Research Briefs

Research
Oregon spotted frog population distribution and habitat relationships

Species concerned: Oregon spotted frog Rana pretiosa (state endangered species).

Lead Investigator: Steve Germaine, Science Division, Wildlife Program.

Purpose of research: Review and synthesize existing data on population distributions and seasonal habitat relationships of Oregon spotted frogs. Identify aspects of land use changes such as residential developments and road densities that correlated with Oregon spotted frog population persistence. Summarize and prioritize information into a quantitative hierarchical model containing landscape and local scale features believed to be most influential to Oregon spotted frogs. This model will serve as a screening tool for use by Washington Dept. of Transportation when projects involve disturbance to wetland areas within historic Oregon spotted frog range.

Geographic area: Western Washington, and Cascade foothills areas in southern portion of state.

Timeframe of study: May 2002 to March 2004.

Joint partners: USDI Geological Services, Washington Department of Natural Resources.

Funding: Phase 1, Washington Department of Transportation.

Are volunteers needed: No.