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Full-Text Articles in Natural Resources and Conservation

The Effect Of Grass Carp Introduction On Aquatic Vegetation And Existing Fish Populations In Two Small Prairie Lakes, David L. Bauer Jan 1988

The Effect Of Grass Carp Introduction On Aquatic Vegetation And Existing Fish Populations In Two Small Prairie Lakes, David L. Bauer

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Within two years after triploid grass carp introduction in 2.3 hectare Prior Lake in South Dakota, aquatic vegetation coverage and height in the water column were significantly lower (P<0.005). During the same two year period, triploid grass carp did not significantly reduce aquatic vegetation coverage or height in the water column in 11.4 hectare East Lake Eureka, also in South Dakota. Stocking densities were 49 fish/hectare and 61 fish/hectare (229 mm mean total length) in Prior Lake and East Lake Eureka, respectively. The biomass of prey fish in East Lake Eureka in 1986 was quite high with 88.3, 85.3 and 17.3 kg/hectare for black bullhead (Ictalurus melas), yellow perch (Perea flavescens), and bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), respectively. The biomass of northern pike (Esox lucius) was also high at 13.8 kg/hectare. A Proportional Stock Density (PSD) of 11 and Relative Weight (WK) of 117 indicated a relatively healthy bluegill population in East Lake Eureka. However, the PSD value for black bullheads was lower (8) while their condition was relatively good (K=l.58). The yellow perch population appeared to be over-populated in East Lake Eureka with a PSD of only 5 and a relatively low condition factor (K=l.14). The northern pike population in East Lake Eureka had a PSD value of 53, but a slightly low Wr of 94. Available prey/predator ratio indicated that there was an excess of prey fish for most size classes of predators. Because no significant vegetation reduction occurred in East Lake Eureka, no changes in existing fish populations could be attributed to grass carp introduction or aquatic vegetation reduction. Data gathered on existing fish populations in East Lake Eureka will serve as a pre-treatment data set to be compared to future conditions if aquatic vegetation is reduced. Fish sampling in Prior Lake was greatly reduced due to a winterkill which occurred in the late winter of 1986. Bluegill and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) were the most abundant fish species found in Prior Lake in 1987. Bluegill appeared to be overpopulated as their PSD value was 1; a high Wr of 109 may have indicated improved conditions immediately following the winterkill. Results for the largemouth bass in Prior Lake were similar with a low PSD (7) and a high w~ (112). Winterkill (Prior Lake) and lack of aquatic vegetation control by grass carp (East Lake Eureka) prohibited making conclusions about the effect of grass carp introduction on the existing fish populations in the two lakes. Further research needs to be conducted in South Dakota to determine appropriate grass carp stocking rates for South Dakota waters, and to evaluate what effect grass carp introduction and aquatic vegetation reduction has on existing fish populations.

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Electrophoretic, Morphometric, And Meristic Comparisons Of Walleye Broodstock In South Dakota, Chantel M. Waltner Jan 1988

Electrophoretic, Morphometric, And Meristic Comparisons Of Walleye Broodstock In South Dakota, Chantel M. Waltner

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Electrophoretic and morphological variability among walleyes collected from three upper Missouri River tributaries and a glacial lake in South Dakota was investigated, and an upper Mississippi River stock was electrophoretically compared to the South Dakota stocks. Allele frequencies of two (MDH-3, GMP-3) of the twenty-one loci examined differed significantly (P<0. 05) between South Dakota and Mississippi River walleyes. Contingency chi-square tests of allele frequencies showed homogeneity among walleyes from the Missouri River tributaries, and significant (P<0.001) heterogeneity (P<0.001) at the GMP-3 locus between Missouri River and glacial lake stocks. A dendogram derived from Nei unbiased genetic identity values produced separate branchings for the South Dakota and Mississippi River walleyes. All four walleye stocks in South Dakota were morphologically variable, although no one character could be used as a diagnostic tool to separate the stocks visually. Discriminant function analysis of eight of the most powerful discriminatory characters was successful in correctly classifying walleyes by origin with 83-97% accuracy.

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Growth, Survival, And Vulnerability To Predation Of Stocked Walleye (Stizostedion Vitreum) Fingerlings, James D. Wolters Jan 1988

Growth, Survival, And Vulnerability To Predation Of Stocked Walleye (Stizostedion Vitreum) Fingerlings, James D. Wolters

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

In laboratory tanks, largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and northern pike (Esox Lucius consumed fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) 2.6 times more frequently than walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) and 5.7 times more than lepomids. Prey were more vulnerable in circular than rectangular tanks. In field studies, walleye fingerlings averaging 35 mm and 53 mm (mean total length) were stocked in two ponds (3- and 7- hectares) respectively: both contained largemouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch (Perca flavescenes), green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus), and fathead minnows. Aquatic insects dominated the diet of largemouth bass for 3 days after walleye were stocked, indicating that walleye fingerlings …

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Waterfowl Production On Three Types Of Artificial Nesting Structures In South Dakota Wetlands, Marcy Haworth Jan 1988

Waterfowl Production On Three Types Of Artificial Nesting Structures In South Dakota Wetlands, Marcy Haworth

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Artificial nesting structures are currently being used by various agencies to offset the decline in waterfowl production due to predation losses and degradation of nesting habitats. However, the various structure types available are not equally attractive to nesting waterfowl. This study looked at 3 types of artificial nesting structures – open topped cone baskets, round hay bales, and concrete culverts – and evaluated their used, success, and production in South Dakota. Structure type and site characteristics were correlated to occupancy rates and nesting success. Sixty-eight baskets and 205 bales were monitored during 1986, and 154 baskets, 200 bales, and 20 …

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Forage Potential Of Seasonal Wetlands, Daniel Edward Hubbard Jan 1988

Forage Potential Of Seasonal Wetlands, Daniel Edward Hubbard

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Investigations on aspects of seasonal wetland forage potential were conducted in eastern South Dakota. The quantity and quality of the standing crop of vegetation in 6 seasonal wetland communities were assessed at the end of the growing season in 1983 and in 2 seasonal-wetland-dominated basins and their associated uplands (native mixed-grass prairie) over the growing season in 1985. Crude protein (CP), ash, detergent fiber, and in vitro digestible dry matter (IVDDM) values were measured on the above-ground material of whitetop [Scolochloas festucacea (Willd.) Link], slough sedge (Carex atherodes Spreng.), burred (Spargnaium eurycarpum Engelm.), and smartweed (Polygonum amphibium L. var. emersum …

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Productivity, Movements, And Habitat Use Of Nesting And Brooding Wild Turkey Hens In Gregory County, South Dakota, Keith Stephen Day Jan 1988

Productivity, Movements, And Habitat Use Of Nesting And Brooding Wild Turkey Hens In Gregory County, South Dakota, Keith Stephen Day

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Radio-equipped wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) hens (n=53) were monitored in a prairie river breaks environment in south-central South Dakota during 1986 and 1987. Seventy percent (36 of 47 adults and 1 of 6 juveniles) of the monitored hens nested. Hens that nested prior to 7 May selected nest sites in woodland habitats, while hens nesting later than 7 May selected nest sites in grassland habitats. Hens nested at sites with higher (P<0.05) percent visual obstruction, percent shrub cover, presence of overhanging vegetation, and habitat diversity than found at random control sites. Nest sites also allowed greater field of vision and opportunities for escape than random controls. Discriminant models developed from variables measured at nest and control sites were effective in distinguishing between the 2 categories. Seventeen of 39 (43.6%) clutches hatched, and 11 broods survived to mid-August. Poult survival in 1986 was 42.9%, with all poult mortality occurring during the first 2 weeks post-hatch. Accurate data for poult survival was not obtainable during 1987, but survival appeared to be similar to 1986. Broods moved up to 3.5 km from nest sites before establishing definite ranges. Broods ranges were composed of ≥50% woodland types, while woodlands comprised only 30.8% of the study area. Mean range size increased 3-fold from the 0-4 week age class (Age 1) to the 4+ week age class (Age 2). Broods used habitats in proportion to availability within ranges. However, grasslands were used more than expected (P<0.05) between 0631 hr and 1130 hr over the summer, and less than expected (P<0.05) by Age 2 broods between 1131 hr and 1630 hr. Woodlands were used more than expected between 1131 hr and 1630 hr over the summer, but not significantly so. Seventy-seven percent of all brood sightings made between 0631 hr and 1130 hr, and 67% of all sightings made between 1631 hr and 2030 hr were in grassland habitats. Seventy-two percent of all brood sightings made between 1131 hr and 1630 hr were in woodlands. Grassland brood use sites had greater forb cover, less grass cover, and were closer to habitat edges than random control sites (P<0.05). Discriminant analysis effectively reclassified grassland brood use sites, but not control sites. Age 1 broods sued grassland sites with greater overhead (> 30 cm) shrub cover, and nearer habitat edges than sites used by Age 2 broods (P<0.05). Woodland brood use sites were nearer (P<0.05) habitat edges than random controls. No significant differences could be found between woodland sites used by Age 1 and Age 2 broods. Discriminant analysis was ineffective in distinguishing between classes for woodland brood use sites or between ages for either woodland or grassland brood use sites.

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Conservation Of Least Terns And Piping Plovers Along The Missouri River And Its Major Western Tributaries In South Dakota, Monica Jean Schwalbach Jan 1988

Conservation Of Least Terns And Piping Plovers Along The Missouri River And Its Major Western Tributaries In South Dakota, Monica Jean Schwalbach

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Interior least terns (Sterna antillarum) and piping plovers (Charadrius melodus) are listed as endangered or threatened over all of their breeding range, including South Dakota (SD). Investigations were made into the status, distribution, production, habitat characteristics, and factors limiting productivity of least terns and piping plovers in SD. The study area included the Missouri River from the North Dakota state line to Ponca State Park, Nebraska, and the lower 1/3 of the Grand, Moreau, Cheyenne, and White rivers. Least tern numbers increased substantially (253; 367) between 1986 and 1987, but plover numbers increased only slightly (187; 197). Terns and plovers …

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Wetland Characteristics Of Avian Cholera Outbreaks And Surface Water Transfer In The Nebraska Rainwater Basin Area, Brian J. Smith Jan 1988

Wetland Characteristics Of Avian Cholera Outbreaks And Surface Water Transfer In The Nebraska Rainwater Basin Area, Brian J. Smith

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Avian Cholera (Pateurella multocida) has infected and killed thousands of migrating waterfowl each year since 1975 in Nebraska’s rainwater basin area. Disease outbreaks in migrating waterfowl populations just prior to the nesting season are of concern to biologists. Feedlots and itner-wetland basin surface water transfer mechanisms of the avian cholera causative agent, P. multocida, were investigated using remote sensing techniques. Wetland basin characteristics (classification type, adjacent landuse, basin landuse, and basin densities) were also investigated for relationships to 1981 avian cholera outbreaks. No surface drainage relationships were found that would permit the transfer of P. multocida from one wetland basin …

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Production Of Triploid Rainbow Trout For Evaluation In South Dakota Waters, Jeff C. Dillon Jan 1988

Production Of Triploid Rainbow Trout For Evaluation In South Dakota Waters, Jeff C. Dillon

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

In September 1986, approximately 50,000 rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) eggs were fertilized and subjected to heat shocks to prevent expulsion of the second polar body, theoretically resulting in triploid embryos. Heat shocks were at 26 and 28°c, began 10, 20, 30, or 40 min after fertilization, and lasted for 10 or 20 min for a total of 16 treatments. Another 25,000 eggs served as controls and were handled identically but at a normal water temperature of 12°c. Cumulative hatching rates for eggs that were heat-shocked at 26 and 28° were 64 and 50%, respectively, compared to control eggs which had …

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Seasonal Habitat Use, Home Range, And Dispersal Of Wild Turkeys In Southcentral South Dakota, Scott L. Laudenslager Jan 1988

Seasonal Habitat Use, Home Range, And Dispersal Of Wild Turkeys In Southcentral South Dakota, Scott L. Laudenslager

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Seasonal movements, home range, and habitat use of wild turkeys in south-central South Dakota were investigated using radio telemetry from summer 1984 to winter 1986. Spring dispersal from wintering sites ranged from 0.2 to 5.8 km (x = 2.8 km). Non-nesting females moved significantly (P ~ 0.05) farther than males. Fall movements from summer to winter habitat ranged from o.o to 5.0 km (x = 2.2 km). Marked birds always returned to summer areas used in previous years. In contrast, wintering areas changed yearly among some individuals. Home ranges for all birds in summer ranged from 46. 7 ha to …

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Habitat Use By Beaver Along The Big Sioux River, Charles D. Dieter Jan 1987

Habitat Use By Beaver Along The Big Sioux River, Charles D. Dieter

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Habitat utilization and lodge site selection by beaver (Castor canadensis) were investigated during 1985 and 1986 along the Big Sioux River in eastern South Dakota. Because livestock grazing has affected the number and size of trees available for beaver use, the study area was portioned into grazed, ungrazed, and farmed habitat. Diameter at breast height (DBH) of trees in grazed areas was greater (p < 0.01) than in ungrazed or farmed areas. Almost half (48%) of the trees in ungrazed areas were small (DBH < 7.5 cm), while a majority (58%) of the trees in grazed areas had large diameters (DBH > 30 cm). Beaver activity was evident on 286 of 2410 (11.8%) trees (DBH > 2.5 cm) and 756 of 7,794 (9.7%) stems (DBH < 2.5cm) sampled. A greater proportion (p < 0.01) of trees were cut by beavers in ungrazed than in grazed areas. Beaver did not select tree species for cutting according to availability (p < 0.01). Green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) was selected for cutting while both boxelder (Acer negundo) and hawthorn (Crataegus mollis) were selected against. Sandbar willow (Salix exigua) stems were important for food and building materials. Trees cut by beaver were significantly smaller in diameter (p < 0.01) than uncut trees. Mean distance from water of cut trees was also less (p < 0.01) than for uncut trees. Over half (52%) of the trees damaged by beaver were not killed and either resprouted or remained alive and standing. Of 8 variables examined at lodge sites, analysis indicated that the 2 most important factors in beaver lodge site selection were riverbank slope and horizontal cover density between 0.9 m and 1.8 m above ground (read from 10 m). Mean slope of the riverbank at lodge sites (40.7 degrees) was greater (p < 0.01) than at control sites (26.7 degrees), while mean horizontal cover density between 0.9 m and 1.8 m (read from 10 m) was also greater (p < 0.01) at lodge sites (53%) than at control sites (28%). Ungrazed habitat was selected by beaver for lodge sites, and grazed areas were selected against. Although 40% of the study area was ungrazed, 27 of 33 (82%) active lodges were located in these areas. Ungrazed areas along the Big Sioux River are important for beaver populations and selection for these areas by beaver reflects habitat quality.

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First Year Growth And Survival Of Walleyes In Power Plant Evaporation And Holding Reservoirs, Michael P. Faler Jan 1987

First Year Growth And Survival Of Walleyes In Power Plant Evaporation And Holding Reservoirs, Michael P. Faler

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Walleyes (Stizostedion vitreum) were stocked at a rate of 88 fish/hectare in two South Dakota power plant reservoirs and their growth and survival were monitored for one year. Length, weight, and survival of walleyes were significantly (P < 0.05) different between the two reservoirs. The walleyes attained a mean length of 230 mm (range 192 - 265 mm) in the Evaporation Reservoir and 205 mm (range 177-250 mm) in the Holding Reservoir. Mean weights attained by the fish were 104 g (range 65 - 165 g) in the Evaporation Reservoir and 89 g (range 48 - 135 g) in the Holding Reservoir. The growth rates of walleyes in the two reservoirs were inversely related to survival and standing crops. Walleye survival in the Evaporation Reservoir was 1.5% (0.95 C.L., 0.9 - 2.8%) with a standing crop of 0.13 kg/hectare, whereas survival in the Holding Reservoir was 17.2% (0.95 c,L., 13.5 - 22.9%) with a standing crop of 1.33 kg/ hectare. Walleye standing crop estimates, calculated in terms of weight of fish per volume of water beneath the ice, -were similar in the two reservoirs1 standing crops were 0.06 kg/1000 m3 in the Evaporation Reservoir, and 0.08 kg/1000 m3 in the Holding Reservoir. Estimated forage fish standing crops were 1 .21 kg/hectare in the Evaporation Reservoir and 1.91 kg/hectare in the Holding Reservoir.

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Impacts Of Stocking Herbivorous Fishes For Aquatic Macophyte Removal Upon South Dakota Ponds, John Christopher Young Jan 1987

Impacts Of Stocking Herbivorous Fishes For Aquatic Macophyte Removal Upon South Dakota Ponds, John Christopher Young

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Aquatic macrophyte removal by herbivorous fishes was investigated to determine changes in the predator-prey relationship of largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, and bluegills, Lepomis macrochirus, stocked into 15 prairie ponds. Monosex grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella, and hybrid grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella x Hypophthalmicthys nobilis, were each stocked at a rate of 247 fish/hectare into five study ponds. Largemouth bass and bluegills were each stocked into 12 study ponds at 247 fish/hectare in July, and 1235 fish/hectare in September, 1984, respectively. Additional largemouth bass were stocked at a rate of 247 fish/hectare into nine study ponds in July, 1985. Conductivity was the …

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Rainbow Trout Cage Culture Utilizing Different Strains, Stocking Densities, And Feeding Methods In Eastern South Dakota Dugout Ponds, Jay Patrick Maher Jan 1987

Rainbow Trout Cage Culture Utilizing Different Strains, Stocking Densities, And Feeding Methods In Eastern South Dakota Dugout Ponds, Jay Patrick Maher

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) cage culture techniques were investigated in dugouts as part of a continuing program to evaluate the potential of small-scale, landowner-based aquaculture operations. Trout raised in the study did not reach a marketable size (200 g) due to the short growing season and small size at stocking. No significant (P >0.05) differences in growth were detected between stocking densities of 60, 80, 100, and 120 fish/m³. Demand feeding resulted in significantly greater length (P≤0.01), weight (P≤0.01), and relative weight (P≤0.05) than hand feeding in both years tested. Rainbow trout of the Hildebrand strain reached a significantly greater …

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Impact Of Grazing Systems On Rodent And Cottontail Rabbit Populations In South Texas, Meenakshi Nagendran Jan 1987

Impact Of Grazing Systems On Rodent And Cottontail Rabbit Populations In South Texas, Meenakshi Nagendran

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Study sites were established at Rob and Bessie Welder Refuge and Encino Division of the King Ranch in south Texas to monitor the impact of Short-duration cell grazing (SDG) and Continuous grazing on small mammal and cottontail rabbit populations. Small mammals were live trapped (With occasional snap trapping) and cottontails were spotlighted. Vertical and horizontal components of vegetative structure were measured in terms of percent cover. There was paucity of rodents on the Welder Refuge – 8 captures for 9705 trap nights. In 1984 127 cottontails/km) and in 1985-1986 64 cottontails were seen along 436.8 km of road transects (.14 …

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Biotic Responses On Typha-Monodominant Semipermanent Wetlands To Cattle Grazing, Bryan David Schultz Jan 1987

Biotic Responses On Typha-Monodominant Semipermanent Wetlands To Cattle Grazing, Bryan David Schultz

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Changes in the vegetative composition of most palustrine emergent semi-permanent wetlands is primarily a function of water level fluctuation. However, some wetlands do not exhibit vegetational shifts since emergent species such as Typha persist under flooded as well as drought conditions. Numerous techniques to control cattails such as burning and herbicide application have been suggested. The objective of this study was to test the use of cattle grazing as a method of controlling dense cattail stands in semi-permanent wetlands to improve breeding duck habitat. Plots (.81 ha) were established in the emergent zone in each of two wetlands (≤ 4 …

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Evaluation Of Largemouth Bass And Bluegill Stocking Strategies In South Dakota Ponds, David M. Gilbraith Jan 1987

Evaluation Of Largemouth Bass And Bluegill Stocking Strategies In South Dakota Ponds, David M. Gilbraith

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Three fish-stocking methods were evaluated to determine the effects of stocking density and chronology on largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) survival, growth, and reproductive success during 1983-1985. Two densities of split-stocking largemouth bass with bluegills were compared to the simultaneous introduction of both species. First-year largemouth bass survival was low and variable among treatments. Survival of largemouth bass ranged from 0-85% and averaged 25% among treatments. Bluegill survival, for the first and second years combined, ranged from 0-60% and averaged 22% among two split-stocking treatments. Thirty-six percent of study ponds experienced at least partial winterkill during the …

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Habitat Selection And Sexual Suggestion Of Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep In Custer State Park, South Dakota, Larry J. Layne Jan 1987

Habitat Selection And Sexual Suggestion Of Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep In Custer State Park, South Dakota, Larry J. Layne

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Spatial segregation between Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis) ram and ewe herds has been documented by Geist (1971), Geist and Petocz (1977), Shank (1979), Morgantini and Hudson (1981), and Hogg (1983), where ram herds consist of mature males approximately 4 years old and older and ewe herds are comprised of all other individuals. Geist (1971), Shank (1979), and Hogg (1983) have shown that segregation occurs year-round except during the breeding season (November and December) when the sexes congregate on a traditional breeding range (cf. Geist 1971, p 209). These studies also have shown that the sexes remain separated …

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Stocking Density, Strain Performance, And Feeding Method Evaluation Of Cage Reared Rainbow Trout (Salmo Gairdneri) In Eastern South Dakota, Dale B. Allen Jan 1986

Stocking Density, Strain Performance, And Feeding Method Evaluation Of Cage Reared Rainbow Trout (Salmo Gairdneri) In Eastern South Dakota, Dale B. Allen

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Methods for cage rearing rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) were investigated to assist in the development of a landowner aquaculture program for eastern South Dakota. Rainbow trout when stocked as small fingerlings in the spring did not reach a marketable weight (200 g). The fish did attain a size acceptable to some landowners for personal consumption. Maximum stocking density (fish/m3) was not determined. Densities greater than those used would have been needed to determine the optimum stocking rate. The use of a deeper culture cage (3 m) was justified in this area due to the high water temperatures that were common. …

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Ring-Necked Pheasant Cover Use In Eastern South Dakota, Karen Peterson Craft Jan 1986

Ring-Necked Pheasant Cover Use In Eastern South Dakota, Karen Peterson Craft

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Seasonal cover use of radio-tagged hen pheasants was analyzed and vegetative characteristics of nesting habitat identified in east-central South Dakota during 1983 and 1984. Radio telemetry locations were collected during the summer and fall of 1983 and winter of 1983- 1984 for cover use determinations. Chi-squared analysis of cover use revealed positive selection (P≤0.05) for the idle/roadside cover category in summer, wetlands in fall, and the shelterbelt/woodlot category in winter. Agricultural set aside areas in the 1-year 1983 Payment In Kind (PIK) program were avoided by pheasants in summer as were row crop fields in both summer and winter. Cover …

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The Effects Of Three Rodenticides On Nontarget Small Mammals And Invertebrates, Michele S. Deisch Jan 1986

The Effects Of Three Rodenticides On Nontarget Small Mammals And Invertebrates, Michele S. Deisch

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Mortality of non-target small mammals and invertebrates using 3 rodenticide treatments (pre-baited zinc phosphide, pre-baited strychnine, and strychnine alone) was evaluated in western South Dakota. Rodenticides were applied September 22-24, 1983 on 15 black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) towns. Immediate (September 1983) and long-term (September 1983 through August 1984) rodenticide efficacy and impacts on non-target wildlife species were evaluated. None of the 3 rodenticide treatments produced significant ( a < 0.10) immediate impacts on deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) relative densities. Increases of deer mice densities occurred in 1984 on sites that had been treated with the 2 strychnine treatments. These long-term increases in deer mice densities were due to habitat change associated with the absence of prairie dogs. Overall, comparisons among the 3 rodenticides for efficacy indicated that zinc phosphide reduced deer mice densities greater than either strychnine treatment. Seven invertebrate taxa were evaluated. Immediate and long-term effects of the 3 rodenticide treatments occurred when significant differences in invertebrate densities were found between control and treated sites. Spider mites (Acarina) and crickets (Orthoptera) were not affected by the 3 rodenticides. Immediate impacts of zinc phosphide occurred on ant (Hymenoptera) densities and long-term impacts were found in August 1984. Strychnine alone immediately reduced wolf spiders (Araneae) 13% in September 1983 and densities increased on treated sites as compared to control sites in June 1984. Densities of darkling beetles (Coleoptera) in September were significantly reduced with zinc phosphide. Ground beetle and dung beetle (Coleoptera) densities were not immediately reduced by the rodenticides in September. Generally, the few long-term changes in invertebrate densities are attributed to biotic and abiotic factors. Changes in vegetation structure due to prairie dog control may have affected invertebrate densities. Comparisons among rodenticides for efficacy indicated that zinc phosphide immediately reduced densities of ants and darkling beetles greater than either strychnine treatment. None of the other rodenticide comparisons showed significant differences in immediate reductions of non-target invertebrates in September 1983.

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A Turkey Nesting Study In Gregory County, South Dakota, Tara L. Wertz Jan 1986

A Turkey Nesting Study In Gregory County, South Dakota, Tara L. Wertz

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Nest site vegetation characteristics and selection by wild turkey hens in Gregory County, South Dakota were examined during 1984 and 1985. A total of 23 adult and 12 juvenile hens were monitored during the study. Average adult nesting rate was 42% (31% in 1984 and 54% in 1985). No juveniles nested either year. Nesting success in 1984 and 1985 was 80% and 0%, respectively. Data was collected from 8 woodland and 5 grassland nests. Nest initiation dates ranged from 20 April to 13 June. Nest sites were chosen in locations having overhanging vegetation within 1 m above the nest bowl. …

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An Ecological Study Of Mourning Doves In A Cold Desert Ecosystem On The Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Frank P. Howe Jan 1986

An Ecological Study Of Mourning Doves In A Cold Desert Ecosystem On The Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Frank P. Howe

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Mourning dove (Zenaida macroura) use of and movements around man-made ponds, as well as dove nesting ecology, were studied from 1983 through 1985 on the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL). Relative dove use was higher (P < 0.01) on some ponds than others, and multiple regression revealed a positive association (R 2 = 0.49) between relative use and the geographic isolation of ponds. Two peaks in diurnal pond use were exhibited by doves on the INEL: the mourning peak began around 0800 and lasted until approximately 1300, and the evening peak began at about 2030 and ended by 2150. Seasonal pond use fluctuated slightly through the summer then dropped rapidly in early September. Average and average maximum movements indicated that the 41 mourning doves trapped and fitted with radio-transmitters at the Test Reactor Area (TRA) and the Naval Research Facility (NRF) did not move off of the INEL on a regular basis. The average distance from mourning dove locations to TRA and NRF was <2.0 km, and the average maximum dove location was <3.5 km from either facility. Average (<2.0 km) and average maximum (<3.5 km) distances were also measured from dove locations to watering sites. Doves captured at both TRA and NRF moved, on average, 1.5 km from their nests; the average maximum distance from a dove's location to its nest was 2.8 and 5.4 km for doves caught at TRA and NRF. The average maximum distance between any 2 locations (for the same individual) at both TRA and NRF was <4.0 km. Mourning doves on the INEL are primarily ground nesters. Nesting success averaged 68% per year, with 1.8 fledglings produced per successful nest. Nesting densities averaged 0.02 nests/ha during the study. Three peaks in hatching occurred on the INEL: 1 during the fourth week of June, another during the third week of July, and a third during the first and second weeks of August. Annual production estimates for the INEL ranged from 11,300 to 17,000 doves, based on a model using 2 and 3 nesting attempts per summer. No differences (P > 0.05) were indicated in the percent coverage of shrubs, grasses, forbs, and bare ground, as measured with the line-intercept method, in the 5-m area surrounding dove nests and paired random sites. However, a difference in the percentage of grass cover and bare ground, as measured with a point-frame, was indicated in the 1-m2 (microhabitat) centered on the nest or random site; nest sites contained …

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Pheasant Nesting And Vegetation Development In Dense Nesting Cover Established Under The South Dakota Pheasant Restoration Program, Emmett J. Keyser Iii Jan 1986

Pheasant Nesting And Vegetation Development In Dense Nesting Cover Established Under The South Dakota Pheasant Restoration Program, Emmett J. Keyser Iii

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) nest use of dense nesting cover (DNC) established under the Pheasant Restoration Program was evaluated in Beadle, Codington, Tripp, and Walworth Counties in South Dakota from 1978 to 1981. Nest densities and success in DNC plots were compared to those found in roadsides and privately owned alfalfa (Medicago sativa) fields, pastures, and small grain fields. Vegetation density and cover development were monitored on DNC plots. Nest densities were generally greatest in DNC plots followed by roadsides and alfalfa fields. Pastures and small grain fields contained the lowest nest densities. No relationship was detected between nest success and …

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Seal Development And Infiltration As Affected By Rainfall Kinetic Energy, Deah Abed Mahamad Jan 1986

Seal Development And Infiltration As Affected By Rainfall Kinetic Energy, Deah Abed Mahamad

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The infiltration of water into soil has been studied for more than 50 years. Much of the effort has concentrated on obtaining infiltration rate measurements for different soils and on developing equations which describe the resulting data. A portion of the infiltration literature has dealt with the large affect that the development of a surface seal has had on the resulting infiltration measurement of a soil. This surface seal may be more significant in determining the infiltration characteristics of a soil than any other single or perhaps combination of factors. Surface seal development has been linked to both rainfall energy …

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Growth, Survival, And Reproductive Success Of Largemouth Bass Stocked With Selected Forage Fishes In South Dakota Ponds, R. Dean Beck Jan 1986

Growth, Survival, And Reproductive Success Of Largemouth Bass Stocked With Selected Forage Fishes In South Dakota Ponds, R. Dean Beck

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Five fish stocking combinations were evaluated to determine effects of forage availability and geographic location on largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) growth, survival, and reproductive success two and three years following stocking. Four forage species stocked with largemouth bass included bluegills (Lepomis macrochirus), black bullheads (Ictalurus melas), golden shiners (Notemigonus crysoleucas), and fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas). A largemouth bass only stocking strategy was also evaluated. Largemouth bass survival two years after stocking in eastern South Dakota ponds averaged 26.5%. Largemouth bass only and largemouth bass-bluegill combinations exhibited the greatest survival rates (31.6% and 28.8%, respectively), while the largemouth bass-black bullhead combination …

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Dynamics And Distribution Of Fishes Occupying A South Dakota Power Plant Cooling Reservoir, Timothy R. Walters Jan 1986

Dynamics And Distribution Of Fishes Occupying A South Dakota Power Plant Cooling Reservoir, Timothy R. Walters

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Distribution, population number, growth rate, and reproductive activities of walleyes (Stizostedion vitreum vitreum) were studied to evaluate the potential of the Big Stone Power Plant cooling reservoir as a source of walleye brood stock. In addition, dynamics and distribution of bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) and orangespotted sunfish (L. humilis) were examined. Walleye grew well, reaching a weighted mean total length of 271 mm at formation of annulus I. Survival of walleye was poor, with population estimates of 41 and 43 fish in 1984 and 1985, respectively. Low sample size precluded analysis of distribution, but no consistent preference for an area of …

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Influence Of Geomorphological Origin Upon Macroinvertebrate Community Structure In Black Hills Streams, Matthew Lechner Jan 1986

Influence Of Geomorphological Origin Upon Macroinvertebrate Community Structure In Black Hills Streams, Matthew Lechner

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to test a stream classification system proposed for the Black Hills National Forest. Stream physiochemical characteristics and macroinvertebrate community structure were compared among three geomorphically distinct landtype associations in the Black Hills. Stepwise disciminant analysis identified five physiochemical variables, which explained 90% of the variability among landtype associations. The classificatory discriminant procedure correctly reclassified 47 of 52 stations based on the five discriminating invertebrate taxa. Each landtype association was sufficiently different in stream physiochemical characteristics to permit classification. Macroinvertebrates exhibited distributional patterns related to changes in geomorphic structure and stream order, among landtype associations. …

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Characteristics And Use Of Wild Turkey Roost Sites In Southcentral South Dakota, Randall Allen Craft Jan 1986

Characteristics And Use Of Wild Turkey Roost Sites In Southcentral South Dakota, Randall Allen Craft

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Ten radio-tagged wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo)were monitored to document roost site use and bird movements in the Missouri River breaks complex of southcentral South Dakota during the summer of 1984. Distances between roost sites used by wild turkeys ranged from 0.55 km to 3.09 km. Primary and secondary roost sites were identified. Turkeys used one primary roost site consistently every night during periods ranging from a few days to 2 months, then moved to other primary roost sites. Secondary roost sites were used inconsistently by only a few birds that occupied the roost one night, and did not return on …

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Wildlife Response To Stand Structure Of Green Ash Woodlands, Robert A. Hodorff Jan 1985

Wildlife Response To Stand Structure Of Green Ash Woodlands, Robert A. Hodorff

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Vegetation, birds and mammals were sampled over two years in two types of green ash woodlands in extreme northwestern South Dakota. Woodlands referred to as closed canopy stands consisted of dense stands of various species of trees and shrubs in different size and age classes. Woodlands referred to as open canopy stands had sparse stands of older trees, with intermediate seedling, sapling and tall shrub layers nearly absent. Closed stands had significantly greater (P = .002) coverage of shrubs in the understory than open stands while open stands had significantly greater (P = .004) total coverage of grasses than closed …

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