Natural Resources and Conservation Commons^™

Winterkill And Biomass Of The Painted Turtle In A South Dakota Wetland, Steven G. Platt, Zannita Fast Horse, Warren Cross, Sylvio Mannel, Thomas R. Rainwater

The Prairie Naturalist

Winterkill occurs when drought conditions expose hibernating turtles to desiccation and lethaly cold temperatures. Winterkill is thought to represent a major source of mortality in northern populations of the painted turtle (Chrysemys picta), but few field observations are available. We herein reported on catastrophic winterkill among western painted turtle (C. pieta bellii) at Limestone Butte Lake (LBL) in western South Dakota during the winter of 2003-2004. Additionally, we used the carcasses of winterkilled turtles (n = 86) to estimate the standing crop biomass of the painted turtle at LBL (0.6 kg/ha). This was the only estimate …

Using Local Knowledge And Remote Sensing To Map Known And Potential Prairie-Chicken Distribution In Kansas, Michael E. Houts, Randy D. Rodgers, Roger D. Applegate, William H. Busby

The Prairie Naturalist

The greater prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus cupido) and lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) have experienced considerable fluctuations in their range and distribution over time. Having current range maps would help wildlife managers and policy makers with decisions regarding prairie-chicken habitat. To create an updated and accurate map of the Kansas prairie-chicken range, a two-pronged approach was implemented. First, a map of potential habitat was created by using known habitat preferences and avoidance factors. Second, a preliminary map showing the distribution of greater and lesser prairie-chickens was created and mailed to regional experts for comments and edits. The returned edits …

Emissions Scenarios In The Face Of Fossil-Fuel Peaking, Robert J. Brecha

Physics Faculty Publications

Emissions scenarios used by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) are based on detailed energy system models in which demographics, technology and economics are used to generate projections of future world energy consumption, and therefore, of greenhouse gas emissions. We propose in this paper that it is useful to look at a qualitative model of the energy system, backed by data from short- and medium-term trends, to gain a sense of carbon emission bounds. Here we look at what may be considered a lower bound for 21st century emissions given two assumptions: first, that extractable fossil-fuel resources follow the …

Nest Site Preference And Nesting Success Of Upland Sandpiper On Grazing Systems In East Central North Dakota-, Blane A. Klemek

The Prairie Naturalist

require ranchers to move their cattle throughout the range from one paddock to another, thereby allowing formerly grazed paddocks to regenerate. This is beneficial in a number of ways: overgrazing is reduced, cattle weight-gains are improved, suitable nesting cover for ground nesting birds is produced, and the overall health of the grassland is enhanced (Sedivec and Barker 1991). The objectives of my study were to investigate nesting success of the upland sandpiper as a function of grazing regime. Specifically, I was interested in comparing nesting success between RGS and non-rotational grazing systems (NRGS) and to examine relationships between nest site …

Semi-Melanistic White-Tailed Deer In Northern Wisconsin, Christopher N. Jacques, Keith R. Mccaffery, Jonathan Jenks, John T. Baccus

The Prairie Naturalist

Melanistic color morphs of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are differentiated from other recognized color morphs by having uniform black hairs on the dorsal surface with subdued black hairs on the ventral surface, dark face and ears, a distinctive mid-dorsal stripe extending from the head to the apex of the tail, and a tail with black dorsally and white ventrally (Baccus and Posey 1999). Melanism results from the overproduction of the skin pigment melanin and is considered rare in white-tailed deer populations (Severinghaus and Cheatum 1956, Sauer 1984, Smith et al. 1984). Semi-melanistic deer have the same dark pelage …

The Prairie Naturalist 2008, Volume 40: Reviewers, Author Index, & Subject Index

The Prairie Naturalist

No abstract provided.

Sspnd –Support System For Phosphorus And Nitrogen Decisions – Modeling Of Management Practices Can Guide The Way Ahead, Simon Neville, David Weaver, Rebecca Ovens, Nardia Keipert, Robert Summers, Martin Clarke

Conference papers and presentations

Algal blooms in rivers and estuarine waters in south west Western Australia are a symptomatic response to excess nutrient input. Whilst a range of Best Management Practices (BMPs) are available to reduce the causes of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) pollution, most investment has been directed towards symptoms. In order to treat nutrient pollution causes effectively, possible nutrient reductions and the likely adoption costs of a range of BMPs require evaluation. Catchment-scale evaluation of implementation scenarios offers insights not possible through long term on-ground implementation and performance monitoring, and assists community groups and government to respond to pollution issues through …

Woody Biomass Energy Solutions, Scott Bell

UNLV Renewable Energy Symposium

The 2008 UNLV Renewable Energy Symposium was presented by the Office of Strategic Energy Programs and co-sponsored by the Division of Research and Graduate Studies on August 20, 2008 on the UNLV campus.

The event focused on renewable energy production in Nevada, the US Southwest, and renewable research projects nationwide. It was a great opportunity for anyone working on renewable projects to collaborate with others in this field and exchange information. Over 230 individuals attended the event this year.

Sustainability Through Demand Management, Jim Jaska

UNLV Renewable Energy Symposium

The 2008 UNLV Renewable Energy Symposium was presented by the Office of Strategic Energy Programs and co-sponsored by the Division of Research and Graduate Studies on August 20, 2008 on the UNLV campus.

The event focused on renewable energy production in Nevada, the US Southwest, and renewable research projects nationwide. It was a great opportunity for anyone working on renewable projects to collaborate with others in this field and exchange information. Over 230 individuals attended the event this year.

Springs Preserve And Hydrogen Filling Station Tour, University Of Nevada, Las Vegas

UNLV Renewable Energy Symposium

The 2008 UNLV Renewable Energy Symposium was presented by the Office of Strategic Energy Programs and co-sponsored by the Division of Research and Graduate Studies on August 20, 2008 on the UNLV campus. The event focused on renewable energy production in Nevada, the US Southwest, and renewable research projects nationwide. It was a great opportunity for anyone working on renewable projects to collaborate with others in this field and exchange information. Over 230 individuals attended the event this year.

Panel I: Earning More By Using Less: Businesses, Efficiency, And Renewable Energy, Janet Napolitano, Jim Murren, Jon Creyts, Michael Yackira, Rhone Resch

National Clean Energy Summit

Panel discussion Moderator: Randolph Townsend, Nevada State Senator

National Clean Energy Summit Welcome Remarks & Morning Keynote, Rose Mckinney James, David Ashley, John Podesta, Harry Reid, T. Boone Pickens

National Clean Energy Summit

Welcome remarks & Morning keynote

Assessment Of Coliform Bacteria From Point And Nonpoint Sources In The Las Vegas Wash, Susan O'Neill, Kumud Acharya

Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)

This project focuses on an assessment of coliform bacteria from point and non point sources in Las Vegas Wash. Correlations between land use related runoffs, nutrients and organic matter loading and total coliform will be studied. Data will be collected for both daily low and high flow events. Sampling locations will cover all major land use types such as golf course, hotels, hospitals, residential areas, etc., at both the main Wash and its tributaries.

Geology And Hydrology Of Karst In West-Central And North-Central Florida, Lee J. Florea

Earth, Environmental, and Atmospheric Sciences Faculty Publications

The state of Florida is blessed with the highest density of large springs in North America and hundreds of smaller springs where the water from limestone aquifers returns to the surface (Scott et al., 2004). Spectacular underwater caves supply water to these springs. Lesser known are the equally fantastic air-filled caves of Florida and South Georgia (Florea, 2006; Lane, 1986). This paper features these underwater and airfilled caves, explores the impact of changes in sea level on karst in this near-coastal environment, and establishes several geologic and hydrologic characteristics that distinguish karst in the limestones of the southeast from karst …

A Spatial Analysis Of Anthropogenically Derived And Naturally Occurring Environmental Controls On Corn-Based Ethanol Production In Nebraska, Nathan Charles Healey

School of Natural Resources: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

Transportation fuels are an integral part of political, economic, social, and environmental arenas. Traditionally, fossil fuels have been utilized most heavily due to their abundance and economic value. Currently, social and political concerns about harmful emissions (greenhouse gases) from fossil fuel combustion have enhanced interest in alternative fuels that do not have the same environmental consequence. Numerous alternative fuels are produced globally including methanol, biodiesel, hydrogen cells, and ethanol (ethyl alcohol). In America, ethanol is produced from com due to the existence of the "Com Belt" and abundant corn production. Understanding the capacity for America to sustain expansion of alternative …

Wavelet Analysis For Aboveground Biomass Estimate In Temperate Deciduous Forests, Xiaofang Wei

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The ever-increasing concentration of anthropogenic greenhouse gases (C02, CH4, and CFCs) has been identified as a likely (greater than 90% confidence) cause of the observed increase of global mean temperatures since the mid-20th century (IPCC, 2007). The effect of human-induced climate change could be unprecedented and far-reaching. Carbon sequestration into trees and forests is an effective and inexpensive way for mitigating the C02 level in the atmosphere. Hence, accurate measurement of biomass will be of great importance to global carbon cycle and climate change. This study performed a wavelet-based forest aboveground biomass estimation approach in a temperate deciduous forest, the …

Paddlefish Egg Deposition In The Lower Yellowstone River, Montana And North Dakota, Shannon E. Miller, Dennis L. Scarnecchia, Steven R. Fain

The Prairie Naturalist

We used passive egg collectors during May, June, and July of2003 and 2004 in the lower 50 river kiiometers (rkm) of the Yellowstone River, eastern Montana and western North Dakota, to detect egg deposition by spawning paddle fish (Polyodon spathula). Sampling yielded 292 eggs (46 in 2003 and 246 in 2004). All egg collections in 2003 occurred on the descending limb of the spring hydrograph but 99% of egg collections in 2004 occurred before the spring hydrograph began to descend. Catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) in 2004 was about four times that of 2003. A combination of river conditions, in addition …

Legislative Committee On Public Lands, Margaret N. Rees

Presentations (PLI)

The Public Lands Institute is dedicated to strengthening the national fabric that is essential for the protection, conservation, multiple use, and management of public lands.

Take Pride In America In Southern Nevada: Quarterly Progress Report, Period Covering April 6, 2008- July 5, 2008, Margaret N. Rees

Anti-littering Programs

• Take Pride in America in Southern Nevada wins national Take Pride in America Award for best state program

• Team is working to secure consulting firm for recycling plan project

• Don’t Trash Nevada Day event held on May 30, 2008

• Phase II media plan began June 1, 2008

• Formed new partnership with Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful

• Total of 189 people signed the anti-litter pledge

• The Anti-Litter Team conducted nine volunteer clean up events

• The Anti-Litter Team participated in five community outreach events

• Don’t Trash Nevada featured in several newspaper and television news …

Grassland Songbird Survival And Recruitment In Agricultural Landscapes: Implications For Source-Sink Demography, Noah G. Perlut, Allan M. Strong, Therese M. Donovan, Neil J. Buckley

Environmental Studies Faculty Publications

Population growth and decline are particularly sensitive to changes in three key life-history parameters: annual productivity, juvenile survival, and adult survival. However, for many species these parameters remain unknown. For example, although grassland songbirds are imperiled throughout North America, for this guild, only a small number of studies have assessed these parameters. From 2002 to 2006, in the agricultural landscape of the Champlain Valley of Vermont and New York, USA, we studied Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis) and Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) demography on four grassland treatments: (1) early-hayed fields cut before 11 June and again in early- …

Fisheries Research Report No. 171 - Evaluation Of Exclusion Grids To Reduce The Bycatch Of Dolphins, Turtles, Sharks And Rays In The Pilbara Trawl Fishery, Peter Stephenson, S. Wells, J. A. King

Fisheries Research Reports

DBIF funded Project.

Considerable research on the documention of the bycatch of cetaceans, seals, turtles, and sea lions during trawl fishing operations has been undertaken worldwide. These include the Argentinean squid and hake trawl fisheries (Crespo et al., 1997; Fertl & Leatherwood, 1997), the Dutch pelagic trawl fishery (Couperus, 1997), the NE Atlantic pelagic trawl fishery (Tregenza & Collet, 1998) and the New Zealand squid fishery (Fishing News International, 2005).

In the Pilbara Fish Trawl Fishery, operating off the coast of Western Australia protected species including dolphins, turtles, sawfish, sea snakes as well as numerous sharks and ray species have …

The Economic Impact Of The Kentucky Green River Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (Crep), Lorie B. Owen

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

This study examines the impact of the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) on fourteen Kentucky counties. The CREP program is an advancement of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) which began nationally in 1985. The primary intention of both programs is to improve water quality and reduce soil erosion. Thus, in order to stimulate conservation efforts, farmers are given an opportunity to remove land from current production and still reap financial benefits. When CREP was introduced to Kentucky in 2002, the program provided far more lucrative incentives than the parent program. In 2007 CREP underwent an amendment process that broadened the …

Droughtscape, Summer 2008, Kelly Smith

DroughtScape: Quarterly Newsletter of the National Drought Mitigation Center (2007–2023)

VegDRI Expands West

Spring Rains Ease Drought But CA Still Dry

Scholar Donates Books

NDMC Welcomes Employees Bathke, Nothwehr

Latest Workshop Info Up

State Lawmakers to Focus on Drought Planning

Decadal Variation -- Clues to Droughts and Floods?

Alien Invaders! Pre-Visit Lesson: Introduced And Invasive Species (Grade 6), Discover Mojave: Forever Earth

Curriculum materials (FE)

In the “Alien Invaders!” program, students use the Forever Earth vessel to investigate how quagga mussels might affect Lake Mead. Students collect water quality data such as clarity, pH, and temperature to determine whether current habitat conditions would allow quagga mussels to survive and thrive. Students learn about the consequences the quagga mussels could have on the lake and its living and non-living resources. Using the knowledge they’ve gained, students create their own management plans to prevent the spread of quagga mussels to other waterways.

This activity involves students in the concepts of introduced and invasive species

Lake Mead National Recreation Area Vegetation Monitoring And Analysis: Quarterly Progress Report, April 1, 2008 To June 30, 2008, Margaret N. Rees

Vegetation Monitoring

Executive Summary

• The Weed Sentry program surveyed over 182 miles of transportation corridors on federal land in Clark County for incipient populations of exotic plants.
• Five manuscripts attained published or in-press status this quarter. The published manuscripts are (1) assessing vegetation in grassy remnants of the Las Vegas Valley (Desert Plants), (2) assessing exotic species distributions in Clark County (Environmental Monitoring and Assessment), (3) a synthesis of burro effects on Mojave Desert vegetation (Environmental Management), and (4) examining canopy-tree influences along a soil parent material gradient in (Journal of the Torrey Botanical Society).
• Staff delivered eight presentations this quarter at …

Nevada Interagency Volunteer Program: Helping Hands Across Public Lands – Phase Ii: Annual Progress Report, Period Covering July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2008, Margaret N. Rees

Get Outdoors Nevada

• The Interagency Volunteer Program (IVP) completed a total of 25 volunteer events contributing a total of 7,270.5 volunteer hours.
• A total of 186 volunteers completed orientations and trainings with the IVP.
• In January, the database manager updated and archived records in the Volgistic data base.
• Since January, the Volgistic database has increased the number of records by 15% containing a total 5,171 records.
• The first annual IVP bus tour has been completed.
• The first event assistant training has been completed. A total of five event assistants have assisted event coordinators at six different volunteer events.
• Website activity this year averaged …

Nevada Interagency Volunteer Program: Helping Hands Across Public Lands – Phase Ii: Quarterly Progress Report, Period Covering April 1- June 30, 2008, Margaret N. Rees

Get Outdoors Nevada

• The number of records in the volunteer database increased 6% since January 1, 2008. The database now contains 5,171 records.
• Website activity decreased, recording an average of 67,180 hits per month, a decrease of 19% from last quarter, with an average of 6,618 pages viewed per month.
• Spring volunteer training has been completed • Fall events have been scheduled.
• The first Interagency Volunteer Program Bus Tour has been completed.
• The new seed collection events have been completed

Slides: The Big Questions, Doug Kenney

Shifting Baselines and New Meridians: Water, Resources, Landscapes, and the Transformation of the American West (Summer Conference, June 4-6)

Presenter: Doug Kenney, Natural Resources Law Center, University of Colorado Law School

7 slides

Slides: The Urbanizing West: Limits To Water, Limits To Growth, Lora A. Lucero

Shifting Baselines and New Meridians: Water, Resources, Landscapes, and the Transformation of the American West (Summer Conference, June 4-6)

Presenter: Lora A. Lucero, AICP, American Planning Association

18 slides

Slides: Protecting Biodiversity Through Ecosystem Services, Barton "Buzz" Thompson

Shifting Baselines and New Meridians: Water, Resources, Landscapes, and the Transformation of the American West (Summer Conference, June 4-6)

Presenter: Barton “Buzz” Thompson, Perry L. McCarty Director, Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University Law School

14 slides