Source: UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS submitted to NRP
WATERFOWL PRODUCTION AND CONSERVATION IN THE AGRICULTURAL LANDSCAPE
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
HATCH
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0176121
Grant No.
(N/A)
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Oct 1, 2012
Project End Date
Sep 30, 2017
Grant Year
(N/A)
Program Code
[(N/A)]- (N/A)
Recipient Organization
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS
410 MRAK HALL
DAVIS,CA 95616-8671
Performing Department
Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology
Non Technical Summary
Our research addresses key information needs to guide avian conservation and wetland restoration efforts in California while promoting wildlife-friendly agriculture. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice-growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California. New and continuing projects focus on (1) evaluating the efficiency of alternative moist-soil management practices on seed production in Central Valley wetlands to provide food for waterfowl and other waterbirds; (2) assessing the effect of land use and agricultural practices on dispersal, recruitment and population dynamics of wood ducks to maximize the success of wood duck breeding programs and to evaluate agricultural impacts on riparian systems; (3) determining the factors limiting production of mallards in California to develop sustainable harvest objectives for this important game species and to evaluate habitat restoration efforts for breeding waterfowl; and (4) examining the genetic structure of several species of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway to determine the appropriate units for the management of these species based on their biological and evolutionary histories, rather than on arbitrarily determined geographical boundaries.
Animal Health Component
(N/A)
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
(N/A)
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
1110330107010%
1350820107010%
1350830107010%
1350850107010%
1350860107010%
1360330107010%
1360820107010%
1360830107010%
1360850107010%
1360860107010%
Knowledge Area
135 - Aquatic and Terrestrial Wildlife; 136 - Conservation of Biological Diversity; 111 - Conservation and Efficient Use of Water;

Subject Of Investigation
0820 - Wild birds; 0850 - Wildlife habitats; 0830 - Wild animals; 0330 - Wetland and riparian systems; 0860 - Endangered species;

Field Of Science
1070 - Ecology;
Goals / Objectives
Evaluate habitat needs for waterfowl and wetland dependent wildlife in the Central Valley, and evaluate moist soil management practices to maximize food production for waterfowl and other wetland dependent wildlife. 2. Evaluate the breeding ecology and demography (survival, dispersal and reproduction) of wood ducks and mallards in relation to agriculture land use patterns. 3. Examine the population genetic structure of wintering and breeding waterfowl in California and the Pacific Flyway to guide effective management practices.
Project Methods
1. To evaluate foraging habitat needs for waterfowl in winter, we are analyzing samples collected from 30 wetland sites in the San Joaquin Valley and the Sacramento Valley during September to May. Fifteen cores have been taken from each unit each month using a systematic-random sampling design. Moist-soil seeds of 15 plants common to Central Valley wetlands are separated by genus or species, counted, dried, and weighed. At each site, we collect information on management practices, including spring draw-sown timing and rate, irrigation, mechanical manipulations and fall flood-up date. We have also established experimental plots (0.50 h), each of which is assigned to a water management treatment varying in: a. the number of irrigations (1, 2 or 3) and b. the duration of irrigations (7, 14 or 28 day). We are using a crossed design with 3 replicates per treatment. Vegetation cover is sampled using 0.25 m2 quadrats (20 per plot). Within each quadrat, we measure and clip representative seed heads for further analysis. 2. We are studying survival, dispersal and reproduction of wood ducks in relation to agricultural land use patterns on 11 study sites in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley, CA. Nest boxes are checked weekly. At active nests, clutch sizes and hatch success are recorded and females are banded. Habitat parameters are measured to assess survival and breeding production in relation to adjacent agricultural land-use. We are using radio-telemetry techniques to follow the breeding ecology of mallards. Female mallards are captured in decoy traps March-April and a subcutaneous transmitter is surgically implanted in the abdomen following established procedures. After recovery, females are released at the original capture location. We attempt to locate females at least once daily from 0600 to 1400 h to determine laying and incubation behavior in upland sites. Females are followed throughout the incubation period. After hatch, females with broods are tracked daily to determine brood and duckling survival. 3. We are examining genetic relationships among populations of 4 species of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway using microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequence data. Template DNA is extracted from contour feathers or blood. Each individual is screened at a series of 10-20 microsatellite loci and the mtDNA control region. Each locus is amplified using PCR, amplification products are separated on a denaturing acrylamide gel, and banding patterns are scanned with a Molecular Dynamics Fluorimager. The data are analyzed using a variety software programs (GENEPOP, KINSHIP, ARLEQUIN, and GDS) to evaluate the partitioning of genetic variation within and among populations and individuals

Progress 10/01/12 to 09/30/17

Outputs
Target Audience:My research and extension work focuses on a broad audience of state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners. I work with my stakeholders to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture. This audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers, especially rice growers in the Sacramento Valley; (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service: Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV), North American Waterfowl Plan Committee; (3) State Agencies· California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Fish & Game Commission; (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project has resulted in the training of 2 postdoctoral fellows, 5 Ph.D. students and 4 M.S. students, 2 undergraduate research students and 100 undergraduate interns. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?We have provided extensive consultation and advisory services to a large number organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, Rice Growers Association of California, governmental agencies and private landowners. I regularly participate on numerous external technical committees dealing with waterfowl and wetlands and have developed collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations. During 2017, I continued efforts to updates the 2012 Revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP); I serve on the National Science Support Team (NSST) and the Update Steering Committee, charged with facilitating the implementation of the new NAWMP plan and updating the Plan for 2017. This Plan is the single most influential planning document for waterfowl and wetland conservation and drives almost allwetland conservation efforts in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. I continue to serve on several advisory boards with the California Rice Commission and the Central Valley Joint Venture to advise growers and landowners on wetland and wildlife conservation and management in the context of sustainable agriculture in the state. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Our focus for the next year is on the following on-going components of my overall project: (1) Continued development and expansion of our bioenergetics modeling project (SWAMP to evaluate the effects of water policy, agricultural policy, climate change and anthropogenic influences on wetland habitat availability and waterfowl production and conservation in the Central Valley. We received a $330,000 grant from the Department of the Interior to support this work. (2) Continue and expand our on-going studies of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation, supported by a 4-year $490,000 NSF grant. (3) Initiate a new study of moist-soil seeds and tidal plant food availability for waterfowl in the Susuin Marsh. We will extend our SWAMP model to allow scenario planning under alternative restoration and management regimes. This is supported by a 10-yeat grant of $700,000 (part of a $6 million grant) from the Department of Water Resources.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? (1) We completed all data analyses on our project using our 21 experimental wetlands to examine the impact of water management (delayed drawdowns) on moist soil seed production. This study directly addresses concerns over the impacts of drought and changes in timing of water management on the ability to provide for the needs of fish and waterfowl food production. A Masters thesis is final stage and a manuscript is being prepared. (2) We are in the fifth year of a study on the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation. We were awarded $495,000 NSF funding for this project. This project involves 5 graduate students and 75 undergraduate student interns. One MS student completed a thesis on this project. (3) We have completed the first two phases of a project to develop a new agent-based bioenergetics model (SWAMP) to examine the response of waterfowl to changes in water availability and landscape conditions in the Central Valley. Several workshop and CVJV technical presentations have been provided on this project. We have initiated a new project with partners at Oregon State University to extend the SWAMP model to the Klamath Basin. (4) We have been awarded a new 10 year contract to collect data on wetland management and water use in the Susuin marsh and we will use our SWAMP model to develop a decision support tool to aid wetland planning. (5) We are continuing long-term studies evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards In California, working in partnership with USGS, the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife These studies focus on factors influencing nest success and production in the agricultural landscape.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2018 Citation: Humburg, D. D., M. G. Anderson, M. G. Brasher, J. M. Eadie, D. C. Fulton, F. A. Johnston, M. C. Runge, M. P. Vrtiska. 2018. Implementing the 2012 North American Waterfowl Management Plan Revision: Populations, Habitat, and People. Journal of Wildlife Management 82(2):275286. DOI:10.1002/jwmg.21391
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2018 Citation: Lyon, B. E. and J. M. Eadie. 2018. Why do birds lay eggs in conspecifics nests? IN Avian Brood Parasitism - Behaviour, Ecology, Evolution and Coevolution. M. Soler ed Springer Nature. In Press
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Accepted Year Published: 2018 Citation: Petrie, M., M. Eichholz, J. Vest, M. Brasher and J. M. Eadie. 2018. Planning and Delivery of Conservation Programs for Migrating and Wintering Waterfowl. IN Migrating and Wintering Waterfowl. B.M. Ballard, M.G. Brasher and J.P. Fleskes, eds. Texas A & M Press.
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Accepted Year Published: 2018 Citation: Ringelman, J. K., K.M. Ringelman and J. M. Eadie. 2018. Future Directions of Migrating and Wintering Waterfowl Management. IN Migrating and Wintering Waterfowl. B.M. Ballard, M.G. Brasher and J.P. Fleskes, eds. Texas A & M Press.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2018 Citation: Roberts, A., Eadie, J. M., Howerter, D. W., Johnson, F. A., Nichols, J. D., Runge, M. C., Vrtiska, M. P. and Williams, B. K. 2018. Strengthening links between waterfowl research and management. Journal of Wildlife Management 82(2):260265. doi:10.1002/jwmg.21333
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2018 Citation: Porzig, E. L. Porzig, N. E. Seavy, J. M. Eadie , T. Gardali, D. L. Humple, and G. R. Geupel. 2018. There goes the neighborhood: avian nest site selection and reproductive success as local density declines. The Condor: Ornithological Applications


Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16

Outputs
Target Audience:My research and extension focus on a broad audience of state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners. I work with my stakeholders to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture. This audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers, especially rice growers in the Sacramento Valley; (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service: Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV), North American Waterfowl Plan Committee; (3) State Agencies· California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Fish & Game Commission; (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project has resulted in the training of 1 postdoctoral fellow, 5 Ph.D. students and 4 M.S. students, 2 undergraduate research students and 75 undergraduate interns. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?We have provided extensive consultation and advisory services to a large number organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, Point Blue Conservation Science, Audubon California, Rice Growers Association of California; and governmental agencies; I regularly participate on numerous external technical committees dealing with waterfowl and wetlands and have developed collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations. During 2016, I continued efforts to updates the 2012 Revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP), of which I was a member of the writing team. I now serve on the National Science Support Team (NSST) and the Update Steering Committee, charged with facilitating the implementation of the new NAWMP plan and updating the Plan for 2017. This Plan is the single most influential planning document for waterfowl and wetland conservation and drives almost all wetland conservation efforts in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. I continue to serve on several advisory boards with the California Rice Commission and the Central Valley Joint Venture to advise growers and landowners on wetland and wildlife conservation and management in the context of sustainable agriculture in the state. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Our focus for the next year is on the following on-going components of my overall project: (1) Continued development and expansion of our bioenergetics modeling project (SWAMP to evaluate the effects of water policy, agricultural policy, climate change and anthropogenic influences on wetland habitat availability and waterfowl production and conservation in the Central Valley. We received a $330,000 grant from the Department of the Interior to support this work. (2) Continue and expand our on-going studies of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation, supported by a 4-year $490,000 NSF grant. (3) Initiate a new study of moist-soil seeds and tidal plant food availability for waterfowl in the Suiusn Marsh. We will extend our SWAMP model to allow se=cenario evaluation under alternative restoration and management regimes. This is supported by a 10-yeat grant of $700,000 (part of a $6 million grant) from the Department of Water Resources.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? (1) We completed a project using our 21 experimental wetlands to examine the impact of water management (delayed drawdowns) on moist soil seed production. This study directly addresses concerns over the impacts of drought and changes in timing of water management on the ability to provide for the needs of fish and waterfowl food production. A Masters thesis is in preparation. (2) We are in the fourth year of a study on the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation. We have been awarded $495,000 NSF funding for this project. This project involves 5 graduate students and 75 undergraduate student interns.One MS studnt completed a thesis on this project.. (3) We have completed the first two phases of a project to develop a new agent-based bioenergetics model (SWAMP) to examine the response of waterfowl to changes in water availability and landscape conditions in the Central Valley. Several workshop and CVJV technical presentations have been provided on this project. (4) We have been awarded a new 10 year contract to collect data on wetland management and water use in the Suiusn marsh and we will use our SWAMP model to develop a decision support tool to aid wetland planning. (5) We are continuing long-term studies evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards In California, working in partnership with USGS, the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife These studies goucs on factors influenicng nest success and production in the agricultural landscape.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Porzig, E.L., N. E. Seavy J.M. Eadie, D. L. Humple, G. R. Geupel, and T. Gardali. Interspecific interactions, population variation, and environmental forcing in the context of the community. Ecosphere 7 (6)
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Bielefeld, R.R., A. E. Engilis, J. C. Feddersen, J. M. Eadie, M. D. Tringali, R. J. Benedict. Is It a Mottled Duck? The Key Is in the Feathers. Wildlife Society Bulletin 40 (3), 446-455
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Brussee, B. E. , P.S. Coates, R. L. Hothem , K. H. Howe, M. L. Casazza and J. M. Eadie. Nest survival is influenced by parental behaviour and heterospecifics in a mixed-species colony. Ibis 158 (2), 315-326
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Accepted Year Published: 2017 Citation: Ringelman, J. K., K.M. Ringelman and J. M. Eadie. Future Directions of Migrating and Wintering Waterfowl Management. Book Chapter in Migrating and Wintering Waterfowl. B.M. Ballard, M.G. Brasher and J.P. Fleskes, eds. Texas A & M Press.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Ringelman, K.M., J. M. Eadie, J. T. Ackerman, A. Sih, D. Loughman, G. Yarris, S. Oldenburger, R. McLandress. Spatiotemporal patterns of duck nest density and predation: a multiscale analysis of 18 years and more than 10000 nests. Oikos. doi:10.1111/oik.03728


Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15

Outputs
Target Audience:I work with state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture. These audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers. (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service: Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV). (3) State Agencies· California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Fish & Game Commission; (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project has resulted in the training of 1 postdoctoral fellow, 4 Ph.D. students and 2 M.S. students, 2 undergraduate research students and 60 undergraduate interns. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?We have: (1) provided consultation and advisory services to a large number organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, Point Blue Conservation Science, Audubon California, Rice Growers Association of California; and governmental agencies; (2) participated on external technical committees dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) developed collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations and (4) organized a number of workshops and scientific meetings. During 2015, I continued my efforts to implement the 2012 Revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP), of which I was a member of the writing team. I now serve on the National Science Support Team (NSST) charged with facilitating the implementation of the new NAWMP plan. This Plan is the single most influential planning document for waterfowl and wetland conservation and drives almost all wetland conservation efforts in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. I continue to serve on several advisory boards with the California Rice Commission and the Central Valley Joint Venture to advise growers and landowners on wetland and wildlife conservation and management in the context of sustainable agriculture in the state. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Our focus for the next year is on 3 on-going projects: (1) Continued development and expansion of our bioenergetics modeling project (SWAMP to evaluate the effects of water policy, agricultural policy, climate change and anthropogenic influences on wetland habitat availability and waterfowl production and conservation in the Central Valley. We received a $330,000 grant from the Dept. of the Interior to support this work. (2) Continue and expand our on-going studies of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation, supported by a 3-year $490,000 NSF grant. (3) Complete our study using our 21 experimental wetlands to examine the impact of water management (delayed drawdowns) on moist soil seed production. This study directly addresses concerns over the impacts of drought and changes in timing of water management on the ability to provide for the needs of fish and waterfowl food production.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? (1) We are in the final stages of a project using our 21 experimental wetlands to examine the impact of water management (delayed drawdowns) on moist soil seed production. This study directly addresses concerns over the impacts of drought and changes in timing of water management on the ability to provide for the needs of fish and waterfowl food production. (2) We are in the third year of a new study on the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation. We have been awarded $495,000 NSF funding for this project. This project involves 4 graduate students and 60 undergraduate student interns. (3) We have completed the first two phases of a project to develop a new agent-based bioenergetics model (SWAMP) to examine the response of waterfowl to changes in water availability and landscape conditions in the Central Valley. As part of this project, we gave 6 presentations at international conferences have been given and several workshop and CVJV technical presentations have been provided on this project. (4) We are continuing long-term studies evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards In California, wroking in parnership with USGS, the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Game. THese studies goucs on factors influenicng nest success and production in the agricultural landscape.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: De La Cruz S. E. W., J. M. Eadie, A. K. Miles, J. Yee, K. A. Spragens, E. C. Palm, J. Y. Takekawa. Resource selection and space use by sea ducks during the non-breeding season: Implications for habitat conservation planning in urbanized estuaries. Biological Conservation 169 (2014) 6878
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Davis, J.B, M. Guillemain, R. M. Kaminski, C. Arzel, & J. M. Eadie. Habitat and resource use by waterfowl in the northern hemisphere during autumn and winter. (Invited article). Wildfowl Special Issue 4: 17-69.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Schmidt, A. E. Schmidt, K. E. Dybala, L.s W. Botsford., J. M. Eadie, R. W. Bradley, J. Jahncke. Shifting effects of ocean conditions on survival and breeding probability of a long-lived seabird. PLoS ONE 10(7): e0132372. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0132372
  • Type: Books Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Savard, J.-P. L. , D. Derksen, D. Esler, and J. M. Eadie, editors. Ecology and Conservation of North American Sea Ducks. Studies in Avian Biology, CRC Press. Edited Book. ISBN: 978-1-4822-4897-5. 608 pp
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Raquel, A.J., K. M. Ringelman, J. T. Ackerman and J. M. Eadie. Habitat edges have weak effects on duck nest survival at local spatial scales. Ardea 103: 155162
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Lyon, B. E., D. Shizuka, and J. M. Eadie. Interspecific egg rejection as ecological collateral damage from selection driven by conspecific brood parasitism. Animal Behavior 103: 117-124
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Lavretsky, P., A. E. Engilis, Jr., J.M. Eadie and J. L. Peters. Genetic admixture supports an ancient hybrid origin of the endangered Hawaiian duck. Journal of Evolutionary Biology doi: 10.1111/jeb.12637
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2015 Citation: Coates , P. S., B. E. Brussee , R. L. Hothem , K. H. Howe, M. L. Casazza and J. M. Eadie. The effects of heterospecifics and climatic conditions on incubation behavior within a mixed-species colony. Journal of Avian Biology (In Press).
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Eadie, J.M. and J.P. Savard. Breeding Systems, Spacing Behavior and Reproductive Behavior of Sea Ducks. In J.-P. L. Savard, D. Derksen, D. Esler, and J. M. Eadie, editors. Ecology and Conservation of North American Sea Ducks. Studies in Avian Biology, CRC Press. Chapter 11: 326-368.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Schmidt, A. E. Schmidt, K. E. Dybala, L.s W. Botsford., J. M. Eadie, R. W. Bradley, J. Jahncke. Shifting effects of ocean conditions on survival and breeding probability of a long-lived seabird. PLoS ONE 10(7): e0132372. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0132372


Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14

Outputs
Target Audience: I work with state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture. These audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers. (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service: Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV). (3) State Agencies· California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Fish & Game Commission: (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? During the review period, this project has resulted in the training of 1 postdoctoral fellow, 4 Ph.D. students and 4 M.S. students (2 have graduated), 6 undergraduate research students and 48 undergraduate interns. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? We have: (1) provided consultation and advisory services to a large number organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, Point Blue Conservation Science, Audubon California, Rice Growers Association of California; and governmental agencies; (2) participated on external technical committees dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) developed collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations and (4) organized a number of workshops and scientific meetings. During 2014, I continued my earlier efforts to help implement and revise the 2012 Revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP), of which I was a member of the writing team. I now serve on the National Science Support Team (NSST) charged with facilitating the implementation of the new NAWMP plan. This Plan is the single most influential planning document for waterfowl and wetland conservation and drives almost all wetland conservation efforts in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. I continue to serve on several advisory boards with the California Rice Commission and the Central Valley Joint Venture to advise growers and landowners on wetland and wildlife conservation and management in the context of sustainable agriculture in the state. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Our focus for the next year is on three on-going projects: (1) Continued dDevelopment and expansion of our bioenergetics modeling project to evaluate the effects of water policy, agricultural policy, climate change and anthropogenic influences on wetland habitat availability and waterfowl production and conservation in the Central Valley. We recently received a $330,000 grant from the Dept. of the Interior to support this work. (2) Continue and expand our on-going studies of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation, supported by a 3-year $490,000 NSF grant. (3) A new study using our 21 experimental wetlands to examine the impact of water management (delayed drawdowns) on moist soil seed production. This study directly addresses concerns over the impacts of drought and changes in timing of water management on the ability to provide for the needs of fish and waterfowl food production.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? We completed work on several projects: (1) A 3-year study to examine cost-effective moist-soil seed production in relation to mosquito production and abatement in irrigated seasonal wetlands. The field work was completed during the last review period but additional analyses and dissemination occurred during this review period. Results were disseminated at a wetland manager workshops and 2 large conferences. (2) We continue to publish papers from a completed study of the role of predators on waterfowl nest success in managed nesting habitats involving 3 years of fieldwork in addition to 25 years of long-term data. We have published 3 papers and a fourth is in preparation. Results were disseminated at 2 international conferences. Continuing projects include: (1) Analysis of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation. We have been awarded $495,000 NSF funding for this project. (2) Evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards In California, continuing long-term nesting studies at the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area with the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Game. (3) We are in the third year of a new effort to develop agent-based bioenergetics model (SWAMP) to examine the response of waterfowl to changes in water availability and landscape conditions in the Central Valley. One paper has been published, 4 presentations at international conferences have been given and several workshop and CVJV technical presentations have been provided on this project. (4) We are in the second year of a newly funded project of the breeding ecology and conservation of wood ducks in riparian habitats of California. This study was supported by a new $490,000 NSF research grant and engaged 3 graduate students, 4 undergraduate technicians and 45 undergraduate interns. (5) We are in the second year of a new study using our 21 experimental wetlands to examine the impact of water management (delayed drawdowns) on moist soil seed production. This study directly addresses concerns over the impacts of drought and changes in timing of water management on the ability to provide for the needs of fish and waterfowl food production.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Olson B. W., J. M. Eadie, G. Mensik, J. Messerli, E. Penny, C. Santerre. Cost-effective Moist-soil Management in the Sacramento Valley of California. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: P�ys�, H. J.M. Eadie, B. Lyon. Ecological and Social Context of Conspecific Brood Parasitism in Waterfowl. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN (invited Plenary Presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Ringelman, K.M., J. M. Eadie, J. T. Ackerman, A. Sih, D. Loughman, G. Yarris, S. Oldenburger, R. McLandress. Shifting patterns of nest density and predation risk: A spatial analysis of 15 years of duck nesting data from California. 99th Ecological Society of America Annual Conference, Sacramento CA
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Ringelman, K. J. M. Eadie, J. T. Ackerman. Density-dependent Nest Predation in Waterfowl: The Relative Importance of Nest Density Versus Nest Dispersion. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Ringelman, K. J. M. Eadie, J. T. Ackerman. Dearest neighbors: evidence of adaptive nest clustering in Mallards. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Skalos, D.A., J. M. Eadie,; D. Yparraguirre, S. Oldenburger, M. Weaver, C. Ely, J. Fleskes. Variation in Body Condition of Pacific Greater White-fronted Geese. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Washburn, N., J. M. Eadie, B. W. Olson, D. Kwasny. Trade-offs in Moist-soil Seed vs. Mosquito Production in Irrigated Seasonal Wetlands in California. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Yarris G.S., S. L. Oldenburger, J. P. Fleskes, M. A. Wolder, J. T. Ackerman, J. M. Eadie, D. C. Kwasny. California Dreaming, or Nightmare? Wetland Conservation Challenges in the Central Valley. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Runge, M.C., B.J. Mattsson, G.S. Boomer, R.G. Clark, J.M. Eadie, E. Osnas, Managing Harvest and Habitat as Integrated Components. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN (invited Plenary Presentation)
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: P�ys�, H., J. M. Eadie and B. E Lyon. 2014. Conspecific brood parasitism in waterfowl and the cues parasites use. (Invited article). Wildfowl Special Issue 4: 192-219.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Osnas, E. E., M. C. Runge, B. J. Mattsson, J. Austin, G. S. Boomer, R. G. Clark, P. Devers, J. M. Eadie, E. V. Lonsdorf, and B. G. Tavernia. 2014. Managing harvest and habitat as integrated components. (Invited article). Wildfowl Special Issue 4: 305-328.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Williams, C.K, B. D. Dugger, M. G. Brasher, J. M. Collucy, D. M. Cramer, J. M. Eadie, M. J. Gray, H. M. Hagy, M. Livolsi, S. R. McWilliams, M. Petrie, G. J. Soullieire, J. M. Tirrpak and E. B. Webb. 2014. Estimating habitat carrying capacity for migrating and wintering waterfowl: Considerations, pitfalls, and improvements. (Invited article). Wildfowl Special Issue 4: 407-435.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Miller, M. L., K. M. Ringelman, J. C. Schank and J. M. Eadie. 2014. SWAMP: An agent-based model for wetland and waterfowl conservation management. Simulations 90: 52-68.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Davis, J.B, M. Guillemain, R. M. Kaminski, C. Arzel, & J. M. Eadie. 2014. Habitat and resource use by waterfowl in the northern hemisphere during autumn and winter. (Invited article). Wildfowl Special Issue 4: 17-69.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Pearce, J.M., J. M. Eadie , J.-P. L. Savard , T. K. Christensen, J. Berdeen , E. Taylor , S. Boyd, A. Einarsson, and S. L. Talbot. 2014. Comparative population structure608 pp. of cavity-nesting sea ducks. The Auk 131 195-207.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Porzig, E. L., N. E. Seavy, T. Gardali, G. R. Geupel, M. Holyoak and J. M. Eadie. 2014. Habitat suitability through time: using time series and habitat models to understand changes in bird density. Ecosphere 5(2):12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1890/ES13-00166.1
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Schmidt, A. E., L. W. Botsford, J. M. Eadie, R. W. Bradley, J. Jahncke and E. Di Lorenzo.2014. Non-stationary seabird responses reveal shifting ENSO dynamics in the Northeast Pacific. Marine Ecology Progress Series 499: 249258.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bielefeld, R. R., J. C. Feddersen, A. Engilis, Jr., J. M. Eadie, M. D. Tringali, R. J. Benedict. Development of a field key for the identification of Florida mottled ducks. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Brown M. G., J. M. Eadie, D. C. Kwasny, M. Wolder, R. H. Doster, C. Isola, W. W. Cook, Jr., C. Santerre, C, Fien, G, Mensik. A Rapid Assessment Technique for Managed Wetlands and Wildlife Habitat. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Davis, J.B., M. Guillemain, R.M. Kaminski, MSU; J.M. Eadie, C. Arzel. Waterfowl Habitat Use and Selection-- Knowledge Gained and Future Science and Conservation Needs: Fall Migration and Winter. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN (invited Plenary Presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Dugger B. D., M. G. Brasher, J. M. Eadie, D. Jones-Farrand, L. Naylor, M. J. Petrie, G. J. Soulliere, J. M. Tirpak. The Science Underlying Winter Conservation Planning for Waterfowl: Evidence for Food Limitation and Introduction to Carrying Capacity Models. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Eadie J.M., K. M. Ringelman, M. L. Miller, J. C. Schank. Using Agent-based Models to Inform Habitat Planning for Wintering Waterfowl. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN (Invited Symposium Presentation).
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Eadie J.M., K. M. Ringelman, M. L. Miller, J. P. Fleskes, J. C. Schank. Developing an Agent-based Model to Inform Habitat Planning for Wintering Waterfowl in California. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Eadie, J. M. Its Signed, Now What? Implementing the 2012 North American Waterfowl Management Plan: Objectives for habitat. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN (Invited Symposium Presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Graves, E.C. and J.M. Eadie. Female-Specific Plumage Traits in the Wood Duck (Aix sponsa): Indicators of Individual Quality? 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Matchett, E. L., J. P. Fleskes, M. J. Petrie, D. R. Purkey, C. A. Young, M. E. Reiter, J. M. Eadie, M. L. Miller, K. M. Ringelman. Projected Impacts of Climate, Urbanization and Water Management on Waterfowl Habitats and Ecology in California. 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop: Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl Memphis TN


Progress 01/01/13 to 09/30/13

Outputs
Target Audience: I work with state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture. These audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service: Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV) (3) State Agencies: California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Fish & Game Commission (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? During the review period, has resulted in the training of 5 Ph.D. students (3 have graduated), 8 M.S. students (5 have graduated), 3 undergraduate research students and 24 undergraduate interns. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? We have: (1) provided consultation and advisory services to a large number (>25) organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, PRBO Conservation Science) and governmental agencies; (2) participated on external technical committees (>18) dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) developed collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations and (4) organized a number of workshops and scientific meetings. During 2012-13, I completed a two year effort as a member of the writing team for the 2012 Revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP). This Plan is the single most influential planning document for waterfowl and wetland conservation and drives almost all wetland conservation efforts in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. I also served on the National Science Support Team (NSST) to advise the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service on the implementation of the NAWMP. I continue to serve on several advisory boards with the California Rice Commission and the Central Valley Joint Venture to advise growers and landowners on wetland and wildlife conservation and management in the context of sustainable agriculture in the state. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Focus for the next year is on two on-going projects: (1) Development and expansion of our bioenergetics modeling project to evaluate the effects of water policy, agricultural policy, climate change and anthropogenic influences on wetland habitat availability and waterfowl production and conservation in the Central Valley. We currently have a $1.84 M proposal submitted to NSF to help support this effort. (2) Continue and expand our on-going studies of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation, supported by a 3-year $0.5 M NSF grant.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? We completed work on several projects: (1) Assessment of management practices and development of standardized survey protocols for managed wetlands in the Central Valley of California. We have completed a statewide survey using the Dillman method and we are analyzing the results. Surveys were sent to 351 wetland managers throughout the state, and we received 168 responses (47%). These surveys account for 26,715 hectares of wetland in California, approximately 22.3% of the remaining wetlands in the Central Valley. The analyses and write-up are complete resulting in a thesis (Brown 2013) and a manuscript in preparation. (2) A 3-year study to examine cost-effective moist-soil seed production in relation to mosquito production and abatement in irrigated seasonal wetlands. Results were disseminated at 2 wetland manger workshops and 2 large conferences. (3) We completed a study on the role of predators on waterfowl nest success in managed nesting habitats involving 3 years of fieldwork in addition to 25 years of long-term data. We have published 2 papers and a third is in preparation. Results were disseminated at 3 international conferences. (4) We completed an analysis of the capacity of the Central Valley landscape to support and retain abundant wintering populations of white-fronted geese and analysis of body condition in relation to the changing habitat base. A thesis two manuscripts and a popular article have resulted and the findings results were presented at 2 international conferences. Continuing projects include: (1) Analysis of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation. We have been awarded $495,000 NSF funding for this project. (2) Evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards In California, continuing long-term nesting studies at the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area with the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Game. (3) We are in the second year of a new effort to develop agent-based bioenergetics model (SWAMP) to examine the response of waterfowl to changes in water availability and landscape conditions in the Central Valley. One paper has been published, 4 presentations at international conferences have been given and several workshop and CVJV technical presentations have been provided on this project.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2013 Citation: Miller, M. L., K. M. Ringelman, J. C. Schank and J. M. Eadie. SWAMP: An agent-based model as a conservation management tool. Simulations (In Press).
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2013 Citation: De la Cruz, S. E. W, J. M. Eadie, A. K. Miles, J. Yee, K. A. Spragens, E. C. Palm, and J. Y. Takekawa. Resource selection and space use by sea ducks during the nonbreeding season: implications for habitat conservation planning in urbanized estuaries. Biological Conservation (In Press.)
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Dybala, K. E. , J. M. Eadie, T Gardali, N. E. Seavy, and M. P. Herzog. Mismatches in the projected effects of climate change on adult and juvenile survival in a Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) population. Global Change Biology 9: 26882697
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Lyon, B. E. and J. M. Eadie. Patterns of host use by a precocial obligate brood parasite, the Black-headed Duck: ecological and evolutionary considerations. Chinese Birds 4: 71-85
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Ringelman, K.M., J. M. Eadie and J. T. Ackerman. Dearest neighbors: evidence of adaptive nest clustering in a dabbling duck. Oikos. (In Press). DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0706.2013.00851.x
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2013 Citation: Porzig, E. L., N. E. Seavy, T. Gardali, G. R. Geupel, M. Holyoak and J. M. Eadie. Habitat suitability through time: using time series and habitat models to understand changes in bird density. Ecosphere
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Ringleman, J., M. Anderson, R. Clark, J. Eadie, M. Koneff, A. Raedeke, and G. Soulliere. (Writing team). North American Waterfowl Management Plan. 2012. USFWS Division of Bird Habitat Conservation. (http://static.nawmprevision.org/sites/default/files/NAWMPPlanENmay23.pdf)(http://static.nawmprevision.org/sites/default/files/NAWMPPlanENmay23.pdf)
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Ringleman, J., M. Anderson, R. Clark, J. Eadie, M. Koneff, A. Raedeke, and G. Soulliere. (Writing team). NAWMP Action Plan. A companion document to the 2012 North American Waterfowl Management Plan. USFWS Division of Bird Habitat Conservation.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Skalos, D., J. Eadie, J. P. Fleskes. Management of the Central Valley landscape to support and retain abundant wintering populations of whitefronted geese. Final Report to the California Department of Fish & Game. 39 pp.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Washburn, N., and J.M. Eadie. Moistsoil Seed Production and Mosquito Abundance in Irrigated Seasonal Wetlands in California: The effects of duration and frequency of summer irrigations on seed and invertebrate production. Final Report to the California Department of Fish & Game. 139 pp.


Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: We continued or completed work on several projects: (1) Assessment of management practices and development of standardized survey protocols for managed wetlands in the Central Valley of California. We have completed a statewide survey using the Dillman method and we are analyzing the results. Surveys were sent to 351 wetland managers throughout the state, and we received 168 responses (47%). These surveys account for 26,715 hectares of wetland in California, approximately 22.3% of the remaining wetlands in the Central Valley. (2) We completed a 3-year study to examine cost-effective moist-soil seed production in relation to mosquito production and abatement in irrigated seasonal wetlands. Results were disseminated at 2 wetland manger workshops and 2 large conferences. (3) We are continuing a study on the role of predators on waterfowl nest success in managed nesting habitats. We have completed 3 years of fieldwork and are analyzing these data in addition to 25 years of long term data. We have published one paper (Ringelman et al 2012), a second is submitted and two others are in preparation. Results were disseminated at 2 statewide conferences, and the CVJV working group. (4) We have completed an examination of the capacity of the Central Valley landscape to support and retain abundant wintering populations of white-fronted geese and analysis of body condition in relation to the changing habitat base. A final report was submitted and results were presented at 3 management workshops and 2 conferences. Long-term, continuing projects include: (1) Analysis of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California In relation to riparian habitat management and conservation. (2) Evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards In California, continuing long-term nesting studies at the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area with the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Game. Dissemination: I have: (1) provided consultation and advisory services to a large number (>25) organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, PRBO Conservation Science) and governmental agencies; (2) participated on external technical committees (>18) dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) developed collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations and (4) organized a number of workshops and scientific meetings. During 2011-12, I served as a member of the writing team for the 2012 Revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP). This Plan is the single most influential planning document for waterfowl and wetland conservation and drives almost all wetland conservation efforts in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. I also served on the National Science Support Team (NSST) to advise the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service on the implementation of the NAWMP. Finally, I continue to serve on several advisory boards with the California Rice Commission and the Central Valley Joint Venture to advise growers and landowners on wetland and wildlife conservation and management in the context of sustainable agriculture in the state. PARTICIPANTS: PARTICIPANTS: A large number of partners are, or have been, involved in this project. These include biologists from non-government organizations, private landowners, state and federal agencies. My project is designed to integrate directly with critical needs for waterfowl and wetlands at the state (and national) level.. Participants include: Greg Yarris, Vice-President policy, California Waterfowl Association; Jake Messerli Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Chadd Santerre, Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Dan Yparraguirre, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Shaun Oldenburger, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Melanie Weaver, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Mark Petrie, Biologist, Ducks Unlimited;, John Pearce, Biologist, USGS; Josh Ackerman, Biologist, USGS; Michael Miller, Biologist, USGS, Western Ecological Research Center; Joe Fleskes, Biologist, USGS; Peter Stent, Private Landowner; Chris Steele, Private Landowner; INSTITUTIONAL (UC) UNITS INVOLVED: Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Department of Agronomy and Range Science, Department of Land, Air and Water Resources. PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS: California Department of Fish & Game, California Waterfowl Association, Central Valley Joint Venture, Ducks Unlimited, U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Nature Conservancy, PRBO Conservation Science. TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: This project has provided training opportunities for 13 graduate students, and 2 undergraduate student interns working with our wood duck studies, most soil management experiments and breeding studies of California mallards. TARGET AUDIENCES: I work with state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture. These audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers: (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service: Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV): (3) State Agencies-California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Fish & Game Commission: (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
My AES project is designed to provide key information needs to guide waterfowl conservation and wetland restoration efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture in California. With the loss of 90% of the historic wetlands in the state (largely due to agriculture and urban development), and with a winter population of over 3-4 million waterfowl depending on the remaining wetlands, this is a challenging task. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are also developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats Our studies illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats while seeking to maximize water use efficiency and minimize production of pests such as mosquitoes. These studies have helped guide changes in wetland management practices in California to increase wildlife habitat quality using less water and minimizing health (mosquito) risks. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California. Finally, we have worked closely with the rice industry to develop, evaluate and promote wildlife-friendly farming practices, culminating in a major review and synthesis published and provided to growers.

Publications

  • Dybala, K. E., T. Gardali, and J. M. Eadie. 2013. Dependent vs. independent juvenile survival: contrasting drivers of variation and the buffering effect of parental care. Ecology. (In Press). http://dx.doi.org/10.1890/12-1443.1
  • Ackerman, JT, MP Herzog, G Yarris, ML Casazza, E Burns, and JM Eadie. 2013. Waterfowl ecology and management. In Moyle, PB, A Manfree, and PL Fiedler (editors). The Future of Suisun Marsh. UC Press. San Francisco, California. XXX pages. Peer-reviewed Book Chapter. (In Press).
  • Mattsson, B.J, M.C. Runge, J.H. Devries, G.S. Boomer, J.M. Eadie, D.A. Haukos, J. P. Fleskes, D.N. Koons, W.E. Thogmartin, and R. J. Clark. 2012. A modeling framework for integrated harvest and habitat management of North American waterfowl: case-study of northern pintail metapopulation dynamics. Ecological Modeling 225: 146-158. (In press last report).
  • Ringleman, J., M. Anderson, R. Clark, J. Eadie, M. Koneff, A. Raedeke, and G. Soulliere. (Writing team). 2012. North American Waterfowl Management Plan. 2012. USFWS Division of Bird Habitat Conservation. (http://static.nawmprevision.org/sites/default/files/NAWMP-Plan-EN-ma y23.pdf)
  • Ringleman, J., M. Anderson, R. Clark, J. Eadie, M. Koneff, A. Raedeke, and G. Soulliere. (Writing team). 2012. NAWMP Action Plan. A companion document to the 2012 North American Waterfowl Management Plan. USFWS Division of Bird Habitat Conservation.
  • Skalos, D., J. Eadie, J. P. Fleskes. 2012. Management of the Central Valley landscape to support and retain abundant wintering populations of white-fronted geese. Final Report to the California Department of Fish & Game. 39 pp.
  • Washburn, N., and J.M. Eadie. 2012. Moist-soil Seed Production and Mosquito Abundance in Irrigated Seasonal Wetlands in California: The effects of duration and frequency of summer irrigations on seed and invertebrate production. Final Report to the California Department of Fish & Game. 139 pp.
  • Ringelman, K. M., J. M. Eadie and J. T. Ackerman. 2012. Density-dependent predation in waterfowl: the relative importance of nest density vs. nest dispersion. Oecologia 169: 695-702 (In press last report).


Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In 2011, we continued work on several projects with on-going research funding: (1) Assessment of management practices and development of standardized survey protocols for managed wetlands in the Central Valley of California. We have now successfully developed the survey methodology according to the Dillman method and we are sending out surveys to wetland managers throughout the state. (2) Phase II of a study to examine cost-effective moist-soil management and moist-soil seed production in relation to mosquito production and abatement in irrigated seasonal wetlands. We have completed all field work and are currently analyzing samples in the lab. (3) Development of an integrated population model to link habitat and harvest management for Northern Pintails. We have completed a first prototype of this model (Mattson et al 2011). We are now working actively on sub-regional models to be included in prototype II. (4) An analysis of the role of predators and predator foraging behavior on waterfowl nest success in managed nesting habitats. This is an on-going project. We have completed 3 years of fieldwork and are analyzing these data in tandem with 25 years of long term data. We have published one paper (Ringelman et al 2011) with several others in preparation. (3) An evaluation of the capacity of the Central Valley landscape to support and retain abundant wintering populations of white-fronted geese and analysis of body condition in relation to the changing habitat base. Analyses are complete and we are developing manuscripts from this study. (6) An assessment of the ecological and virological factors that drive the transmission and emergence of avian influenza (AI) viruses within and across waterfowl at urban ponds. This study is complete and we are working with colleagues to develop a manuscript. Long-term, on-going projects include: (1) Analysis of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California in relation to riparian habitat management and conservation; and (2) Evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards in California, continuing long-term nesting studies at the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area with the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Game. We have disseminated these results through written articles, workshops with stakeholders, and participation in a large number of committees. These include meetings with 8 technical committees and workshops dealing with waterfowl and wetland issues in California and the nation. In 2011, we participated in a several technical workshops and gave 5 presentations at national & international conferences and meetings. We ensured that our research was published in top-quality, peer-reviewed scientific journals as well as user-oriented outlets, culminating in 5 peer-reviewed articles. I am one of 7 members of the writing team for the 2012 revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan that will drive wetland conservation efforts in North America for the next decade. The second draft of this plan is complete and we are working on an accompanying Action Plan to be published in 2012. PARTICIPANTS: PARTICIPANTS: A large number of partners are, or have been, involved in this project. These include biologists from non-government organizations, private landowners, state and federal agencies. My project is designed to integrate directly with critical needs for waterfowl and wetlands at the state (and national) level.. Participants include: Greg Yarris, Vice-President policy, California Waterfowl Association; Jake Messerli Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Chadd Santerre, Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Dan Yparraguirre, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Shaun Oldenburger, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Melanie Weaver, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Mark Petrie, Biologist, Ducks Unlimited;, John Pearce, Biologist, USGS; Josh Ackerman, Biologist, USGS; Michael Miller, Biologist, USGS, Western Ecological Research Center; Joe Fleskes, Biologist, USGS; Peter Stent, Private Landowner; Chris Steele, Private Landowner; INSTITUTIONAL (UC) UNITS INVOLVED: Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Department of Agronomy and Range Science, Department of Land, Air and Water Resources. PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS: California Department of Fish & Game, California Waterfowl Association, Central Valley Joint Venture, Ducks Unlimited, U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Nature Conservancy, PRBO Conservation Science. TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: This project has provided training opportunities for 13 graduate students, and 26 undergraduate student interns working with our wood duck studies, most soil management experiments and breeding studies of California mallards. TARGET AUDIENCES: I extend the information gained through our research to our target audience through: (1) consultation and advisory services with a large number (>16) organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, PRBO Conservation Science) and governmental agencies; (2) participation on external technical committees (>18) dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) development of collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations such as the Central Valley Joint Venture, California Department of Fish & Game, U.S.G.S. Biological Resources Division, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. A. Rice Foundation, California Waterfowl Association, Ducks Unlimited and the Delta Waterfowl Association (generating funding of > $1M) and (4) organizing a number of workshops and scientific meetings. TARGET AUDIENCES: I work with state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture, These audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers; (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV); (3) State Agencies: California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG), California Department of Water Resources (DWR) California Fish & Game Commission; (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Protection, restoration and enhancement of a diversity of wetland habitat types, coupled with surrounding agricultural lands, are needed to furnish the mosaic of wetland areas required by waterfowl and other wetland-dependent wildlife. It is no longer possible to meet these needs by simply establishing wildlife refuges or conservation easements. Most of the remaining wetlands in the Central Valley are privately owned, two-thirds of which (60%) are unprotected. Hence, long-term conservation of wetland habitat in California will require a substantial investment and commitment by the private sector and can only be accomplished by cooperative efforts between landowners, private organizations, and state and federal agencies. These efforts must be guided by research and sound management practices. A key element my AES research project is to identify and evaluate agricultural practices that benefit both wildlife and farmers. My AES project provides essential information to guide avian conservation and wetland restoration efforts in California while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats while seeking to maximize water use efficiency and minimize production of pests such as mosquitoes. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California. Finally, we have worked closely with the rice industry to develop, evaluate and promote wildlife-friendly farming practices, culminating in a major review and synthesis published and provided to growers.

Publications

  • Ringelman, K. M., J. M. Eadie and J. T. Ackerman. 2012. Density-dependent predation in waterfowl: the relative importance of nest density vs. nest dispersion. Oecologia. In Press. DOI: 10.1007/s00442-011-2228-1
  • Mattsson, B.J, M.C. Runge, J.H. Devries, G.S. Boomer, J.M. Eadie, D.A. Haukos, J. P. Fleskes, D.N. Koons, W.E. Thogmartin, and R. J. Clark. 2012. A modeling framework for integrated harvest and habitat management of North American waterfowl: case-study of northern pintail metapopulation dynamics. Ecological Modeling. 225:146-158.
  • Innes R. J., M. B. McEachern, D.H. Van Vuren, J. M. Eadie, D. A. Kelt, and M.L. Johnson. 2012. Genetic relatedness and spatial association of dusky-footed woodrats (Neotoma fuscipes). Journal of Mammalogy 93 (2): In Press.
  • Eadie, J. M. and B.E. Lyon. 2011. The relative role of relatives in conspecific brood parasitism (Invited Perspectives). Molecular Ecology 20: 5114-5118.
  • Herring, G., J. T. Ackerman, J. Y. Takekawa, C. A. Eagles-Smith, and J. M. Eadie. Identifying nest predators of American avocets and black-necked stilts in San Francisco Bay, California. 2011. Southwestern Naturalist 56: 35-43.


Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: During 2010, we completed a project focused on examining the effects of changing habitat conditions and human impacts on waterfowl and wetland habitats in the San Francisco Bay, Suisun Marsh and Bay-Delta region (a PhD dissertation was concluded). We initiated the first year of work on several new projects with new research funding: (1) Assessment of management practices and development of standardized survey protocols for managed wetlands in the Central Valley of California. (2) Phase II of a study to examine cost-effective moist-soil management and moist-soil seed production in relation to concerns about mosquito production and abatement in irrigated seasonal wetlands. (3) An evaluation of the capacity of the Central Valley landscape to support and retain abundant wintering populations of white-fronted geese and analysis of body condition in relation to the changing habitat base. (4) Development of an integrated population model to link habitat and harvest management for Northern Pintails. (5) An analysis of the role of predators and predator foraging behavior on waterfowl nest success in managed nesting habitats. (6) An assessment of the ecological and virological factors that drive the transmission and emergence of avian influenza (AI) viruses within and across waterfowl at urban ponds. On-going long-term projects include: (1) Analysis of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California in relation riparian habitat management and conservation; and (2) Evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards in California, continuing long-term nesting studies at the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area with the California Waterfowl Association and the California Department of Fish & Game. We have disseminated these results through written articles, workshops with stakeholders, and participation in a large number of committees. These include meetings with 18 technical committees and workshops dealing with waterfowl and wetland issues in California and the nation. During 2010, we participated in a several technical workshops and programs and gave 9 presentations at national & international conferences and meetings. We ensured that our research was published in top-quality, peer-reviewed scientific journals as well as user-oriented outlets, culminating in 5 peer-reviewed articles (2 reported previously as In Press) and 3 technical reports. I am currently one of 6 members of the writing team for the 2011 revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan that will drive wetland conservation efforts in North America for the next decade. PARTICIPANTS: PARTICIPANTS: I have a large number of partners involved in this project. These include biologists from non-government organizations, private landowners, state and federal agencies. My project is designed to integrate directly with critical needs for waterfowl and wetlands at the state (and national) level.. Participants include: Luke Naylor Biologist, Arkansas Fish & Game; Greg Yarris, Vice-President policy, California Waterfowl Association; Jake Messerli Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Chadd Santerre, Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Dan Yparraguirre, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Shaun Oldenburger, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Melanie Weaver, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Tom Moore, Biologist, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Mark Petrie, Biologist, Ducks Unlimited; Ada Fowler, Biologist, Nature Conservancy, Jean-Pierre Savard, Biologist, Canadian Wildlife Service, John Pearce, Biologist, USGS; Susan de la Cruz, Biologist, USGS; Josh Ackerman, Biologist, USGS; Michael Miller, Biologist, USGS, Western Ecological Research Center; Joe Fleskes, Biologist, USGS; John Takekawa, Biologist, USGS; Steve Simmons, Private Stakeholder; Peter Stent, Private Landowner; Chris Steele, Private Landowner; INSTITUTIONAL (UC) UNITS INVOLVED: Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Department of Agronomy and Range Science, Department of Land, Air and Water Resources. PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS: California Department of Fish & Game, California Waterfowl Association, Central Valley Joint Venture, Ducks Unlimited, U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Nature Conservancy, PRBO Conservation Science. TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: This project has provided training opportunities for 10 graduate students, and 23 undergraduate student interns working with our wood duck studies, most soil management experiments and breeding studies of California mallards. TARGET AUDIENCES: I use a broad variety of methods to extend the information gained through our research to our target audience. These include: (1) consultation and advisory services with a large number (>16) organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, PRBO Conservation Science) and governmental agencies; (2) participation on external technical committees (>18) dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) development of collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations such as the Central Valley Joint Venture, California Department of Fish & Game, U.S.G.S. Biological Resources Division, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. A. Rice Foundation, California Waterfowl Association, Ducks Unlimited and the Delta Waterfowl Association (generating funding of > $1M) and (4) organizing a number of workshops and scientific meetings. TARGET AUDIENCES: My efforts collectively are targeted to working with state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture, These audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers; (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV); (3) State Agencies: California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG), California Department of Water Resources (DWR) California Fish & Game Commission; (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Protection, restoration and enhancement of a diversity of wetland habitat types, coupled with surrounding agricultural lands that are flooded and provide food in the form of waste grain, are needed to furnish the mosaic of wetland areas required by waterfowl and other wetland-dependent wildlife. It is no longer possible to meet these needs by simply establishing wildlife refuges or conservation easements. Most of the remaining wetlands in the Central Valley are privately owned, two-thirds of which (60%) are unprotected. Hence, long-term conservation of wetland habitat in California will require a substantial investment and commitment by the private sector and can only be accomplished by cooperative efforts between landowners, private organizations, and state and federal agencies. These efforts must be guided by research and sound management practices. A key element my AES research project is to identify and evaluate agricultural practices that benefit both wildlife and farmers. My AES project provides essential information to guide avian conservation and wetland restoration efforts in California while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice-growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats while seeking to maximize water use efficiency and minimize production of pests such as mosquitoes. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California. Finally, we have worked closely with the rice industry to develop, evaluate and promote wildlife-friendly farming practices, culminating in a major review and synthesis published and provided to growers.

Publications

  • McEachern, M.B., D. H. Van Vuren, C. Floyd, B. May and J. M. Eadie. 2010. Bottlenecks and rescue effects in a fluctuating population of golden-mantled ground squirrels (Spermophilus lateralis). Conservation Genetics. (Published online first 02 Oct 20101: DOI 10.1007/s10592-010-0139-z) Odell, N. S. and J. M. Eadie. 2010. Do Wood Ducks use the number of eggs in a nest as a cue to the prospective value of a nest Behavioral Ecology 21 (4): 794-801. Takekawa, John Y., Susan W. De La Cruz, Matthew T. Wilson, Eric C. Palm, Julie Yee, David R. Nysewander, Joseph R. Evenson, John M. Eadie, Daniel Esler, W. Sean Boyd, David H. Ward. 2010. Breeding synchrony, sympatry, and nesting areas of Pacific coast surf scoters (Melanitta perspicillata) in the Northern Boreal Forest. Studies in Avian Biology. In Press Reported as In Press last report Eadie, J. M., J. N. M. Smith, D. Zadworny, U. Kuhnlein, and K. Cheng. 2010. Probing parentage in parasitic goldeneyes: an evaluation of methods to detect conspecific brood parasitism. Journal of Avian Biology 41:163-176. Fleskes, J. P., A. C. Fowler, M. L. Casazza, and J.M. Eadie. 2010. Population structure and relatedness among female Northern Pintails (Anas acuta) in three California wintering regions. Waterbirds 33 (1): 1-9.


Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: During the past year, we completed several projects: (1) Evaluation of the effect of delayed drawdowns on moist soil seed production in the Grassland Ecological Area of the San Joaquin Valley. (2) A companion study to evaluate the effect of delayed drawdowns on waterbird response on managed wetland. (3) An analysis of body condition of winter waterfowl in the Central Valley to evaluate the biological response of waterfowl to changing habitat conditions in the Central Valley. (4) Completion of Phase I of a study to evaluate cost-effective moist-soil management in the Central Valley using an experimental evaluation of management techniques on the Roosevelt Ranch, California. (5) Completion of several long-term studies of population structure in several species of waterfowl using genetic markers. (6) Completion of a study to develop morphological and molecular markers to identify hybrids of released Mallards and the endangered Hawaiian Duck in Hawaii. Several projects were initiated with new research funding: (1) Assessment of management practices and development of standardized survey protocols for managed wetlands in the Central Valley of California. (2) Phase II of a study to examine cost-effective moist-soil management and moist-soil seed production in relation to concerns about mosquito production and abatement in irrigated seasonal wetlands. (3) Evaluating the capacity of the Central Valley landscape to support and retain abundant wintering populations of white-fronted geese and analysis of body condition in relation to the changing habitat base. (4) Development of an integrated population model to link habitat and harvest management for Northern Pintails. (5) An analysis of the role of predators and predator foraging behavior on waterfowl nest success in managed nesting habitats. (6) An assessment of the ecological and virological factors that drive the transmission and emergence of avian influenza (AI) viruses within and across waterfowl at urban ponds. On-going long-term projects include: (1) Analysis of the breeding ecology and demography of wood ducks in California in relation riparian habitat management and conservation. (2) Evaluating the factors limiting the breeding production of mallards in California, continuing long-term nesting studies at the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area with CWA and CDF&G. (3) Examining the effects of changing habitat conditions and human impacts on waterfowl and wetland habitats in the San Francisco Bay, Suisun Marsh and Bay-Delta region. We have disseminated these results through written articles, workshops with stakeholders, and participation in a large number of committees. These include meetings with over 16 different technical committees dealing with waterfowl and wetland issues in California and the nation. During 2009, we participated in a large number of technical workshops and programs and gave 16 presentations at national & international conferences and meetings. We ensured that our research was published in top-quality, peer-reviewed scientific journals as well as user-oriented outlets, culminating in 13 peer-reviewed articles (6 reported previously as In Press and not listed below). PARTICIPANTS: I have a large number of partners involved in this project. These include biologists from non-government organizations, private landowners, state and federal agencies. My project is designed to integrate directly with critical needs for waterfowl and wetlands at the state (and national) level.. Participants include: Luke Naylor Biologist, Arkansas Fish & Game; Greg Yarris, Vice-President policy, California Waterfowl Association; Jake Messerli Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Jeremy Kwolek, Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Chadd Santerre, Biologist, California Waterfowl Association; Dan Yparraguirre, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Shaun Oldenburger, Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game; Ed Burns, Biologist, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Tom Moore, Biologist, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Mark Petrie, Biologist, Ducks Unlimited; Ada Fowler, Biologist, Nature Conservancy, Jean-Pierre Savard, Biologist, Canadian Wildlife Service, John Pearce, Biologist, USGS; Susan de la Cruz, Biologist, USGS; Josh Ackerman, Biologist, USGS; Michael Miller, Biologist, USGS, Western Ecological Research Center; Joe Fleskes, Biologist, USGS; John Takekawa, Biologist, USGS; Steve Simmons, Private Stakeholder; Peter Stent, Private Landowner; Chris Steele,Private Landowner; INSTITUTIONAL (UC) UNITS INVOLVED: Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Department of Agronomy and Range Science, Department of Land, Air and Water Resources. PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS: California Department of Fish & Game, California Waterfowl Association, Central Valley Joint Venture, Ducks Unlimited, U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Nature Conservancy, PRBO Conservation Science. TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES This project has provided training opportunities for 13 graduate students, 1 post-doctoral fellow and 28 undergraduate student interns working with our wood duck studies, most soil management experiments and breeding studies of California mallards. TARGET AUDIENCES: I use a broad variety of methods to extend the information gained through our research to our target audience. These include: (1) consultation and advisory services with a large number (>16) organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, PRBO Conservation Science) and governmental agencies; (2) participation on external technical committees (>18) dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) development of collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations such as the Central Valley Joint Venture, California Department of Fish & Game, U.S.G.S. Biological Resources Division, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. A. Rice Foundation, California Waterfowl Association, Ducks Unlimited and the Delta Waterfowl Association (generating funding of > $1M) and (4) organizing a number of workshops and scientific meetings. We have worked closely with the rice industry to develop, evaluate and promote wildlife-friendly farming practices, culminating in a major review and synthesis published and provided to growers in 2008. TARGET AUDIENCES: My efforts collectively are targeted to working with state agencies, federal agencies, NGO organizations and private landowners to develop wetland conservation practices on public and private lands, and to find methods to do so while promoting sustainable agriculture, These audiences include: (1) Private landowners and farmers; (2) Federal agencies: US Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, UCDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV); (3) State Agencies: California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG), California Department of Water Resources (DWR) California Fish & Game Commission; (4) Non-government organizations: California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Ducks Unlimited (DU), Delta Waterfowl Association The Nature Conservancy (TNC), PRBO Conservation Science; Audubon, U.S.A. Rice Foundation, Ricelands Habitat Partnership. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
My AES project provides essential information to guide avian conservation and wetland restoration efforts in California while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice-growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats while seeking to maximize water use efficiency and minimize production of pests. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California.

Publications

  • De Valpine, P. and J.M. Eadie 2008. Conspecific brood parasitism and population dynamics. American Naturalist 172: 547-562.
  • Lyon, B. and J.M. Eadie. 2008. Conspecific brood parasitism in birds: a life-history perspective. Annual Reviews of Ecology, Evolution and Systematics 39: 343-363.
  • Berg, E. C., J.M. Eadie, T. A. Langen and A.F. Russell. 2009. Reverse sex-biased philopatry in a cooperative bird: genetic consequences and a social cause. Molecular Ecology 18: 3486-3499.
  • Roy, C., J.M. Eadie, E. M. Schaubel, N. S. Odell, E. Berg and T. Moore. 2009. Public information and conspecific nest parasitism in wood ducks: does nest density influence the quality of information Animal Behaviour 77: 1367-1373 (featured article, see In Focus, Animal Behaviour 77: 1365).
  • Eadie, J.M., J. N. M. Smith, D. Zadworny, U. Kuhnlein, and K. Cheng. 2010. Probing parentage in parasitic goldeneyes: an evaluation of methods to detect conspecific brood parasitism. Journal of Avian Biology. In Press.
  • Fleskes, J. P., A. C. Fowler, M. L. Casazza, and J.M. Eadie. 2010. Population structure and relatedness among female Northern Pintails (Anas acuta) in three California wintering regions. Waterbirds. In Press.
  • Herring, G., J. T. Ackerman, J. Y. Takekawa, C. A. Eagles-Smith, and J.M. Eadie. 2010. Identifying nest predators of American avocets and black-necked stilts in San Francisco Bay, California. Southwestern Naturalist. In Press.


Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: (1) We are continuing studies to determine the availability and quality of winter habitat for waterfowl. In 2007, we initiated a new study using large replicate experimental plots (0.50 ha; 1.25 ac), each of which is assigned to a water management treatment (varying in length and frequency of irrigations). In 2008 we completed the second full year of this management experiment. This study will allow us to accurately enumerate the effect of water management on moist soil seed production and water management costs. The treatments we are evaluating encompass a range of current management practices used throughout the Central Valley. (2) We have completed a radio-telemetry study to evaluate the factors limiting production of mallards in California. This is the first study of this kind for mallards in California, and will provide essential data to guide habitat restoration efforts for breeding waterfowl in California. We are using the data from these studies to develop population projection models and to evaluate the sensitivity of population growth rates to key vital rates. By doing so, we will be able to target habitat management and conservations needs to alleviate those constraints. (3) We are continuing research on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on the population dynamics of wood ducks. The goal of this study is to determine the impact of agriculture on riparian habitats and to identify habitat management needs. Our studies continue to provide long-term monitoring of this key natural resource. We have disseminated these results through written articles, workshops with stake-holders, and participation in a large number of committees. These include: 1) Meetings with partners on several external technical committees dealing with waterfowl and wetland issues, including the Central Valley Habitat Joint Venture (CVHJV), the Waterfowl and Wetlands Technical Committee and the Wood Duck Advisory Committee of the California Waterfowl Association, USA Rice Foundation Waterfowl & Wetlands Committee and the Ricelands Habitat Partnership Committee). 2) Serving on an international committee for the USFWS to conduct a comprehensive 20-year review of the effectiveness of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and all 22 Joint Ventures in Canada, Mexico and the United States (the NAWMP Assessment Steering Committee). 3) Serving on an international Task Force for the USFWS to review and develop a new approach to integrate adaptive harvest management (AHM) and habitat management for waterfowl in the North America (the AHM Joint Task Group). 4) Serving on the planning committee for the Future of Waterfowl Workshop in Minneapolis MN (2008), an international workshop attended by the top 200 wildlife professionals, biologists and managers in the USFWS and state agencies with a responsibility for wetland and waterfowl conservation and management throughout North America. I was also asked to be a keynote speaker at the workshop, and to be a discussion facilitator throughout the 3 days. PARTICIPANTS: I have a large number of partners and participants involved in this project. These include biologists from non-government organizations, private landowners, state and federal agencies, graduate students, and post-doctoral fellows. My project is designed to integrate directly and meaningfully with critical needs for waterfowl and wetlands at the state (and national) level. Hence, it is essential that we partner actively with multiple stakeholders in this research and outreach effort. Participants include: Luke Naylor Biologist, Arkansas Fish & Game Greg Yarris Biologist, California Waterfowl Association Jake Messerli Biologist, California Waterfowl Association Jeremy Kwolek Biologist, California Waterfowl Association Chadd Santerre Biologist, California Waterfowl Association Dan Yparraguirre Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game Shaun Oldenburger Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game Ed Penny Biologist, California Dept. of Fish & Game Ed Burns Biologist, Natural Resource Conservation Service Tom Moore Biologist, Natural Resource Conservation Service Mark Petrie Biologist, Ducks Unlimited Ada Fowler Biologist, Nature Conservancy Jean-Pierre Savard Biologist, Canadian Wildlife Service Michel Robert Biologist, Canadian Wildlife Service John Pearce Biologist, U.S.G.S., Alaska Science Center Susan Wainwright de la Cruz Biologist, U.S.G.S., Western Ecological Research Center Josh Ackerman Biologist, U.S.G.S., Western Ecological Research Center Michael Miller Biologist, U.S.G.S., Western Ecological Research Center Joe Fleskes Biologist, U.S.G.S., Western Ecological Research Center John Takekawa Biologist, U.S.G.S., Western Ecological Research Center Steve Simmons Private Stakeholder Peter Stent Private Landowner Chris Steele Private Landowner Bernie May Faculty, UC Davis Mary Brooke McEachern Postdoctoral Fellow, UC Davis Elena Berg Post-doctoral Fellow, Harvard Univ Nicolle Odell Graduate student, UC Davis Brian Olsen Graduate student, UC Davis Doug Thomas Graduate student, UC Davis Ric Ortega Graduate student, UC Davis Mellisa Odell Graduate student, UC Davis Kevin Ringelman Graduate student, UC Davis INSTITUTIONAL (UC) UNITS INVOLVED: Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology Department of Animal Sciences Department of Agronomy and Range Science (ARS) Department of Land, Air and Water Resources (LAWR) PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS: California Department of Fish & Game (CDFG) California Waterfowl Association (CWA) Central Valley Joint Venture (CVHJV) Ducks Unlimited (DU) U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center Natural Resource Conservation Service Nature Conservancy PRBO Conservation Science TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES This project has provided training opportunities for 9 graduate students, 2 post-doctoral fellows and over 50 undergraduate student interns working with our wood duck studies, most soil management experiments and breeding studies of California mallards. TARGET AUDIENCES: I use a broad variety of methods to extend the information gained through our research to our target audience. These include: (1) consultation and advisory services with a large number (>25) organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, California Waterfowl Association, PRBO Conservation Science) and governmental agencies; (2) participation on external technical committees (>18) dealing with waterfowl and wetlands; (3) development of collaborative research projects with several agencies & organizations such as the Central Valley Joint Venture, California Department of Fish & Game, U.S.G.S. Biological Resources Division, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. A. Rice Foundation, California Waterfowl Association, Ducks Unlimited and the Delta Waterfowl Association (generating funding of > $1M) and (4) organizing a number of workshops and scientific meetings, including the 3rd North American Duck Symposium, a meetings that attracted 400-500 biologists and managers from across the nation. My target audience also includes working on an international committee of the USFWS (the NAWMP Assessment Steering Committee) to conduct a comprehensive 20 year review of the effectiveness of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and all 22 Joint Ventures in Canada, Mexico and the United States. I also serve as a member on an international Task Force for the USFWS to review and develop a new approach to integrate adaptive harvest management (AHM) and habitat management for waterfowl in the North America (the AHM Joint Task Group). We have worked closely with the rice industry to develop, evaluate and promote wildlife-friendly farming practices, culminating in a major review and synthesis published and provided to growers in 2008. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
My AES project provides essential information to guide avian conservation and wetland restoration efforts in California while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice-growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California.

Publications

  • Fowler, A. J., J. M. Eadie and A. Engilis. 2009. Differentiation of endangered Hawaiian ducks (Anas wyvilliana), introduced North American mallards (A. platyrhynchos), and their hybrids using multilocus genotypes. Conservation Genetics. Published first on-line DOI 10.1007/s10592-008-9778-8.
  • McEachern, M. B., R. McElreath, D. Van Vuren, and J. M. Eadie. 2009. Another genetically promiscuous "polygynous" mammal: mating system variation in Neotoma fuscipes. Animal Behaviour. 77: 449-455.
  • Miller, M.R., E.G. Burns, B. E. Wicklund and J. M. Eadie. 2009. Diet and body mass of wintering ducks in adjacent brackish and freshwater habitats in California. Waterbirds (In Press)
  • Gillespie, S., D. Kelt, D, Van Vuren, J. M. Eadie and D. Anderson. 2008. Rodent population dynamics in a semi-rrid habitat in Lassen County, California. Western North American Naturalist 68: 76-82.
  • Anderson M. G., J. M. Eadie, M. T. Huang, R. Johnson, M. D. Koneff, J. K. Ringelman, M. C. Runge and B. C. Wilson. 2008. Harvest potential and habitat are inextricably linked. Re-printed in Current Status and Future Directions of Waterfowl Harvest Management. R. J. Blohm (ed). Wildlife Management Institute, Arlington VA. Pp 101-115.


Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

Outputs
1. We have initiated new studies to determine the availability and quality of winter habitat for waterfowl. Our previous work has demonstrated that waterfowl rapidly deplete available food sources, and sites with higher quality habitat attract and hold more birds. We have also discovered that there is considerable variation among managed areas in the amount of moist-soil seed produced and we have identified a number of management techniques to improve seed production. In 2007, we initiated a new study using large replicate experimental plots (0.50 ha; 1.25 ac), each of which is assigned to a water management treatment (varying in length and frequency of irrigations). In doing so, we will be able to accurately enumerate the effect of water management on moist soil seed production and water management costs. The treatments we are evaluating encompass a range of current management practices used throughout the Central Valley. This research will further guide the development of best management practices for moist soil wetland habitats in the Central Valley. 2. We have completed a radio-telemetry study to evaluate the factors limiting production of mallards in California. We followed 80 breeding females using radio-telemetry to assess habitat use, nest success and breeding survival. This is the first study of this kind for mallards in California, and will provide essential data to guide habitat restoration efforts for breeding waterfowl in California. For example, our initial results suggest that breeding probability of females is less than 70% (compared to 95-100% in other populations), indicating that early season pair and nesting habitat may be a critical resource need (Oldenburger et al 2005). Our research will help target essential management programs needed to improve breeding conditions for this economically and recreationally important species. We are now using the data from these studies to develop population projection models and to evaluate the sensitivity of population growth rates to key vital rates (survival, nest success, etc.). By doing so, we will be able to better determine which stage in the annual cycle is most limiting, and thereby will be able to target habitat management and conservations needs to alleviate those constraints. 3. We are continuing our research on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on the population dynamics of wood ducks. We are studying several populations throughout the state to evaluate the factors that most influence population viability, focusing on key demographic variables such as nesting success and over-winter survival. We have initiated mark-recapture analyses using our long-term data set to better estimate annual survival and to evaluate habitat and harvest influences on this vital rate. The goal of this study is ultimately to determine the impact of agriculture on riparian habitats and to identify habitat management needs. Wood ducks provide an excellent species to indicate the health of riparian ecosystems in California, given that they are largely dependent on riparian habitats for much of the year. Our studies continue to provide long-term monitoring of this key natural resource.

Impacts
My AES project provides essential information to guide avian conservation and wetland restoration efforts in California. Our studies on the benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice-growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research provides necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality of existing wetland habitats. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California.

Publications

  • Abraham, K., M. Anderson, R. Bishop, R. Clark, L. Colpitts, J. Eadie, M. Petrie, E. Reed, F. Rohwer, A. Rojo, and M. Tome. 2007. North American Waterfowl Management Plan Continental Progress Assessment. U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Arlington VA.
  • Anderson M. G., J. M. Eadie, M. T. Huang, R. Johnson, M. D. Koneff, J. K. Ringelman, M. C. Runge and B. C. Wilson. 2007. Harvest potential and habitat are inextricably linked. Transactions of the North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference 71: 275-289.
  • Anderson, M., D. Caswell, J. Eadie, J. Herbert, M. Huang, D. Humburg, F. Johnson, M. Koneff, S. Mott, T. Nudds, E. Reed, J. Ringleman, M. Runge, N. Wilson. 2007. Report from the Joint Task Group for Clarifying North American Waterfowl Management Plan Population Objectives and Their Use in Harvest Management. U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Arlington VA.
  • de Valpine, P. and J. M. Eadie. 2008. Conspecific brood parasitism and population dynamics. The American Naturalist (In Press).
  • Lyon, B.E. and J.M. Eadie. 2008. Conspecific brood parasitism in birds: a life-history perspective. Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution and Systematics. (In Press).
  • McEachern, M. B., J. M. Eadie, and D, H. Van Vuren. 2007. Local genetic structure and patterns of relatedness in woodrats: Implications for sociality in a solitary species. Behavioral Ecology 61: 1459-1469.


Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

Outputs
(1) We have completed a long-term collaborative project with partners in the Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV) to determine the availability and quality of winter habitat for waterfowl. Key results of this project include: (i) the amount of food available in moist-soil and agricultural habitats is currently sufficient to support the 2-3 million waterfowl that over-winter in the Central Valley; (ii) waterfowl rapidly deplete these food sources and sites with higher quality habitat attract and hold more birds; (iii) there is considerable variation among managed areas in the amount of moist-soil seed produced and we have identified a number of management techniques to improve seed production; and (iv) rice agriculture is critical to maintain winter waterfowl populations - without existing flooded rice fields, there would be a significant deficit of habitat for wintering birds. Our results have played an instrumental role in the development of the new implementation plan for the CVJV. (2) We are continuing our long-term research on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on the population dynamics of wood ducks. We are studying several populations to evaluate the factors that most influence population viability. We are conducting mark-recapture analyses using our long-term data set to better estimate annual survival. We have also initiated new work to examine how population density, nesting habitat and agricultural land-use might impact the reproductive physiology of nesting females. Wood ducks are largely dependent on riparian habitats and so provide an excellent species to indicate the health of these ecosystems in California. (3) We have completed an initial set of analysis to examine hybridization of introduced mallards with the endangered Hawaiian Duck on Hawaii using a number of molecular genetic techniques. We have successfully developed genetic markers to identify hybrids and are now using these markers to develop morphological keys to enable local wildlife managers to identify hybrids, determine the frequency of hybridization and develop programs to control introduced mallards. (4) We have completed research on a project to determine the factors limiting production of mallards in California. We followed breeding females using radio-telemetry to assess habitat use, nest success and breeding survival. A key finding of this work is that adult survival and brood survival are the two critical life-history stages that appear to be most limiting to these populations. These patterns differ considerably from those reported for other mallard populations. Accordingly, our work will help refocus management efforts on habitat and agricultural programs that most influence winter and breeding survival. (5) We have completed a project on the distribution and habitat use of Great Gray Owls in California, as species of state conservation concern. We completed 2 years of surveys for Great Gray Owls outside of their small traditional range in the Sierra Nevadas, and developed a series of predictive models to allow conservation managers to determine the habitat requirements for this species and predict its distribution throughout California.

Impacts
My AES project provides essential information to guide avian conservation and wetland restoration efforts in California while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice-growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats. Our focused studies on several species of breeding and wintering waterfowl have identified key limiting factors for these populations and have facilitated the development of management programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of this key natural resource in the agricultural landscape of California.

Publications

  • Sears, C., J M. Eadie and C. Stermer. 2006. Developing and Evaluating Predictive Models for Use in Assessing Habitat Requirements and Distribution of Great Gray Owls in California. Final Report for the Resource Assessment Program, Wildlife Health Center, U.C. Davis and the California Department of Fish & Game.
  • Eadie, J., B. Gummer, R. Johnson, T. Nudds and S. Yaich. 2006. Science and Adaptive Management Review Panel, Final Report. Institute of Waterfowl and Wetlands Research, Ducks Unlimited Canada, Oak Hammock, MB.
  • Anders, M. M., C. van Kessel and J. M. Eadie. 2007. Agronomic Impacts of Riceland Conservation. In Conservation in Ricelands of North America: Current State of Our Knowledge and a Course for Future Research and Education. S. W. Manley, M. Petrie and B. J. Batt, eds. Institute for Waterfowl and Wetlands Research, Ducks Unlimited. Memphis, TN (In press).
  • Lindstrom, E. B., M. W. Eichholz, and J. M. Eadie. 2006. Postovulatory follicles in mallards: implications for estimates of breeding probability. Condor 108: 925-935.
  • Ackerman, J.T., J. M. Eadie, and T. G. Moore. 2006. Life history predicts risk-taking behavior of dabbling ducks: an experiment using hunter predation and a novel attractant. Condor 108: 530-546.


Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

Outputs
(1) We are in the final stages of analysis and write-up of a long-term collaborative project with Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV) partners to quantify winter habitat needs for waterfowl. This project will determine: (a) the amount of food available in moist-soil habitats and agricultural fields when waterfowl arrive in fall, (b) the rate at which this food is depleted throughout the winter, (c) the minimum food-density threshold required to maintain waterfowl populations and (d) the rate at which seeds decompose and thus lose their energetic value for waterfowl. The results of our study have played an instrumental role in guiding the new implementation plan for the CVJV; this plan will be used to establish wetland habitat goals for the Central Valley for the next decade. (2) We are continuing our research on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on the population dynamics of wood ducks. We are studying several populations throughout the state to evaluate the factors that most influence population viability, focusing on key demographic variables such as nesting success and over-winter survival. We have recently initiated mark-recapture analyses using our long-term data set to better estimate annual survival. Wood ducks are an excellent species to indicate the health of riparian ecosystems in California, given that they are largely dependent on these habitats for much of the year. Our studies continue to provide long-term monitoring of this key natural resource in partnership with the California Wood Duck Program (California Waterfowl Association, California Department of Fish & Game). (3) We are completing our studies using molecular genetic techniques to evaluate the population structure of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. We have analyzed DNA samples for populations of Canada geese, wood ducks, mallards, northern pintails and Steller eiders to help determine the appropriate conservation units for these species. For example, we have examined whether populations of some species (e.g. the federally listed population of Steller eiders in Alaska) comprise a homogenous genetic population; if not, such populations may warrant alternative management considerations. We are also undertaking an analysis of the impact of hybridization of introduced mallards with the endangered Hawaiian Duck (Kohloa) on Hawaii using a number of molecular genetic tools. This work will help determine the frequency of hybridization and will provide a method to identify hybrids, enabling local wildlife managers to control introduced mallards. (4) We have completed the field research portion of a project to determine the factors limiting production of mallards in California. In 2004 and 2005, we followed 80 breeding females using radio-telemetry to assess habitat use, nest success and breeding survival. This is the first study of this kind for mallards in California, and will provide essential data to guide habitat restoration efforts for breeding waterfowl in California.

Impacts
My AES project is designed to provide key information needs to guide waterfowl conservation and wetland restoration efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture in California. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice-growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats.

Publications

  • Ackerman, J.T, J. M. Eadie, M. L. Szymanski, J. H. Caswell, M. P Vrtiska, A. H. Raedeke, J. M. Checkett, A. D. Afton, T. G. Moore, F. D. Caswell, D. D. Humburg and J. Yee. 2006. Effectiveness of spinning-wing decoys varies among dabbling duck species and locations. Journal of Wildlife Management (In Press).
  • Caro, T., J. Eadie and A. Sih. 2005. Should we use substitute species in conservation biology? Conservation Biology 19: 1821-1826.
  • Eadie, J. M., C. S. Elphick, K. Reinecke, and M. R. Miller. 2006. Wildlife Values of North American Ricelands. In Conservation in Ricelands of North America: Current State of Our Knowledge and a Course for Future Research and Education. S. W. Manley, M. Petrie and B. J. Batt, eds. Institute for Waterfowl and Wetlands Research, Ducks Unlimited. Memphis, TN (In press).
  • Miller, M.R. and J. M. Eadie. 2006. The allometric relationship between resting metabolic rate and body mass in wild waterfowl (Anatidae). Condor 108:166-177.
  • Naylor, L.W., J. M. Eadie and W. D. Smith. 2005. A simple, efficient method for predicting seed yield in moist-soil habitats. Wildlife Society Bulletin (In Press).
  • Oldenburger, S., J. M. Eadie and M. Petrie. 2005. Breeding ecology of mallards in the Sacramento Valley, California. Report to the California Department of Fish & Game and the Central Valley Joint Venture.
  • Sears, C and J M. Eadie. 2005. Habitat requirements of the Great Gray Owl throughout the northern and southern Sierra regions. Report to the Resource Assessment Program, Wildlife Health Center, U.C. Davis and the California Department of Fish & Game.


Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04

Outputs
(1) We are completing a collaborative project with Central Valley Habitat Joint Venture (CVHJV) partners to quantify winter habitat needs for waterfowl; specifically, to determine: (a) the amount of food available in moist-soil habitats and agricultural fields when waterfowl arrive in fall, (b) the rate at which this food is depleted throughout the winter, (c) the minimum food-density threshold below which waterfowl will abandon or avoid agricultural fields and moist-soil habitats and (d) the rate at which moist-soil seeds decompose and thus lose their energetic value for waterfowl. We have measured moist-soil and rice seed abundance over a range of habitat types and management regimes. Analyses of these data have been completed and results are being prepared for publication. These data are currently being used in the recent planning update used to establish habitat goals for the Central Valley. Our results indicate that many wetland restoration projects are not providing high quality foraging habitat and we have identified a number of management techniques that could improve seed production. (2) We are continuing research on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on the population dynamics of wood ducks to determine habitat management needs and to assess the impact of agriculture on riparian habitats. We are studying several populations of wood ducks to document inter-annual changes in key demographic variables. Wood ducks represent an excellent indicator species of the health of riparian ecosystems in California given their dependency on riparian habitats. Our studies provide a long-term monitoring assay of this key natural resource. (3) We are continuing our studies using molecular genetic techniques to evaluate the population structure of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. These studies are focused on determining the appropriate conservation units for the management of Canada geese, wood ducks, mallards, northern pintails and Stellers eiders. For example, our work suggests that the federally listed population of Stellers eiders in Alaska may not comprise a homogenous genetic population, and may warrant alternative management considerations. (4) We are initiating new research to determine the factors limiting production of mallards in California. Beginning in 2004, we followed breeding females using radio-telemetry to assess habitat selection and breeding survival. This work will provide essential data needed to guide habitat restoration efforts for breeding waterfowl in California. For example, our initial results suggest that breeding probability of females is less than 70% (compared to 95-100% in other populations), indicating that early season pair and nesting habitat may be a critical resource need. Our research will help target essential management programs needed to improve breeding conditions for this economically and recreationally important species.

Impacts
My AES project is designed to provide key information to guide waterfowl conservation and wetland restoration efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture in California. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of providing habitat for waterfowl in the rice growing region of the Sacramento Valley illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including critical winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats.

Publications

  • Ackerman, J.T, A.L. Blackmer and J.M. Eadie. 2004. Is predation on waterfowl nests density dependent: a test at three spatial scales. Oikos 107: 128-140.
  • Caro, T.M. and J.M. Eadie. 2005. Animal behavior and conservation. In The behavior of animals: mechanism, function and evolution. J.J. Bolhuis and L.-A. Giraldeau, editors. Blackwell Publishers Ltd. Oxford, UK. Pp 367-392.
  • Cox, R.R., J.M. Eadie, D.L. Otis and K.J. Reinecke. 2004. Science-based allocation of resources for waterfowl conservation in the contiguous U.S.: implications for the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund. Technical Report to the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund Allocation Process (MAP) Team, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Eadie, J.M. 2004. The Dennis G. Raveling Endowed Professorship: 1996-2003. Report to the California Department of Fish & Game, Friends of California Waterfowl.
  • Eadie, J.M. 2004 (In Press). Animal Behavior and Wildlife Conservation (Review). M. Festa-Bianchet and M. Apollonio, eds. Journal of Mammalogy.
  • Fowler, A.C., J.M. Eadie and C.R. Ely. 2004. Relatedness and nesting dispersion within breeding populations of Greater White-fronted Geese. Condor 106: 600-607.
  • Lyon, B.E. and J.M. Eadie. 2004. An obligate brood parasite trapped in the intraspecifc arms race of its hosts. Nature 432:390-393.
  • Newbold, S. and J.M. Eadie. 2004. Using species-habitat models to target conservation: a case study with breeding mallards. Ecological Applications 14: 1384-1393.


Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

Outputs
(1) We have completed the final phase of a study to examine the impact of waterfowl activity in winter-flooded rice fields. Our work demonstrated the strong effect of waterfowl foraging on straw decomposition and weed seed abundance. (2) We have completed our study of feeding ecology by waterfowl in the Suisun Marsh. We found that previous research over-emphasized waterfowl use of some food plants, while new food plants have become more important. These results have important implications for habitat management and tidal restoration initiatives in this key area of the state. (3) We are continuing a collaborative project with Central Valley Habitat Joint Venture (CVHJV) partners to examine winter habitat needs for waterfowl. Specifically, we are undertaking research to: (a) determine the amount of food available in moist-soil habitats and agricultural fields when waterfowl arrive in fall, (b) determine the rate at which this food is depleted throughout the winter, (c) determine the minimum food-density threshold below which waterfowl will abandon or avoid agricultural fields and moist-soil habitats and (d) determine the rate at which moist-soil seeds decompose and thus lose their energetic value for waterfowl. We are measuring moist-soil and rice seed abundance over the season in a range of habitat types, climatic conditions, juxtaposition to sanctuary, and management regimes. Data from this study will be incorporated into the planning model used to establish habitat goals for the Central Valley. Our finding that many wetland restoration projects are not providing high quality foraging habitat has attracted attention and we are working to develop management techniques to improve food production for wildlife. (4) We are continuing our research on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on dispersal and recruitment of wood ducks to determine habitat management needs and to assess the value of riparian strips on agricultural lands to wildlife. We are focusing on several local populations of wood ducks to track inter-annual changes in key demographic variables. Because of their dependency on riparian habitat, wood ducks represent an excellent indicator species for the health of riparian ecosystems in California. Our studies will provide a long-term monitoring tool to assess the productivity of this key natural resource. (5) We are continuing our studies using molecular genetic techniques to evaluate the population structure of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. These studies will evaluate the appropriate units for the management of these species based on their ecology and evolutionary histories, rather than geographical boundaries. (6) We have completed several studies to determine the factors limiting production of mallards in California. We will extend this work in the coming year to follow breeding females using radio-telemetry to assess habitat selection and breeding survival. This work will provide essential data needed to guide habitat restoration efforts for breeding waterfowl in California.

Impacts
My AES project addresses key information needs to guide waterfowl conservation and wetland restoration efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture in California. Our studies on the agronomic benefits of attracting waterfowl to rice fields illustrate the compatibility of agricultural practices and wildlife habitat objectives. Our research has provided the necessary information to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts, including key winter and breeding habitats. We are developing new management techniques to maximize the quality and productivity of existing wetland habitats.

Publications

  • Ackerman, J. T., J. M. Eadie, D. Loughman, G. S. Yarris and M. R. McLandress. 2003. The influence of partial clutch depredation on duck nest success. Journal of Wildlife Management 67: 576-587.
  • Ackerman, J. T. and J. M. Eadie. 2003. Parental investment decisions in mallards: a clutch manipulation experiment. Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology 54: 264-273
  • Ackerman, J. T. and J. M. Eadie. 2003. Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. California Waterfowl (April/May) 2003: 8-9.
  • Burns. E.W., J.M. Eadie and M. R. Miller. 2003. Food habits of green-winged teal, northern pintails and mallards wintering in the Suisun Marsh. Technical Report for the California Department of Water Resources and the United States Bureau of Reclamation.
  • van Kessel, C., J. M. Eadie, W. Horwath, F. Reid, J. Hill and J. Fleskes. 2002. Integrating agronomic management practices with waterfowl populations in rice fields: opportunities and mutual benefits. In Proceedings of the 2nd Temperate Rice Conference. J.E. Hill and B. Hardy, editors. International Rice Research Institute, Los Banos, Philippines. Pp. 51-59
  • Ackerman, J. T., J. M. Eadie, D. Loughman, G. S. Yarris and M. R. McLandress. 2003. Cues for investment: nest desertion in response to partial clutch depredation in dabbling ducks. Animal Behavior 66: 871-88. (IN PRESS, last report)
  • Van Groenigen, J.W., E.G. Burns, J.M Eadie, W.R. Horwath, and C. Van Kessel. 2003. Effects of foraging waterfowl in winter flooded rice fields on weed stress and residue decomposition. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment 95:289-296. (IN PRESS, last report)


Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02

Outputs
(1) We have completed the first phase of a new study to determine the impact of waterfowl activity on decomposition of rice straw in winter-flooded fields. Our results indicate that waterfowl foraging activity can lead to a significant increase in the decomposition of rice straw and a significant reduction in weed seeds. An article on this work is in press. Follow-up studies will address the availability of waste grain as food for waterfowl in agricultural fields. (2) We have completed analysis of data on habitat selection and feeding ecology by waterfowl in the Suisun Marsh and an MS thesis is near completion. This study will help guide wetland restoration efforts in this important area of the Delta. (3) We have completed a new study to assess the availability of moist-soil seeds as food for waterfowl in wetlands of the Central Valley. We found that many wetland restoration projects are not meeting their goals with respect to providing high quality habitat. Our analysis has identified several management methods that can improve seed production and enhance restoration efforts. An MS thesis has been completed, four manuscripts are in preparation and one article has been published. (4) We have continued a long-term study on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on the population biology of wood ducks in California riparian systems. Several popular articles have been published and manuscript preparation is on-going. (5) We have completed several studies using molecular genetic techniques to evaluate the population structure and ecology of four species of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. These analyses will determine the appropriate units for the management of these species based on their biological and evolutionary histories, rather than on arbitrarily determined geographical boundaries. During the past year, one student has completed her Ph.D. thesis while a second will be finished in the spring. Several manuscripts are in preparation. (6) We have completed the first phase of a new study to determine the factors limiting production of mallards in California. This work will help develop sustainable harvest objectives for this important game species and will evaluate habitat restoration efforts for breeding waterfowl in California.

Impacts
Our research addresses key information needs to guide wildlife conservation and wetland restoration efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture in California. Our studies have demonstrated the compatibility of agricultural practices (particularly rice farming) and wildlife habitat objectives. For example, we have demonstrated the potential for waterfowl to enhance the decomposition of rice straw residue and reduce weed pressure in winter flooded rice-fields, thereby providing a reciprocal benefit to farmers. Our research has also evaluated habitat quality of agricultural and wetland habitats to establish realistic acreage goals for wetland conservation efforts.

Publications

  • Lyon, B. E., W. M. Hochachka and J. M. Eadie. 2002. Host-parasite cooperation: modeling and testing the trade-offs between extra-pair paternity and conspecific brood parasitism. Evolution 56: 1253-1266
  • Ackerman, J. T., J. M. Eadie, D. Loughman, G. S. Yarris and M. R. McLandress. In press 2002. Cues for investment: nest desertion in response to partial clutch depredation in dabbling ducks. Animal Behavior
  • Eadie, J. M., L. Naylor and M. Eichholz. 2002. Food for thought. Birdscapes Fall 2002:17.
  • Van Groenigen, J.W., E.G. Burns, J.M Eadie, W.R. Horwath, and C. Van Kessel. In Press 2002. Effects of foraging waterfowl in winter flooded rice fields on weed stress and residue decomposition. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment
  • Caro, T. M. and J. M. Eadie. In press 2002. Animal behavior and conservation. In Principles of Animal Behavior. J.J. Bolhuis and L.-A. Giraldeau, eds. Blackwell Publishers Ltd. Oxford, UK.
  • Naylor, L.W., E.G. Burns, J.M. Eadie, M. Eichholz and M. Petrie. 2002. Evaluating habitat needs for waterfowl and wetland-dependent wildlife to improve delivery of NAWCA projects in the Central Valley Habitat Joint Venture. Technical Report.


Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01

Outputs
Project 1. A study to examine the impact of waterfowl activity on decomposition of rice straw in winter-flooded fields was completed and a second manuscript on this work was written and has been submitted for publication. We found a significant increase in the decomposition of rice straw and a significant reduction in weed seeds as a result of waterfowl foraging activity. Project 2. We initiated a new project to assess the effect of waterfowl foraging on straw and weed reduction on a landscape-scale in the Central Valley with funding from the USA Rice Federation. Samples were collected from experimental exclosures and control plots along a natural gradient of waterfowl densities; samples are currently being processed. Several presentations have been made on this project. Project 3. We are completing analysis of data collected on a study of habitat selection and feeding ecology by waterfowl in the Suisun Marsh. Diet samples for 3 species (mallard, pintail, and green-winged teal) are being analyzed. Project 4. A 4-year study on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on dispersal and survival of wood ducks has been completed. Radio-telemetry was used to follow wood duck broods on streams adjacent to agricultural areas in Merced and Yolo Co. Analyses and manuscript preparation are on-going. Project 5. We are using molecular genetic techniques and field studies to examine the population structure and ecology of several species of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway including Barrow's goldeneyes, harlequin ducks, Steller's eiders and cackling Canada geese to better inform waterfowl management actions. One graduate thesis has been completed, 2 manuscripts have been submitted for publication and 3 manuscripts are in preparation.

Impacts
My research will address critical information needs to facilitate wildlife conservation efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies have demonstrated the compatibility of a variety of agricultural practices (particularly rice farming) and wildlife habitat objectives. This work will provide quantitative evaluation of the benefits of alternative management practices to both growers and wildlife managers and will help to develop recommendations for future management objectives.

Publications

  • Hogg, I. D., J. M. Eadie, D. D. Williams and D. Turner. 2001. An evaluation of fluctuating asymmetry as an indicator of low-level thermal perturbation in a stream-dwelling insect (Plecoptera: Nemouridae). Journal of Applied Ecology. (In Press).
  • Eadie, J. M., T. G. Moore and J. T. Ackerman. 2001. An experimental evaluation of mechanical, spinning-wing decoys (moto-ducks) in California, 1999-2000. Technical Report. University of California, Davis, California.
  • Eadie, J. M., D. Yparraguirre, J. P. Fleskes, M. R. Miller, G. S. Yarris, M. Eichholz, T. G. Moore, J. T. Ackerman, D. D. Humburg, J. S. Lawrence, M. C. Runge and A. D. Afton. 2001. An evaluation of mechanical-wing duck attractants in California, 1999-2000. Technical Report. Central Valley Habitat Joint Venture, Sacramento, California.
  • Eadie, J. M., M. R. Miller, G. S. Yarris, M. Eichholz and A. D. Afton. 2000. A research partnership to evaluate the response of waterfowl to the moto-duck. California Waterfowl 2000 (Dec/Jan): 27-29.


Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00

Outputs
Project 1. A study to examine the impact of waterfowl activity on decomposition of rice straw in winter-flooded fields was completed and a manuscript on this work was published. We found a significant increase in the decomposition of rice straw as a result of waterfowl foraging activity. Project 2. We initiated a new project to assess the effect of waterfowl foraging on straw and weed reduction on a landscape-scale in the Central Valley with funding from the USA Rice Federation. Samples were collected from experimental exclosure and control plots along a natural gradient of waterfowl densities; samples are currently being processed. Several presentations have been given on this project. Project 3. We are completing analysis of data collected on a study of habitat selection and feeding ecology by waterfowl in the Suisun Marsh. Diet samples for 3 species (mallard, pintail, and green-winged teal) are being analyzed. Project 4. A 3-year study on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on dispersal and survival of wood ducks has been completed. Radio-telemetry was used to follow wood duck broods on streams adjacent to agricultural areas in Merced and Yolo Co. Analyses and manuscript preparation are on-going. Project 5. We are using molecular genetic techniques and field studies to examine the population structure and ecology of several species of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway including Barrow's goldeneyes, harlequin ducks, Steller's eiders and cackling Canada geese to better inform waterfowl management actions. One graduate thesis has been completed and 2 manuscripts are in preparation.

Impacts
My research will address critical information needs to facilitate wildlife conservation efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies have demonstrated the compatibility of a variety agricultural practices (particularly rice farming) and wildlife habitat objectives. This work will provide quantitative evaluation of the benefits of alternative management practices to both growers and wildlife managers and will help to develop recommendations for future management objectives.

Publications

  • Hewitson, S., M. R. Miller and J. M. Eadie. 1999. Use of red-colored ponds by waterfowl wintering in the Suisun March, CA. U.S. Geological Service and Suisun Resource Conservation District.
  • Bird, J. A., G. S. Pettygrove and J. M. Eadie. 1999. Waterfowl Foraging Effects on Rice Straw Decomposition. Agronomy Progress Report 1996-1997. University of California, Davis, California.
  • Bird, J. A., G. S. Pettygrove and J. M. Eadie. 1999. Waterfowl Foraging Effects on Rice Straw Decomposition. In Proceedings of the 27th Rice Technical Working Group Meeting. Reno, NV.
  • Eadie, J. M., J.-P. Savard and M. L. Mallory. 2000. Barrow's Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica). In The Birds of North America, (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.) The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia and The American Ornithologists' Union, Washington, D.C. No. 548. 32 pp.
  • Lyon, B. E., and J. M. Eadie. 2000. Family matters: kin selection and the evolution of conspecific brood parasitism. Proceeding of the National Academy of Science 97: 12942-12944
  • Bird, J. A., G. S. Pettygrove, and J. M. Eadie. 2000. The effects of waterfowl foraging on rice straw decomposition: mutual benefits for waterfowl and growers. Journal of Applied Ecology 37:728-741.
  • Hogg, I. D., Y. de Lafontaine, and J. M. Eadie. 2000. Genotypic variation among Gammarus fasciatus (Amphipoda) in the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence River; Consequences for the conservation of widespread freshwater invertebrates. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Biology 57:1843-1852.
  • van Kessel1, C., J. M. Eadie, W. Horwath, F. Reid, J. Hill, and J. Fleskes. 2000. Integrating agronomic management practices with waterfowl populations in rice fields: opportunities and mutual benefits. Proceedings of the International Temperate Rice Conference. (In press)
  • Lauridson, P. A., M. M. Johnson, T. G. Moore and J. M. Eadie. 2000. The ecology of western wood ducks. Valley Bay Habitats. No. 23.


Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99

Outputs
Project 1. A study to examine the impact of waterfowl activity on decomposition of rice straw in winter-flooded fields was completed and a manuscript on this work is in review. We found a significant increase in the decomposition of rice straw as a result of waterfowl foraging activity, although there was no effect on nutrient incorporation into the soil. Project 2. A 3-year study to examine the effect of haying of native grasses on wetland birds in the Ash Creek Wildlife Area has been completed and a manuscript published. We used avian census techniques to determine the abundance and diversity of bird species on hayed and non-hayed study plots. There were no deleterious effects of haying on any bird species. Haying appeared to benefit sandhill cranes and geese by increasing the amount of foraging habitat. Project 3. We completed data collection for a study of habitat selection and feeding ecology by waterfowl in the Suisun Marsh. Diet samples for 3 species (mallard, pintail, and green-winged teal) are being analyzed. Project 4. A 3-year study on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on dispersal and survival of wood ducks has been completed. Radio-telemetry was used to follow wood duck broods on streams adjacent to agricultural areas in Merced and Yolo Co. Analyses and manuscript preparation are on-going. Project 5. We are using molecular genetic techniques and field studies to examine the population structure and ecology of several species of waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway including Barrow's goldeneyes, harlequin ducks, Steller's eiders and cackling Canada geese to better inform waterfowl management actions.

Impacts
My research will address critical information needs to facilitate wildlife conservation efforts while promoting sustainable agriculture. Our studies have demonstrated the compatibility of a variety agricultural practices (particularly rice farming) and wildlife habitat objectives. This work will provide quantitative evaluation of the benefits of alternative management practices to both growers and wildlife managers and will help to develop recommendations for future management objectives.

Publications

  • van Kessell, C., J. M. Eadie, W. Horwath, F. Reid, J. Hill, and J. Fleskes. 2000. Integrating agronomic management practices with waterfowl populations in rice fields: opportunities and mutual benefits. Proceedings of the International Temperate Rice Confernce. (In press).
  • Eadie, J. M., J. P. Savard, and M. L. Mallory. 2000. Barrow's Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica). In The Birds of North America. A. Poole and F. Gill, eds. The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia and The American Ornithologists' Union, Washington, D.C. (In press).
  • Epperson, W. L., J. M. Eadie, D. B. Marcum, E. L. Fitzhugh, and R. E. Delmas. 1999. Late season hay harvest provides habitat for marshland birds. California Agriculture 53: 12-17.
  • Eadie, J. M., M. R. Miller, G. S. Yarris, M. Eichholz, and A. D. Afton. 1999. A research partnership to evaluate the response of waterfowl to the moto-duck. California Waterfowl Oct/Nov 1999: 27-29.
  • Eadie, J. M., and M. R. Miller, 1999. Management Implications of the Moto-duck. California Waterfowl August/September 1999: 36-39.
  • Eadie, J. M. 1999. Dump nesting: fair or fowl? California Waterfowl Feb/Mar 1999:16-19.
  • Eadie, J. M., and D. A. Anstey. 1999. Parasitism, population dynamics and hybridization in cavity-nesting seaducks. In Behaviour and Ecology of Sea Ducks. R. I. Goudie, M. R. Petersen and G. J. Robertson, eds. [Abstract]. Occassional Paper (Canadian Wildlife Service) 100: 80.
  • Martin, K. M., and J. M. Eadie. 1999. Nests webs: a community-wide approach to the management and conservation of cavity-nesting forest birds. Forest Ecology and Management 115:243-257.
  • Hogg, I. D., J. M. Eadie, and Y. de Lafontaine. 1999. Passive dispersal among fragmented habitats: the population genetic consequences for freshwater and estuarine amphipods. In Crustaceans and the Biodiversity Crisis. F. R. Schram and J. C. von Vaupel Klein, eds. Brill, Leiden. pp. 307 - 326.


Progress 01/01/98 to 12/01/98

Outputs
Project 1. We examined the impact of waterfowl activity on decomposition of rice straw in winter-flooded fields using a series of experimental plots subjected to alternative treatments for rice straw (rolled or disced) and waterfowl (present or absent). We found a significant increase in the decomposition of rice straw as a result of waterfowl foraging activity, although there was no effect on nutrient incorporation into the soil. Project 2. We examined the effect of haying of native grasses on wetland birds in the Ash Creek Wildlife Area. We used standard avian census techniques to determine the abundance and diversity of bird species on hayed and non-hayed study plots. There were no deleterious effects of haying on an bird species. Haying appeared to benefit sandhill cranes by increasing the amount of foraging habitat. Project 3. We have completed the second year of field research on habitat selection and foraging behavior by waterfowl in the Suisun Marsh. Diet samples for 3 species (mallard, pintail, and green-winged teal) have been collected and are being analyzed. Project 4. The second of a two year study on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on dispersal and survival of wood ducks has been completed. Radio-telemetry was used to follow wood duck broods on streams adjacent to agricultural areas in Merced and Yolo Co. Analyses are underway. Project 5. We are using molecular genetic techniques and field studies to examine the population structure and ecology of several species.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

  • BROWN, M., G. SCHIRATO, R. JARVIS, J. REICHEL, N. PERFITO, K. SCRIBNER, B. MAY and J. EADIE. 1998. Natal philopatry and genetic structure of breeding Harlequin ducks (HISTRONICUS HISTRIONICUS).
  • EPPERSON, W. L., J. M. EADIE, D. B. MARCUM, E. L. FITZHUGH, and R. E. DELMAS. (In Press). Late season hay harvest provides habitat for Greater Sandhill Cranes and marshland birds. California Agriculture.
  • BIRD, J.A., G.S. PETTYGROVE, and J. M. EADIE. (IN PRESS). WATERFOWL FORAGING EFFECTS ON RICE STRAW DECOMPOSITION. DEPARTMENT OF AGRONOMY AND RANGE SCIENCE TECHNICAL REPORT 1996-1997. Univ. of California,
  • BIRD, J.A., G.S. PETTYGROVE, and J. M. EADIE. (In press). Waterfowl Foraging Effects on Rice Straw Decomposition. Proceedings of the 27th Rice Technical Working Group, Reno, NV.
  • EADIE, J.M. (IN PRESS). DUMP NESTING: FOWL OR FAIR. CALIFORNIA WATERFOWL. FEB/MAR 1999.
  • LORCH, P. and J. M. EADIE. (In press) The power of the concentrated changes test for correlated evolution. Systematic Biology.
  • EADIE, J. M. and B. LYON. 1998. Cooperation, conflict and creching behavior in Goldeneye Ducks. American Naturalist 151:397-408.


Progress 01/01/97 to 12/01/97

Outputs
Five new research projects have been initiated: 1. The impact of waterfowl activity on decomposition of rice straw in winter-flooded fields - We used a series of experimental plots subjected to alternative treatments for rice straw (rolled or disced) and waterfowl (present or absent) to measure the effects of waterfowl activity on rice straw degradation and nutrient incorporation into the soil. Two manuscripts are being prepared for publication. 2. The effect of haying of native grasses on wetland birds in the Ash Creek Wildlife Area - We used standard avian census techniques to determine the abundance and diversity of bird species on hayed and non-hayed study plots. A manuscript has been prepared and submitted for publication in California Agriculture. 3. Habitat selection and foraging behavior by waterfowl in the Suisun Marsh - Field studies have been completed to examine the effect of red/acid water on habitat use by waterfowl. The first of a 2 year study of waterfowl food habits in the marsh has also been completed. Diet samples for 3 species (mallard, pintail, and green-winged teal) were collected and are being analyzed. 4. Riparian habitats and the ecology of wood duck broods in California - The first of a 2 year study on the effect of land use and agricultural practices on dispersal and recruitment of wood ducks was initiated. Radio-telemetry was used to follow wood duck broods on streams adjacent to agricultural areas in Merced Co. Two publications have resulted. 5. Population structure.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

  • Eadie, J.M., P. Sherman, B. Semel. 1998. Conspecific brood parasitism, population dynamics, and the conservation of cavity-nesting birds. IN Caro, T. (ed). Behavioral Ecology and Conservation Biology. Oxford University press. PP 306-340.
  • Martin, K.M. and J. M. Eadie. 1998. Nest webs: A community-wide approach to the management and conservation of cavity-nesting forest birds. Forest Ecology and Management (In Press).