 4.25 million hectares of deforestation, respectively. The greatest factors contributing to fragmentation were timber extraction, mining, fire and road construction. The largest threats to large non-fragmented forests were timber extraction, mining, road improvements, fire, new roads, utility corridors, hydroelectric projects and railways (in order of greatest to least). Indigenous nations were seen as the greatest preserving factor for these non-fragmented forests. These results will be evaluated in relevance to ecoregions occurring within the Amazon Basin (WWF 2001).

Poster Presentations index

POTENTIAL RESEARCH NATURAL AREAS, SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST, MINNESOTA, USA

Research Natural Areas (RNAs) on National Forest lands serve as sites for research, monitoring, education, and maintenance of biodiversity. The focus has expanded from unique sites to include the representation of the range of native ecosystems. In preparation for Forest Plan revision, the Superior National Forest conducted a potential RNA inventory at a coarse scale. Beginning in 1995, a list was developed and maps prepared of the highest quality sites based on existing information. Each site was ranked based on assigned points for attributes related to natural area quality and representation of common ecosystems within each site was noted. To further evaluate sites, a cooperative venture with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, with financial support of The Nature Conservancy, provided additional analysis of 43 of these sites from the air and on the ground in 1997. Additional complimentary work on a RNA framework was completed at the regional level. In 1999, a Forest interdisciplinary team used these results and other information to develop a pool of 41 potential RNAs. The analysis report contained maps and showed ecological representation in relation to size, condition, and landscape context for each potential area. Potential management concerns were also documented.

Poster Presentations index

COMPLETING A CANOE COUNTRY VISION: PRESERVING GREAT LAKES AND BOREAL WILD LANDS

Over three centuries, people have worked to preserve the forests and lakes of the Minnesota-Canada border region as a wilderness canoe country. Areas like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Voyageurs National Park, and Quetico Provincial Park have been protected. Recent studies suggest that these areas may not be large enough to preserve biodiversity over time. In 2001, we initiated work on a wildlands network to reconnect the wilderness cores of the old "north woods:" boreal and Great Lakes forests. The planning region, called Heart of the Continent, encompasses parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Planning methodology developed by The Wildlands Project was used to identify six goals to heal and preserve intact ecosystems. Goals included restoring habitat connectivity for wide-ranging species, especially large carnivores and ungulates, and allowing natural processes to take place throughout the region. Objectives for each goal were developed, and identification of focal species and mapping of natural and constructed features was started. Initial work indicated that while parts of the Heart of the Continent region were heavily fragmented, sufficient landscape connectivity existed to create a wildlands network.

Poster Presentations index

INTERNATIONAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION: USING A FRESHWATER ECOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION TO GUIDE ACTION IN CANADA AND THE USA

In conjunction with governmental, academic, and non-governmental partners, The Nature Conservancy has developed an approach to describe freshwater biodiversity for use in conservation and resource management. Four hierarchical levels are classified using principles of conservation biology, aquatic ecology, and multivariate statistics, and are mapped in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The Nature Conservancy and The Nature Conservancy of Canada are working together to implement this hierarchy across the Canadian province of British Columbia and the U.S. states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. We will discuss the results of this effort, its implications for integrated biodiversity conservation across the region, as well as other applications of the classification that include developing species habitat models (e.g., for salmon management), informing land use planning, and identifying reference conditions for biological integrity assessments.

Poster Presentations index

SPECIAL AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN DEVELOPMENT AS INTEGRATED REGULATORY TOOL FOR THE OTAY WATERSHED IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Protection of aquatic resources, wetland regulations and watershed planning are three important issues that were not directly addressed in the Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP), San Diego County's effort to protect endangered species and enhance biological diversity while streamlining the development permit process. The County is using the Otay River watershed as a pilot project to integrate these issues into the MSCP. The County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, with the local, state, and federal agencies are developing a Special Area Management Plan (SAMP) for the Otay River Watershed. A SAMP is a comprehensive plan that provides for aquatic resource protection and reasonable economic growth within geographic areas of special sensitivity. The general objectives of the study are to: 1) develop a comprehensive aquatic resource preservation, enhancement, and restoration plan; 2) accommodate development activities while meeting goals of the study through issuance of a General Permit under the 404(e) Guidelines; 3) identify potential funding sources and mechanisms for land acquisition and conservation easements; 4) develop initial restoration and long-term management plans; and 5) improve regulatory and resource agency coordination. This effort is in conjunction with the development of a watershed management plan for the Otay River.

Poster Presentations index

Ecosystem Management

P038 KARNS, BYRON, Marcey Westrick, and Leonard Ferrington. St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, National Park Service, PO Box 708, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, USA (Byron_Karns@nps.gov) (BK); Emmons & Olivier Resources, 651 Hale Avenue North, Oakdale, MN 55128, USA (MW); University of Minnesota, 306 Hodson Hall, 1980 Folwell Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA (LF).

A COMPARISON OF MACROINVERTEBRATES AS FACTORS IN DETERMINING BIOLOGICAL INTEGRITY: AN INDEX FOR GROUNDWATER QUALITY FOR MULTIPLE STREAMS

P039 RYKKEN, JESSICA, Andrew Moldenke, and Samuel Chan. Department of Entomology, Oregon State University, Cordley Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA (rykkenj@science.oregonstateedu) (JR, AM); USDA Forest Service, Corvallis Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA (SC).

EFFECTS OF RIPARIAN FOREST MANAGEMENT ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF EPIGEIC INVERTEBRATES IN THE CASCADES RANGE OF OREGON

Poster Presentations index

A COMPARISON OF MACROINVERTEBRATES AS FACTORS IN DETERMINING BIOLOGICAL INTEGRITY: AN INDEX FOR GROUNDWATER QUALITY FOR MULTIPLE STREAMS

Currently, we are participating in a groundwater assessment study of certain water resources flowing into the St. Croix River from Washington County, Minnesota. The goal is to judge the feasibility of using terminal springs as indicators for overall groundwater quality. Water reaching the surface as a result of geology represents an amalgamation of all that has reached it along its underground course. Traditional groundwater assessments that rely on well testing only reflect a single temporal and spatial sample. Components of the study include geomorphology, water chemistry and physical attributes, and biological values at each of 21 streams along the St. Croix River. Samples and appraisals of these characteristics were repeated at each of the four seasons beginning with the fall of 2001. The biological element is determined chiefly by kick net invertebrate samples taken near a given transect at each stream. These samples will be sorted and the organisms identified to the family level or lower. For this presentation, the January macroinvertebrate data will be analyzed to determine each stream's diversity, and further compared to rank each stream as unique or representational. The results will be placed with other biotic and abiotic factors to index streams and monitor groundwater quality.

Poster Presentations index

EFFECTS OF RIPARIAN FOREST MANAGEMENT ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF EPIGEIC INVERTEBRATES IN THE CASCADES RANGE OF OREGON

Headwater streams comprise the vast majority of stream habitat within the Douglas fir forests of the Pacific Northwest; yet, until recently, have received little protection. Because leaving forested reserves along headwater streams may take a large amount of land out of timber production, it is critical to evaluate their role in maintaining the biological integrity of aquatic and riparian communities. Invertebrates are an important yet often overlooked component of the riparian zone. We compared microclimatic variables and epigeic invertebrate distributions in three headwater riparian treatments (forested, clearcut, clearcut with 30m riparian reserve). We sampled invertebrates in pitfall traps along 70m transects perpendicular to the stream. Ordination analysis revealed elevation, treatment, and distance-from-stream to be important variables in ordering sites with similar species composition. Air and soil temperature and relative humidity in riparian reserves were more similar to forest than to clearcut conditions, and also showed some distance-from-stream/edge effects. We conclude that canopy removal affects microclimatic variables, which, in turn, produce changes in the distribution of epigeic invertebrates. Differences are most pronounced between forested and clearcut sites. Riparian reserves are most similar to forested sites, and therefore are likely serving an important role in maintaining biological integrity in headwater stream riparian zones.

Poster Presentations index

Scientists, Managers and Policy Makers – Bridging the Gaps

P043 SILBERNAGEL, JANET. Department of Landscape Architecture, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1450 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA (jmsilber@wisc.edu).

COMPILING SPATIAL NARRATIVES FOR INTEGRATED CONSERVATION

P044 VONGKHAMHENG, CHANTHAVY. The Wildlife Conservation Society – Lao Program, PO Box 6712, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R. (cvongkhamheng@WCS.org).

DEVELOPING PARTICIPATORY WILDLIFE DIVERSITY MONITORING IN NAM ET-PHOU LOEY NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AREAS IN NORTHERN LAO P.D.R.

P045 HACKEL, JEFFREY. Department of Geography, California State University, San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA (jhackel@csusb.edu).

HISTORY OF THE HLANE ROAD: A CASE STUDY OF WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

P046 RENTZ, MICHAEL. Conservation Biology Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, 180 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA (rent0009@umn.edu).

INTERNALIZING THE FOREST: INVESTIGATING THE APPLICATION OF TRADABLE PERMITS IN THE INTERNATIONAL TIMBER TRADE

P048 MACK, ANDREW L., and Banak Gamui. Wildlife Conservation Society, Papua New Guinea Program, PO Box 277, Goroka, EHP, Papua New Guinea (amack@global.net.pg).

AN ASSESSMENT OF PROTECTED SPECIES LEGISLATION IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

P049 GRANILLO, KATHY. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, PO Box 1306, Albuquerque, NM 87103, USA (Kathy_Granillo@fws.gov).

COMING SOON TO A NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE NEAR YOU! LAND MANAGEMENT RESEARCH AND DEMONSTRATION AREAS

P050 JOHNSON, ROSALYN, Laura Gardiner, and Laura Machala. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5, Environmental Planning Branch, Office of Strategic Environmental Analysis, 77 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60604, USA (johnson.rosalyn@epa.gov); Oberlin College, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA (LG, LM).

USING THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) PUBLIC COMMENT PROCESS TO PROTECT GREAT LAKES REGION RESOURCES

Poster Presentations index

P043 SILBERNAGEL, JANET. Department of Landscape Architecture, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1450 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA (jmsilber@wisc.edu).

COMPILING SPATIAL NARRATIVES FOR INTEGRATED CONSERVATION

Many times conservation planning could be enhanced with approaches to capture the complex dynamics of people and land in a holistic framework. Long held paradigms about how knowledge is acquired and applied in the ecological sciences may be trespassed. One such leap is to include qualitative 'narratives' – stories compiled about a place, its people, and the relationship between. Narratives may be compiled from varied forms of landscape information. For example, expressions of regional identity can be found in physical landscape evidence – forms and patterns, as well as landscape paintings, maps, photography, and local craft. A shared sense of place, therefore, is expressed in a local groups' reflection of their landscape through cultural artifacts of everyday life. In this poster I present, by way of conservation work in the Lake Superior region, USA, ways in which landscape patterns and visual expression can be used together to connect sequences of a landscape story to enrich conservation plans and build community trust. Most importantly, I suggest a meshing of qualitative knowledge with geographic sciences to synthesize spatial narratives for conservation ecology. The spatial narrative is a conceptual framework to bring the qualitative experience of place together with the geoscience's approach of space.

Poster Presentations index

P044 VONGKHAMHENG, CHANTHAVY. The Wildlife Conservation Society – Lao Program, PO Box 6712, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R. (cvongkhamheng@WCS.org).

DEVELOPING PARTICIPATORY WILDLIFE DIVERSITY MONITORING IN NAM ET-PHOU LOEY NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AREAS IN NORTHERN LAO P.D.R.

Both scientific information and local involvement are important for protected area management. A pilot project was conducted to use local knowledge and scientific study by involving local communities in assessing the status of wildlife and wildlife population trends at Nam Et-Phou Loey National Protected areas in northern Lao P.D.R. The study focused on seven villages of four different ethnic minorities, namely Hmong, Khamu, Yao and Tai Dam. Qualitative knowledge of local communities was obtained by using village-based approaches while quantitative field data was obtained by using science-based methods, which included walking transects and track-stations, for comparison with local knowledge as well as to understand local perceptions or local attitudes toward wildlife. As a result, it was found that local villagers usually overestimated the status of wildlife diversity while rigorous scientific study requires high skills of planning, technical expertise, interpretation skills, and resources input. So, to solve these problems, both scientific study and local knowledge should be combined in order to get both reliable information that is close to the real situation and also addresses the local involvement in conservation by building better local understanding.

Poster Presentations index

P045 HACKEL, JEFFREY. Department of Geography, California State University, San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA (jhackel@csusb.edu).

HISTORY OF THE HLANE ROAD: A CASE STUDY OF WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

Conservationists in Swaziland are presently trying to develop strategies that will ensure survival of the nature reserves. Their ability to achieve this goal in large part depends on two factors: 1) the commitment of Swaziland's government officials to nature conservation; and 2) the effectiveness with which conservationists present their arguments to Swazi decision-makers. Examination of a resolved issue as a case study offers insights into the present status of both factors. The issue selected involved the decision in the late 1970s to upgrade northeastern Swaziland's main road, which bisects the country's major conservation area and a commercial farming region, or to build a new route west of the protected areas. The debate was significant because for the first time conservationists were full participants in the decision-making process. However, in the end, the established alignment was upgraded to a high volume road. The outcome reflects that economic development was given a higher priority than conservation, as economic interests won out in the end. There may be a lesson for the future as integrated conservation and development projects become more popular. Swaziland shows that it is likely that economic development will be given priority over wildlife conservation when conflict between them develops.

Poster Presentations index

P046 RENTZ, MICHAEL. Conservation Biology Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, 180 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA (rent0009@umn.edu).

INTERNALIZING THE FOREST: INVESTIGATING THE APPLICATION OF TRADABLE PERMITS IN THE INTERNATIONAL TIMBER TRADE

Deforestation is a significant conservation threat worldwide. One driver of deforestation is the international timber trade, the impacts of which are made worse by not requiring those who profit from logging to pay the full ecological and social costs of their actions. Tradable permits may offer policy makers a way of guiding international trade while respecting national sovereignty. Typically, tradable permits require polluters to internalize the costs of their emissions by obtaining volume based permits equivalent to the amount of their emissions. Normally in natural resource extraction cases, companies obtain permits equivalent to the volume of resource extracted. The proposed tradable permits system is unique in quantifying the ecological impact of logging as the permitted activity, rather than wood volume or area logged. Projects determined to have greater ecological impacts will require more permits than projects of lesser impact, in an attempt to encourage more sustainable logging. Guidelines for determining logging impact and permit quantity and distribution are suggested. Trade in permits will allow nations to capitalize on their forests without cutting them by trading unused permits. Challenges and areas needing further research are discussed.

Poster Presentations index

P048 MACK, ANDREW L., and Banak Gamui. Wildlife Conservation Society, Papua New Guinea Program, PO Box 277, Goroka, EHP, Papua New Guinea (amack@global.net.pg).

AN ASSESSMENT OF PROTECTED SPECIES LEGISLATION IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

The government of Papua New Guinea lists 72 species as protected under the Fauna Protection Act of 1976. Rarity, degree of threat and endemism were apparently not consistent criteria for listing. Four listed species are globally cosmopolitan and common. Two species are introduced exotics. Only one species of New Guinea marsupial (other than Macropodids) is listed while several species of equal or greater rarity are not mentioned. At least eight listed bird species are ubiquitous and occur in primary and disturbed habitats. However, many species of extremely limited range are not listed. Only two common species endemic to the Bismarck and Admiralty Archipelagos are listed. The list also requires taxonomic updating because the systematic status of many taxa has changed. For example all birds of paradise are listed, but recent work shows several of those listed are not truly birds of paradise. Analyses for this paper will form the basis for a recommendation document to be presented to the Government of Papua New Guinea on the revision of species for the Protected Fauna list.

Poster Presentations index

P049 GRANILLO, KATHY. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, PO Box 1306, Albuquerque, NM 87103, USA (Kathy_Granillo@fws.gov).

COMING SOON TO A NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE NEAR YOU! LAND MANAGEMENT RESEARCH AND DEMONSTRATION AREAS

After a nationwide competition, the Service designated 13 national wildlife refuges as Land Management Research and Demonstration Areas. These sites will showcase successful management techniques and develop and validate new techniques through applied research. They will serve as learning centers and training grounds for land managers. Each refuge will hire a senior level biologist to oversee implementation of the project and to coordinate and conduct research, as well as to provide training and technical assistance. This poster provides information on each refuge, and solicits participation in both research and technical assistance from conference attendees.

Poster Presentations index

USING THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) PUBLIC COMMENT PROCESS TO PROTECT GREAT LAKES REGION RESOURCES

The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is a "sunshine" law requiring federal agencies to disclose the potential environmental and human health impacts of major federal projects. This poster is designed to indicate the project footprints of many agencies' projects that have been through the NEPA process in the Great Lakes Region, focusing on USEPA's Region 5 (IL, IN, OH, WI, MN, and MI), since the late 1990's. USEPA tracks, reviews, and publicly "grades" other agencies' major projects during the NEPA process. Yearly, USEPA's comments influence natural resources management and protection of human and environmental health in agricultural, urban, and preservation/conservation areas, as well as rivers and other water bodies. Because participation in the NEPA public comment process by scientists, naturalists, and researchers from all sectors is uncommon, USEPA encourages greater independent involvement by those individuals, especially in the areas of resource and impact assessment, mitigation planning, and ongoing communication between scientists and federal project managers. The poster will describe links and general information on how to engage in the NEPA public participation process.

Poster Presentations index

Education and Outreach

P051 AXLER, RICHARD, Marion Lonsdale, Cynthia Hagley, George Host, Bruce Munson, and Carl Richards. Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, 5013 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN 55811, USA (raxler@nrri.umn.edu) (RA, GH); City of Duluth, Stormwater Utility, 600 Garfield Avenue, Duluth, MN 55802, USA (ML); Minnesota Sea Grant College Program, University of Minnesota, 2305 East 5th Street, Duluth, MN 55812-1445, USA (CH, BM, CR).

DULUTH STREAMS: COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS FOR UNDERSTANDING URBAN STORMWATER AND WATER QUALITY ISSUES AT THE HEAD OF THE GREAT LAKES

P052 NORWOOD, CARLA, and William O. McLarney. Little Tennessee Watershed Association, 197 Thomas Heights Road, Franklin, NC 28734, USA (carla@ltwa.org).

USING BIOTIC INTEGRITY DATA FOR WATERSHED CONSERVATION IN RURAL SOUTHERN APPALACHIA: A CASE STUDY OF INDEX OF BIOTIC INTEGRITY, CONSERVATION MARKETING AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION IN THE UPPER LITTLE TENNESSEE WATERSHED

P053 JACOBSON, SUSAN, Lynn Gape, and Monique Sweeting. Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, PO Box 110430, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0430, USA (jacobsons@wec.ufl.edu) (SJ); Bahamas National Trust, PO Box N-4105, Nassau, Bahamas (LG, MS).

PEOPLE AND PARROTS: INTEGRATED RESEARCH AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH FOR ABACO NATIONAL PARK, BAHAMAS

Poster Presentations index

DULUTH STREAMS: COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS FOR UNDERSTANDING URBAN STORMWATER AND WATER QUALITY ISSUES AT THE HEAD OF THE GREAT LAKES

Duluth, Minnesota lies adjacent to western Lake Superior, essentially the source and headwaters of the Laurentian Great Lakes ecosystem. The City has 42 named streams, 12 trout streams, and borders both pristine Lake Superior and the Duluth-Superior-Harbor Area of Concern. Duluth's stormwater infrastructure includes 93 miles of streams and wetlands, and urbanization and rural development impact these waters by increasing temperature, turbidity and sediment, roadsalts, organic matter and nutrients. DuluthStreams established a Partnership between the City, university professionals and local resource agencies with the goal of enhancing public understanding of aquatic ecosystems and their connections to watershed land use by illustrating the nature and consequences of degraded stormwater and its real costs to society. The project initiated time-relevant, automated water quality monitoring and a website (www.duluthstreams.org) linking the data to GIS landuse and current and historical water quality and biological databases. Data visualization tools, interpretive text and animations are used to visually engage the general public via the Internet and Kiosks at the Duluth Zoo and Great Lakes Aquarium. DuluthStreams, working with RiverWatch, has also established high school/neighborhood monitoring of trout streams, developed high school/college curricula, and is adapting NEMO (Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials) to the Duluth Area.

Poster Presentations index

P052 NORWOOD, CARLA, and William O. McLarney. Little Tennessee Watershed Association, 197 Thomas Heights Road, Franklin, NC 28734, USA (carla@ltwa.org).

The Upper Little Tennessee River is a hotspot of aquatic biodiversity even within the Southeastern U.S., a region recognized for its rich fish and mussel communities. For 12 years, the Upper Little Tennessee River Watershed Project has utilized a volunteer-driven biomonitoring program to support the conservation of aquatic biodiversity, resulting in what is believed to be the largest amount of biological data for any comparably sized watershed in the world (450 sq. miles). The data collection process is environmental education at its best, drawing on a truly diverse mix of volunteers who come away with an understanding of how fish communities integrate many ecological health indicators. The data has been instrumental in the recent protection of 4600 acres in the watershed, representing one half of the river frontage along the most pristine portion of the river. The IBI ratings recently led to the passage of a stream protection ordinance in a county with no zoning regulations. We are extracting stories from the data to which rural people can relate. The collection and interpretation of complex biological data in rural western NC is emerging as one of the most effective means of involving the community in conservation issues.

Poster Presentations index

PEOPLE AND PARROTS: INTEGRATED RESEARCH AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH FOR ABACO NATIONAL PARK, BAHAMAS

This study engaged key stakeholders in developing environmental outreach materials to support the management of Abaco National Park. The goal is to protect the endangered Bahama parrot (Amazona leucocephala bahamensis) and the rare pineland habitat and endemic avifauna on Abaco. We conducted a comprehensive needs assessment for an outreach program using the nominal group technique to collect data from six stakeholder groups: neighboring residents, community leaders, teachers, recreational users, hunters, and tourism industry representatives. Discussion groups were designed to interview a homogeneous group of 12-14 individuals who shared similar resource use interests in Abaco Park. Each meeting explored issues related to opportunities and threats to the park and parrots, and consisted of six stages: 1) presentation of the issue, 2) individual reflection and brainstorming, 3) documentation of individual ideas in round-robin style, 4) consolidation and review of all ideas listed, 5) ranking of ideas, and 6) compilation of results. Our results were combined with ecological data to develop an integrated conservation education program to foster appropriate behaviors and improve knowledge and attitudes for sustainable management of the park. The results demonstrate the efficiency of the nominal group technique as a tool for educators and managers to incorporate stakeholders' opinions into the decision-making process.

Poster Presentations index

Marine Conservation

P054 Barnes, Robin, REBECCA MCCLATCHEY, and Charles Acosta. Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099, USA (acostac@nku.edu).

MAXIMIZING PROTECTION OF BIODIVERSITY USING SPATIAL PREDICTIONS OF CORAL REEF COMMUNITY DIVERSITY

P055 FREEMAN, KATE S., and K. David Hyrenbach. Duke University Marine Laboratory, Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, 135 Pivers Island Road, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA (ksf3@duke.edu).

LONG-TERM HABITAT ASSESSMENT OF SEABIRDS AND CETACEANS IN THE NORTHEASTERN PACIFIC TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF PELAGIC MARINE PROTECTED AREAS

Poster Presentations index

P054 Barnes, Robin, REBECCA MCCLATCHEY, and Charles Acosta. Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099, USA (acostac@nku.edu).

MAXIMIZING PROTECTION OF BIODIVERSITY USING SPATIAL PREDICTIONS OF CORAL REEF COMMUNITY DIVERSITY

Coral reefs are major hotspots of biodiversity, but protection efforts are largely based on cursory biotic surveys or focused on aesthetically-pleasing features. We still lack rigorous analytical methods for predicting biodiversity on coral reefs at appropriate spatial scales to maximize efficacy of marine protected areas. We conducted systematic surveys of fish and benthic communities of different reef physiographic zones on a pristine coral atoll at Glover's Reef, Belize. The density and heterogeneity of biotic communities at Glover's Reef was among the highest reported for any Atlantic coral reef. Diversity varied by reef zone (depth), as well as by exposure (windward versus leeward). Analyses of species richness and evenness indicated that the fish community was most heterogenous on shallow patch reef and forereef habitat. Diversity of corals was highest on the shallow forereef, whereas sponges were dominant on the deep reef. Assessment of the Glover's Reef Marine Reserve, one of the largest reserves in the Caribbean, indicated that, while much of the biodiversity is under protection, leeward areas with the highest densities of reef-building corals were left unprotected. Using GIS, this approach to quantifying the spatial association between reef zonation and the reef builders and users might have utility for assessment, management, and restoration of coral reefs.

Poster Presentations index

LONG-TERM HABITAT ASSESSMENT OF SEABIRDS AND CETACEANS IN THE NORTHEASTERN PACIFIC TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF PELAGIC MARINE PROTECTED AREAS

To date, only five marine protected areas have been established along the West Coast of the United States, none of which extend more than 18 nautical miles from shore. These areas do not afford habitat protection for a number of highly migratory and often endangered pelagic seabird and cetacean species found in the Northeastern Pacific Ocean. In order to design pelagic marine protected areas we need to better understand both the ephemeral and plastic forces which drive habitat preferences for pelagic species. We use a combination of both sightings data from the Minerals Management Service Computer Database Analysis System and remotely sensed environmental data (bathymetry, sea-surface temperature, chlorophyll) to describe the spatial and seasonal distributions of four cetacean and eight seabird species from 1996-1997. We then compared these distributions to sightings data from the past 22 years to determine how effectively these environmental features describe habitat preferences over longer time periods. Results point to the necessity of using plastic parameters in concert with static features in developing pelagic marine protected areas.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Issues Concerning the Great Lakes

P056 SUNDELL, RONALD, and Carl Lindquist. Environmental Science Program, Northern Michigan University, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, MI 49855, USA (rsundell@nmu.edu) (RS); Central Lake Superior Watershed Partnership, 1030 Wright Street, Marquette, MI 49855, USA (CL).

THE NEED FOR BUFFER ZONES ALONG THE GREAT LAKES SHORELINE

P057 WINDELS, STEVE, and David Flaspohler. School of Forest Resources and Environmental Sciences, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA (skwindel@mtu.edu).

THE DECLINE OF CANADA YEW IN THE UPPER GREAT LAKES: CAUSAL MECHANISMS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR SMALL UNDERSTORY VERTEBRATES

P058 GERDES, D. LAWSON, Meredith W. Cornett, and Carmen Converse. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota County Biological Survey, 500 Lafayette Road, PO Box 25, St. Paul, MN 55155, USA (lawson.gerdes@dnr.state.mn.us) (DLG, CC); The Nature Conservancy, 394 Lake Avenue South, Duluth, MN 55802 USA (MC).

SYNTHESIZING AQUATIC, WETLAND AND TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENTS FOR CONSERVATION ACTION IN THE NORTH SHORE (LAKE SUPERIOR) HIGHLANDS

P059 RESCHKE, CAROL. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota County Biological Survey, 1568 Highway 2, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA (carol.reschke@dnr.state.mn.us).

VEGETATION OF LAKE SUPERIOR ROCKY SHORES IN NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA: COMPOSITION, DIVERSITY, SIGNIFICANCE, AND THREATS

P060 KINGSTON, JOHN, Daniel Engstrom, Edward Swain, Eugene F. Stoermer, Jeffrey Johansen, Gerald Sgro, Kristin Yanko, Amy Kireta, and Richard Axler. Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, 5013 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN 55811, USA (jkingsto@umn.edu) (JK, AK, RA); St. Croix Watershed Research Station, Science Museum of Minnesota, 16910 152nd Street North, Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047, USA (DE); Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 520 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155, USA (ES); Great Lakes Research, University of Michigan, 501 East University Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA (EFS); Biology Department, John Carroll University, 20700 North Park Boulevard, University Heights, OH 44118, USA (JJ, GS, KY).

PALEOLIMNOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF ECOSYSTEM CONDITION IN GREAT LAKES DROWNED RIVER MOUTHS

Poster Presentations index

THE NEED FOR BUFFER ZONES ALONG THE GREAT LAKES SHORELINE

River and inland lake buffer zones are proven to protect water quality and important habitat, yet there is no coordinated effort to incorporate buffers for the Great Lakes shoreline. There are many well known benefits to buffer zones such as trapping pollutants and sediments, preserving riparian habitat and wildlife corridors, and providing aesthetics and recreational opportunities. Marquette County, and in particular Chocolay Township, Michigan provide a good example of how integrating natural features inventories, river and shoreline monitoring and assessments, and appropriate land use planning ordinances (e.g., dune protection) can produce an effective shoreline protection plan. Many shoreline areas along our Great Lakes are not currently protected and some areas have already been significantly degraded by inappropriate development. The Michigan Land Use Institute projects an 80 percent increase in second home development over the next 20 years. While local townships and counties can implement individual ordinances, a more comprehensive approach using state and/or federal standards would be beneficial. With current political and budget constraints for acquiring land, protecting shoreline through the use of buffers is an effective, low cost method and should be included in the Great Lakes Management Plans (LaMPs) recommendations to achieve water quality and terrestrial habitat goals.

Poster Presentations index

THE DECLINE OF CANADA YEW IN THE UPPER GREAT LAKES: CAUSAL MECHANISMS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR SMALL UNDERSTORY VERTEBRATES

Canada yew (Taxus Canadensis Marsh.) is an evergreen shrub native to the mixed conifer-hardwood forests of northeastern North America, and was likely a major ground cover component in some presettlement forests of this region. Canada yew has been extirpated from most of its range in the U.S. as a result heavy forest disturbance and subsequent eruptions in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) populations. We present a summary of research findings to date investigating: 1) deer browsing patterns on Canada yew at multiple spatial scales, and 2) potential trophic impacts related to the dramatic reduction in the importance of Canada yew within some Upper Great Lakes forests. Intensity of deer browsing on yew was negatively related to yew stem density at the forest stand level. At small spatial scales, deer browsing is concentrated on the edges of yew patches, such that large patches of yew often harbor refugia of unbrowsed stems in their interior. Preliminary analyses of vertebrate data suggests that individual species of small mammals and understory songbirds are not dependent on abundance of Canada yew in forest understories but that species richness and diversity increases as Canada yew increases in density and height. Canada yew is a unique feature of Great Lakes forests and restoration efforts are needed to prevent its extirpation from the region.

Poster Presentations index

SYNTHESIZING AQUATIC, WETLAND AND TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENTS FOR CONSERVATION ACTION IN THE NORTH SHORE (LAKE SUPERIOR) HIGHLANDS

Conservation of biological diversity often requires an understanding of processes and interrelationships at the species, community and landscape level, and across both spatial and temporal scales. Managers are frequently required to translate the results of surveys and scientific investigations that address widely varying objectives, without a holistic interpretation of the significance of these findings to the conservation of biodiversity. The results of a statewide biological inventory in Minnesota and the findings of a Great Lakes ecoregional planning effort have resulted in the collection of species, community and landscape data in the North Shore (Lake Superior) Highlands ecological subsection. We collected data on the distribution, abundance and ecology of rare species, composition and structure of native plant communities, and biological and physical characteristics of aquatic, terrestrial and wetland systems. These data were integrated with ecosystem models based on historical landscape patterns and processes, a statewide classification of Native Plant Communities, and existing forest inventories to identify sites of statewide and regional biodiversity significance requiring conservation action in this landscape. Results also provided ecological interpretations, classification and mapping for collaborative, landscape level management of several large areas of conservation priority in the North Shore (Lake Superior) Highlands.

Poster Presentations index

P059 RESCHKE, CAROL. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota County Biological Survey, 1568 Highway 2, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA (carol.reschke@dnr.state.mn.us).

VEGETATION OF LAKE SUPERIOR ROCKY SHORES IN NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA: COMPOSITION, DIVERSITY, SIGNIFICANCE, AND THREATS

The overall goal of this study is to promote conservation and appropriate management of sensitive rocky shoreline plant communities in heavily used state parks and public lands along Minnesota's Lake Superior shore. Shoreline plant communities include many lichens and mosses covering rock surfaces, along with disjunct arctic-alpine flowering plants, and a few state-listed rare species. The objectives of this study are 1) to collect vegetation data for refining classification and description of shoreline plant communities, and 2) to evaluate impacts of high visitor use by comparing areas of high visitor use with areas less frequently visited and presumably more pristine. Vegetation data were collected from 38 plots, including 189 species of lichens and bryophytes, and over 100 species of vascular plants. Vegetation analysis resulted in identification of six native plant communities. Plots from areas with high visitor use were compared to samples from relatively pristine areas, revealing that the main impacts of heavy use are reduced plant cover and diversity. Major causes are trampling and fires (campfires, brush piles, bonfires). A potential threat is also posed by construction of new stormwater and sewer systems along roads near the shore that may change hydrology of natural seeps along the shore.

Poster Presentations index

P060 KINGSTON, JOHN, Daniel Engstrom, Edward Swain, Eugene F. Stoermer, Jeffrey Johansen, Gerald Sgro, Kristin Yanko, Amy Kireta, and Richard Axler. Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota, 5013 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN 55811, USA (jkingsto@umn.edu) (JK, AK, RA); St. Croix Watershed Research Station, Science Museum of Minnesota, 16910 152nd Street North, Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047, USA (DE); Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 520 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155, USA (ES); Great Lakes Research, University of Michigan, 501 East University Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA (EFS); Biology Department, John Carroll University, 20700 North Park Boulevard, University Heights, OH 44118, USA (JJ, GS, KY).

PALEOLIMNOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF ECOSYSTEM CONDITION IN GREAT LAKES DROWNED RIVER MOUTHS

Paleolimnological assessment of water quality in the St. Louis River Estuary (Duluth, MN; Superior, WI) shows that land use changes following European settlement have led to accelerated perturbation of the ecosystem over a period of 150 years. In dated cores, sediment accumulation, diatom populations, diatom-inferred water quality, and sedimentary pigment concentrations all point to decreased water transparency and increased nutrient loading in this heavily agricultural, urbanized and industrialized watershed. Historical photographs from Duluth in the late 1860s show extensive peat wetlands in the harbor, coincident with a period of higher water quality based on our environmental indicators. Paleolimnological assessment offers baselines, trends, and magnitudes of change using consistent methodology in depositional environments. In the case of the St. Louis River Estuary and many other sites in the Laurentian Great Lakes, it is difficult to envision any practical remedial action that could restore reference conditions to pre-European settlement baselines. Our research combines sediment core analysis from a Minnesota Sea Grant project with a recent USEPA-funded project to develop environmental indicators of condition for the coastal and nearshore zones of the Laurentian Great Lakes.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Issues Concerning Fish

P061 HARSTAD, DEBORAH, and Craig Stockwell. Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA (deborah.harstad@ndsu.nodak.edu).

COSTS OF PARASITISM (DIPLOSTOMATIDAE) TO MALE WHITE SANDS PUPFISH (CYPRINODON TULAROSA)

P063 SPAETH, JOHN, and Denice N. Robertson. Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099, USA (robertsonde@nku.edu).

SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL POLLUTION IMPACTS ON NATIVE FISH DIVERSITY IN THE OHIO RIVER WATERSHED

P064 KIHSLINGER, REBECCA L., J. Louise Conrad, and Gabrielle A. Nevitt. Center for Animal Behavior, Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA (rlkihs@ucdavis.edu).

THE ROLE OF THE EARLY REARING ENVIRONMENT IN PHENOTYPE DEVELOPMENT OF STEELHEAD ALEVINS

P065 MATTINGLY, HAYDEN, and David Galat. Department of Biology, Box 5063, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, TN 38501, USA (hmattingly@tntech.edu) (HM); U.S. Geological Survey, Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, 302 ABNR Building, University of Missouri–Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211-7240, USA (DG).

PREDICTIVE PERFORMANCE OF A MICROHABITAT MODEL FOR A RARE OZARK STREAM FISH

P066 BAY, CATHERINE, and Joel W. Snodgrass. Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252, USA (catbay007@aol.com).

EFFECTS OF STREAM NETWORK LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE ON SMALL STREAM FISH COMMUNITIES

Poster Presentations index

P061 HARSTAD, DEBORAH, and Craig Stockwell. Department of Biological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA (deborah.harstad@ndsu.nodak.edu) (DH, CS).

COSTS OF PARASITISM (DIPLOSTOMATIDAE) TO MALE WHITE SANDS PUPFISH (CYPRINODON TULAROSA)

The costs of novel parasitism are especially important for species that have altered parasite communities due to historical translocations. This is the case for two populations of White Sands pupfish (Cyprinodon tularosa) that lost parasites as a result of one translocation and acquired novel parasites through another. In a laboratory study, I examined the costs of parasitism by white grubs (Diplostomatidae), a novel parasite of one pupfish population, on the life history traits of male White Sands pupfish. Pupfish were exposed to parasites at three treatment levels; acute exposure (500 cercariae at once, n=42), trickle exposure (50 cercariae a day for 10 days, n=42), and sham exposure (0 cercariae, n=42). We found that there was no significant difference in pupfish survival, growth, fat storage, or edema between the three treatment levels. These findings are in contrast to a previous study conducted on female White Sands pupfish which found that exposure to white grub parasites significantly affected survivorship, total mass and somatic mass gain, and fat storage. White grub infection caused swollen eyes and darker coloration, which could increase predation risk. The potential affects novel parasites have on their host should be considered before future translocations.

Poster Presentations index

P063 SPAETH, JOHN, and Denice N. Robertson. Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099, USA (robertsonde@nku.edu).

SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL POLLUTION IMPACTS ON NATIVE FISH DIVERSITY IN THE OHIO RIVER WATERSHED

Conforming to Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act, the Kentucky Division of Water has prioritized impacted bodies of water for total maximum daily load of organic pollutants. Despite First priority listing, official evaluation of the health of streams, especially native biodiversity, is done on a limited spatial and temporal scale. We monitored water quality parameters and sampled fish communities in four First priority streams in the Ohio River watershed several times per year to determine the effects of point and non-point source pollution on diversity and abundance of native species. We then compared species heterogeneity indices and conducted BACI (Before After/Control Impact) analysis to determine diversity patterns in impacted and non-impacted habitats. Species richness and evenness of native fishes were significantly lower at all impacted First priority sites. In some portions of the watershed, seasonal increases in pollutants (e.g. winter use of ethylene glycol to de-ice airplanes at the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport) were particularly destructive on local fish diversity. Other streams were impacted year round by sedimentation, sewage from rural settlements, and runoff from urban sprawl. These results provide quantitative insights into pollution impacts on biodiversity of a threatened Northern American freshwater ecosystem.

Poster Presentations index

THE ROLE OF THE EARLY REARING ENVIRONMENT IN PHENOTYPE DEVELOPMENT OF STEELHEAD ALEVINS

Salmon reared in hatcheries do not develop behaviors that are adequate for survival in natural streams; thus, the post-release survival rate of hatchery-reared salmon is significantly lower than among wild salmon. The early rearing environment plays a critical role in directing the future phenotype in salmon, making it a logical context for experimentation with methods of producing wild-type fish. We investigated the role of the structure in the development of steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) alevins. Fish were reared in three control tanks and three tanks enriched with Mexican Beach Pebble (10 cm in diameter). Two thousand fish per tank were hatched in situ, and reared until emergence. Tanks were monitored with video to assess movement behavior. Fish were weighed and measured at emergence. Results indicate that fish reared in environments that contain structure are significantly heavier and longer at emergence than fish reared without structure. There were more moving fish per unit time in control tanks compared to tanks with structure. The larger body size and decreased locomotion among fish reared with structure may allow them to allocate more energy for somatic and neural growth, giving these fish a head-start when compared to fish reared in conventional hatchery practices.

Poster Presentations index

PREDICTIVE PERFORMANCE OF A MICROHABITAT MODEL FOR A RARE OZARK STREAM FISH

The Niangua darter, Etheostoma nianguae, is a threatened stream fish endemic to the Osage River basin in southcentral Missouri, USA. Knowledge of Niangua darter habitat relationships has been identified as an important component of recovery. We assessed the predictive performance of a previously developed summer microhabitat model for this species. The original model was developed through multiple logistic regression, with water depth and mean substrate particle size serving as predictors of darter presence or absence. New data were collected in Little Niangua River and Maries River at microhabitats occupied (n = 16) and unoccupied (n = 72) by the darter. About one in four microhabitats was misclassified by the model and values of Cohen's kappa did not exceed 0.40, indicating that the model's performance could only be rated as fair. However, suitable microhabitats may be unsaturated due to low Niangua darter densities in the streams, which generally confounds model assessment for rare species.

Poster Presentations index

P066 BAY, CATHERINE, and Joel W. Snodgrass. Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252, USA (catbay007@aol.com).

EFFECTS OF STREAM NETWORK LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE ON SMALL STREAM FISH COMMUNITIES

Studies have documented relationships between indices of stream network structure and stream fish assemblage properties such as species richness. However, no studies have examined the relationship among different indices of stream network structure or the utility of any index in more than one region. We investigated relationships among several existing and proposed indices of stream network structure, and related them to species richness in third-order dendritic streams of the Piedmont plateau, Maryland. We measured eleven indices of stream network structure using a geographic information system and existing elevation and hydrological data. A Principal Components Analysis indicated three main directions of variation: 1) local habitat size, 2) habitat isolation and contrast, and 3) overall size of the third-order watershed. Habitat size and isolation and contrast were related to species richness, such that larger streams, and small streams adjacent to larger streams, had relatively high species richness. Our results suggest that models of reference conditions used in biological monitoring programs should incorporate stream network structure, and that preservation of complete networks will be necessary to maintain the natural range of biological interactions in stream ecosystems.

Poster Presentations index

Aquatic Ecology

P067 MASTER, LARRY, Arlene Olivero, Pilar Hernandez, and Mark Anderson. NatureServe, 11 Avenue de Lafayette, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02111, USA (larry_master@natureserve.org) (LM); The Nature Conservancy, Northeast Division Conservation Support Services, 11 Avenue de Lafayette, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02111, USA (AO, MA); Department of Zoology, University of Toronto, 25 Harbord Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3G5, Canada (PH).

USING SMALL WATERSHED FISH, MUSSEL, AND CRAYFISH HISTORICAL AND CURRENT PRESENCE DATA TO DESCRIBE AQUATIC BIOGEOGRAPHY AND INFORM ITS CONSERVATION

P068 OTIENO, MARK. Department of Zoology, Kenyatta University, PO Box 43844, Nairobi, Kenya (markotieno@yahoo.com).

THE ECOLOGICAL IMPACT OF THE INVASIVE WATER HYACINTH (EICHHORNIA CRASSIPES) ON THE PHYTOPLANKTON COMMUNITY DIVERSITY IN WASTE WATER HABITATS IN KENYA

Poster Presentations index

USING SMALL WATERSHED FISH, MUSSEL, AND CRAYFISH HISTORICAL AND CURRENT PRESENCE DATA TO DESCRIBE AQUATIC BIOGEOGRAPHY AND INFORM ITS CONSERVATION

Freshwater species are disproportionately at risk in the United States, which is a recognized hotspot for global freshwater biodiversity. The conservation of these species and the freshwater systems they inhabit depends on knowledge of the factors that underlie their patterns of distribution and rarity. Using a geographic information system we assigned all native freshwater fish species and all at risk (Heritage ranked G1-G3) mussels and crayfishes as currently or historically-only present by 8-digit Hydrologic Unit within the conterminous United States. State and regional experts reviewed the data to refine the small-watershed distribution for these species. TWINSPAN classification was then used on the multivariate dataset to break watersheds into successive hierarchical groups to investigate patterns in aquatic species distribution, diversity, and rarity within and between these taxonomic groups. The relative influences of hydrologic connections vs. other factors were compared against the classification using ordination and gradient analysis, and classification was also compared with existing ecoregional and zoogeographical classifications. Initial TWINSPAN breaks were explained by major drainage divisions with subsequent divisions influenced by climate, elevation, landform, geology, and drainage position. Patterns of species richness, species imperilment, and faunal intactness varied regionally and within and between drainages.

Poster Presentations index

P068 OTIENO, MARK. Department of Zoology, Kenyatta University, PO Box 43844, Nairobi, Kenya (markotieno@yahoo.com).

THE ECOLOGICAL IMPACT OF THE INVASIVE WATER HYACINTH (EICHHORNIA CRASSIPES) ON THE PHYTOPLANKTON COMMUNITY DIVERSITY IN WASTE WATER HABITATS IN KENYA

Eichhornia crassipes is an invasive fresh waterweed currently threatening the ecology and biodiversity of fresh water habitats in Kenya. It has recently been introduced in some oxidation ponds in Nairobi. Ecological studies carried out to assess its impact on the phytoplankton community diversity established that it has serious ecological consequence on the phytoplankton community assemblage and caused drastic reduction on the diversity and density. Phytoplanktons play a key role in wastewater purification process. The findings would be crucial for waste disposal and management in establishment of water hyacinth control strategies to prevent further invasion to other sewage treatment plants.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Issues Concerning Amphibians and Reptiles

P069 PRICE, STEVEN J. Cofrin Center for Biodiversity, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, MAC Hall 212, 2420 Nicolet Drive, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (prices@uwgb.edu).

ANURAN-HABITAT ASSOCIATIONS IN WESTERN GREAT LAKES COASTAL WETLANDS: THE ROLE OF HABITAT IN BIOLOGICAL INDICATOR DEVELOPMENT

P070 WILLIAMS, LORI A., Carola A. Haas, and Patrick D. Keyser. Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, Virginia Tech, 100 Cheatham Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0321, USA (lowilli4@vt.edu) (LAW, CAH); MeadWestvaco Corporation, Forestry Division, PO Box 577, Rupert, WV 25984, USA (PDK).

AMPHIBIAN SPECIES RICHNESS, RELATIVE ABUNDANCE, AND HABITAT USE IN A CENTRAL APPALACHIAN INDUSTRIAL FOREST

P071 MARET, TIMOTHY J., and Tracey Librandi. Department of Biology, Shippensburg University, Shippensburg, PA 17257, USA (tjmare@ship.edu).

HABITAT USE AND MOVEMENTS OF SPOTTED TURTLES, CLEMMYS GUTTATA, IN A HEAVILY MANAGED FOREST AREA

P072 STROJNY, CAROL A., and Malcolm L. Hunter, Jr. Department of Wildlife Ecology, 5755 Nutting Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA (carol_strojny@umit.maine.edu).

EFFECTS OF HARVESTED CANOPY GAPS ON FOREST AMPHIBIANS

P073 GOODSTINE, AMY. Graduate Program in Sustainable Development and Conservation Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA (goodstine@nwf.org).

AMPHIBIANS AND ATRAZINE: THE IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINANTS ON AMPHIBIAN DECLINE AND POLICY ALTERNATIVES TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF EXPOSURE

P074 PIKE, DAVID A., Richard A. Seigel, and Rebecca B. Smith. Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, USA (dpike1@towson.edu) (DAP, RAS); Dynamac Corporation, Mail Code DYN-1, John F. Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899, USA (RBS).

LONG-TERM CHANGES IN THE DEMOGRAPHY OF THE GOPHER TORTOISE (GOPHERUS POLYPHEMUS)

Poster Presentations index

P069 PRICE, STEVEN J. Cofrin Center for Biodiversity, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, MAC Hall 212, 2420 Nicolet Drive, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (prices@uwgb.edu).

ANURAN-HABITAT ASSOCIATIONS IN WESTERN GREAT LAKES COASTAL WETLANDS: THE ROLE OF HABITAT IN BIOLOGICAL INDICATOR DEVELOPMENT

Amphibians, especially frogs and toads, are increasingly employed as biological indicators because of their sensitivity to environmental degradation. However, their utility as indicators is complicated because relatively little is known about how natural habitat condition influences their distribution. I address this complication by quantifying the effects of habitat composition and scale on the distribution of several anuran species in 63 coastal wetlands of the western Great Lakes region. I conducted anuran-calling surveys and collected habitat variables at both local and landscape scales. Logistic regression was used to predict anuran distributions based on habitat variables. Results help identify the most important habitat variables for several anuran species as well as emphasize the most effective species-specific conservation strategies. The anuran-habitat analysis will be used in the development of anuran-based biological indicators of ecological integrity.

Poster Presentations index

P070 WILLIAMS, LORI A., Carola A. Haas, and Patrick D. Keyser. Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, Virginia Tech, 100 Cheatham Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0321, USA ((lowilli4@vt.edu) (LAW, CAH); MeadWestvaco Corporation, Forestry Division, PO Box 577, Rupert, WV 25984, USA (PDK).

AMPHIBIAN SPECIES RICHNESS, RELATIVE ABUNDANCE, AND HABITAT USE IN A CENTRAL APPALACHIAN INDUSTRIAL FOREST

In 2002 our goal was to provide a second year of baseline data for the amphibian component of a long-term landscape ecology project on industrial forest in WV. This ongoing project was designed to monitor the effects of large-scale silviculture on biodiversity and ecosystem health by manipulating the distribution of forest age-classes within a landscape through replicated experiments. The current study will identify habitat features related to amphibian diversity, abundance, and distribution. In 2002 one objective was to examine relationships between terrestrial amphibian relative abundance and habitat characteristics across the landscape. To meet this objective, we turned over cover objects on 219 quadrats (10 m²) and collected data on 11 habitat features. We identified 4 anuran species and 10 salamander species (n=552). We used stepwise multiple linear regression and transformed capture data (sq-rt + 0.05) to examine relationships between habitat and amphibian abundance. Five habitat characteristics were significant at the 0.10 level in a model to predict abundance: % rock cover, % woody stem cover (< 7.5 cm DBH), soil pH, % canopy cover, and riparian vs. nonriparian classification (R²=0.3667, p<0.0001, n=209).

Poster Presentations index

P071 MARET, TIMOTHY J., and Tracey Librandi. Department of Biology, Shippensburg University, Shippensburg, PA 17257, USA (tjmare@ship.edu).

HABITAT USE AND MOVEMENTS OF SPOTTED TURTLES, CLEMMYS GUTTATA, IN A HEAVILY MANAGED FOREST AREA

Populations of spotted turtles (Clemmys guttata) have declined in recent years throughout the northeastern United States and Canada, leading the IUCN to add them to the Red List of Threatened Species. Preservation of this species requires protecting sufficient habitat to support viable populations, which demands a thorough understanding of habitat requirements of this species. Movements of seven spotted turtles were determined using radio telemetry from spring through fall 2002 in a heavily managed state forest in Pennsylvania. The study area has an extensive history of timber harvest and is composed of patches of both intact forest and clearcut habitat. Spotted turtles were found primarily in and around a complex of vernal ponds that dried by late summer. Movements among ponds were common in the spring but declined during the summer. During late summer, turtles moved onto land to aestivate. Turtles showed no preference for forested habitats, often aestivating in clearcuts beyond the 30 m no-cut zone around ponds prescribed by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry. All seven turtles returned to a single pond to hibernate in late fall. Based on these findings, we recommend several measures be taken to preserve important habitat and reduce turtle mortality during timber harvest activities.

Poster Presentations index

P072 STROJNY, CAROL A., and Malcolm L. Hunter, Jr. Department of Wildlife Ecology, 5755 Nutting Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA (carol_strojny@umit.maine.edu).

EFFECTS OF HARVESTED CANOPY GAPS ON FOREST AMPHIBIANS

Harvesting can have a negative effect on amphibian populations by altering forest floor microhabitats. Creating small-scale canopy gaps modeled after natural disturbance patterns may facilitate the maintenance of amphibian abundance in managed forests. To quantify the effects of harvested gaps, we compared the relative abundance of forest amphibians in 44 harvested gaps, 19 natural canopy gaps, and 36 closed-canopy forest plots located in central Maine. We also examined the effect of gap aspect on amphibian abundance to determine if north and south aspects influence amphibian distribution. Amphibians were sampled using 3-m fences with live pitfall traps. To study gap aspect, 7 natural gaps and 23 harvested gaps had pitfall arrays positioned every 5 m along the entire north-south transect of the gap. Initial results comparing captures per 100 trap nights indicate that species identified as sensitive to canopy removal (Ambystoma laterale, Rana sylvatica, and Plethodon cinereus) were slightly more active in full-canopy sites than in harvested gaps. Within gaps, there appears to be no distinct pattern in amphibian captures between northern and southern aspects. We will have an additional field season in 2003.

Poster Presentations index

P073 GOODSTINE, AMY. Graduate Program in Sustainable Development and Conservation Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA (goodstine@nwf.org).

AMPHIBIANS AND ATRAZINE: THE IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINANTS ON AMPHIBIAN DECLINE AND POLICY ALTERNATIVES TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF EXPOSURE

While amphibians have long managed to prosper despite extensive changes to their environment, it is well recognized that populations are declining around the globe. One of the suspected culprits is the widespread use of chemical pesticides. Recent studies indicate that there is a link between the agricultural herbicide known as atrazine and anomalies in amphibian development. Atrazine is one of the most widely used pesticides in the United States, and amphibians have a high potential for exposure during spring application when runoff takes place into adjacent farm ponds and vernal pools where amphibians may breed. A review of the current literature on amphibian decline and an examination of the impact of environmental contaminants, specifically atrazine, on amphibians in the U.S. reveal that this herbicide has potential broad-ranging negative effects on amphibian species, and that this line of research warrants further consideration in the atrazine re-registration process currently underway by the EPA. Policy alternatives for improving water quality, including alternative farming practices and water treatment options, are explored in terms of economic impact, human and environmental health, and implications for amphibian conservation.

Poster Presentations index

LONG-TERM CHANGES IN THE DEMOGRAPHY OF THE GOPHER TORTOISE (GOPHERUS POLYPHEMUS)

Long-lived species, including turtles and tortoises, are of general conservation concern because slight changes in recruitment rates can drastically affect population viability, yet may easily go unnoticed because of extreme adult longevity. For demographic changes to become apparent long-term data sets are needed; however few long-term demographic studies are available for the gopher tortoise, Gopherus polyphemus, even though it is listed as Federally Threatened or a Species of Special Concern throughout its range. >From 1994-2002, we studied the demography of gopher tortoises at a protected site, the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA. Sex ratios varied temporally from male biased to female biased in various years, although in all years combined sex ratios were not different from 1:1. Mean body size also varied slightly among years, although not significantly. Recapture rates increased linearly between 1994 and 1998, but declined precipitously thereafter. The change in recapture rates coincided with the discovery of Upper Respiratory Tract Disease (URTD) and a sudden increase in mortality rates of adults at the site; whether this decrease is associated with URTD or reflects higher recruitment rates during this period cannot be determined at this time.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Issues Concerning Mammals

P075 WECKWORTH, BYRON, Sandra Talbot, Kevin Sage, and Joseph Cook. Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209-8007, USA (weckbyro@isu.edu) (BW, JC); U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, 1011 East Tudor Road, MS 701, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA (ST, KS).

A MOLECULAR PERSPECTIVE ON PACIFIC COASTAL WOLVES (CANIS LUPUS LIGONI)

P076 O'BRIEN, CARRIE, and William McShea. Ecology Center, Utah State University, UMC 5205, Logan, UT 84322, USA (cobrien@cc.usu.edu) (CO); Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Conservation and Research Center, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA (WM).

SMALL MAMMAL DIVERSITY OF THE GAMBA COMPLEX, GABON

P077 ROGERS, ELIZABETH, and David Tiller. White Water Associates, Inc., 429 River Lane, Amasa, MI 49935, USA (eirogers@up.net).

USING PORTABLE SOOTED TRACK BOXES TO INVENTORY FISHER (MARTES PENNANTI) IN THE APOSTLE ISLANDS NATIONAL LAKESHORE, WI

P078 COLON, CHRISTINA. New York Botanical Garden, 200th Street and Kazimiroff Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458, USA (ccolon@nybg.org).

THE VALUE OF A SELECTIVELY LOGGED FOREST AS A VIABLE HABITAT FOR THE MALAY CIVET (VIVERRA TANGALUNGA)

P079 Romero, Aldemaro, and JOEL CRESWELL. Environmental Studies Program, Macalester College, 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105-1899, USA (romero@macalester.edu).

IN THE LAND OF THE MERMAID: HOW CULTURE, NOT ECOLOGY, INFLUENCED MARINE MAMMAL EXPLOITATION IN THE SOUTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN

P080 POMERANTZ, JULIE, Leon Pierrot Rahajanirina, Andoniaina Radosoa Andrianaivoarivelo, Harilala Rakotomanana, Edward Dubovi, Susan Wade, and Luke Dollar. Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA (fossavet@aol.com) (JP, LD); University of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar (LPR, ARA, HR); New York State Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14852, USA (ED, SW).

DISEASES OF NON-NATIVE CARNIVORES: THREATS TO MADAGASCAR'S ENDEMIC FAUNA

Poster Presentations index

A MOLECULAR PERSPECTIVE ON PACIFIC COASTAL WOLVES (CANIS LUPUS LIGONI)

Southeast Alaska is an isolated region of the Pacific Northwest that includes the Alexander Archipelago. High numbers of endemic mammals have been described from the region including a subspecies of gray wolf (Canis lupus ligoni). The fossil record, however, implies a recent colonization of this species into the region. Previous phylogeographic analyses of wolves elsewhere in North America indicated little geographic structure. We uncovered distinctive variation in the wolves of southeast Alaska using 11 microsatellite loci on 222 individuals from nine populations. A neighbor-joining tree based on Cavalli-Sforza distances indicated that wolves in southeast Alaska were distinctive from all others sampled (Interior Alaska, Kenai Peninsula, Copper River Delta, British Columbia, and Yukon Territories). This distinctive clade apparently reflects isolation in southeast Alaska followed by fragmentation within the Alexander Archipelago that has resulted in high levels of variation and geographic structure within the region that is comparable to that found across all other North American populations surveyed. The distinctive status of these wolves should be acknowledged in wolf harvest policies and habitat management in southeast Alaska.

Poster Presentations index

SMALL MAMMAL DIVERSITY OF THE GAMBA COMPLEX, GABON

Four small mammal surveys were conducted in Gabon, West Africa from February-November 2002 within the Gamba Complex, a protected area bordering the Atlantic Ocean with an area of 11,000 km². We investigated the influence of oil production on small mammal diversity. Surveys used a combination of traps and pitfalls placed in transect lines within 10 km of the site's center. Two sites were located in mature forest 60 km inland. One site was an established drilling location and the other was beyond the oil property. The two coastal sites were within a savanna-forest mosaic; one was near an oil storage facility and the other was remote. 601 individuals of 24 species were captured with a total effort of 12,991 trap-nights. The inland forest sites (24 species, diversity(H)=2.7; 20 species, diversity(H)=2.0) had twice the species richness of the coastal sites (12 species, diversity(H)=1.7; 9 species, diversity(H)=1.7), which may be attributed to the lower plant diversity in the coastal forest compared to the inland forest. The impact of oil production on small mammals appears to be minimal. These are the first small mammal surveys in this region, and provide important baseline information about an area highly valued for its large mammal biodiversity.

Poster Presentations index

P077 ROGERS, ELIZABETH, and David Tiller. White Water Associates, Inc., 429 River Lane, Amasa, MI 49935, USA (eirogers@up.net).

USING PORTABLE SOOTED TRACK BOXES TO INVENTORY FISHER (MARTES PENNANTI) IN THE APOSTLE ISLANDS NATIONAL LAKESHORE, WI

Sooted track stations traditionally have been used to detect small mammals. The technique has the advantage of deployment for a period of time without needing frequent and costly tending. With this project, we report on an innovation of sooted track stations involving a lightweight collapsible box (Tracking Triangle™) holding plasticized feezer paper coated with a commercial aerosol soot, with adhesive "contact paper" to receive the sooted footprint. The specimen is then covered with transparent contact paper and photocopied. These units can be deployed under any weather conditions and left for extended periods of time. This technique was used on the Apostle Islands (2000 & 2001) to determine relative abundance of fisher. Fisher (including juveniles) were detected on three out of four islands and the mainland. Measurements of tracks were used in a discriminate analysis to distinguish males from females. Other mammals recorded by this technique included weasels, raccoon, black bear, squirrels, shrews, and mice. We conclude that for many mammals, Tracking Triangles™ offer an economical alternative to more costly means of detection. In this study, combining recorded home range sizes with discriminant analysis of gender allowed additionally for an estimate of fisher abundance on target islands.

Poster Presentations index

P078 COLON, CHRISTINA. New York Botanical Garden, 200th Street and Kazimiroff Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458, USA (ccolon@nybg.org).

THE VALUE OF A SELECTIVELY LOGGED FOREST AS A VIABLE HABITAT FOR THE MALAY CIVET (VIVERRA TANGALUNGA)

The value of logged forests may be high for some species, and can be maximized through proximity to undisturbed areas that may serve as a biological reservoir. To examine the impact of selective logging on civets, a radiotelemetry study of the Malay civet was carried out from 1995 to 1997, in Sabah, East Malaysia. Data on home range, movement and activity were collected on animals in a selectively logged and unlogged dipterocarp rain forest. Mean home range size was 110 ha and did not differ between sites. In areas of range overlap, study animals avoided one another. Day-beds were located on the ground and were associated with dense cover. Activity levels averaged 55% and were similar between forest types. In a single day, males traveled further and covered a larger portion of their home range than females. Roads and trails were used by both sexes, and were the only observed source of mortality. While density was higher in the unlogged forest, this species survived well in both areas. This may be due to its ecological plasticity as well as the proximity of undisturbed habitat that served as a biological reservoir, or source of individuals to immigrate into the disturbed habitat.

Poster Presentations index

P079 Romero, Aldemaro, and JOEL CRESWELL. Environmental Studies Program, Macalester College, 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105-1899, USA (romero@macalester.edu).

IN THE LAND OF THE MERMAID: HOW CULTURE, NOT ECOLOGY, INFLUENCED MARINE MAMMAL EXPLOITATION IN THE SOUTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN

Although some recent progress has been made in better understanding marine mammal utilization in the Southeastern Caribbean, no comparative analysis has been carried out to see how such practices originated, developed, and impacted the marine mammal populations in that region. We conducted studies for Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Our results show that each one of those countries developed a different pattern of marine mammal exploitation when it came to whaling and dolphin fisheries, but similar patterns regarding manatees. Whaling was carried out by different people for different lengths of time and in different historical periods. Dolphin fisheries also developed differently in different countries. Most local populations of manatees in this area were depleted during colonial times. We conclude that these five neighboring countries, although sharing essentially the same marine mammal species, developed different exploitation practices in terms of species targeted, capture techniques, and time periods in which that exploitation took place due to historical, political, social, and economic circumstances.

Poster Presentations index

DISEASES OF NON-NATIVE CARNIVORES: THREATS TO MADAGASCAR'S ENDEMIC FAUNA

Viral and parasitic diseases introduced by non-native carnivores threaten the health of Madagascar's endemic fauna. Evolution in isolation has left the animals of Madagascar naive to these foreign pathogens. Native populations stressed by habitat destruction, predation and competition with introduced species may be even more susceptible to the effects of disease. Man's companions, domestic dogs and cats, have brought introduced diseases to the forests edges. Populations of wild or feral cats also live within the forest and may act as bridges to the domestic cat population. Serologic surveys are revealing the patterns of disease prevalence in populations of introduced species and evidence of exposure among native carnivores. With knowledge of the parasites and diseases that plague the wild carnivores, it may be possible to prevent the spread of disease or to intervene in the case of an outbreak. Data regarding the prevalence of infectious diseases in the domestic carnivore population will be important for future monitoring and population risk assessment. They may also be a significant factor when determining policy regarding human activities within park boundaries.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Genetics

P081 DRATCH, PETER, Mathew Cronin, Michael Nelson, L. David Mech, and Timothy Miller. National Park Service, Biological Resources Management Division, 1201 Oakridge Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA (Peter_Dratch@nps.gov) (PD); LGL Alaska Research Associates, 1011 East 76th Avenue, Suite B, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA (MC); U.S. Geological Survey, Biological Resources Division, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND 58401-7317, USA (MN, LDM); 4232 SW Condor Avenue, Portland, OR 97201, USA (TM).

DO MINNESOTA DEER THAT DIE BY HUMAN OR WOLF PREDATION SHOW DIFFERENCES IN PROTEIN MARKERS?

P082 BRITTEN, HUGH, Kristie Trudeau, and Marco Restani. Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA (hbritten@usd.edu) (HB, KT); Department of Biological Sciences, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN 56301, USA (MR).

SYLVATIC PLAGUE REDUCES GENETIC VARIABILITY IN CENTRAL MONTANA BLACK-TAILED PRAIRIE DOG COLONIES

P083 BARTHELMESS, ERIKA L., and Jolaine Roycewicz. Department of Biology, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617, USA (barthelmess@stlawu.edu).

DO GOLF COURSES SUSTAIN GENETICALLY DIVERSE SMALL MAMMAL POPULATIONS?

P084 Long, Sarah T., and STEVEN D. THOMPSON. American Zoo and Aquarium Association Population Management Center, Chicago Zoological Society and Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614, USA (slong@lpzoo.org).

INBREEDING AND MORTALITY IN CAPTIVE MAMMAL POPULATIONS

P085 GERLACH, NICOLE M., Joanne M. Earnhardt, and Steven D. Thompson. Department of Conservation and Science, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614, USA (ngerlach@lpzoo.org).

LINEAGE LOSS, HERITABILITY OF FITNESS, AND EFFECTIVE POPULATION SIZE IN THE NORTH AMERICAN CAPTIVE CHEETAH POPULATION

P086 ERB, LORI, and Brian Masters. Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, USA (lerb1@tiger.towson.edu).

PRE-METAMORPHIC SURVIVORSHIP OF THE SPOTTED SALAMANDER (AMBYSTOMA MACULATUM) IS POSITIVELY ASSOCIATED WITH MICROSATELLITE ALLELIC DISTANCE (D²), BUT NOT HETEROZYGOSITY

P087 DANIELS, AMY, Marcie Baer, and Timothy Maret. Department of Biology, Shippensburg University, 1871 Old Main Drive, Shippensburg, PA 17257, USA (ad7446@ship.edu).

GENETIC ANALYSIS OF POPULATION STRUCTURE OF VERNAL POOL AMBYSTOMATID SALAMANDERS

P088 KITSON, LISA, Jamie Coughlan, John Davenport, and Tom Cross. Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology, University College Cork, Lee Maltings, Prospect Row, Cork, Ireland (biobabe@ibl.bm).

DISTRIBUTION AND GENETIC DIFFERENTIATION OF A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED LIZARD IN BERMUDA

P089 PORTERFIELD, JEAN, Molly Fee, and Jessica Theorin. Department of Biology, St. Olaf College, 1520 St. Olaf Avenue, Northfield, MN 55057, USA (porterfi@stolaf.edu).

DISTRIBUTION AND POPULATION GENETICS OF THE BANDED DARTER IN MINNESOTA

P090 MCMILLAN, AMY, Mark Bagley, Diane Nacci, and Suzanne Christ. Biology Department, Buffalo State College, Buffalo, NY 14222, USA (mcmillam@buffalostate.edu) (AM); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Effects Research Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH 45215, USA (MB, SC); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA (DN).

NO REDUCTION IN GENETIC DIVERSITY DESPITE RAPID ADAPTATION TO PCB POLLUTION: IMPLICATIONS FOR CONSERVATION OF LARGE ESTUARINE POPULATIONS

P091 COURTER, LINDA K., and Shanna E. Carney. Department of Biology, Colorado State University, E411 Anatomy/Zoology Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA (lcourter@lamar.colostate.edu).

POPULATION GENETIC STRUCTURE OF A RARE COLORADO ENDEMIC, PHYSARIA BELLII, USING PCR-RFLP MARKERS

P092 Hipkins, Valerie, and JENNIFER DEWOODY. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station, National Forest Genetic Laboratory (NFGEL), 2480 Carson Road, Placerville, CA 95667, USA (jdewoody@fs.fed.us).

INTEGRATING GENETIC INFORMATION INTO CONSERVATION STRATEGIES FOR TAHOE YELLOW CRESS, RORIPPA SUBUMBELLATA (BRASSICACEAE)

P093 Silva, Marivana, MILTON KANASHIRO, Peter Coventry, and Ian Thompson. Universidade Federal do Pará, Tv. Leandro Ribeiro s/n. 68 600-000 Bragança-PA, Brazil (MS); Embrapa Amazonia Oriental, Trav. Dr. Eneas Pinheiro s/n. 66 095-100 Belem-PA, Brazil (milton@cpatu.embrapa.br) (MK, PC, IT).

SEXUAL RATIO AND SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATIONS OF BAGASSA GUIANENSIS: IMPLICATIONS OF DIOECY FOR FOREST MANAGEMENT

P094 CIAMPI, ANA YAMAGUISHI, Christina Cleo Vinson, Andrielle Câmara Amaral, Milton Kanashiro, and Iracilda Sampaio. Laboratório de Genética Vegetal, Embrapa Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia C.P.02372,

70 770-900 Brasília-DF, Brazil (AYC, ACA); Laboratório de Genética e Biologia Molecular Campus de Bragança – UFPA, Rua Leandro Ribeiro s/n. 68 600-000, Bragança-PA, Brazil (CCV, IS); Embrapa Amazonia Oriental, Trav. Dr. Eneas Pinheiro s/n. 66 095-100 Belem-PA, Brazil (MK).

DEVELOPMENT OF MICROSATELLITE MARKERS FOR TROPICAL TIMBER SPECIES

P095 VICTORY, ERIN, Keith Woeste, and Olin E. Rhodes, Jr. Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, 1159 Forestry Building, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA (erin@fnr.purdue.edu) (EV, OER); USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, 240 Whistler Building, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA (KW).

MICROSATTELITES AS INDICATORS OF GENETIC DIVERISTY IN BLACK WALNUT (JUGLANS NIGRA L.) ACROSS THE CENTRAL HARDWOOD REGION

P096 ROON, DAVID, Katherine Kendall, and Lisette Waits. Department of Fish and Wildife, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA (roon8505@uidaho.edu) (DR, LW); U.S. Geological Surveys – BRD, Glacier Field Station, Science Center, c/o Glacier National Park, West Glacier, MT 59936-0128, USA (KK).

MICROSATELLITE GENOTYPING ERROR AND DEMOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT: A SIMULATION TEST OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SEVERAL COMMON ERROR-CHECKING PROTOCOLS

P097 Bouzat, Juan L., BRIAN G. WALKER, Elaine P. Akst, and P. Dee Boersma. Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA (JLB); Department of Zoology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA (bwalker@u.washington.edu) (BGW, PDB); University of Maryland and National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008, USA (EPA).

LACK OF GENETIC STRUCTURE IN SOUTH ATLANTIC BREEDING COLONIES OF MAGELLANIC PENGUIN

P098 Tallmon, David, Mark Beaumont, and GORDON LUIKART. Laboratoire des Popualtions d'Altitude, UMR CNRS 5553, Universite Joseph Fourier, F38041 BP53 Cedex 9, Grenoble, France (dtallmon42@yahoo.com) (DT, GL); School of Animal and Microbial Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6AJ, UK (MB).

EFFECTIVE POPULATION SIZE ESTIMATION USING APPROXIMATE BAYESIAN METHODS WITH SUMMARY STATISTICS

Poster Presentations index

DO MINNESOTA DEER THAT DIE BY HUMAN OR WOLF PREDATION SHOW DIFFERENCES IN PROTEIN MARKERS?

For decades, protein variation in white-tail deer (Odocoileus virginianus) has been used to demonstrate genetic differences between populations. An important question that these data stimulated was whether the differences of alleles and genotypes are due to selection or simply different breeding patterns in particular localities. Some studies with wild deer and sheep have shown associations of molecular genetic markers and fitness traits. Because wolf (Canis lupus) predation and human hunting require fundamentally different hunting behaviors, vulnerability to each predator is probably related to different fitness traits. We hypothesized that such selection could result in differences in genetic markers in wolf-killed and hunter-killed deer. To test this, we examined five protein (isozyme) loci in 360 white-tailed deer from northern Minnesota that were killed by wolves and human hunters. The age structure of the two classes differed, and we found no significant allele frequency differences, or differences in genetic variability measures in the two mortality classes. This suggests that variation at the five loci we analyzed is not associated with fitness traits that affect vulnerability to these causes of mortality.

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SYLVATIC PLAGUE REDUCES GENETIC VARIABILITY IN CENTRAL MONTANA BLACK-TAILED PRAIRIE DOG COLONIES

Black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) are a "keystone species" in North American short- and mixed-grass prairies. An outbreak of sylvatic plague (Yersinia pestis) in the late 1980s caused declines and extirpations of many prairie dog colonies in north-central Montana. Plague-induced population bottlenecks may contribute to significant reductions in genetic variability. In contrast, gene flow maintains genetic variability within colonies. We investigated the impacts of the plague epizootic and distance to nearest colony on levels of genetic variability in six prairie dog colonies using 24 variable randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Gene diversity (h) was significantly decreased in the three plagued colonies that were recovering from the resulting bottlenecks (h = 0.266 ¦ 0.177) compared to the three colonies that were not plagued (h = 0.356 ¦ 0.137) (Wilcoxon paired-sample test; T = 40, p < 0.001). Gene diversity was not affected by geographic distance between colonies. An analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed that the majority of variance in gene frequencies (77.7%) was found within prairie dog colonies. Conservation of genetic variability in black-tailed prairie dogs will require the preservation of both large and small colony complexes, and of the gene flow among them.

Poster Presentations index

P083 BARTHELMESS, ERIKA L., and Jolaine Roycewicz. Department of Biology, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617, USA (barthelmess@stlawu.edu).

DO GOLF COURSES SUSTAIN GENETICALLY DIVERSE SMALL MAMMAL POPULATIONS?

In the United States, golf courses constitute a land area larger than that of Rhode Island and Delaware combined. In many urban and suburban areas, golf courses serve as important greenspaces. These greenspaces are usually assumed to be inadequate substitutes for undisturbed natural areas. In this project, we examined the degree to which deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) populations occurring on a golf course differ genetically from populations occurring on natural, undisturbed habitat patches. We used microsatellite techniques to examine the degree of genetic variation present in five golf course and five natural populations and studied the level of gene flow between populations. Preliminary results indicate that there is little genetic differentiation between the golf course and undisturbed populations and that gene flow on the golf course is adequate to keep the populations from becoming genetically isolated.

Poster Presentations index

INBREEDING AND MORTALITY IN CAPTIVE MAMMAL POPULATIONS

The deleterious effects of inbreeding, commonly referred to as inbreeding depression, have long been recognized in domestic, laboratory, and captive animal populations in the form of lower fecundity, higher mortality, and slower growth rate. Inbreeding depression is of particular interest among biologists attempting to preserve small natural or captive populations in which matings among close relatives become more likely, yet little is known about the affects of inbreeding in many mammalian species being managed. Captive zoo populations represent a particularly important resource for studying the effects of inbreeding because they provide a wealth of data on non-domesticated animals across a broad range of species and over multiple generations. Although inbreeding depression has been documented in numerous captive mammal species, few studies have utilized data from several mammalian orders and tracked individuals throughout their lifetimes. I utilized data from captive populations to conduct a retrospective analysis of studbook records that track individuals of various species throughout their lifetime in zoos across North America. My analyses confirm the general pattern of a negative correlation between level of inbreeding and mortality and fecundity across several mammalian taxa and have significant implications for managing these species in captivity and in the wild.

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LINEAGE LOSS, HERITABILITY OF FITNESS, AND EFFECTIVE POPULATION SIZE IN THE NORTH AMERICAN CAPTIVE CHEETAH POPULATION

Lineage loss has been used in recent studies to estimate the loss of genetic diversity from small populations. We calculated lineage loss, heritable variance in fitness, and effective population size from studbook data for the captive North American population of cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). We also used this data to calculate loss of genetic diversity in this population. We found that 85% of matrilines and patrilines were lost over the course of 33.7 years; however, when only considering multi-generational lineages, less than half of matrilines and patrilines were lost. Although variance in reproductive success was high for both males and females, this variation was not significantly heritable, which may be due to the effects of captive population management. Effective population size was strongly affected by high variance in reproductive success, being only 18% of the adult female population and 13% of the adult male population. However, neither this measure nor the high rates of lineage loss are indicative of the loss of genetic diversity in this population. Lineages were lost from the population at a higher rate than heterozygosity or founder representation. Lineage loss should therefore be interpreted cautiously when being used to approximate loss of genetic diversity.

Poster Presentations index

P086 ERB, LORI, and Brian Masters. Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, USA (lerb1@tiger.towson.edu).

PRE-METAMORPHIC SURVIVORSHIP OF THE SPOTTED SALAMANDER (AMBYSTOMA MACULATUM) IS POSITIVELY ASSOCIATED WITH MICROSATELLITE ALLELIC DISTANCE (D²), BUT NOT HETEROZYGOSITY

Habitat fragmentation can create pockets of small, isolated animal populations. Isolated populations are likely to become inbred, increasing their risk for local extinction. Molecular biology offers one potential way of managing isolated populations. Recently, investigators have begun testing a new diversity measure, mean d², the average microsatellite inter-allelic distance. This estimator may offer a refined or additional means of measuring genetic diversity for detecting inbreeding depression and/or heterosis (hybrid vigor). We evaluated both mean d² and individual heterozygosity diversity estimators and looked for associations with pre-metamorphic survivorship using a large population of spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum). Eighty egg samples and eighty pre-metamorphic larval tissue samples were collected from the same cohort. The average mean d² and average heterozygosity values were compared for egg and larval samples. We found a significant, positive association between mean d² and pre-metamorphic survivorship, but not with the individual heterozygosity values. In addition, the distribution of mean d² values for the egg samples differed significantly from the larvae samples, while the two heterozygosity distributions did not differ. Our results suggest that mean d² can be a useful tool for detecting heterosis. However, heterozygosity may still be a better measure for detecting inbreeding depression.

Poster Presentations index

P087 DANIELS, AMY, Marcie Baer, and Timothy Maret. Department of Biology, Shippensburg University, 1871 Old Main Drive, Shippensburg, PA 17257, USA (ad7446@ship.edu).

GENETIC ANALYSIS OF POPULATION STRUCTURE OF VERNAL POOL AMBYSTOMATID SALAMANDERS

Vernal pool communities are being threatened by development and currently receive little protection in Pennsylvania. Since ambystomatid salamander populations are an important component of these communities, understanding the population structure and migration patterns will aid in the development of conservation strategies of vernal pool communities. Larval tissue samples (tail snips) of Ambystoma opacum, Ambystoma maculatum, and Ambystoma jeffersonianum were collected in the summer of 2002 from different areas in south central Pennsylvania. RAPD analysis of genomic DNA utilizing two different primer sets (GGGAATTCGG, GGCTGCAGAA) displayed unique species patterns. Within species, results demonstrated that between pond genetic variation was greater than within pond variation. Results suggest that most individuals return to their natal pools to breed although some migration appears to occur between close ponds. Unrooted trees based on Nei's genetic distances indicate that genetic diversity increases with geographic distance.

Poster Presentations index

P088 KITSON, LISA, Jamie Coughlan, John Davenport, and Tom Cross. Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology, University College Cork, Lee Maltings, Prospect Row, Cork, Ireland (biobabe@ibl.bm).

DISTRIBUTION AND GENETIC DIFFERENTIATION OF A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED LIZARD IN BERMUDA

Bermuda has only one endemic terrestrial vertebrate. This is a primitive lizard known as The Bermuda Skink or Rock Lizard (Eumeces longirostris, Scincidae). The significant decline in abundance of this species has resulted from many human impacts including habitat destruction and alteration, introduction of foreign predators and entrapment in litter. An ecological understanding of this species is vital before successful attempts to protect and restore this species can be made. A large-scale distribution survey using pitfall traps has located major populations of skinks, which were previously unknown. The lizards now exist throughout the archipelago in isolated pockets and only one large population appears to exist on the mainland. Genetic sub-structuring within this species was investigated after morphological differences were recorded between different locations. Analysis of 3 geographically isolated populations of skinks using microsatellite techniques has shown that there is significant genetic differentiation. Future management of this species will include captive breeding and reintroduction. Therefore, it is important to consider these findings. The current distribution and genetic variation of the Bermuda Skink can now be interpreted using data on changes in sea level during the interglacial periods, anthropogenic impacts, habitat preferences, feeding ecology and swimming ability.

Poster Presentations index

P089 PORTERFIELD, JEAN, Molly Fee, and Jessica Theorin. Department of Biology, St. Olaf College, 1520 St. Olaf Avenue, Northfield, MN 55057, USA (porterfi@stolaf.edu).

DISTRIBUTION AND POPULATION GENETICS OF THE BANDED DARTER IN MINNESOTA

Etheostoma zonale, the banded darter, is a small, freshwater, non-game fish that reaches the northwestern boundary of its range in southern Minnesota. Field work throughout southern Minnesota found the banded darter at many historical localities and at several new localities; overall the distribution in Minnesota is spotty. Population genetic information for populations isolated by distance to varying degrees is often useful in conservation decisions. DNA sequences of 550 nucleotides of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene of 30 banded darters from seven localities in Minnesota were compared to the sequence of a banded darter from central Illinois. A high degree of similarity was found among individuals of all populations, with pairwise sequence divergences reaching only 0.6%. This result is consistent with some hypotheses of banded darter post-glaciation colonization, but further studies on the conservation genetics of this fish will incorporate a different molecular marker.

Poster Presentations index

NO REDUCTION IN GENETIC DIVERSITY DESPITE RAPID ADAPTATION TO PCB POLLUTION: IMPLICATIONS FOR CONSERVATION OF LARGE ESTUARINE POPULATIONS

Anthropogenic stressors can have negative fitness impacts on populations by reducing population size through direct mortality or reduced reproduction. Evolutionary consequences of pollutants are inevitable if genetic diversity and structure is changed as a result of these impacts. We evaluated the genetic structure and diversity of Fundulus heteroclitus, a non-migratory fish found in abundance in estuaries along the east coast of the U.S., including a PCB-contaminated Superfund site in New Bedford Harbor (NBH), MA. Laboratory challenge experiments showed F. heteroclitus from NBH are adapted to high PCB levels while fish from uncontaminated sites are not. These results suggest that strong divergence has occurred in response to recent anthropogenic changes and has been maintained among populations with potentially high gene flow. We used AFLP analysis to determine whether genetic variability of tolerant F. heteroclitus populations in NBH is reduced relative to populations residing in less contaminated sites and to estimate the degree of genetic differentiation between populations with different sensitivities to PCBs. F. heteroclitus populations were differentiated at local scales but genetic diversity was not reduced in PCB adapted populations. Demographic factors, including large population sizes and high fecundity rates, appear to be the primary causes for these results.

Poster Presentations index

P091 COURTER, LINDA K., and Shanna E. Carney. Department of Biology, Colorado State University, E411 Anatomy/Zoology Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA (lcourter@lamar.colostate.edu).

POPULATION GENETIC STRUCTURE OF A RARE COLORADO ENDEMIC, PHYSARIA BELLII, USING PCR-RFLP MARKERS

Physaria bellii (Bell's Twinpod) is a self-incompatible member of the Brassicaceae (Mustard family) whose range is restricted to three counties in north-central Colorado. This Front Range endemic has probably never been common, due to its particular habitat preferences; it occurs on open shale and, less commonly, sandstone washes. As many of the populations are found on lands protected by county and city open space programs, there was a need to assess the relative health of this species for future management plans. Leaf tissue samples were collected from populations throughout P. bellii’s range and DNA was extracted for the purposes of analyzing the genetic variation found between and within populations. Codominant molecular markers were sought for this study because they are more informative than dominant markers and because the relatively narrow distribution of P. bellii suggests the possibility of low amounts of variation. PCR-RFLP (Polymerase Chain Reaction – Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) markers were screened from universal primers to find informative markers for P. bellii. Several informative markers were found that were polymorphic. The data suggest that P. bellii populations are presently stable. Future studies will address whether that stability is threatened by hybridization with a congener.

Poster Presentations index

INTEGRATING GENETIC INFORMATION INTO CONSERVATION STRATEGIES FOR TAHOE YELLOW CRESS, RORIPPA SUBUMBELLATA (BRASSICACEAE)

Rorippa subumbellata (Roll.), Tahoe yellow cress, is endemic to sandy beaches on the shores of Lake Tahoe in California and Nevada, and is a candidate for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. A conservation strategy has been developed through a coalition of a dozen local, state, and federal agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service. In order to determine the amount of genetic variation present in extant populations of R. subumbellata, and estimate the genetic relationship among populations, we assayed 31 populations for 23 isozyme loci. Results reveal low levels of genetic variation within and among populations. Twenty-seven of the 31 populations were monomorphic at the 23 loci examined, and three of the genetically variable populations displayed a single alternate allele at one locus. One population displayed variation at two loci. If DNA-based markers that are being developed for this species reveal a similar paucity of variation, the genetic data will support anatomical studies indicating that vegetative reproduction is probably in this species. If this lack of genetic variation reflects historical levels and not recent decreases due to artificial events, current management theory aimed at maximizing and maintaining genetic variation may not apply to the conservation of this species.

Poster Presentations index

SEXUAL RATIO AND SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATIONS OF BAGASSA GUIANENSIS: IMPLICATIONS OF DIOECY FOR FOREST MANAGEMENT

The Dendrogene project (EMBRAPA/DFID) develops ways to evaluate the impacts of logging on forest biodiversity, aiming for the sustainable use of forest. Bagassa guianensis represents one of the ecological groups amongst the tree species studied by the project and is the subject of this study. It is a dioecious, pioneer tropical tree of high commercial value. In dioecious species forest management may modify the sexual ratio and the spatial and temporal distributions of the sexes, leading to changes in pollen dispersion, production of seeds, and ultimately regeneration. This work is part of the ecological and genetic studies that are being developed in 3 different forest areas in the Brazilian Amazon (Pará State) that are under management. Maps of localization of the individuals have been generated which permitted the calculation of indices for spatial sexual segregation. Bagassa guianensis is a species that tends to occur as aggregated populations, has sexual differences related to diameter, and differentiated sexual ratios between the studied regions. These results contribute to the understanding of the population dynamics and to inform the debate on the regenerative capacity of species following disturbances due to timber logging.

Poster Presentations index

DEVELOPMENT OF MICROSATELLITE MARKERS FOR TROPICAL TIMBER SPECIES

Molecular markers based on simple sequence repeats (SSRs or microsatellites) provide an ideal tool for genetic studies, because of their high degree of polymorphism. They are codominant, multiallelic markers with high powers of discrimination. Microsatellites have been used in agricultural breeding studies, and in analyses of natural populations. We are applying SSR to studies of genetic conservation in tropical forests which are being managed for timber extraction. We have developed a large series of microsatellite for Tatajuba Bagassa guianensis Aubl. (Moraceae) and Ananí Symphonia globulífera L.f. (Clusiacea), which will allow genetic characterization of variation in natural populations, as well as precise estimates of parentage coefficients. DNA fragments of 300-800bp were separated, then were ligated to adaptors and hybridized to biotinylated (AG)13 and (TC)13, and the fragments were separated using magnetic beads. Positive clones for SSRs were done by hybridization with a poly AG/TC probe. These will then be sequenced in order to design primers. A battery of SSR will be to analyse two species, each with a minimum of 4 alleles. Loci will be characterized using 12 initial individuals. These SSRs will then be used to evaluate genetic diversity, breeding systems, and gene flow in managed forests (Dendrogene Project).

Poster Presentations index

MICROSATTELITES AS INDICATORS OF GENETIC DIVERISTY IN BLACK WALNUT (JUGLANS NIGRA L.) ACROSS THE CENTRAL HARDWOOD REGION

Black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) is an important species ecologically, culturally, and economically. Its lumber is highly sought after for a variety of human uses including furniture, veneer, and gunstocks due to its coloration, and machining and wear properties. Although most populations of black walnut are currently stable, it is unlikely that this has been the case throughout history. Centuries of intense harvesting and anthropogenic use have presumably reduced overall levels of genetic diversity. Furthermore, forest fragmentation across the central hardwood region has likely increased differentiation among black walnut populations. The primary goal of this research was to determine current levels of genetic diversity and population structure in wild black walnut populations across their range. In addition, we will use these data to make inferences about the history of this species and the processes which may have contributed to current patterns of genetic diversity. We are currently genotyping individual black walnut trees from 44 populations across the central hardwood region at 12 microsatellite loci. Preliminary screening of these loci suggests high levels of polymorphism with an average of nearly 20 alleles per locus. In addition, expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.6 to 0.95, with the exception of 2 loci that showed evidence of null alleles.

Poster Presentations index

P096 ROON, DAVID, Katherine Kendall, and Lisette Waits. Department of Fish and Wildife, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA (roon8505@uidaho.edu) (DR, LW); U.S. Geological Surveys-BRD, Glacier Field Station, Science Center, c/o Glacier National Park, West Glacier, MT 59936-0128, USA (KK).

MICROSATELLITE GENOTYPING ERROR AND DEMOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT: A SIMULATION TEST OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SEVERAL COMMON ERROR-CHECKING PROTOCOLS

Non-invasive genetic sampling (NGS), in conjunction with microsatellite genotyping, is an increasingly prominent tool in demographic research. However, inaccurate genotyping can seriously inflate 'minimum number alive' and mark-recapture estimates. Researchers engaged in large-scale NGS studies have typically used error-checking methods that are intuitive, but not statistically evaluated. We tested the effectiveness of two of these methods through computer simulations. Microsatellite allele frequency distributions and other model parameters were based on data from the Greater Glacier Bear DNA project. Simulations were iteratively run using a range of sampling intensities, trapping occasions, and per-locus genotyping error rates. Simulated data sets were error checked using two methods frequently described in the literature, and finalized capture histories were analyzed using program CAPTURE. In the absence of error checking, estimates were biased above the true N, with percentage relative bias (PRB) exceeding 200% for some simulations. All error-checking methods were effective in reducing bias in population estimates to < 5% when per-locus error rates were less than 0.01. When per-locus error ranged from 0.01 to 0.09, PRB ranged from < 5% to > 50%. Levels of bias varied with per-locus error rate, the error-checking method, levels of sampling intensity, and the number of trapping occasions.

Poster Presentations index

LACK OF GENETIC STRUCTURE IN SOUTH ATLANTIC BREEDING COLONIES OF MAGELLANIC PENGUIN

Breeding colonies of Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) are distributed throughout the Patagonian shore of South America and the Falkland/Malvinas Islands. Strong philopatry of penguins to breeding colonies could lead to genetically and demographically independent populations, defining potential units of conservation concern. Using microsatellite markers, we have performed a population genetic analysis of six breeding colonies from Patagonia and the Falklands to evaluate overall levels of genetic diversity and population genetic structure in the Magellanic Penguin. A hierarchical analysis of molecular variance revealed lack of population structure, with no significant genetic differentiation detected among breeding colonies within the two regions as well as between Patagonia and the Falklands (<1% differentiation). In addition, we found no significant differences in overall levels of genetic diversity among populations in terms of both heterozygosity (H=0.581) and allelic diversity (A=7.125). Our results indicate that breeding colonies from the Atlantic coast of Patagonia and the Falklands do not represent demographically independent units, but are part of a large population with continuous gene flow. This suggest that highly productive colonies, with large number of breeding pairs, could play a significant role as source populations for maintaining the overall abundance of this species in the Atlantic region.

Poster Presentations index

EFFECTIVE POPULATION SIZE ESTIMATION USING APPROXIMATE BAYESIAN METHODS WITH SUMMARY STATISTICS

The effective size of a population (Ne) is a critical parameter to estimate in evolutionary and conservation studies. Small Ne populations suffer from inbreeding effects and decreased ability to respond to selection, both of which can increase extinction risks. Previous attempts to estimate Ne have focused on either genotypic information or allelic information. Commonly used methods include gametic disequilibrium, heterozygote excess, the temporal method and M. It is desirable to develop a method that combines both genotype and allele frequency information at multiple loci. We used a recently developed Bayesian approach to approximate the likelihood surface or posterior distribution for current and ancestral values of Ne. The method uses simple summary statistics from combined multilocus genotypic and allelic data taken from either one, or a number of temporally spaced samples to estimate known Ne and changes in Ne. The advantages of the approach over previous methods are a) it includes the use of multilocus genotypic information in a likelihood-based framework, and b) the method runs relatively rapidly on a computer in contrast to many other Bayesian methods. We present results quantifying the performance of this method relative to existing ones. This method should help scientists and managers to assess efficiently and quickly the genetic and demographic risks faced by threatened populations.

Poster Presentations index

Population Dynamics

P099 OLFELT, JOEL. Department of Biology, Northeastern Illinois University, 5500 North St. Louis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625-4699, USA. (j-olfelt@neiu.edu).

EFFECTIVE POPULATION SIZES ARE VARIABLE IN THE PLANT SPECIES SEDUM INTEGRIFOLIUM SSP. LEEDYI

P100 OLIVIER, THOMAS. Green Creek Paradigms, LLC, 4632 Green Creek Road, Schuyler, VA 22969, USA (tolivier@cstone.net).

DESIGN GOALS AND APPLICATION OF A SIMULATION SYSTEM FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY

P101 de GOUVENAIN, ROLAND, and John Silander, Jr. Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut, U-42, 75 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA (roland.degouvenain@uconn.edu).

CAN TROPICAL FOREST HARVESTING BE SUSTAINABLE?

P102 MORRIS, DOUGLAS W., and James E. Diffendorfer. Department of Biology and Faculty of Forestry and the Forest Environment, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada (douglas.morris@lakeheadu.ca) (DWM); Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA (JED).

TAKING THE PULSE OF DISPERSAL: IS IT SOURCE-SINK DYNAMICS, BALANCED MIGRATION, OR HABITAT SELECTION?

P103 MORGAN, MICHAEL, and David Norton. Department of Environmental Science, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, 2420 Nicolet Drive, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (morganm@uwgb.edu) (MM); Conservation Research Group, School of Forestry, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, New Zealand (DN).

POPULATION DYNAMICS OF THE THREATENED NEW ZEALAND ENDEMIC, MYOSOTIS COLENSOI, AND IMPLICATIONS FOR ITS CONSERVATION

P104 SANTORA, MAURA, and Christine Moffitt. Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, University of Idaho, PO Box 441136, Moscow, ID 83844, USA (sant9594@uidaho.edu).

MODELING EFFECTS OF MYXOBOLUS CEREBRALIS ON THE POPULATION DYNAMICS OF TUBIFEX TUBIFEX AND ONCORHYNCHUS MYKISS

P105 FAUST, LISA J., Joanne M. Earnhardt, and Steven D. Thompson. Department of Conservation and Science, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614, USA, (lisa@lpzoo.org) (LJF, JME, SDT); Ecology and Evolution Group, University of Illinois at Chicago, 845 West Taylor, Chicago, IL 60607, USA (LJF).

IS REVERSING THE DECLINE OF ASIAN ELEPHANTS (ELAPHUS MAXIMUS) IN CAPTIVITY POSSIBLE? A MODELING APPROACH

P106 FERRAZ, KATIA, and Luciano M. Verdade. Laboratório de Ecologia Animal, Universidade de São Paulo, Cx. P. 09, 13418-900, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil (kferraz@esalq.usp.br).

SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OF CAPYBARAS: POPULATION FLUCTUATION AND RATE OF INCREASE IN ANTHROPOGENIC WETLAND, SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL

P107 SCHAEFER, JAMES. Biology Department, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, ON K9J 7B8, Canada (jschaefer@trentu.ca).

LONG-TERM RANGE RECESSION AND THE PERSISTENCE OF CARIBOU IN THE TAIGA

Poster Presentations index

P099 OLFELT, JOEL. Department of Biology, Northeastern Illinois University, 5500 North St. Louis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625-4699, USA. (j-olfelt@neiu.edu).

EFFECTIVE POPULATION SIZES ARE VARIABLE IN THE PLANT SPECIES SEDUM INTEGRIFOLIUM SSP. LEEDYI

The probability of population persistence is thought to be directly related to effective population size (N_e), and is often used to guide management decisions for rare and endangered species such as Sedum integrifolium ssp. leedyi, a federally threatened (USA) plant species. I estimated demographic parameters in three southeastern Minnesota S. integrifolium ssp. leedyi populations in five growing seasons between 1997 and 2002. In each of the seasons I counted plants and recorded flowering rates for each population. Beginning in 1997 I permanently marked a total of 117 individuals, using them to estimate sex ratios, seed set, and death rates. Actual population sizes (N) were stable, or increased for each population, averaging 287, 624, and 931 individuals. Death rates were 10 to 20 percent per year. Estimates of N_e/N fluctuated dramatically in the smallest and largest populations, ranging from approximately zero to ³ 0.63, but were relatively stable (0.61, Standard Deviation 0.05) in the intermediately sized population. The data suggest that the stable population may be demographically secure, but reinforce the idea, based on animal population studies, that more than several years' worth of data are necessary to obtain truly useful N_e/N estimates.

Poster Presentations index

P100 OLIVIER, THOMAS. Green Creek Paradigms, LLC, 4632 Green Creek Road, Schuyler, VA 22969, USA (tolivier@cstone.net).

DESIGN GOALS AND APPLICATION OF A SIMULATION SYSTEM FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY

This paper presents a population simulation system developed to meet sometimes-conflicting requirements of conservation models. The system targets processes in animal populations subdivided by space or social groupings. Good conservation models must treat important particulars of population structure and landscape setting. However, models framed too particularly may have prohibitively limited applicability. Simulations that exploit methods and data structures indigenous to digital computers appear particularly well suited to meeting such heterogeneous requirements. In this vein, the simulation system presented here uses syntactically organized character strings and equivalent graphs to represent local population structures. It is implemented in Python and uses object-oriented methods to portray population features at varied levels of specialization. The system also contains a run-time link to a geographic information system. A model of a socially subdivided mammalian population has been built. The model includes age-specific survival and reproduction, migration of adult males between groups and fissions and fusions of groups, with fissions occurring along matrilineal lines. Model assumptions are similar to the organization seen in some species of Old World monkeys. Applicability of the system is shown in simulations illustrating interactions between demographic rates, infectious diseases, genetic structures and social structural events.

Poster Presentations index

CAN TROPICAL FOREST HARVESTING BE SUSTAINABLE?

Can tree harvesting by local residents be sustainable and compatible with the long-term conservation of coastal rainforests in eastern Madagascar? To answer this question, we determined what harvesting regimes were sustainable (or not) for a set of native tree "target species" using empirical, field calibrated population dynamics models. We conducted tree demographic inventories in 50 x 50 m replicated plots in stands subjected to different levels of harvesting, and in two distinct forests. We calculated effective reproductive output as a function of tree diameter for each target species, and we estimated species-specific growth from prior data. We estimated population viability for the target species using two types of structured population models: Lefkovitch matrix models and Integral Projection models. Population-level response to harvesting varied among species depending on their life history strategies. Within a shade tolerant guild, some species benefited from moderate harvesting (< 50% of largest diameters removed) while others were negatively affected. At the community level, a stand-level rotation system of light to moderate harvesting (20-50% of largest diameters per rotation) could be both sustainable and promote native biodiversity conservation. Light harvesting applied uniformly would not maintain biodiversity since some shade tolerant canopy species would be lost.

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TAKING THE PULSE OF DISPERSAL: IS IT SOURCE-SINK DYNAMICS, BALANCED MIGRATION, OR HABITAT SELECTION?

Dispersal lies at the heart of spatial population dynamics, the persistence of populations, and their successful conservation. Typically, patterns in dispersal are interpreted to represent either the flux of individuals from source to sink habitats, or the balanced migration of individuals between habitats of differing quality. We illustrate that both patterns can be produced through ideal habitat selection in persistent populations. Dispersing individuals pulse between habitats as overall population size waxes and wanes through time. Long-term data from mouse populations confirm habitat selection's role in dispersal. Conservation strategies that fail to link dispersal to temporal population dynamics and density-dependent habitat selection, and thereby misidentify source and sink habitats, may increase the risk of population extinction.

Poster Presentations index

POPULATION DYNAMICS OF THE THREATENED NEW ZEALAND ENDEMIC, MYOSOTIS COLENSOI, AND IMPLICATIONS FOR ITS CONSERVATION

To assess its conservation status, the population dynamics of Myosotis colensoi was studied over a seven year period. In November 1991 62 permanent quadrats were established on a site in Castle Hill Basin, South Island. All mats within the quadrats were mapped and monitored. In 1991 mats produced an average of 2.9 seeds per flower, 2.9 flowers per lateral and 1.9 laterals per rosette. Mats averaged 5.0 rosettes while 92.5 percent of mats with two or more rosettes and 48.1 percent of single rosettes produced flowers. Over an eight week period 17.6 percent of seeds germinated without pretreatment. Only 16.5 percent of the 170 mats sampled in November 1991 survived to December 1998. However, 270 mats were counted in 1998, indicating that seedling establishment had more than compensated for low survivorship. M. colensoi also reproduces vegetatively with some mats containing as many as 36 satellite rosettes linked to a founder rosette. Reproduction appears not to pose any constraints on the long-term persistence of this species. No significant change in percent cover of invasive species (approximately 29 percent) occurred over the seven year study. In the short term, this population is expanding in number.

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MODELING EFFECTS OF MYXOBOLUS CEREBRALIS ON THE POPULATION DYNAMICS OF TUBIFEX TUBIFEX AND ONCORHYNCHUS MYKISS

Declines in intermountain western United States rainbow trout, Onchorynchus mykiss, populations have been attributed to whirling disease, caused by the Myxobolus cerebralis parasite. Models of the impact of this specific pathogen on its two host populations have not been published, as of yet. We have developed the foundation for a deterministic model of the epidemics of M. cerebralis through review of existing published literature. The dynamics of the model are regulated by parameters such as the basic salmonid and Tubifex tubifex host demographic reproduction, growth, and mortality rates; parasite production and decay rates; and disease transmission and recovery rates. We examine the influence of these parameters on host population numbers in order to assess which cause greater population declines over a unit of time. Preliminary results indicate only a small decrease in susceptible rainbow trout numbers with increasing prevalence of infection in the T. tubifex population, and that transmission probability most likely has the greatest effect on infected and susceptible trout numbers. We discovered gaps in knowledge of the population dynamics of M. cerebralis through the practice of building this model from literature review. Future development of the model should focus on parameter probability distributions, parsimony, validation, and inclusion of environmental modifiers to be more useful to fish managers trying to contain whirling disease in the wild.

Poster Presentations index

IS REVERSING THE DECLINE OF ASIAN ELEPHANTS (ELAPHUS MAXIMUS) IN CAPTIVITY POSSIBLE? A MODELING APPROACH

Demographic models are important tools in quantitatively diagnosing population declines and assessing the management strategies that might reverse them. We used models to scientifically evaluate the observed decline in the North American Species Survival Plan (SSP) population of Asian elephants, which acts as an important ambassador for its highly endangered wild counterparts. The captive population is declining due to low birth rates and high mortality in younger age classes. Given the current population structure and vital rates, a preliminary model indicated that the decline would continue at a rate of 2% per year; to achieve an annual population growth rate of 1, a minimum of three additional births per year would be needed. We then constructed a more complex model that allowed exploration of the population's ability to reach that goal. We assessed the impact of female reproductive status (cycling vs. non-cycling) and space limitations on population dynamics; we then evaluated and prioritized the different management options available for reversing the population decline, including importation, changes in mortality, and increasing reproduction through artificial insemination or increased natural reproduction.

Poster Presentations index

P106 FERRAZ, KATIA, and Luciano M. Verdade. Laboratório de Ecologia Animal, Universidade de São Paulo, Cx. P. 09, 13418-900, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil (kferraz@esalq.usp.br).

SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OF CAPYBARAS: POPULATION FLUCTUATION AND RATE OF INCREASE IN ANTHROPOGENIC WETLAND, SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL

Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, Rodentia: caviomorpha) have been reported as a plague in the Southeastern Brazil due to the extinction of large predators and the great offer of food resources from agricultural fields such as corn, rice, and sugar cane. As a part of a management program, capybaras have been monitored weekly by direct counts in anthropogenic wetland from July 1998 to June 2002, in order to assess population fluctuation and the rate of increase. There was a consistent seasonal and annual fluctuation in capybaras population along the years at the study site. Juveniles and young presented similar seasonal fluctuation, but both differed from adults. Adults and juveniles, as well as adults and young presented a consistently different monthly fluctuation along the years, whereas juveniles and young presented similar monthly fluctuation. Monitoring frequency for capybaras can be monthly or bimonthly, not necessarily weekly, in order to perceive seasonal fluctuation in a certain study site. At the present study the rate of increase varied from 1.098 (9.8%) to 1.597 (59.7%) along the study period. It can be described by the following regression model: Yt = 2.617 - 1.2805t + 0.2605t2. The population rate of increase slightly rose after the first harvest.

Poster Presentations index

P107 SCHAEFER, JAMES. Biology Department, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, ON K9J 7B8, Canada (jschaefer@trentu.ca).

LONG-TERM RANGE RECESSION AND THE PERSISTENCE OF CARIBOU IN THE TAIGA

Spatial patterns can help in understanding the decline and future prospects of threatened species. Employing a novel spatial approach, I analysed long-term changes in occupancy by taiga-dwelling caribou to estimate their rate of disappearance and time to extirpation in Ontario, Canada. Patterns of range recession, 1880-1990, indicated that half of historic woodland caribou range has been lost, a rate of disappearance of 34,800 square kilometres per decade and northward range recession of 34 km per decade. The mean metapopulation density, the abundance of discrete winter groups, was one group per 1,900 square kilometres, suggesting that an average loss of 18 caribou wintering areas per decade during this period. There was strong coincidence between the recent southern limits of caribou occupancy and the northern front of forest harvesting, implying an anthropogenic agent of decline. The estimated time-to-extirpation of forest-dwelling caribou in Ontario, inferred from the sustained rate of disappearance, was 91 years (95% confidence interval: 57-149 years). Persistence of woodland caribou may depend on spatial separation from human incursion.

Poster Presentations index

Endangered Species

P108 ROOT, KAREN. Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA (kvroot@bgnet.bgsu.edu).

ASSESSING THE VIABILITY AND POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF MANAGEMENT OPTIONS FOR THE FLORIDA PANTHER

P109 Beck, Benjamin, JENNIFER MICKELBERG, Jonathan Ballou, and Andreia Martins. Smithsonian National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA (mickelbergj@nzp.si.edu).

THE GOLDEN LION TAMARIN (LEONTOPITHECUS ROSALIA) REINTRODUCTION PROGRAM: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

P110 EARNHARDT, JOANNE M., Dennis Rentsch, Eric VanderWerf, Lisa Faust, Amy Wolf, and Steven D. Thompson. Department of Conservation and Science, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614, USA (joanne@lpzoo.org) (JME, DR, LF, AW, SDT); U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 3-122, Honolulu, HI 96850, USA (EV).

THE SCIENCE OF REINTRODUCTION: A SURVEY OF AVIAN RELEASE PROGRAMS

P111 WILSON, RACHEL, Linda Smith, Laura Thompson, Kristen Boccumini, Chris Kisiel, and Dave Jenkins. Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, USA (linda.smith@stockton.edu) (RW); The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Pomona, NJ 08240, USA (LS, KB); Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383-6493, USA (LT); New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Non-Game Species Program, PO Box 400, Trenton, NJ 08625, USA (CK, DJ).

THE EFFECTS OF HUMAN DISTURBANCE ON PIPING PLOVERS FORAGING ON NEW JERSEY BEACHES

P113 DUNWIDDIE, PETER, and Wendy Wayne. The Nature Conservancy, 217 Pine Street, Suite 1100, Seattle, WA 98101, USA (pdunwiddie@tnc.org) (PD); Center for Urban Horticulture, College of Forest Resources, Box 354115, Seattle, WA 98195, USA (WW).

LESSONS FROM RECOVERY EFFORTS ON CASTILLEJA LEVISECTA (SCROPHULARIACEAE) IN A COASTAL GRASSLAND IN WASHINGTON, USA

P114 SATO, KAZUNORI. Department of Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shizuoka University, 3-5-1 Johoku, Hamamatsu, 432-8561, Japan (sato@sys.eng.shizuoka.ac.jp).

EXAMINATION ON CRITERIA FOR THE ENDANGERED SPECIES

P115 SEI, MAKIRI. Program of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, University of Massachusetts, 611 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA (makiri@nsm.umass.edu).

THE ENDANGERED CANADIAN BUTTERFLY LARVA THAT EATS SALT MEADOW CORDGRASS CAN TOLERATE SALTWATER SUBMERGENCE

Poster Presentations index

P108 ROOT, KAREN. Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA (kvroot@bgnet.bgsu.edu).

ASSESSING THE VIABILITY AND POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF MANAGEMENT OPTIONS FOR THE FLORIDA PANTHER

The Florida panther, Puma concolor coryi, is a highly endangered mammal found only in south Florida, which faces rapid human population growth and the accompanying pressure for development and land conversion in this region. As part of an assessment of the viability of the Florida panther for United States Fish and Wildlife Service, I developed a stochastic, spatially-explicit, stage-based model for the panther population based on long-term survey data and detailed habitat data. Using the model, I explored the long-term viability of the panther, the effects of habitat loss, and potential recovery options such as natural dispersal and translocation to increase the number of panther populations. The model suggested that the long-term survival of the Florida panther required maintenance of the current habitat configuration and condition indefinitely. The overall risk of extinction could be decreased by establishing additional populations, if sufficient habitat was available and there was adequate dispersal. Additional habitat loss or catastrophes would significantly increase the risk of extinction for this species. This ecological risk analysis provides valuable guidelines for the protection and recovery of the endangered Florida panther.

Poster Presentations index

THE GOLDEN LION TAMARIN (LEONTOPITHECUS ROSALIA) REINTRODUCTION PROGRAM: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

Reintroduction of captive-born animals has been a valuable tool in the conservation of the golden lion tamarin (GLT), a small New World primate endemic to the Atlantic Coastal Rainforest of Brazil. The first group of captive-born tamarins was reintroduced in 1983 in what was the only protected area for the species. Almost twenty years later, the reintroduced population has reached over 400 animals and continues to grow. The Reintroduction Program now includes 22 privately owned ranches containing areas of protected habitat for the GLTs. This Program has not only contributed to the conservation of the GLT, but also to the science of reintroduction. Research utilizing the reintroduced and captive populations of GLTs has examined the effectiveness of pre- and post-release conditioning on survival of reintroduced GLTs. The results indicate that captive GLTs that have free ranging experience before being reintroduced do not have a higher survival rate post-reintroduction. Future plans include planting 50,000 native trees on 20 hectares of farmland to create a forestry corridor. This 30 km corridor requires the cooperation of over 20 landowners and once created, will provide additional habitat as well as connect the reintroduced and wild populations of GLTs.

Poster Presentations index

THE SCIENCE OF REINTRODUCTION: A SURVEY OF AVIAN RELEASE PROGRAMS

Reintroduction is a powerful conservation tool in the restoration of endangered species. However, program design and implementation is critical to the success and value of this tool.We have developed a database on avian reintroduction programs that can help guide the design of future reintroductions, characterize past reintroduction practices, and compare/contrast procedures across programs. The database includes 80 parameters pertinent to the species, release location, individuals released (e.g., number, sex, age, origin), and release techniques (e.g., supplementation, intervention). Database information is collected from peer-reviewed journals, gray literature, websites, and personal interviews. Data collection is ongoing with 54 species and 350 releases currently incorporated. Our summary statistics for the database indicate high variability within and between reintroduction programs. The biggest impediment to locating data is that quantitative information is lacking from many publications. For example, for 30-day survivorship, we could find data for only 54% of 183 release events. For reintroduction theory and practice to progress, it is essential that the design of future reintroductions be based on rigorous review of methods, results and lessons from the past.

Poster Presentations index

THE EFFECTS OF HUMAN DISTURBANCE ON PIPING PLOVERS FORAGING ON NEW JERSEY BEACHES

The recovery of endangered species is difficult when foraging and breeding habitats occur in areas of human recreation. On New Jersey barriers islands, the intensity of human recreation varies from that of only pedestrians in use restricted areas to high density sun-bathing in others. Piping plovers nest and forage on beaches with these varying levels of human intensity, and quantitative data on how the birds are affected by humans is critical to the implementation of the NJ recovery plan for this bird. We examined how the density of humans affects the foraging behavior of piping plovers during the breeding period. We compared foraging of the birds on four beaches and found that foraging intensity increases with human density. Prior studies have relied on a percent foraging time to show the effects of human disturbance. Instead, we used a unique observational technique for measuring the intensity of foraging behavior and found that the intensity of foraging actually increases with increased human density and recreation. We suggest that increased foraging intensity may indicate stress and that our technique is an effective way to measure the effects of human disturbance on endangered species.

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LESSONS FROM RECOVERY EFFORTS ON CASTILLEJA LEVISECTA (SCROPHULARIACEAE) IN A COASTAL GRASSLAND IN WASHINGTON, USA

Castilleja levisecta, the Golden Paintbrush, is a federally threatened plant that occurs in fewer than 12 grassland sites in Washington and southern British Columbia. To meet a federal recovery goal of at least 20 viable populations, studies are being conducted to investigate and develop strategies for augmenting existing populations and establishing new, self-sustaining populations. We report the current status of efforts to establish a population at one site. Initial survival of outplanted plugs is high, but no plants have become established from experimental sowing of seed. Successes and failures at this site are being used to guide similar efforts elsewhere. Major issues that have influenced the pace and success of this recovery project include: 1) Deciding whether a population should be established using seed or out-plantings of nursery-grown plants, 2) Anticipating and supplying adequate quantities of seed needed for recovery efforts, 3) Including redundancy in propagation and out-planting efforts to accommodate occasional failures, and 4) Establishing mechanisms for ensuring long-term continuity of recovery efforts despite short-duration academic and funding commitments.

Poster Presentations index

P114 SATO, KAZUNORI. Department of Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shizuoka University, 3-5-1 Johoku, Hamamatsu, 432-8561, Japan (sato@sys.eng.shizuoka.ac.jp).

EXAMINATION ON CRITERIA FOR THE ENDANGERED SPECIES

For the conservation of rare species, there are various criteria to determine endangered species from the regional or the country level to the international. In some of these, e.g. IUCN red list categories, the objective (or quantitative) method using data for the criteria is clearly shown. Although it is pointed out that there is inconsistency between some criteria, each of which should be applied independently, e.g. on the criteria of IUCN red list categories, criterion A concerns only the rate of population reduction, but should also be linked to the population size if it is available without the contradiction to the estimation of extinction probability by criterion E. Here I consider the effect of finite size of population for these criteria by using a simple model, and examine the consistency between them. Besides that I show how much degree the geographical structure of population (including criterion B of IUCN red list categories) affects these criteria. As the result I conclude that the criteria should be reflected by the cumulative field data as possible as we can use.

Poster Presentations index

P115 SEI, MAKIRI. Program of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, University of Massachusetts, 611 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA (makiri@nsm.umass.edu).

THE ENDANGERED CANADIAN BUTTERFLY LARVA THAT EATS SALT MEADOW CORDGRASS CAN TOLERATE SALTWATER SUBMERGENCE

Management of an endangered species requires knowledge of the target species' ecology. The maritime ringlet (Coenonympha tullia nipisiquit McDunnough, Satyrinae, Nymphalidae) is a federally endangered, rare butterfly that inhabits six salt marshes in northern New Brunswick and a few salt marshes in the GaspT Peninsula of Quebec. Neonate larvae require microhabitats rich in salt meadow cordgrass (Spartina patens (Aiton) Muhl.) that flood regularly. The inornate ringlet (C. tullia inornata Edwards) is a common, widespread subspecies that occurs in meadows near the maritime ringlet populations. I tested whether the maritime ringlet has adapted to its high-salinity habitat by submerging larvae of the maritime ringlet and the inornate ringlet in saltwater for varied duration. The submergence caused high mortality among the inornate ringlet larvae; whereas most of the maritime ringlet larvae survived up to 24 hours of submergence. Neonate inornate ringlet larvae raised on S. patens died within a week, even though maritime ringlet larvae thrived on it. The result indicates that the maritime ringlet has adapted to salt marsh habitat after its divergence from the inornate ringlet.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Issues Concerning Invertebrates

P116 KLEINTJES, PAULA, Stephen Fettig, Elisabeth Major, Dustin Vanoverbeke, and Dana Bickelhaupt. Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, Eau Claire, WI 54702, USA (kleintpk@uwec.edu) (PK, EM, DV, DB); Bandelier National Monument, Los Alamos, NM 87544, USA (SF).

RESPONSE OF BUTTERFLIES TO ELK BROWSING IN A MIXED CONIFER-ASPEN FOREST

P117 REEDER, KATY, Brent Danielson, William Hohman, and Diane Debinski. Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, 124 Science II, Ames, IA 50011, USA (reederka@iastate.edu) (KR, BD, DD); Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Iowa State University, 124 Science II, Ames, IA 50011, USA (WH).

FRINGE BENEFITS OF AGRICULTURAL CONSERVATION POLICY: FILTER STRIPS AND BUTTERFLIES

P118 Gunnarsson, Bengt, KAROLINA NITTÉRUS, Åsa Gunnarsson, and Peter Wirdenäs. Department of Applied Environmental Science, University of Gothenburg, Box 464, SE-405 30 Göteborg, Sweden (karolina.nitterus@miljo.gu.se).

SLASH REMOVAL AND DIVERSITY OF BEETLES

P119 KOMONEN, ATTE, and Jari Kouki. Faculty of Forest Sciences, University of Joensuu, PO Box 111, FIN-80101 Joensuu, Finland (atte.komonen@joensuu.fi).

THE EFFECT OF CLEARCUTTING ON POLYPORE-DWELLING BEETLES IN BOREAL FORESTS

Poster Presentations index

RESPONSE OF BUTTERFLIES TO ELK BROWSING IN A MIXED CONIFER-ASPEN FOREST

Herbivory by high numbers of elk can influence the structure of aspen forests, but less is known about how such changes affect insect herbivores. In Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico, 1999-2002, we used randomized and replicated ungulate exclosure (60 x 60 m) and reference areas in an aspen-mixed conifer forest to test whether elk browsing Cervis elaphus affects adult butterflies. In each site we measured butterfly abundance and species richness, non-woody plant cover, height, richness and biomass, percent canopy, and aspen height and density. Butterfly abundance and species richness significantly differed among dates, treatment, and dates x treatment in 2001, the year of greatest precipitation prior to the sampling season. In other years, butterfly numbers only differed among sampling dates. Butterfly abundance and richness were positively correlated with forb biomass and aspen stem densities (0.5 - 2.0m ht) and stem densities significantly differed among heights and treatment. Results of ordination analyses indicated that species composition of late flying butterflies was best explained by greater forb biomass, blooming nectar species and aspen regeneration as a result of ungulate exclusion. Our results suggest that butterflies respond variably to elk browsing and primarily as a result of variation in annual and seasonal precipitation.

Poster Presentations index

FRINGE BENEFITS OF AGRICULTURAL CONSERVATION POLICY: FILTER STRIPS AND BUTTERFLIES

Since 1985, federal and state governments have been partnering with landowners to establish permanent vegetative cover on erodible cropland through cost-share programs such as the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP). These programs promote filter strips (grassy plantings along watercourses), which reduce sediment runoff and stabilize streambanks. Adding wildlife habitat is an additional goal of filter strip establishment. In 2002, we began studying the potential risks and benefits of filter strips for butterflies in the Minnesota and Des Moines River watersheds. We measured adult butterfly abundance, diversity, and mortality due to predation to determine whether filter strip width, vegetation structure or planting mix affect butterflies. Preliminary results indicate that the abundance of forbs is positively correlated with butterfly abundance. Predation rates on butterflies were not different between block and linear habitats. However, this may result from the fact that the primary predators observed were ground-dwelling rather than aerial.

Poster Presentations index

SLASH REMOVAL AND DIVERSITY OF BEETLES

Arthropod diversity is often affected by structural habitat complexity. Removal of logging residue, "slash" from clearcuts may alter the micro-habitat complexity, and thereby indirectly affect the numbers of beetles (Coleoptera) and species richness. Short-term effects on ground living Coleoptera after slash removal were studied in south and central Sweden. Coleoptera were collected by pitfall trapping in 16 clearcuts (< 1 yr old). In eight of the areas, slash was removed after cutting and in eight areas slash was left. Micro-habitat structure was measured by the height of the slash piles on ground. Slash height was positively correlated with two complexity measures; i.e. the number of sticks and fractal dimension. The investigated clearcuts were situated in areas with coniferous and mixed forests in three regions (North, West and East) and were analysed separately since we found regional differences in the number of species found per trap. In the North region, slash height was significantly lower on areas with slash removal. In West and North regions no such differences were found. However, on areas with slash removal in West and East regions there was a positive relationship between slash height and number of individuals per trap. Rarefaction plots for 4 of the 16 clearcuts shows that number of species increases with number of specimens collected. A laboratory experiment on micro-habitat choice showed that two ground-living beetle species (Carabus hortensis and Pterostichus oblongopunctatus) generally spent more time under slash heaps than on open ground. Slash piles might serve as important refuges for ground-living beetles on clearcuts, and extensive slash removal may lead to impoverished species richness of Coleoptera on a local scale. Further studies about distribution and volumes of slash piles remaining on clearcuts are needed.

Poster Presentations index

P119 KOMONEN, ATTE, and Jari Kouki. Faculty of Forest Sciences, University of Joensuu, PO Box 111, FIN-80101 Joensuu, Finland (atte.komonen@joensuu.fi).

THE EFFECT OF CLEARCUTTING ON POLYPORE-DWELLING BEETLES IN BOREAL FORESTS

We studied the effect of clearcutting on the occurrence and abundance of beetles inhabiting the fruiting bodies of Trametes polypores in Finland. We collected fruiting bodies from old-growth forests and adjacent clear-cuts, after which samples were taken into laboratory to rear the insects living inside the fungi. Six species of cisid beetles (Cisidae) accounted for 97% of the insect fauna. Of these, only Octotemnus glabriculus had higher frequency of occurrence and higher average abundance in the forest than in the clear-cut samples. Sulcacis affinis, S. fronticornis, Cis hispidus and C. comptus were more frequent and abundant in the clear-cut samples, whereas C. boleti did not show significant differences between the two management categories. The amount of fungal fruiting bodies in a dead tree was higher in the clear-cuts and explained most of the variation in species frequency and abundance. However, the management category had an independent effect on species abundance, probably due to microclimatic factors. Our study indicates that forest management affects the distribution and abundance of common Trametes-dwelling cisids, but as long as logging residue contains deciduous elements and is not removed from the logging site, forest management is not a serious threat for these beetles.

Poster Presentations index

Alien and Invasive Species

P120 BEACHY, BRIAN L., Justin N. Rosemier, Elizabeth E. Graham, Jordan M. Marshall, and Andrew J. Storer. School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA (blbeachy@mtu.edu).

IMPACTS OF AN EXOTIC DISEASE COMPLEX ON NATIVE FOREST ARTHROPODS

P121 LYON, JON. Department of Biology and Environmental Science Program, Merrimack College, 315 Turnpike Street, North Andover, MA 01845, USA (lyonj@merrimack.edu).

A COMPARISON OF WOODY VEGETATION AND NON-NATIVE PLANT SPECIES IN FOUR RIPARIAN CORRIDORS ALONG A DISTURBANCE GRADIENT

P122 PAAP, KATHY, and Dennis Nyberg. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, m/c 066, 845 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60607, USA (Kpaap1@uic.edu).

INVASION OF REED CANARY GRASS IS ACCELERATED BY NITROGEN AND INHIBITED BY SUGAR ADDITIONS TO A SYNTHETIC WETLAND COMMUNITY

P123 HERRICK, BRADLEY. Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (herrbm11@uwgb.edu).

THE EFFECTS OF DIKES ON THE SEED BANKS AND STANDING VEGETATION OF GREAT LAKES COASTAL WETLANDS

P124 RUSSELL, LELAND, and Svata Louda. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0118, USA (frussell@unlnotes.unl.edu).

CAUSES OF TEMPORAL AND SPATIAL VARIATION IN INTERACTION STRENGTH BETWEEN AN INVASIVE BIOCONTROL WEEVIL AND AN ACQUIRED NATIVE HOST PLANT

P125 RAY, JULIE M., and Richard B. King. Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA (z050051@wpo.cso.niu.edu).

POSSIBLE POSITIVE EFFECTS OF THE EXOTIC ROUND GOBY ON THE THREATENED LAKE ERIE WATER SNAKE

P126 EMRY, JASON. Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA (jemry@ku.edu).

THE EFFECT OF SEED DENSITY AND CANOPY REMOVAL ON THE FATE OF LESPEDEZA CUNEATA SEEDS IN TWO HABITATS

Poster Presentations index

IMPACTS OF AN EXOTIC DISEASE COMPLEX ON NATIVE FOREST ARTHROPODS

The beech bark disease complex, involving an exotic scale insect (Cryptococcus fagisuga, Homoptera: Cryptococcidae) and native and exotic pathogenic fungi (Nectria spp.), is currently spreading throughout the range of American beech (Fagus grandifolia). The impacts of this disease complex on native forest arthropods are not well understood. In the summer of 2002, we sampled arthropods using pitfall and flight intercept traps in three categories of beech forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula: forests with no scale, low scale, and high scale density. Traps were emptied every two weeks and their contents were sorted into general taxonomic groups. Pitfall trapping results indicated that ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and spiders were more abundant in areas with beech bark disease depending upon the time of year. Numbers of bark beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) and horntails and woodwasps (Hymenoptera: Siricidae, Xiphydriidae) caught in flight intercept traps differed significantly among site categories. Bark beetles were more numerous in areas without scale, while horntails and woodwasps were more numerous in areas with high scale density. These differences are likely due to changes in resource availability as beech bark disease progresses. Our results suggest that beech bark disease is altering the community structure of native forest arthropods.

Poster Presentations index

P121 LYON, JON. Department of Biology and Environmental Science Program, Merrimack College, 315 Turnpike Street, North Andover, MA 01845, USA (lyonj@merrimack.edu).

A COMPARISON OF WOODY VEGETATION AND NON-NATIVE PLANT SPECIES IN FOUR RIPARIAN CORRIDORS ALONG A DISTURBANCE GRADIENT

High levels of variability and heterogeneity often characterize the plant communities and patterns of plant species diversity along riparian corridors. We have been analyzing woody vegetation (trees, shrubs) and soils along four riparian corridors in northeastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. The four sites are located in watersheds with different disturbance levels and land use patterns. The main objectives of the study are to characterize and compare plant assemblages, ascertain key environmental variables correlated with vegetation patterns and assess the extent of non-native vegetation within and across the four riparian corridors. Transects were established along each riparian corridor and woody vegetation was sampled using standard quadrats. Vegetation and soil data were analyzed using classification and ordination techniques. Preliminary results indicate lower diversity and higher levels of non-native species in more disturbed corridors. However, non-native species were distributed heterogeneously. In addition, there were pockets of high diversity even in highly disturbed corridors. Ordination analyses indicated unique assemblages of woody vegetation both within and across riparian corridors. Woody species richness and diversity were positively correlated with soil nutrient levels. Woody species exhibited complex distribution and assemblage patterns within and across corridors that could not be attributed solely to watershed-level disturbance.

Poster Presentations index

P122 PAAP, KATHY, and Dennis Nyberg. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, m/c 066, 845 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60607, USA (Kpaap1@uic.edu).

INVASION OF REED CANARY GRASS IS ACCELERATED BY NITROGEN AND INHIBITED BY SUGAR ADDITIONS TO A SYNTHETIC WETLAND COMMUNITY

Phalaris arundinacea, reed canary grass (RCG), is the most common invasive species in Illinois wetlands and plays a large role in wetland degradation nation-wide. We studied the effect of sugar and Ammonium nitrate additions to synthetic wetland communities to which seedlings and seeds of RCG had been added. Each wetland community had 24 individuals (6 each of four native wetland species) planted in a tub which held 110 liters of soil. To six tubs we added 0.1 mole of sugar per week; to six we added 0.003 moles on Ammonium nitrate per week during the growing season in 2001 and 2002. The 3 treatment groups did not differ in the amount of biomass produced by the planted species (mean 435 g/pot in 2002). In 2002 the sugar added pots produced only 0.2 g RCG per pot, while 2.0 g was the mean of the controls and 4.8 g was the mean of the nitrogen added pots. Continuing increases in atmospheric nitrogen deposition are likely to aggravate the already serious invasion of Phalaris into native wetland communities.

Poster Presentations index

P123 HERRICK, BRADLEY. Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA (herrbm11@uwgb.edu).

THE EFFECTS OF DIKES ON THE SEED BANKS AND STANDING VEGETATION OF GREAT LAKES COASTAL WETLANDS

A significant number of Great Lakes coastal wetlands have been diked to provide protection from flooding and to manipulate water levels for vegetation management. Dikes change the hydrological regime by isolating the coastal wetland from natural lake processes. I evaluated the seed banks of seven pairs of diked and undiked coastal wetlands in Green Bay (Lake Michigan) and Saginaw Bay (Lake Huron) in order to assess the effects of dikes on long term vegetation dynamics. I also estimated cover of dominant plant species in the extant vegetation. Seed banks in diked wetlands yielded a significantly greater density of invasive species compared with undiked wetlands. Lythrum salicaria (purple loosestrife) and Chenopodium rubrum (red groosefoot) were the two most abundant invasive species present in all seed banks. Two other common invasive species, Phragmites australis (giant reed grass) and Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass), were abundant in the extant vegetation but were not present in either the diked or undiked wetland seed banks. My results demonstrate that diking of coastal wetlands significantly alters the seed bank and existing vegetation by promoting a greater biomass, largely composed of undesirable exotic species.

Poster Presentations index

P124 RUSSELL, LELAND, and Svata Louda. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0118, USA (frussell@unlnotes.unl.edu).

CAUSES OF TEMPORAL AND SPATIAL VARIATION IN INTERACTION STRENGTH BETWEEN AN INVASIVE BIOCONTROL WEEVIL AND AN ACQUIRED NATIVE HOST PLANT

One way to improve our ability to predict the potential nontarget effects on native species by exotic insects proposed as biological control agents before introduction might be to determine the factors underlying temporal and spatial variation in their numbers and activity. We have tested this idea, using the interaction of the invasive biocontrol weevil, Rhinocyllus conicus, with its acquired native host, Cirsium undulatum, as a model system. Using 12 years of data on C. undulatum flowering and four years of data on numbers of R. conicus in mid-grass prairie, we examined three hypothesized mechanisms for variation in seed head herbivory: 1) changes in herbivore abundance, 2) herbivore-host phenological synchrony, and 3) variation in amount of host resource available. Abundance of R. conicus adults, phenological synchrony, and total number of thistle flower heads, of C. undulatum plus its coexisting congener Cirsium canescens, all significantly affected use of C. undulatum in multiple regression models. Phenological synchrony and flower head abundance were critical to explaining use of C. undulatum relative to C. canescens. These results provide new, quantitative information that confirms the postulated importance of phenological synchrony and herbivore abundance in interaction strengths and nontarget impacts of exotic insect species.

Poster Presentations index

P125 RAY, JULIE M., and Richard B. King. Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA (z050051@wpo.cso.niu.edu).

POSSIBLE POSITIVE EFFECTS OF THE EXOTIC ROUND GOBY ON THE THREATENED LAKE ERIE WATER SNAKE

Long-term studies provide a unique opportunity to identify ecological factors that affect populations. The Lake Erie water snake (Nerodia sipedon insularum) is an Ohio state endangered and federally threatened species, which resides on the islands in Western Lake Erie. An extensive database of over 5000 captures spanning 23 years was analyzed to determine temporal patterns of variation in body size and condition. Maximum adult body size increased significantly in both females and males over time. Condition (a size-independent measure of relative mass) showed significant year-to-year variation, but no long-term temporal pattern was observed. These changes appear not to result from annual variation in weather. However, the introduction of the round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) to Western Lake Erie in 1995 has provided a new food base for N. s. insularum, and may account for increases in body size seen in this study. Thus, the introduction of N. melanostomus, a non-indigenous species, may have a positive impact on N. s. insularum.

Poster Presentations index

P126 EMRY, JASON. Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA (jemry@ku.edu).

THE EFFECT OF SEED DENSITY AND CANOPY REMOVAL ON THE FATE OF LESPEDEZA CUNEATA SEEDS IN TWO HABITATS

The existence and/or persistence of seed banks can greatly affect population persistence. Lespedeza cuneata is an introduced perennial from East Asia that has invaded a wide range of habitats. Studies have recognized the existence of a seed bank of L. cuneata, but the seed bank's effect on persistence or invasion success could not be easily quantified because the studies were conducted in areas with established populations. In order to determine germination and establishment of L. cuneata under field conditions, I crossed three seed densities and two disturbance levels in brome pasture and reseeded prairie. Seed density influenced seedling emergence in the reseeded prairie but not in the brome pasture. Canopy removal did not affect seedling emergence in either the reseeded prairie or the brome pasture. Percent germination was higher in the pasture than in the prairie. Twice as many seedlings emerged in the low-density pasture plots as in the low-density prairie plots. Similarly, more than 3.5 times more seedlings emerged in the high-density pasture plots than in the high-density prairie plots. This study shows that seed-limitation could be the primary constraint of L. cuneata invasion success in the two habitats.

Poster Presentations index

Grassland Ecology

P127 RUNDLÖF, MAJ. Department of Ecology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-223 62 Lund, Sweden (majrundlof@mail.com).

MEADOWS AND PASTURES – GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT AND LANDSCAPE EFFECTS ON BUTTERFLY DIVERSITY

P128 NORDELL, SHAWN, Thomas Valone, and Morgan Ernest. Department of Biology, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA (SN, TV); Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA (ME).

THE EFFECTS OF FIRE AND GRAZING ON AN ARID GRASSLAND ECOSYSTEM

P129 PIERCE, ANN, and Peter Reich. Conservation Biology Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA (ann.pierce@dnr.state.mn.us) (AP); Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA (PR).

THE LOSS OF BLUFF PRAIRIES DUE TO INCREASES IN THE INVASION OF NATIVE EASTERN RED CEDAR: IS THE SYSTEM RESILIENT?

Poster Presentations index

P127 RUNDLÖF, MAJ. Department of Ecology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-223 62 Lund, Sweden (majrundlof@mail.com).

MEADOWS AND PASTURES - GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT AND LANDSCAPE EFFECTS ON BUTTERFLY DIVERSITY

The area of traditionally cut hay-meadow has decreased strongly in Sweden. Changed management and fragmentation are important factors responsible for the decline of butterflies in a large part of Europe. Butterflies on eight matched pairs of farm, one farm in each pair with both meadow and pasture and the matching farm with only pasture, were recorded. Meadows had more species and higher total population density than pastures. The number of species in the meadow was positively related to the area of the meadows. The total number of butterfly species in pastures had no relation to the pasture area, but it was negatively related to grazing pressure. There were no significant differences in species number or number of individuals between pastures or farms with or without a meadow. The results indicate that meadow is a better butterfly habitat than pasture and that area is an important factor that governs the number of butterfly species that occurs in the meadow. For pastures, grazing pressure is much more important than their area. The fact that there was no difference between pastures and farms within a pair indicates that meadows probably do not function as source habitat for the majority of the butterfly species studied.

Poster Presentations index

THE EFFECTS OF FIRE AND GRAZING ON AN ARID GRASSLAND ECOSYSTEM

Disturbances can strongly affect ecological systems, but few studies have examined how multiple, potentially interacting disturbances might affect community structure and biodiversity. Grasslands are subjected to multiple disturbances such as grazing, fire, and drought and thus are ideal settings to study both the effects of single disturbance types and potential interaction effects. We examined short-term responses of grasses, shrubs, and rodents on experimental plots to determine how manipulations of livestock grazing and prescribed fire affect individual species and community structure in a shrub-invaded arid grassland. Protection from grazing for 2 years did not affect the vegetation of the study site. However, burning significantly reduced total grass basal cover by 20%. Thirteen perennial grasses were recorded and two grasses (Aristida sp. and Eragrostis intermedia) and Broom Snakeweed (Gutierrezia sarothrae) were found in lower abundance on burned plots in the growing season after plots burned. All honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) survived the fire. Twelve species of rodents were captured and total rodent captures and the number of Banner-tailed Kangaroo Rat (Dipodomys spectabilis) did not differ among treatments. No significant interaction between burning and grazing was observed. Fire appears to have few short-term negative effects on species in this system.

Poster Presentations index

THE LOSS OF BLUFF PRAIRIES DUE TO INCREASES IN THE INVASION OF NATIVE EASTERN RED CEDAR: IS THE SYSTEM RESILIENT?

Bluff prairies have typically been spared from the plow and development due to steep topography, but Eastern red cedar, Juniperous virginiana, invasion has increased due to lack of fire. Important management questions are how does this invasion affect ecological properties and is the system resilient? To examine the effect of cedar invasion on ecological properties of bluff prairies and the resilience of these prairies, four research sites were established. Six cedar trees were selected on each site and that three were removed at the beginning of the experiment. Four plots were established in different slope positions surrounding existing and removed trees. Control plots were established in areas free of cedar trees. Results indicate there are significant differences in ecological properties relating to slope position under existing trees. During dry periods differences in properties such as soil moisture and temperature were significant when comparing existing tree plots versus removed tree plots. Properties such as soil moisture and temperature in the removed tree plots quickly approached those measured in control plots. Preliminary results indicate that eastern red cedar does affect ecological properties in the bluff prairie ecosystem but the system demonstrates resilience and various properties approach levels recorded in control plots.

Poster Presentations index

Conservation Issues Concerning Plants

P130 TRACEY, CHRISTOPHER, Juan L. Bouzat, and Helen J. Michaels. Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA (ctracey@ecologytechniques.org).

POPULATION DIFFERENTIATION FOR PHENOTYPIC PLASTICITY IN THE THREATENED PLANT LUPINUS PERENNIS: DOES POPULATION SIZE MATTER?

P131 Teketay, Demel, DAGNE DUGUMA, and Dawit Mamushet. Ethiopian Agricultural Research Organisation, PO Box 2003, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (DT); Ethiopian Agricultural Research Organisation, Forestry Research Center, PO Box 30708, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (frc-dbs@telcom.net.et) (DD, DM).

PHENOLOGY, HOST RANGE AND GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION OF MISTLETOES IN ETHIOPIA

P132 SCHLÜTER, EVEROSE N., and J. Michael Reed. Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA (everose.schluter@tufts.edu).

MOSS PERSISTENCE IN FOREST REMNANTS

Poster Presentations index

P130 TRACEY, CHRISTOPHER, Juan L. Bouzat, and Helen J. Michaels. Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA (ctracey@ecologytechniques.org).

POPULATION DIFFERENTIATION FOR PHENOTYPIC PLASTICITY IN THE THREATENED PLANT LUPINUS PERENNIS: DOES POPULATION SIZE MATTER?

Phenotypic plasticity is the ability of individuals and populations to alter their morphology in response to changes in environmental conditions. Differences in the amount and pattern of phenotypic plasticity provide an estimate of how populations respond to potential environmental perturbations, a fundamental concern of conservation biology. We performed a greenhouse experiment to examine the response of four large and four small populations of Lupinus perennis under two light environments (full sun and 70% shade). We estimated the amount and patterns of phenotypic plasticity within and among populations, and evaluated potential effects of population size. All measured traits (biomass, leaf number, petiole length and specific leaf area) exhibited significant responses to light (P<0.01). Populations revealed variable levels of plasticity, as indicated by the coefficients of variation of reaction norm slopes. In addition, we found significant levels of population differentiation for plasticity in most traits (i.e., treatment by population interaction). Specific leaf area, a trait directly linked to light-related physiological processes, reveled a significant effect of population size, showing a reduction in phenotypic plasticity in smaller populations (P<0.005). Differences in phenotypic plasticity reflect the potential response of plant populations to environmental changes, therefore, should be considered in any conservation effort.

Poster Presentations index

PHENOLOGY, HOST RANGE AND GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION OF MISTLETOES IN ETHIOPIA

Loranthaceae and Viscaceae families, 'mistletoes', are represented by 28 and 7 species in Ethiopia, respectively. To distinguish their host, phenology, abundance and geographic distribution, a herbaria search of 297 specimens at National Herbarium of Ethiopia and Alemaya University Herbarium was carried out through confirmation of existing field situation. Variations in host preference and specificity, geographic distribution, and phenological pattern were evident among species of a family and different families. Englerina woodfordioides was found to be the most abundant (18%) mistletoe clustered in the southwestern part and growing on wide ranges of hosts, followed by Visum tubeculatum (15%). Mistletoes have occurred in broad geographic ranges from 300 (Acacia-Commiphora woodland) – 3000 m a s l (Subafroalpine vegetation). Greater tendency of clustering was, however, observed in central and southwestern Ethiopia. Disturbed forests, road margins, riverbanks and exposed trees or shrubs were the preferred niches. Four endemic species of Loranthaceae were also identified from southern and eastern part, where endemism is predominant. Some mistletoes are used for medicine, fodder and food, while others pose considerable damage to the flora of the country. Their contribution to the parasitic plant diversity is substantial, nonetheless, information on their biology, ecology and economic importance is still vacant, with the ceaseless vegetation (host) degradation that urges on further investigation.

Poster Presentations index

P132 SCHLÜTER, EVEROSE N., and J. Michael Reed. Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA (everose.schluter@tufts.edu).

MOSS PERSISTENCE IN FOREST REMNANTS

Habitat fragmentation can increase extinction risk for many species. A situation where habitat fragmentation is of particular concern is in industrial forests, where the landscape is often a mosaic of forest types and mature forest is lost. For the past five years, we have studyied moss communities within an industrial forest in Maine, USA. Since biological responses to disturbance can be slow to develop, we conducted a study of forest remnants. Remnants were buffer strips between clearcuts, created 8 to 10 years prior because of legislative restrictions on harvest practices. The biological goal was to create refugia for species unable to persist in a newly harvested landscape. We evaluated their effectiveness for mosses, sampling 17 replicates of three treatment types: remnant forests, adjacent harvested areas, and intact forests of similar habitat. Preliminary analyses indicate that moss species richness was highest in the buffer strips and lowest in the harvested areas. Although moss community composition was similar between remnant and intact forest, we found a greater number of disturbance specialist species in the buffer strips. Forest structure and substrate availability affected moss occupancy in the different treatments. Preliminary analyses indicate that remnant forest strips act as short-term refugia for forest mosses.

Poster Presentations index

Disturbance and Restoration Ecology

P133 OLFELT, DAVID, Ken Gilbertson, and Joel Olfelt. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Recreation, 1201 East Highway 2, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA (dave.olfelt@dnr.state.mn.us) (DO); Center for Environmental Education, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1216 Ordean Court, Duluth, MN 55812, USA (KG); Department of Biology, Northeastern Illinois University, 5500 North St. Louis Ave, Chicago, IL 60625-4699, USA (JO).

VISITOR MANAGEMENT AND REVEGETATION EFFORTS ON A DEGRADED LAKE SUPERIOR CLIFF EDGE

P134 STAUBER, KINNAN, and Dave Johnson. 4139 Lake Avenue South, Duluth, MN 55802, USA (kkstauber@aol.com) (KS); 2920 Minnesota Avenue, Duluth, MN 55802, USA (DJ).

COST-EFFECTIVE USE OF TOURIST EXCLOSURES FOR THE REJUVENATION OF AMMOPHILA BREVILIGULATA ON MINNESOTA POINT

P136 TIX, DANIEL, and Iris Charvat. Plant Biology Department, University of Minnesota, 220 BioScience Center, 1445 Gortner Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108-1095, USA (DT, IC) (dtix@cbs.umn.edu).

THE EFFECTS OF SPRING ABOVEGROUND VEGETATION REMOVAL ON A RESTORED PRAIRIE PLANT COMMUNITY

P137 WINSLOW, DONALD E. Department of Biology, Indiana University, 1001 East 3rd Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA (dwinslow@indiana.edu).

AN EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS OF LOGGING ON SUCCESS OF ACADIAN FLYCATCHER (EMPIDONAX VIRESCENS) NESTS IN YELLOWWOOD STATE FOREST, INDIANA

P138 WONG, CARISSA. Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Duke University, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708, USA (carissa.wong@utoronto.ca).

SPECIES REGENERATION RESPONSE TO CLEARING SIZE: A SWIETENIA MACROPHYLLA KING HARVESTED FOREST IN NORTHERN BELIZE

P139 CHIKOSKI, JENNIFER, and Arthur R. Rodgers. Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada (jmchikos@mail.lakeheadu.ca) (JC); Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Centre for Northern Forest Ecosystem Research, Lakehead University Campus, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada (ARR).

THE EFFECTS OF TIMBER HARVEST ON MOOSE USE OF AQUATIC FEEDING AREAS IN THE GREAT LAKES ST. LAWRENCE AND BOREAL TRANSITION FOREST OF CENTRAL ONTARIO

P140 PERLIK, MATTHEW, Brock McMillan, Gregory Johnson, and John Krenz. Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University, Mankato, S242 Trafton Science Center, Mankato, MN 56001, USA (mattperlik@yahoo.com) (MP, BM, JK); Western Ecosystem Technology, Inc., 2003 Central Avenue, Cheyenne, WY 82001, USA (GJ).

SPECIES COMPOSITION OF BAT MORTALITIES CAUSED BY WIND-ENERGY TURBINES AT BUFFALO RIDGE, MINNESOTA

Poster Presentations index

VISITOR MANAGEMENT AND REVEGETATION EFFORTS ON A DEGRADED LAKE SUPERIOR CLIFF EDGE

Cliff edge communities can be fragile because of thin soils and exposure to temperature, wind and moisture extremes. Many cliff edges are popular recreational areas and become damaged through use. Restoring or halting damage on such sites is challenging because of ongoing pressure from visitors and insufficient knowledge about suitable native plant restoration materials and techniques. Shovel Point, a popular hiking and climbing destination at Tettegouche State Park (Minnesota, USA) is such a site. We used visitor surveys to help evaluate climber acceptance of potential management actions that included "hardening" trail surfaces and climber access areas, and revegetating and restricting access to other areas. We chose Danthonia spicata and Potentilla tridentata to assess native plant species establishment techniques. We randomly assigned 450 plants of each species to 0.25m² plots with six different soil treatments. Visitor access to plantings was restricted but enhanced elsewhere on Shovel Point. Survival after one year for all treatments was 96.7% for D. spicata and 79.1% for P. tridentata but best with hydrogel. Appropriate revegetation techniques and an understanding of visitor expectations and behavior are both important for the success of restoration efforts at sites that have high ecological and recreational value.

Poster Presentations index

P134 STAUBER, KINNAN, and Dave Johnson. 4139 Lake Avenue South, Duluth, MN 55802, USA (kkstauber@aol.com) (KS); 2920 Minnesota Avenue, Duluth, MN 55802, USA (DJ).

COST-EFFECTIVE USE OF TOURIST EXCLOSURES FOR THE REJUVENATION OF AMMOPHILA BREVILIGULATA ON MINNESOTA POINT

There are many obstacles to sand dune restoration and erosion control along Lake Superior's Minnesota Point in Duluth, Minnesota. Most have human origins. This restoration project combines inexpensive tourist exclosures, an ongoing public-awareness campaign and propagated / rejuvenated state-listed beach grass in a plan now proven to be both cost-effective and successful. Annual coordinated tree-plantings, fencing installations and maintenance, and detritus removal are now established routines. Wooden boardwalks and dune bridges have recently been incorporated, with an immediate, measurable benefit. The results of this work are visible using historic and annual photographic comparisons. Chronic problems include invasive exotics, vandalism to structures and planted areas, wind erosion and seasonal climate variations. These variables affect the success / failure ratio of transplanted or introduced vegetation, as do incompatible methodology, lack of water and suitability of plant material. Other problems are bureaucratic or political, including overlapping city and state jurisdictions and a complex permitting process. This is a local issue with global ties. Concerns about threatened and invasive beach grass species, public access and overuse, and diminishing Great Lakes dune habitats make this type of restoration project a priority.

Poster Presentations index

P136 TIX, DANIEL, and Iris Charvat. Plant Biology Department, University of Minnesota, 220 BioScience Center, 1445 Gortner Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108-1095, USA (DT, IC) (dtix@cbs.umn.edu).

THE EFFECTS OF SPRING ABOVEGROUND VEGETATION REMOVAL ON A RESTORED PRAIRIE PLANT COMMUNITY

Aboveground litter accumulation on tallgrass prairies may be detrimental to species establishment and overall plant diversity. This project compares an untreated control to two types of aboveground vegetation removal: manual removal (haying) and prescribed burning. Treatments were performed in early May for two consecutive years. The Murphy Lake prairie has 100-m² plots with 10 replicates in a randomized complete block pattern. Vegetation in each plot was sampled in ten 1-m² quadrats for frequency and number of flowering stems of each species. After two years, the removal treatments had more native species (p<0.05) and native forb species (p<0.01) per m² than the untreated plots. Native legumes were significantly more common, in terms of frequency, on removal plots than on the control (p<0.05). Warm-season grasses produced the most flowering culms on burned plots; whereas, the hayed plots had more flowering culms than on the control plots (p<0.05). Furthermore, native annual forbs were more abundant on the removal plots than on the control plots (p<0.001). Therefore, frequent vegetation removal by haying or burning can help to favor the establishment of certain native plants on a restored prairie.

Poster Presentations index

P137 WINSLOW, DONALD E. Department of Biology, Indiana University, 1001 East 3rd Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA (dwinslow@indiana.edu).

AN EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS OF LOGGING ON SUCCESS OF ACADIAN FLYCATCHER (EMPIDONAX VIRESCENS) NESTS IN YELLOWWOOD STATE FOREST, INDIANA

Logging generates edges and may reduce nest success, but few studies have measured success before and after timber extraction. I conducted an experiment to evaluate the effects of logging on survival and brood parasitism of Acadian Flycatcher (Empidonax virescens) nests in Yellowwood State Forest, Indiana. Four tracts were selectively logged between two monitored breeding seasons. Four tracts were controls. In 1995, predation was higher for nests initiated during peak nesting than for later nests. Nest survival at control sites increased from 1995 to 1996, but was similar at treatment sites before and after logging. Cowbird parasitism at control sites decreased from 1995 to 1996, but was similar at treatment sites before and after logging. If factors responsible for between-year variation operate similarly at all sites, these results suggest logging decreases nest success. Alternatively, site-specific processes at control tracts may have caused higher success in 1996. Forest managers should limit logging where productivity of late-successional birds is a priority until we better understand factors influencing variation in success. Longer-term studies before and after logging are necessary to understand how logging affects success. It is especially important to investigate how management practices affect species restricted to regenerating forest.

Poster Presentations index

P138 WONG, CARISSA. Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Duke University, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708, USA (carissa.wong@utoronto.ca).

SPECIES REGENERATION RESPONSE TO CLEARING SIZE: A SWIETENIA MACROPHYLLA KING HARVESTED FOREST IN NORTHERN BELIZE

Swietenia macrophylla King (big-leafed mahogany) is cited as a catalytic species in the destruction of American forests. Its regeneration requires the catastrophic forest disturbance associated with hurricanes, fire, and flood, and its management may be incompatible with the preservation of overall biodiversity, or alternative economically valuable timber species. This study investigates the impact of clearing size on natural tree species regeneration in the Belizean subtropical moist forest of the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area. Using height-frequency distributions, I classified 32 out of 68 identified species according to light tolerance with a literature and expert verified accuracy of 91%. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of relative height and percent density for shade tolerant and intolerant trees does not show significant trends with increasing patchcut size. A Shannon-Wiener index of diversity varies significantly (p = 0.047) between only the intermediate 1000 and 2500 m² patch sizes. Insufficient variation in light levels between the patchcuts is a likely explanation for the lack of significant species performance and diversity responses to variations in gap size.

Poster Presentations index

THE EFFECTS OF TIMBER HARVEST ON MOOSE USE OF AQUATIC FEEDING AREAS IN THE GREAT LAKES ST. LAWRENCE AND BOREAL TRANSITION FOREST OF CENTRAL ONTARIO

The effects of different timber harvesting systems on moose use of aquatic feeding areas was studied in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence and boreal transition forests of central Ontario. We compared use of aquatic feeding sites by moose among selection, shelterwood and clearcut silvicultural systems. At >50 sites within each harvesting system we studied the relationships between moose use and age of forest stands adjacent to aquatic feeding areas, proximity of timber harvest, and amount of shoreline affected. Sites were surveyed for moose use by recording the characteristics of trails, tracks, pellets, and browsing. Physiographic and vegetative attributes of the aquatic and terrestrial landscape were also measured. Overall, moose use of aquatic feeding areas was greatest in areas harvested by selection cutting, followed by shelterwood and cleacutting, respectively. In areas harvested by selection cutting, moose use was greatest adjacent to older cuts (>20 years) and was not related to reserve width. The shelterwood and clearcut areas showed more moose use of sites adjacent to recent cuts (<5 years) with 0-60m reserves than at older sites with wider reserves. Statistical models have been developed to help define functional relationships for evaluation and refinement of current habitat protection guidelines.

Poster Presentations index

SPECIES COMPOSITION OF BAT MORTALITIES CAUSED BY WIND-ENERGY TURBINES AT BUFFALO RIDGE, MINNESOTA

Electricity-generating wind turbines have become an increasingly important source of energy in the United States. More than 350 wind turbines have been built along Buffalo Ridge, a glacial moraine, in southwestern Minnesota. These wind turbines have been found to kill bats. To begin to understand the impact of wind turbines on bats, we collected baseline data on the bat species affected and the composition of the regional community. Areas beneath 80 and 100 wind turbines were searched biweekly for bat carcasses during the summer of 2001 and 2002, respectively. Age, sex, and the number of bats killed by species were determined. Community composition in turbine areas and the region was sampled using mist nets and Anabat bat detectors. We found 71 and 40 bat carcasses in 2001 and 2002, respectively. In decreasing order of abundance, bats killed were the hoary (77%), eastern red (13%), big brown (5%), silver-haired (3%), and little brown myotis (2%). In contrast, the big brown bat (62%) dominated the regional community followed by silver-haired (17%), little brown myotis (11%), eastern red (7%), and hoary bats (3%). It appears that high-flying solitary bats are more susceptible to collision with turbines than other species.

Poster Presentations index