Report Archives

Southwest Washington Wildlife Reports
Sandra Jonker, Wildlife Program Manager

May 5, 2008

Vaux swifts use the old Icehouse building at the Mineral Springs Campground for nesting.

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Vaux Swifts: Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven continued to monitor Vaux's swift use of the old Icehouse building at the Mineral Springs Campground. While there, Manager VanLeuven talked to 6 people camped onsite who agreed to call with their observations of birds using the chimney (VauxSwift.JPG).

Game Management Division
Deer and Elk Survey Protocol Review: Biologist Holman provided edits and reviews of the statewide summary of deer and elk survey protocols provided by Game Division Staff. At least 10 different types of deer and elk surveys are conducted during different portions of the year in Region 5. Most surveys are centered around the collection of sex and age ratio data for inclusion into population models or evaluation of long-term trends. The Regional review is part of a statewide effort to consolidate, standardize, and document what is collectively done in the State to quantify populations of deer and elk.

Goose Nest Surveys: This year’s goose nest surveys identified 357 active nests on nine islands in the Lower Columbia River. This number is a slight increase over last year’s survey numbers, but is consistent with the thought that these islands are supporting a fairly stable nesting population. Miller Sands Island had twelve less nests than last year while Eureka Island supported seventeen more nests in 2008 as compared to 2007. The concern still remains that 74% of all nests occur on Miller Sands Island; if a major stochastic event occurred on this island a possible dramatic effect could be seen on the whole nesting population. During the survey, fifty-five “dark” goose nests were recorded. This number is ten more than in 2007, but “dark” nests are identified by site of the flushed adult birds and therefore a certain amount of error is contained in this estimate and technique. Coordinates were collected on the identified dark nests and they will be revisited in the future. This is all part of an effort to band all of these “dark” geese and goslings.

Goose Nest Survey - 1987-2008

Wildlife Diversity Division
Bald Eagle Carcass Recovery: Biologist Holman recovered the carcass of an adult bald eagle per the guidelines prepared by Dr. Mansfield and Jim Watson. The eagle carcass was sent to Washington State University for disease and toxin testing. Thanks to Clark County residents John and Mandy Maul for their attention to the bald eagles that share their property.

Sandhill Cranes: Biologist Anderson coordinated a two day survey for nesting sandhill cranes on the Conboy National Wildlife Refuge in Klickitat County. A total of 11 pairs of cranes were verified to be on nests with another 4 pairs located near or in their territories. Four other nesting pairs were not accounted for during this survey but follow-up checks will be made in mid May to verify their status.

April 28, 2008

Streaked Horn Lark This prairie species is state listed as endangered as its native prairie habitat is rapidly being lost and populations have declined.

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven toured the Wildlife Area with Tony Gilmer with the Department of Natural Resources to check the condition of roads and discuss criteria to meet obligations under the Wildlife Area’s Road Maintenance and Abandonment Plan (RMAP). Thirteen roads were checked: 7 were identified as abandoned roads, 5 were identified as orphan roads, and 1 was not a road. Roads identified as abandoned will not be included in WDFW's road inventory. In addition, Manager VanLeuven and Gilmer discussed the ford in the creek at Canyon Creek Loop Campground regarding RMAP requirements.

Manager VanLeuven visited the old Icehouse building to observe the chimney for occupancy by Vaux's swifts. Manager VanLeuen discovered that the sealed door of the building had been broken open. The door was re-sealed and a sign was placed to indicate no entry into the building. No swifts entered the chimney during this time, but they were present among a flock of swallows nearby.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Streaked Horn Lark Surveys: District 10 personnel Miller, Prince, and Ridenour assisted the Science Division with surveys for Streaked Horn Lark this week. This prairie species is state listed as endangered as its native prairie habitat is rapidly being lost and populations have declined. The surveys we conducted were on the dredged material islands in the Columbia River that exhibit similar vegetative characteristics to native prairie. Larks were found on several of the islands and a banded female from previous year’s work was also observed. Surveys will continue through May.

April 14, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area gates opened: Manager VanLeuven opened the three gates on Anderson Rd., Old Headquarters Rd., and South Breaks Rd. the day before turkey hunting season began. There were a few parties of hunters camping in the area. VanLeuven reviewed the diversity of habitats on the Goldendale Hatchery Unit. There are three wetlands, each of different character, and some undisturbed uplands with plants in addition to the previously farmed fields.

Goldendale Hatchery Unit has a diversity of habitats which consists of three wetlands, each of different character, and some undisturbed uplands with plants in addition to the previously farmed fields.

Lower Columbia Goose Survey Participant examining a damaged nest, and goose egg floated in water to estimate lenght of time it has been incubating.

Game Management Division
Lower Columbia River Goose nest survey: The annual survey for nesting geese in the Lower Columbia River began this week. Over 40 participants from WDFW, ODFW, USFWS, and volunteers searched for goose nests on an index set of islands in the Columbia River that have been surveyed since 1985. This survey is part of a statewide effort to monitor resident nesting geese and to document nesting of a group of geese in the lower Columbia that resemble the migratory Dusky goose. Participants recorded information on nest location, status of eggs, stage of incubation of dark geese, and GPS coordinates. Selected eggs from the dark geese nests were floated in water to estimate length of time the egg has been incubating. Follow-up surveys will help to identify the timing for banding projects when geese are molting. Special thanks to Mikal Morre of the Waterfowl Program who came to help coordinate the project since District Wildlife Biologist Miller is still limited in his movement by a walking cast. Many thanks to all participants who braved unsettled weather and rough river conditions to help with our project, job well done !

Area 2 Canada Goose Management: Biologist Holman edited the annual report summarizing the special late Canada goose Advanced Hunter Education (AHE) damage hunt. The hunt uses graduates of the AHE program to hunt geese on specific farms experiencing crop depredation in the late winter-early spring. This year, 69 hunters harvested 211 geese over 10 days of hunting on 7 participating farms. The late hunt has been a successful means of hazing geese from agricultural areas while providing an extension of waterfowl hunting to AHE, southwest Washington goose hunters. Thanks to technicians Wills and Dexheimer for their hard work during the late goose season.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Peregrine Falcon: Biologist Anderson has been working with local rock climbers at Beacon Rock State Park to monitor peregrine falcon nesting. Peregrines have been observed for the past two months frequently using Beacon Rock and recent observations indicate that nesting is underway. Members of the local rock climbing association are assisting with peregrine observations and have become an important part of our monitoring program.

Oregon Spotted Frogs: Biologist Anderson completed Oregon Spotted Frog egg mass surveys for the primary wetlands at Trout Lake Natural Area Preserve (DNR). No additional egg masses were detected this week. Recent warm weather had increased water levels thus providing favorable conditions for spotted frog tadpole development. Although overall egg mass numbers are down from previous years, survival of this year’s tadpoles should benefit the overall population.

Western Pond Turtles: Biologist Slavens reports that they have caught 98 western pond turtles of which 15 are females. Of the 15 females, 10 were outfitted with new radio transmitters. These females will be monitored for nesting during the months of May and June.

April 7, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area Road Maintenance: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven met with WDFW maintenance crew to work on much needed road maintenance at the KWA - the crew hauled rock to the KWA, graded the Grayback/Sheep Canyon Roads, rolled the road smooth, and rocked the lower 3/4 mile of road, which receives the most traffic. This will improve access for the public and make the road easier to maintain as well. They also graded and rolled the access road to Stinson Flat Campground. The work will continue this week on the Anderson and Old Headquarters Roads, as well as the access road to the Mineral Springs Campground.

Manager VanLeuven also met with Mr. Thiebes of the National Wild Turkey Federation to discuss possible partnering projects for habitat work on the Wildlife Area such as thinning small trees and brush over a large area. This would reduce the fire hazard as well as reduce competition among the remaining trees, which should improve the health of the forest.

Game Management Division
Three-Year Season Setting 2009-11: Regional Wildlife Program Staff met to discuss issues, options, and schedules for initiation of the 2009-11 3-year Hunting Season Setting Process. Regional issues will be further developed but include possible changes to Game Management Unit Boundaries, deer seasons, elk seasons, and bear timber damage management. Public meetings regarding the effort will be held in August, but planning for this complex undertaking is underway.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Oregon Spotted Frogs: Biologist Anderson and Biologist Hallock from DNR completed this year’s Oregon Spotted Frog egg mass survey at Trout Lake Natural Area Preserve. Snow accumulation at Trout Lake in 2008 was unusually high resulting in one of the latest egg mass censuses conducted since surveys started in 1997. Egg mortality related to freeze damage was recorded at all sites except the interior portion of the east marsh. Only embryos on the top of freeze damaged egg masses appeared to have suffered mortality. Results from this year’s survey were similar to the past three years count with approximately 200 identified egg masses. By contrast, this compares to a high count of over 900 egg masses in the year 2000. Favorable water conditions and warming weather should improve hatching success and tadpole survival as the spring progresses.

Western Pond Turtles: The western pond turtle field season began last week with Trapping at Sondino Ponds in Klickitat County. A total of 49 traps were put out last weekend and we have begun to capture western pond turtles. To date, we have caught 15 turtles and changed one transmitter on an adult female. We also found one young male mortality. Warmer weather this next week should improve trapping results.

Administrative Division
New Wildlife Biologist 2: This week Annemarie Prince, the new Wildlife Biologist 2 for District 10, came on board. Annemarie comes to the region from the Research Program where she worked on a gray squirrel project at Fort Lewis. She hails from Florida and worked 3 + years on a Management Area doing a diverse set of tasks as a biologist. Annemarie will have a home office in Lewis County and assist Pat Miller with Wildlife Program activities in Lewis, Cowlitz, and Wahkiakum counties. Several days were spent this week with new employee orientation and policy review. Annemarie brings a diverse set of skills to the Region and we are excited to begin working with her - please join us in welcoming her aboard.

ALEA Grants: Biologist Holman represented the Wildlife Program in a Regional review of the applications received for funding through the Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account. Several high quality wildlife-related proposals are included in this year's pool of applications. Projects of particular importance include those supporting public access to private industrial forestlands for hunting and other recreation, community-based pond-breeding amphibian surveys, and planting of forage and riparian enhancements on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area.

April 7, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven responded to many inquiries regarding access to the Wildlife Area and where to find turkeys, as well as other items of interest to turkey hunters. The Youth turkey hunt is this weekend, and there seems to be a good turnout. Manager VanLeuven burned stick piles that were constructed by the WCC crew in the continued effort to reduce the fire hazard on the Wildlife Area. Manager VanLeuven and Fish and Wildlife Technician Ridenour attended a grant-writing workshop in Ellensburg, which they reported was excellent and very beneficial to their work-related duties.

Klickitat PUD, Lyle School, and WDFW teamed up to build and install several new osprey nesting platforms on utility poles in the eastern Columbia River Gorge.

Game Management Division
Mt. St. Helens Elk Count: Fish and Wildlife Technician Ridenour conducted the final elk winter count on the Mt. St. Helen's Wildlife Area on April 4, 2008. A total of 807 elk were observed on the mudflow. No herd composition was recorded as the bulls have begun to cast their antlers. Monthly counts are made throughout the winter as part of our monitoring effort on the Wildlife Area. Very little snow remains on the Wildlife Area from the latest spring storms. During the count, snow began to fall at approximately 2500 feet with rain occurring at lower elevations. The emergency winter feeding crew observes winter mortalities during their feeding activities on the mudflow. To date, the winter mortality count is approximately 58 animals. We estimate that about 80% of the mortalities have been calves. It is important to note that this total is not a result of formal surveys and observed mortalities are only from the road or associated with other work. Additional mortalities away from the road are not included. A formal survey will be conducted later in the spring.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Osprey Management: Biologist Anderson reports that osprey have returned to the Columbia River Gorge over the past 2-3 weeks. This past winter local conservationists, the Klickitat PUD, Lyle School, and WDFW teamed up to build and install several new osprey nesting platforms on utility poles in the eastern Columbia River Gorge. It appears that the osprey have taken to one of their new structures as evident from this photo at right sent to WDFW by an excited resident of Lyle, WA.

Sandhill Cranes: Biologist Anderson met with representatives of the USFWS to coordinate this year’s sandhill crane nesting survey in Klickitat County. A preliminary plan was agreed upon to conduct several coordinated ground surveys to monitor the states only nesting population. In addition to the ground surveys, two aerial surveys will be scheduled.

Bald Eagle Communal Roost Management: Biologist Holman completed a Bald Eagle Management Plan for a communal roost on a tributary of Swift Reservoir. The U.S. Forest Service-owned Drift Creek Roost is several-hundred acres of old forest and contains two nest trees as well. The adjacent private timber owner will conduct thinning and leave shoreline and wetland buffers, rather than the clear cutting as originally proposed.

March 31, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Cowlitz Wildlife Area Final Report: Wildlife area staff finalized the 2007 annual report for the operation and maintenance of the Cowlitz Wildlife Area. This report is reviewed by Tacoma Public Utilities and then submitted by Tacoma to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The report summarizes management activities for 2007, proposed activities for 2008, and wildlife area expenditures. The filing of this report to FERC by Tacoma/WDFW is a requirement of the Cowlitz Hydroelectric Project license.

Recreation Information - Riffe Lake Water Levels: Tacoma Power updates lake levels and other recreation information on its toll-free Fishing and Recreation Line every weekday at 1-888-502-8690.

Klickitat Wildlife Area Citizen Advisory Group: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven met with the Klickitat Wildlife Area Citizen Advisory Group (CAG) to review KWA management plans. The meeting went well, with several good exchanges of ideas, plus additional information that can be used for planning upcoming work. The CAG input has been incorporated into the KWA Plan Update.

Game Management Division
Elk with Hoof Rot: Reports from concerned citizens and hunters are being received regularly about limping elk. Approximately 3 years ago we first received calls about possible hoof rot on an elk near Stella. Reports of multiple animals in herds now are coming in from Doty, Winlock, Castle Rock, Kalama, and other locations in the lower Cowltiz and Chehalis basins. Region V biologist have submitted some samples that have tentatively identified the cause, but a pathologist at WSU is interested in examining more elk as there is concern that a mineral or nutritional deficiency might be at play. Biologists have contacted Dr. Mansfield about assisting with a study involving collecting specimens.

Wildlife Diversity Division
North Fork Lewis River Hydropower Mitigation: Biologist Holman and Habitat Program Major Projects Division Biologists Geroux and Applegate teamed up to review the annual wildlife mitigation activities performed by Pacifiicorps. The Utility operates three dams on the North Fork of the Lewis River, spanning portions of Clark, Cowlitz, and Skamania Counties. In partial mitigation for the impacts associated with inundation of the river, Pacificorps manages several thousand acres of wildlife habitat for a variety of game and non-game species. Highlights of the 2007 land-management activities conducted by the Utility include installation of 20 gates, barriers, and signs that foster free, non-motorized public access to these lands and the treatment of in excess of 500 acres for various infestations of weeds.

Department of Natural Resources - Natural Areas Preserves and Natural Resource Conservation Areas: Biologist Holman commented on generalized management concerns and site-specific issues related to DNR's NAPs and NRCAs in Region 5. NAPs and NRCAs generally contain unique habitat types that often support Endangered, Threatened, or Priority species. This Regional planning effort is part of a larger, statewide effort to develop a Memorandum of Understanding between WDFW and DNR regarding the management of these lands.

March 24, 2008

Game Management Division
Region 5 Deer Management: The annual Spring survey of deer on and near the Klickitat Wildlife Area was conducted on the 17th and 18th of March. Wildlife Biologist Holman, Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven, Fisheries Biologist Cady, retired Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager Morrison, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officer Vance, and Volunteer Renan conducted the surveys. A total of 305 deer were observed during the effort with 238 classified. The number of classified deer was significantly fewer than the 17-year average of 528 deer.

Fawn to adult ratio recorded on the annual Spring Survey during the past 29 years and the number of deer classified during the past 17 years. [ Click chart to enlarge ]

Significant in addition to the total number of deer observed, is the annual ratio of fawns to adults. Young deer are more likely to succumb to harsh winter conditions and food shortages; therefore the ratio provides a barometer for winter severity. During severe winters, fawns suffer mortality at a greater rate than adults. thereby reducing the ratio of fawns to adults.

This year's survey resulted in a ratio of 48 fawns per 100 adult deer. This ratio represents a value that is effectively equal to the mean ratio observed in the 29-year history of the survey. The 2008 survey indicates that, in spite of unusually high amounts of snowfall in the Cascades, the deer present on or near the Klickitat Wildlife Area suffered little in the way of winter losses during 2007/08. Thanks to all those that participated in the annual spring survey.

Upcoming Survey Preparations: Mailings were completed this week to volunteers signed up for elk and goose surveys in April to comply with safety policy requirements. New guidelines require detailed briefings on agency policies prior to volunteers participating in field activities. Equipment repairs were undertaken and supplies were obtained for the upcoming game and diversity surveys in April and May.

Late Season Goose: Wildlife Biologist Holman (District 9) and Fish and Wildlife Technician Ridenour (District 10) collaborated on many task during the goose season, which just recently ended. One of the last tasks following the closure of the 2008 late season goose hunts, was to transport the last Goose check station trailer to storage. The late season goose hunts with Advanced Hunters provide hazing for local farmers with goose damage complaints.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Bald Eagle Management: District staff are very busy with salvage logging proposals on timberlands near eagle nests that were impacted by the December 2007 storm. High winds caused scattered tree blow down and some eagle nests may have been impacted. A local land manager, Hancock Forest Resources, has volunteered to cost share a flight in the lower Colombia River to assess eagle nest territory impacts. Region V is pleased that Gretchen Blatz from our Olympia staff will be able to participate in the flights Blatz manages the eagle nest data on a statewide basis. District Biologist Miller has written 3 formal eagle plans and several no -conditions plans in the past week.

District Wildlife Biologist Miller and Fish and Wildlife Technician Ridenour verified a new bald eagle nest. The nest was reported to District Biologist Miller from a local DNR employee. The nest status is unknown at this time since bald eagles were neither observed in the area nor occupying the nest at the time of District 10's site visit. District 10 will continue to monitor use of the nest site. The local diking district employees will also note bald eagle presence and any possible use of the nest; they have observed eagles in the area recently. The nest site was reported to the WDFW bald eagle database manager.

March 17, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Cowlitz Wildlife Area
Cavity Nesting Box Survey: Assistant Manager Richard Vanderlip and Natural Resources Technician Casey Morris finished the annual artificial cavity nest box survey. Once a year the Cowlitz Wildlife Area staff visit the nest boxes to clean and fill them for the coming season’s nesting pairs (mostly Wood ducks). At this time the data are collected for the previous year’s use and damaged boxes are repaired or replaced. The 2007 nesting season’s use and success rates were slightly down (~4%) from the previous year. However, areas that had in the past seen little activity showed a substantial increase this previous year. The downside is that the wildlife area’s big producer (Oxbow Lake) had a very poor year.

Riffe Lake Low Water Levels: The water levels on Riffe Lake are again at very low levels at 695 feet. Full pool is at 778 feet. This low water condition has exposed a lot of bank usually underwater and, with an article written in the local paper, many people are visiting the lake. A reminder - it is unlawful to artifact hunt on the Cowlitz Wildlife Area and, furthermore, a permit is required to remove any resources natural or cultural.

Recreation Information - Riffe Lake Water Levels: Tacoma Power updates lake levels and other recreation information on its toll-free Fishing and Recreation Line every weekday at 1-888-502-8690.

Area on Mt. St. Helen's WLA that was planted with willow and cottonwood cuttings.

Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area
Stabilization Planting: On Saturday March 8th, Wildlife Area Manager Calkins, Technician Leif Fox, and ten volunteers began planting the area where three wood structures were built in December to establish woody vegetation as a long-term erosion control measure along the Toutle River. The area behind two of the three structures has filled with sediments and was very easy to plant. During the day, an estimated 4-5000 willow and cottonwood cuttings and 100 rooted sitka alder were planted in a stretch of about 1/4 mile including areas just up and downstream of the three structures. The photo at right is representative of the area behind one of the structures that was planted with willow and cottonwood cuttings. During the following week, Wildlife Area employees planted an additional 550 rooted trees and shrubs including pacific ninebark, redosier dogwood, black cottonwood, sitka spruce, noble fir, Douglas fir, and grand fir. The cottonwood, spruce ,and fir are all being placed in four foot high plastic tree shelters and 12 inch diameter wire tubes anchored with rebar stakes to protect them from elk browsing and dehydration until they are well established.

Closure Still In Effect: The public is reminded that the closure of the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area to public use remains in effect until May 1st. Last year WDFW noted that a number of violations occurred, particularly during the months of March and April. Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement officers were able to catch up with some of the violators but not all. The timing of last year’s violations of the closure coincided with the timing of antler drop of the bulls in the herd. Because the temptation of collecting antlers was enough for some to violate the closure and in some instances run the entire herd off the winter range, WDFW is taking a new approach in hopes of discouraging some of these violations. Employees will be picking up shed antlers incidental to other work, including winter-feeding that is still under way, but no special effort is being made to search for them. Antlers from winterkill bulls, which are not legal to posses at any time, are also being removed. At the end of the season the antlers will be transferred to personnel in WDFW's Region 3 to be included in a sale being organized there. By implementing this measure, we hope to discourage unlawful use that could lead to additional winter mortality in the herd by further stressing the animals during the most critical time of the winter for them.

WDFW does conduct habitat work on the area during the closure period, including forage management and other activities such as the tree planting discussed above, but WDFW takes measures to minimize disturbance to the animals during the operations. We also limit our activities to those that must be done at this time of year in order to be successful.

Game Management Division
Mt. St. Helens Elk Herd: Using a combination of aerial and ground counts, Regional Wildlife Program Manager Jonker, Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald, and Wildlife Biologist Holman conducted a survey of elk on the North Fork Toutle River. See the table below detailing greater than 800 on the valley floor of the North Fork Toutle River from its initiation point on the North Side of Mt. St. Helens to the confluence with the Green River. Most animals were concentrated on the St. Helens Wildlife Area in the vicinity of this winter's feeding operation. It is likely that the North Fork Toutle River valley currently supports nearly 10% of the entire Mt. St. Helens elk herd.

March 10, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area Projects: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven reviewed past photos taken during and after controlled burns and wildfires at the Wildlife Area as well as grazing unit photos over several years. VanLeuven discussed the history of the prescribed burn program at the Wildlife Area with DNR crew supervisor in context of present and future management. VanLeuven also contacted the Wildlife Area’s Citizen Advisory Group members to set up their next meeting and worked on several maintenance issues at the Wildlife Area headquarters.

Game Management Division
Post-season Elk Survey: Regional Wildlife Program Manager Jonker and Biologist Holman conducted an aerial post-season elk survey in the Lewis River (560), and Siouxon (572) Game Management Units. Each of these Units are located at relatively high elevations in the Cascades and are held primarily in U.S. Forest Service ownership. Large amounts of persistent low-elevation snowpack made the elk difficult to locate. The animals were primarily located in the larger (low elevation) riparian areas or within dense forest stands (where they are essentially impossible to see).

A total of 108 elk were classified on the survey. The survey revealed a bull:cow:calf ratio of 4:100:40. Small sample size and poor representation of bulls in the survey make conclusions regarding the male segment of the population inconclusive. The presence of 40 calves per 100 cows is encouraging given the severity of the 2007-08 winter.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Winter Carnivore Survey: Biologist Anderson has been working with the USFS and volunteers to initiate a pilot carnivore camera detection project near Mt. Adams in the South Cascades. Baited camera stations are being set at elevations above 5500 ft. with an emphasis to detect potential wolverine movements. WDFW and the USFS are interested in determining if recent observations of wolverine indicate frequent use of the South Cascades or rare individuals moving through the area. This winters work is focused primarily on looking at logistics for future winter surveys with the potential of actually documenting any wolverine currently in the area.

March 3, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area Projects: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven gave a talk to two groups of students at Centerville about Washington State law, differentiating between game birds and protected species. Also discussed domestic birds, which WDFW does not regulate, and the three nonnative pest species (starlings, house sparrows, and pigeons). Students there are interested in wildlife and were an attentive audience. VanLeuven also provided some posters for teachers to put up in classrooms.

Manager VanLeuven worked with Officer Vance to check ATV use on the Wildlife Area and enforce road closures. They checked several roads, including the Old Headquarters area to check road condition. Seven people in 3 vehicles were found near the old hay barn. They had entered the Wildlife Area from adjacent property through a closed gate. They were informed that the area is closed and why the closures were in place. Officer Vance noted their ID information to record receipt of "personal notification" of the closures.

Goldendale Unit: Met with Fish Program, Lands Agent, and Wildlife Program manager to discuss the Goldendale Hatchery Unit and management of the surrounding property for both fish and wildlife.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtles: Biologist Anderson completed annual reports for BPA funded western pond turtle projects in the Columbia River Gorge. February marked the end of the extended contract period issued by BPA in 2007. It appears that funding has been approved for another year of field activities starting March 1.

In addition to BPA contract obligations, Biologist Anderson and a representative of the Columbia Gorge Land Trust met with a private landowner in Skamania County to discuss possible acquisition of their property for western pond turtle protection. This is the last significant western pond turtle habitat in the Columbia River Gorge that is not in public ownership and has been a priority of state, federal, and private conservation efforts for over 15 years. The Columbia Gorge Land Trust has offered to assist with landowner negotiations for the protection of this property.

Workshop: Wildlife Program Manager Jonker attended a 21st Century Salmon and Steelhead Workshop for the short and long-term management of salmon and steelhead for recovery and sustainability that will include many programs within the agency.

February 25, 2008

Elk along the roadway where hay is being distributed.

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Winter Feeding Update: Agency staff continue to deliver alfalfa hay to the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area on a daily basis. The Emergency Winter Feeding operation, which began on January 28th, was a significant challenge for the first couple of weeks due primarily to difficult road conditions from heavy snowfall. At one point we had a flat bed truck stuck on the Wildlife Area for over one week and had to resort to the use of 4 wheel drive pickups to transport the hay. We currently are feeding about two tons of hay per day and estimate that we have approximately 600 elk on the area. The attached photo shows some of the elk along the roadway where hay is being distributed.

Shillapoo Wildlife Area Tree Plantings: Assistant Manager Hauswald and Technician Fox have been busy this week planting about 1,800 trees at four different sites on the Shillapoo Wildlife Area. Two of the sites are riparian plantings, and received about 1,100 trees; one was a cottonwood planting of 500 trees in an effort to restore a previous Great Blue Heron Rookery; and the fourth was an upland site, which received about 200 trees. A fifth site, which was approved for tree planting late last fall, will receive about 600 trees next week. The majority of the trees being planted are Oregon Oak, in an effort to restore native oak forest communities in the area. Each project site will take several years to complete the plantings and the desired plant composition at each.

An otter and a porcupine sleeping on a stump in the creek were observed during the site visit at Swale Creek area.

Klickitat Wildlife Area Projects: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven met with the Mid-Columbia Fisheries Enhancement Group to discuss the Swale Creek area. An otter and a porcupine sleeping on a stump in the creek were observed during the site visit. In addition, Manager VanLeuven conducted a site visit around the Sipes property with a Wildlife Area neighbor, Columbia Land Trust, and Habitat Biologist Weiler. Discussions included current condition of the habitat relative to western gray squirrels and other features, such as recent land uses, etc. The group observed two groups of deer and one western gray squirrel during the visit, as well as 25 to 30 squirrel nests. Manager VanLeuven also met with former Wildlife Area Manager Morrison to discuss various issues related to the Wildlife Area - Mr. Morrison provided a wealth of historical information that is very valuable with respect to current management considerations on the Wildlife Area.

Game Management Division
Hunting Season Recommendations: Biologist Holman reviewed preliminary harvest data for deer and elk in Region 5. Additionally, population modeling was conducted to ascertain what impact the liberalization of antlerless elk harvest in the St. Helens Herd had on the overall population. Further consideration was given regarding the severity of the current winter. Per the Mt. St. Helens Elk Herd Plan, the 2007 season began the 5-year effort to reduce the St. Helens Elk population from approximately 13,000 individuals to 10,000. As a follow-up to these efforts, Regional Wildlife Program Manager Jonker, District Wildlife Biologist Anderson, and Biologist Holman met with Game Division Manager Ware and Deer and Elk Section Manager Nelson regarding Region 5 hunting season proposals.

Fish and Wildlife Scientific Technician Ridenour and volunteer Howell spent a morning checking the cameras on Lord and Fisher Islands.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Columbian White Tailed Deer: Fish and Wildlife Scientific Technician Ridenour and volunteer Howell spent a morning checking the cameras on Lord and Fisher Islands. Of 11 images on Fisher Island, 1 contained a picture of a Black Tailed deer and 10 others were images of a coyote. No images of deer were recorded on Lord Island, although 1 camera had a battery malfunction. Images are used to estimate deer subspecies on the island during other surveys.

Administrative: District Wildlife Biologist Miller is recovering from surgery from a work related injury. Miller is required to wear a knee-high boot to prevent any moment of his ankle/heel for another 9 weeks. Since this injury is on Miller's right foot, he is unable to drive or engage in extensive walking/hiking until the end of April, and arrangements for some surveys will be impacted.

February 19, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area Habitat Improvement: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven met with the Mid-Columbia Fisheries Enhancement Group to discuss potential fish habitat improvement project sites on the Klickitat River and Swale Creek. These sites are on Klickitat Wildlife Area property.

Trespassing: Information was provided to Manager VanLeuven regarding trespassing on important parcels where Western Turtle ponds are present. A person has been running dogs and riding a mountain bike there even though there are signs present regarding closure to public access.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Oak Habitat Management: Biologist Anderson met with Olympia and Vancouver staff to develop a plan for oak habitat improvement in Klickitat County. The Klickitat Wildlife Area and surrounding ownerships were chosen as an initial project area for an oak improvement project. Past fire suppression has caused an increase in conifer growth and thus increased competition with oak habitat. 2008 will be used primarily for planning and mapping potential project areas with the goal of on the ground oak/conifer habitat improvement starting in 2009.

Sea Lions: Wildlife Program Manager Jonker attended the Northwest Power and Conservation Council and Committee meetings where the Council discussed several interim year funding proposals including 2 proposals submitted by Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission for sea lion related work (e.g., hazing, capture, marking, etc.).

February 11, 2008

Wildlife Diversity Division
Bald Eagle Management: Biologists Anderson and Holman participated in a two-day session with other WDFW staff involved in bald eagle management. Several aspects of bald eagle management and bald eagle Plan development are currently conducted in various ways throughout the State. Several of these inconsistencies should be relatively easy to address and standardize including the need to develop standard templates for all eagle plans, the need for all WDFW Staff in both Wildlife and Habitat Programs to have easy, up-to-date information on eagle locations and history, the need to standardize the procedure for signing and storage of eagle plans, and the formatting of eagle related data. At a policy level, WDFW will need to address more difficult questions relating to bald eagle site management, population monitoring, etc., following down listing to "Sensitive" at both the State and Federal level.

Western Pond Turtle: Biologist Anderson is working with Olympia staff to integrate statewide western pond turtle capture data into the agency database. Regional staff also met with Olympia Diversity staff to develop guidelines for next year’s Matrix.

Game Management Division
Pacific Northwest Sportsman’s Show: Region 5 staff worked throughout the 5-day Sportsman’s Show event. The show was well attended and WDFW's booth drew in much attention, especially the enforcement elk decoy. Many thanks to all the dedicated staff who provided pertinent information in response to the many questions from all the interested attendees.

February 4, 2008

Snow has impacted many of the acitivities of the Klickitat and Cowlitz Wildlife Areas.

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Emergency Winter Feeding Initiated: Hay was delivered on Monday the 28th and WDFW immediately began the emergency winter-feeding on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area. We currently estimate that at least 600 elk are on the area. During the first week, between 1300 and 4000 pounds of alfalfa have been fed per day. Conditions for the feeding crew have been somewhat miserable, having to deal with driving through up to 18 inches of snow to reach the site. For the time being, we have abandoned the use of larger flatbed trucks and are feeding out of 4 wheel drive pickups, which are currently the only vehicles that can make it in and out of the site safely. As we would ordinarily expect under conditions such as these, staff have observed two elk mortalities that may be due to winter conditions. Last year, even with a feeding program operating, a total of 18 mortalities were found on the site, an indicator that forage is not the only factor leading to winter mortality. Harsh winter conditions are just as important in dictating the severity of winter on the animals.

Klickitat and Cowlitz Wildlife Areas: Staff at both Wildlife Areas have been spending many hours clearing and trudging through snow; impacting outside related work activities. Staff have been monitoring impacts to wildlife.

Game Management Division
Region 5 Post-Season Deer Surveys: Biologist Holman compiled the results of post-season deer surveys conducted in GMU 388 (Grayback) and 382 (East Klickitat). During the effort a total of just over 800 deer were classified with a combination of aerial and ground surveys employed. Please see the table and graph below summarizing the post-season deer survey results from 2003 through 2007 in these two important Region 5 GMUs. A post-hunting season goal of 15 bucks per 100 does has been established as a state-wide benchmark per the Game Management Plan. Note that although located in Region 5, and containing both mule and black-tailed deer as well as hybrid animals, GMU 388 is now managed as a mule-deer area. A three-point or larger antler restriction for all user-groups was implemented in 2006 and the general rifle season was shortened to 14 days. During the period spanning 2003 through 2005, Grayback was hunted under a more liberal two-point restriction and offered a longer general rifle season. Post-season buck to doe ratios under prior management strategy averaged just 8 bucks per 100 does annually. The survey indicates that this change in management strategy has resulted in improved post-hunting-season escapement of bucks in GMU 388. WDFW will continue to monitor the post-season deer population in GMU 388 in future years.

Region 5 Post Season Deer Survey Summary 2003-2007 Click chart for enlargement

Wildlife Diversity Division
Columbia River Gorge Trails: Biologist Anderson is currently assisting the Habitat Division with review of several proposed trail systems in the Columbia River Gorge. Many of the trails under review are mountain bike trails that have not been approved for development by the USFS and have been built in sensitive wildlife habitats near Catherine and Major Creeks near White Salmon. The public review process is attempting to go back and determine if many of the trails should be closed or allowed to continue to exist. Trials are currently in areas with sensitive raptor nesting sites and big game concentration areas.

January 28, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Emergency Winter Feeding Preparations: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins and Assistant Manager Hauswald have been fully occupied over the past week making preparations for implementation of an emergency winter feeding operation on the Wildlife Area. Details included: Securing permission to use a Department of Transportation facility for hay and equipment storage; Hiring temporary employees who will do most of the feeding; Picking up flatbed trucks from the Bob Oke Game Farm for daily feeding runs; Collecting and delivering pallets to the hay storage site; Locating an agency tractor capable of lifting and loading the 1300 lb bales; and Purchasing and scheduling of the hay delivery as well as gathering up dozens of small items needed for daily operations and safety. At this time, hay is expected to be delivered on the 28th with feeding operations expected to commence immediately after. The tractor is the only item that will not arrive until after that date but we will have the trucks loaded at the time of delivery, which should allow us to commence operations for a few days until the tractor arrives.

Calkins and Hauswald extend a special thanks to Wenas Wildlife Area Assistant Jody Taylor and Blue Mountains Wildlife Area Manager Bob Dice who were instrumental in helping to get the operation started. Taylor arranged the hay delivery, rounded up hay tarps and helped Calkins schedule the logistics. Manager Dice located and moved the agency tractor as far as the Oak Creek Wildlife Area in Naches where it will be picked up by Casey Morris of the Cowltz Wildlife Area next week to get it the rest of the way to Mt. St. Helens. Thanks also go to Paul Peterson and Larry Peterson of the Mossyrock and North Toutle Hatcheries who helped us locate and haul pallets to the site.

Klickitat Wildlife Area: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven provided a tour of the Wildlife Area to John Thiebes, who is working with WDFW and the National Wild Turkey Federation, to discuss several potential habitat improvement projects in the area.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle Management: Biologist Holman met with Biometrician Chang, Research Scientist Vanderhaegen, Pierce and Thurston County District Wildlife Biologist Tirhi, and Pierce and Thurston County Assistant Biologist Schmidt to discuss data collection and compilation efforts for western pond turtles. Regions 5 and 6 currently conduct various turtle trapping and monitoring efforts annually, leading to the capture of hundreds of individual turtles and the re-capture of many turtles. These efforts have focused on the capture of adult female western pond turtles and have not been standardized among sites, regions, or years. Similarly, data collection and recording efforts have not been standardized, centralized, nor designed specifically for population estimation.

Populations of western pond turtles in the Columbia River Gorge have increased significantly since the early 1990s when roughly 150 individuals occupied just two sites. Similarly, populations have increased at select locations in the south Puget Sound area. As western pond turtle management progresses into the future, the emphasis of the program will slowly change from head-starting and initiation of new sub-populations to monitoring of extant populations and habitat management activities. Standardization of data collection methods and monitoring efforts will allow for meaningful evaluation of progress towards the goals outlined in the State Recovery Plan for western pond turtles. Thanks to Wan-Ying Chang and Matt Vanderhaegen for their help in this effort.

One camera on Lord Island recorded 53 images of both black tail and white tailed deer

Wind Power: Biologist Anderson attended a statewide meeting of WDFW people currently working on wind power issues. WDFW has recently hired 3 biologists to develop and coordinate agency guidelines for development review and monitoring of wind projects around the state. Wind Power development has been growing exponentially the past 5 years and WDFW is increasingly being asked to review large-scale proposals, primarily in eastern Washington. Although wind power is generally believed to have minimal impacts on wildlife habitat, these projects are industrial developments frequently taking place in sensitive areas. The goal of this week’s meeting was to develop a statewide strategy for agency policy on development guidelines for project development and mitigation.

Remote Camera Monitoring: Volunteer Dan Howell and Science Technician Ridenour endured the sunny yet cold weather Tuesday to service USFWS remote cameras on 2 Columbia River islands. These cameras are used to record black-tailed deer and ESA listed Columbian white-tailed deer presence. Of the nine images recorded on Fisher Island, all were of coyotes. One camera on Lord Island recorded 53 images of both black tail and white tailed deer.

Game Management Division
St. Helens Land Access Program: The St. Helens Land Access Program is winding down after a successful first year. To thank the many volunteer organizations and their members, Weyerhaeuser, and WDFW staff, a luncheon was hosted to thank everyone for all their hard work and for doing such an excellent job! We had a great turn out and enjoyed sharing the many interesting experiences during this effort. We look forward to learning from our first year and implementing another great effort next year. Thank you to everyone for a fantastic job well done!

January 22, 2008

Game Management Division
Region 5 Deer Herd Composition Surveys: Biologist Holman compiled the black-tail and mule deer herd composition surveys that were completed in Region 5 during 2007. The surveys are conducted annually during the period beginning August 15 and continuing through September 30th. These data are used to estimate the annual ratio of fawns to does throughout the Region. These productivity data are then used as one of the inputs into the Region's Sex - Age - Kill method of population estimation. The 2007 effort involved the classification of over 750 deer and resulted in a fawn to doe ratio of 55:100. The 2007 ratio of 55 fawns per 100 does represents a return to average productivity in Region 5, following poor production of fawns in 2006.

Wildlife Program Staff along with volunteers actively conducted surveys as well as documenting any deer seen during other work (or play) activities during this time period. Thanks to all those that helped out with the deer surveys, especially the members of the Yacolt Burn Sportsman's Club as well as employees and contractors for Western Pacific, SDS, and Sierra Pacific timber companies. Also thanks to WDFW fisheries biologists Gray and Keller for their documentation of deer. Please see the figure below detailing the fawn to doe ratio and number of deer included in the effort from 1995-2007.

Region 5 Deer Herd Composition Surveys 2007

Mid Winter Waterfowl Surveys: District Wildlife Biologist Anderson completed the mid-winter waterfowl surveys between Bonneville Dam and John Day Dam on the Columbia River. All survey results have been tabulated and data have been submitted. Overall, waterfowl numbers for 2008 are similar to that of 2006 and 2007. Scaup numbers on the Columbia River were down by approximately 1500 birds, but mallards, widgeon, and gadwall were a bit higher than the past two years. Wintering conditions are generally favorable along the river, as most backwater sloughs, lakes, and wetlands appear to be open and available for foraging.

Pacific Joint Venture Proposal: District Wildlife Biologist Miller submitted a pre-proposal to fund hydro seeding on Hump Island in the Columbia River near Longview. Dredge material will be deposited on the island as part of a COE fish enhancement program and WDFW and WA DNR would like to test hydro seeding as a method to establish vegetation on islands that receive spoil materials.

January 14, 2008

Snow and ice conditions hampered elk survey efforts.

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Elk Monitoring: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins counted 439 elk using the Wildlife Area on January 7th. Efforts to count elk the previous week were hampered by weather and road closures when SR 504 was closed at milepost 28 for several days due to snow and ice conditions. Snow was present on the day of the survey with estimated depths of one inch at 1000 feet, five inches at 2000 feet, and eight inches at 2500 feet. With only a small amount of snow covering the wildlife area, elk were seen feeding on grasses with apparent little difficulty. The photo at right shows a portion of the wildlife area was taken from the Weyerhaeuser Forest Learning Center during the survey.

Shillapoo Wildlife Area Vancouver Tornado Narrowly Misses Shillapoo: While the damage reported last week due to a tornado that struck parts of Vancouver and Clark County was all East of Vancouver Lake, there was a narrow swath of damage on the West side of the lake as well. Damage on this side of the lake included: part of an old hay shed and breakage of several large trees on Port of Vancouver Property. This swath of the damage was only 1,000 feet South of the large heron rookery on the South Unit, pointing out how vulnerable some of our critical wildlife sites are and the importance of protecting and enhancing other sites to provide future habitat if current features are lost due to natural disaster or other factors.

Oregon Brittany Club Presentation: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins spoke at the annual meeting of the Oregon Brittany Club in Boring, Oregon. The presentation covered management of the Shillapoo Wildlife Area, ongoing projects, and rules and opportunities pertaining to dog training and field trials. The most interesting point of discussion was generated by a question from the group concerning the use of horses in dog training. Calkins explained that there is no prohibition on horses on the Wildlife Area but in many areas it would be impractical due to the fencing needed to manage grazing programs. This is an activity that we have discussed recently with the Citizen Advisory Group who recommended that we not prohibit horses but suggested that we should not encourage horse use either.

Klickitat Wildlife Area Volunteer Recognition: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven would like to recognize and thank all the volunteers who helped accomplish many projects at the Klickitat Wildlife Area in 2007. These people contributed time, effort, and expertise to make things happen on the Wildlife Area, which has limited resources. These activities and projects are important to help foster quality wildlife-oriented recreation on WDFW lands, as well as enhancing habitat for wildlife.

• Northwest Service Academy: Removal of derelict fencing and old homestead debris on the Sondino Unit.
• Northwest Service Academy and Trout Unlimited: Streamside shrub restoration on the Goldendale Hatchery Unit.
• Trout Unlimited and Future Farmers of America high school students DJ Campbell and Aaron Brandt: Construction and installation of two duck nest boxes on the Goldendale Hatchery Unit.
• Gordon Johnson, Frank Thompson, Dick Wheelhouse, Oscar Johnson, and Larry Ritchie: Pheasant releases at all three sites in Klickitat County.
• Jerry and Cathie Wilson: Litter collection and observation of activity on the Soda Springs Unit.
• Dick Jenny: Tractor and small motors repair and maintenance, forage plot plowing and stick pile burning on the Soda Springs Unit, and chipping or burning woody debris at KWA Headquarters.
• Bruce Hall: Maintenance of streamside plantings on the Goldendale Hatchery Unit.

Cowlitz Wildlife Area Wildlife Area staff have been conducting winter waterfowl surveys. In addition, staff have been documenting abandoned vehicles and garbage dumping by several individuals. Information has been recorded and is being forwarded to Law Enforcement for action.

Ring-necked ducks foraging on the pond at the western end of Beacon Rock State Park.

Game Management Division
Mid-winter waterfowl surveys: Biologist Holman completed the mid-winter waterfowl survey from the mouth of the Washougal River, up the Columbia to Bonneville dam. The results of the survey tallied: 1,626 ducks (primarily scaup on the Columbia River) and 683 Canada geese (mostly westerns). This year's survey included nearly identical numbers of geese but roughly 25% more ducks compared to the 2007 survey. The Columbia River attracts a wide variety of wintering waterfowl. The photo at right shows ring-necked ducks foraging on the pond at the western end of Beacon Rock State Park.

January 7, 2008

Game Management Division
SW Washington Canada Goose Season Area 2a: The Canada goose hunting season in Area 2A continues. Through the end of December the hunt has offered average success among those checking geese at check stations, though overall harvest is lower than that of recent years. Collectively the State-operated hunter check stations located at Vancouver, Ridgefield Marina, and Woodland along with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service station at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge reported a total of 612 hunters having harvested a total of 1132 geese. This makes an average of 1.8 birds per hunter among those who brought geese to the check stations.

Goose season continues on the 3-days per week schedule (Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday) until January 27th 2008. Those interested in participating in the Area 2A goose hunt are encouraged to review the special requirements that are detailed in the Waterfowl Hunting Pamphlet. The special seasons in 2A are designed to protect populations of the dusky Canada goose.

Midwinter Waterfowl Index: District Wildlife Biologist Miller and Fish and Wildlife Science Technician Ridenour completed the Midwinter Waterfowl Index ground survey for Wahkiakum County. A total of 1,279 geese and 142 ducks were observed. The flocks of geese were mostly comprised of cackling, Taverner/lesser, and western Canada geese, although one Aleutian and one white-fronted goose were observed. The majority of ducks observed were primarily ring-necked ducks, American wigeon, mallards, and mergansers.

Beginning in 1955, state and federal biologists conduct annual aerial and ground surveys to provide a key index of U.S. waterfowl populations. For many areas, this is the only estimate of waterfowl use. The survey also provides estimates of the size of goose and swan populations and tracks population trends of duck species that nest outside of breeding survey areas (Pacific Flyway Council).

Diversity Division
Western Pond Turtle: Biologist Anderson is currently developing a new scope of work and budget for the Columbia River Gorge western pond turtle project. This proposal is for fiscal 2008 work to be conducted under contract with the Bonneville Power Administration. The new contact will start March 1st and continue to support WDFW efforts to recover the western pond turtle in the Columbia River Gorge.

January 3, 2008

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Shillapoo Wildlife Area: Injured Tundra Swan Captured: Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald, with help from Wildlife Area Manager Calkins, captured a juvenile Tundra Swan on Clark County Parks property adjacent to the Vancouver Lake Unit of the Shillapoo Wildlife Area. While Hauswald was surveying the water levels of the wetland basins on the parks property he noticed the swan, which had the behavior of a sick or injured bird. With his first capture attempt being unsuccessful; due to the swan swimming into thick Reed Canary Grass and losing visual contact, he contacted Calkins for assistance in spotting and tracking the swan from a higher vantage point. With Calkins using a portable radio to guide Hauswald, and after trailing the bird for nearly two hundred yards through thigh high water and tangled grass to the edge of the wetland, Hauswald was finally able to capture the injured swan. The swan was then transported to the regional office, where it was picked up by a Portland Audubon volunteer and taken to their wildlife recovery center. Hauswald contacted the recovery center two days later to check on the diagnosis and condition of the swan. The swan had a wounded wing possibly from flying into the power lines next to the wetland where it had been captured. It was in good and improving condition, but it is still uncertain if it will make a full recovery.

The Lower Columbia Regional Fish Enhancement Group (LCRFEG) recently completed work on a riparian enhancement project intended to reduce erosion of elk winter range on the mudflow, improve fish habitat, and decrease sediment movement in the Toutle River system.

Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area: First Stabilization Project Completed: The Lower Columbia Regional Fish Enhancement Group (LCRFEG) recently completed work on a riparian enhancement project intended to reduce erosion of elk winter range on the mudflow, improve fish habitat, and decrease sediment movement in the Toutle River system. Biologists working for the Cowlitz tribe secured funding for the project through a $40,000 grant from the Washington Department of Ecology. Habitat biologists and technical specialists from WDFW's Habitat Program also engaged in the design of the project.

The project resulted in three "L" shaped structures resembling pile dikes that are intended to pool water behind them trapping sediment and diverting the water away from the erosion prone edge of the mudflow. The piles were put in place by Mike Watters Excavation of Vancouver, using a modified rock hammer. A second excavator was used to pre-position each log prior to driving.

During fall, winter, and spring the Toutle River changes course frequently at higher flows and some habitat losses, including elk forage and riparian plantings, have already occurred this year. The benefits of the project became evident the first day after the first structure was completed. When the construction crew arrived the next day they found that at least three feet of material had been deposited in the area behind the piles and the main flow of the river had been deflected away from the bank, which protects the area below it from erosion. This not only provides increased stability, but also amounts to additional area where riparian and forage plantings can occur in the future. Plans are already in place for both tree planting and seeding later this winter and spring.

WDFW has received other grant funding for this type of work, which is in the planning stages and The LCRFEG has also submitted other applications for grant funding for further work on the site. While structures like these serve as an initial stabilization measure, it is still critical that we continue our efforts to establish tree and shrub cover to provide long-term stability and improved habitat for fish, elk, and a wide diversity of other species.

Game Management Division
Region 5 Post-Season Deer Surveys: Biologist Holman and Klickitat Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven conducted an aerial survey of the post-hunting season deer herd in GMU 388 (Grayback). District Wildlife Biologist Anderson provided the ground support and satellite-based flight following for the flight. The survey conditions were good with clear skies, little wind, and a largely snow-covered backdrop for the effort. Additionally, Biologist Holman conducted ground-based post-season surveys in GMU 382 (East Klickitat). Initial results appear promising and a summary of this-year's post-season deer surveys in Grayback and East Klickitat will be the topic of a future weekly report.

December 24, 2007

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven accompanied Law Enforcement Officer Bolton to court regarding an off-road driving citation issued Oct. 13, 2007. The incident was discussed and reviewed. Officer Bolton brought photos taken at the scene. The violator also brought photos to support his point of view. The court determined that he did violate the law and directed him to pay the fine.

Game Management Division
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Elk Count: Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Hauswald and Fish and Wildlife Technician Ridenour conducted a winter count on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area on December 21st. Periodic counts are made throughout the winter as part of our monitoring effort on the wildlife area. A total of 428 elk were observed on the mudflow. Of these, 299 elk were classified including 43 bulls (22 spike, 14 raghorn, and 7 mature), 80 calves, and 176 cows. The number of elk observed on the mudflow was an increase from the first count. During the first winter count, human disturbance may have influenced the number of elk observed.

Diversity Division
Columbia White-Tail Deer: Fish and Wildlife Technician Ridenour continued to conduct surveys of the ESA listed CWT deer in the area west of Longview. Ridenour was encouraged to see some fawns in the Willow Grove area. Coyote predation is thought to be limiting deer numbers and coyotes are regularly observed on Willow Grove and Fisher Island.

December 17, 2007

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Rainstorm Impact: The recent heavy rains caused only minor erosion along the edge of the Mudflow by the North Fork Toutle River. This did however, include some of the tree plantings that were installed last year. A rough estimate of winter range forage lost during the floods is one acre, perhaps up to two. The Lower Columbia Regional Fisheries Enhancement Group and Cowlitz Tribe are partnering with WDFW on a project that is under way to install wood structures to help stabilize the bank area and the winter range habitat. It will also reduce sediment transport in the system and provide more stable habitat for fish. WDFW has also received a larger grant from the Recreation and Conservation Office to do the same type of work in other parts of the Wildlife Area. We hope that we can get this work under way in 2008.

Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Closure: The annual closure of the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area is now in effect. Wildlife Area Manager Calkins posted signs at the most common access points and one more remote route to the Wildlife Area to advise the public of the closure. The closure, which will be in effect until May 1st, is part of WDFW's effort to minimize disturbance to elk on the winter range and increase winter survival in the herd.

Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Pre-Winter Elk Survey: Wildlife Area Manager Calkins conducted the first winter count of elk on the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area on December 5th. Periodic counts are made throughout the winter as part of our monitoring effort on the wildlife area. In this case, the count may not be a complete representation of animals using the site because two hikers were seen on the Wildlife Area, which may have excluded some elk from the count. A total of 263 elk were seen on the mudflow. Of these, 144 were classified including 83 Bulls, 13 calves, and 48 cows before the hikers spooked the elk. We will attempt to do a second count due to the human disturbance, and subsequent counts will be made at least once per month.

Piles of dead limbs being burnt at the KWA Headquarters.

Klickitat Wildlife Area: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven burned 3 piles of dead limbs at the KWA Headquarters and 6 piles along Anderson Rd.. It was dry and cold both days. It was very difficult to ignite some of the piles; however, the piles burned up completely once they were going. Snow prevented the fire from spreading outside the perimeter of the piles.

Game Management Division
Mt. St. Helens Monument Elk Hunts Proposed: Regional Wildlife Program Staff met with U.S. Forest Service representatives to further discuss proposed elk hunts in three areas of the Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The three new hunt areas "Pumice Plains", "Mt. Whittier", and “Upper Smith Creek” have been identified and approved by the Fish and Wildlife Commission and endorsed by the Forest Service. Current points of discussion between the Forest Service and WDFW surround tag numbers, season dates, land use restrictions, etc.

2009-2015 Game Management Plan: Biologist Holman provided comments to the draft version of the 2009-2015 Game Management Plan. Additionally, Holman provided comments and suggested additions to the series of questions that will be included in a public survey effort related to the development of the 2009-2015 Plan. Comments submitted focused primarily on black-tailed deer ecology and management as well as Mt. St. Helens elk herd issues.

Diversity Division
Columbia-Cascades Habitat Partnership: Over the past year biologist Anderson has been working with several conservation groups to develop a NAWCA Grant for work on the east side of the Cascades. This last week we were notified that our NAWCA Grant for the Columbia-Cascades Habitat Partnership Phase 1 has been recommended for funding, pending final approval by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission in March. At this point it looks very good that $1 million dollars will go to habitat restoration and enhancement projects at Conboy Lake NWR, restoration at Trout Lake NAP, acquisition by Columbia Land Trust in Klickitat Canyon, and restoration projects at Washington's Klickitat Wildlife Area. The primary emphasis is the restoration of wetland habitat to benefit sandhill cranes, spotted frogs, breeding waterfowl, and oak/pine habitat.

December 10, 2007

Wildlife Diversity Division
Danger Tree Evaluation: A private landowner/home owner in the Rosburg area called recently to inquire about removing some trees from his property that were posing a danger to his home. Apparently one of his neighbors told him that an eagle was nesting in one of the trees and DNR forwarded his call to District Biologist Miller. Miller visited the site after the recent windstorm and found no evidence of eagles, although the trees were of favorable size and structure. The landowner was advised of the lack of eagle nesting and asked to remove only those trees that were critical to keeping his home safe. Since the trees withstood the recent storm, it is felt that they are more wind firm than originally thought.

Columbia White Tail Deer Survey: District Wildlife Biologist Miller is continuing to conduct surveys of the ESA listed CWT deer in the area west of Longview. Deer numbers are down so far in the counts, but Miller was encouraged to see some fawns in the Willow Grove area. Coyote predation is thought to be limiting deer numbers and coyotes are regularly observed on Willow Grove and Fisher Island.

Game Management Division
SW Washington Canada Goose Season Area 2a: The initial Canada goose hunting season closed November 25th in Area 2A. The first hunt period offered average success among those choosing to participate in the hunt. Collectively the State-operated hunter check stations located at Vancouver, Ridgefield Marina, and Woodland along with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service station at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge reported a total of 324 hunters having harvested a total of 616 geese during the first hunt period (November 10 through 25). This makes an average of 1.9 birds per hunter among those who brought birds to the check stations.

Goose season re-opened on December 5th and continues on the 3-days per week schedule (Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday) until January 27th 2008. Those interested in participating in the Area 2A goose hunt are encouraged to review the special requirements that are detailed in the Waterfowl Hunting Pamphlet. The special seasons in 2A are designed to protect populations of the dusky Canada goose.

2008 Big Game Hunting Regulations: Biologists Anderson and Holman consulted with Enforcement Program Staff from Cowlitz, Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat counties regarding development of the 2008 hunting seasons. Minor fine-tuning of elk and deer area damage hunts are the only anticipated changes. 2008 represents the final year of hunting in the current 3-year season setting package.

Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area Pre-Winter Elk Mortality Survey: District Wildlife Biologist Miller, Biologist Holman, MSHWA Manager Calkins, Assistant Manager Hauswald, Technicians Pyzik and Ridenour, R5 Customer Service Representative Gonzalez, and volunteers Braaten and Howell conducted a pre-winter elk mortality survey at the Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area. Surveyors systematically hiked the mudflow area and documented 57 elk carcasses during the survey. The survey objective was to document locations of all past elk mortalities (e.g., mortalities from previous years, current harvest remains, etc.). With this baseline established, an accurate assessment of the upcoming winter mortality can be conducted during late spring 2008.

Oak Habitat Project: Biologist Anderson met with contract Biologist Thiebes to initiate a plan for an oak habitat improvement project in Klickitat County. Biologist Thiebes is working with the WDFW and other private, state, and federal landowners to enhance oak habitat for a variety of wildlife species. In many areas of Klickitat County, oak habitat is being lost due to conifer encroachment as a result of fire suppression. Several oak stands were visited over a two-day period to evaluate potential project locations. Funding for this project is been provided by WDFW and the Wild Turkey Federation.

December 3, 2007

Wildlife Program Workshop: Region 5 staff attended and participated in the Wildlife Program Workshop this week. This is a valuable opportunity to learn current and future events/items within the Program and provides the opportunity for Program staff across the state to interact and network.

Game Management Division
Land Access Program: This effort continued to be implemented at the St. Helens Tree Farm with the help of volunteers during the modern firearm and muzzleloader special elk permit seasons this last week. The number of volunteers has dropped; however, we are still able to provide additional motorized access during the week thanks to the few volunteers who continue to commit to this program - we are appreciative of all their effort.

Check Station: Region 5 Law Enforcement Officers and Biologists implemented a check station last Saturday off of Spirit Lake Highway. Several hunters came through and a few were successful despite the raw weather.

November 26, 2007

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven checked the condition of Grayback and Sheep Canyon Roads. Several places were observed where people had driven off the road through the snow. One place was apparently used as a campsite, and the ground thoroughly torn up. Tracks run parallel to the road, but about 12 to 20 feet away, for no clear reason.

Manager VanLeuven accompanied two new people who will be cutting sagebrush for the pygmy rabbit recovery program out at Rock Creek Canyon and showed them around the area and where to cut brush for this effort.

Game Management Division
SW Washington Canada Goose Season Area 2a: Canada goose season opened November 10th in Area 2A. Opening weekend was slightly better than average success among those choosing to participate in the hunt. Collectively the hunter check stations located at Vancouver, Ridgefield Marina, and Woodland report a total of 89 hunters having harvested a total of 194 geese during opening weekend (November 10 and 11). This makes an average of 2.2 birds per hunter among those who brought birds to the check stations.

Hunting continues each Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday through November 25th. The season then closes briefly, opening again on December 5th and running on the 3-days per week schedule until January 27, 2008. Those interested in participating in the Area 2A goose hunt are encouraged to review the special requirements that are detailed in the Waterfowl Hunting Pamphlet. The special seasons in 2A are designed to protect populations of the dusky Canada goose.

Pheasant Release: Klickitat Wildlife Area Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven assisted with the release of eighty pheasants at the Goldendale Hatchery Unit, 80 releases at the Gun Club property, and 40 releases at the Finn Ridge Rd. property. Several volunteers were involved in this effort.

November 19, 2007

A "wildlife friendly" fence on a long WDFW property line. It has strands of wire spaced to permit passage of smaller animals as well as easy clearance for deer, while keeping cattle off the WDFW parcels.

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven visited the fencing project at the Sondino Unit, which has been completed. This is a "wildlife friendly" fence on a long WDFW property line. It has strands of wire spaced to permit passage of smaller animals as well as easy clearance for deer, while keeping cattle off the WDFW parcels. In addition, the bottom strand is barbless wire, which is less likely to injure fawns and other animals crawling underneath. The neighboring property will only be pasture for cattle part of the year, so two "man gates" were added to the fence line, which may be left open for deer passage when cattle are not present. These two gates were placed where major deer trails crossed the existing fence line (deer had been jumping over the old fence.) Some trees and brush had to be cleared from the fence line before repairs could me made to the fence. The smaller trees and limbs were piled in places where they can provide nesting habitat for songbirds, as well as habitat for reptiles and other small animals.

Game Management Division
Elk Season: Results for the modern firearm elk season were mixed in the south Cascades these last couple of weeks. Hunting pressure was heavy in the Lewis River unit due to the increased number of cow tags this year. Mild weather conditions and lack of snow helped spread the pressure throughout all elevations, as access was good all the way to the tree line. Early reports indicate that a fair number of cows were taken in the Wind River and Siouxon units. Hunter reports in the Trout Lake area indicated a lower number of bulls and cows harvested in the southern Lewis River unit than the past couple years, this is probably due to elk remaining at higher elevations throughout the season. Several hunters have contacted the District Biologist indicating their frustration with the number of cows tags issued for the Lewis River and Siouxon units.

Land Access Program: 100% of the Toutle and Coweeman and 80% of the Margaret GMUs were open during the special elk permit and general elk modern firearm season in the Mt. St. Helens Tree Farm thanks to the many volunteers who participated in this effort to facilitate additional motorized access during the weekdays. The Winston Unit remained closed to motorized access but open to walk-in. Up to 12 volunteers a day participated in the Land Access Program and they were instrumental in implementing this effort. Weyerhaeuser and WDFW would like to thank the volunteers for all their time and effort in assisting with this program. Many hunters encountered on the farm have provided positive feedback to this program and are appreciative of the additional motorized access. Some of the hunters were concerned with the increased number of special permits that were issued, resulting in crowding.

November 13, 2007

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: Wildlife Area Manager would like to thank a volunteer who offered to plow overgrown, neglected food plots along South Breaks Road on the Wildlife Area. Six of the plots that could use treatment this year were completed. This effort could not have been accomplished without volunteer assistance, which is greatly appreciated. The volunteer also built up a larger pile of debris next to the new gate on the South Breaks Road to stop vehicle bypass of the gate.

WDFW staff training WA State Park employess how to conduct a survey for Western gray squirrels.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Western Gray Squirrel: Biologist Anderson and Wildlife Area Manager Van Leuven conducted a training for WA State Park employees interested in surveying for Western gray squirrel's at Brooks Memorial State Park, Klickitat County. An afternoon training was done at the Klickitat Wildlife Area to show surveyors WGS habitat, including nest sites and the techniques for recording data. Following the survey, State Park employees reported that they found several WGS nests in the park and had the opportunity to see and photograph two WGS.

Game Management Division
SW Washington Goose Season: Staff from Region 5 and Olympia conducted training for goose check station employees from WDFW and USFWS. The program is designed to reduce harvest on the Dusky Canada goose while allowing harvest of more numerous sub species. Hunters are required to complete an identification course and pass a test by a score of 80 % to participate. All harvested geese are required to be taken to a check station where employees examine the birds and identify them by assessing measurements and breast color. Harvest quotas for each hunt area are assigned and hunting can be closed early if the hunt quota is met. This program is very time and material expensive and no additional funding is available to expand the existing check stations or hunt days. Interested parties should refer to the Goose Management section of the Waterfowl and Upland Game hunting pamphlet for more info.

Pheasant Release: Last week 80 birds were released at the Goldendale Hatchery Unit, 90 birds were released at the Gun Club property, and 30 were released at the Finn Ridge Road site. Officers Bolton and McLerran accompanied Wildlife Area Manager VanLeuven and volunteer Johnson to the release site and a few parties of hunters were already there upon arrival.

November 5, 2007

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Klickitat Wildlife Area: The seasonal road closures on the Wildlife Area were put into affect. 4.5 miles of road on the Klickitat Wildlife Area will be closed to motor vehicle travel from Nov. 1 through April 14 to protect roadbeds and avoid disturbing wintering deer and elk.

The three roads affected by the annual closures are in the wildlife area’s Soda Springs unit, including:

Anderson Road, 1.3 miles south of the intersection with Soda Springs Road; Old Headquarters Road, 1 mile south of the intersection with Soda Springs Road; and South Breaks Road, 0.1 miles west of the intersection with Soda Springs Road.

All 12 miles of roads in the wildlife area will remain open to pedestrian access throughout the year, and the most popular camping areas that were open last fall will be open for camping in fall of 2007.

Wildlife Diversity Division
Golden Eagle Mortality: Biologist Holman recovered the carcass of a golden eagle that carried a satellite transmitter as part of a Research Division project. One of several birds involved in a wind power and raptors study, the golden eagle had been “on the air” for less than a year prior to the mortality. The eagle was recovered in Oregon, roughly south of Goldendale in Klickitat County. The carcass was found in the brushy head of a small canyon within a complex of cliffs located several hundred feet above a popular target shooting area. Necropsy is pending, but it appears that the bird was injured by a gunshot, crashed to the ground and then crawled into the riparian vegetation to die. An investigation by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement Personnel into this event is underway.

Game Management Division
Goose Season: Preparations continue for the beginning of goose hunting season in Area 2A. Various logistical and administrative activities surround gearing up for goose season. Tasks include, conducting job interviews for prospective goose check station employees, delivery of check station trailers to station locations, assimilation of checking equipment and video monitoring equipment, planning for new employee training, administration of goose hunting authorization examinations, preparation of equipment associated with avian influenza testing, etc.

Goose hunting in Area 2A begins on November 10 for the 2007 season and continues every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday through November 25th. Goose hunting re-opens December 5th and continues three-days-per-week through January 27, 2008. Please see the Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game Season 2007-08 Pamphlet for many additional details regarding goose hunting in this area. The complex season structure and carefully crafted hunting season in Area 2A is needed to protect populations of the dusky Canada goose. Dusky populations remain below desired population levels set by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Mud flow Hunt: Last week District Wildlife Biologist Miller made contact with one of the youth hunter's grandparents at the Society of American Foresters Tour held at the Weyerhaeuser Forest Learning center. The adult was very pleased that one of his two grandkids had killed a cow elk and had a great hunt. One grandchild was still out hunting on Saturday, and they hoped to get his/her elk before the hunt ended on Sunday. The overall experience was positive but the gate/key setup was confusing as well as the behavior of the other hunters was perceived as a problem. Some problems still exist with hunters driving on to the Wildlife Area in the morning and disturbing the elk, they have been asked to wait until noon to drive on the Wildlife Area roads, and then mostly for retrieval of downed game.

WDFW volunteer treats site overgrown with moss with lime to increase forage for elk.

October 29, 2007

Region 5 Wildlife Areas
Mt. St. Helens Wildlife Area--Forage Enhancement: Volunteer Mike Braaten has begun work on an elk forage enhancement project near the east end of the wildlife area. When complete, the project will provide increased forage production on approximately 40 acres and establish trees and shrubs along the upper portion of Bear Creek to improve riparian conditions. Recently Mr. Braaten spread one ton of lime and harrowed a portion of this area as the first step toward improving soil conditions for plant growth. The site was first planted in the late 1990's and was quite productive for a few years, but has now become overgrown with moss, thereby eliminating most of the forage value. Additional liming and harrowing will continue until the site is planted early next spring. The rough ground and terrain will dictate that the bulk of the work be done with ATV's.

Diversity Division
Osprey Education: District Wildlife Biologist Anderson met with local Columbia River Gorge volunteers to assist with construction of 3 osprey platforms. These platforms will be placed on problem utility poles with Osprey nests in Klickitat County. The local volunteers will build the platforms in cooperation with the Goldendale High School and the local PUD will install them this fall. In addition, the high school students will conduct a field trip to learn more about osprey use of the Columbia River Gorge and their nesting ecology.

Game Management Division
Mt. St. Helens Society of American Foresters Tour: District Biologist Miller and Wildlife Area Manager Calkins gave a presentation at the Weyerhaeuser Forest Learning Center to three groups as part of the Society of American Foresters Convention. The group was on a tour of the Mt. St. Helens area. Miller and Calkins spoke on the history of the elk herd in the area and how conditions have changed on the wildlife area and in the surrounding landscape. Of particular interest to the group were how com