MISSISSIPPI COOPERATIVE FISH AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH UNIT

COORDINATING COMMITTEE MEETING 2014

COOPERATING AGENCIESMississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks

Mississippi State UniversityU.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceU.S. Geological Survey

Wildlife Management Institute

Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit Annual Coordinating Committee Meeting

8 April 2014

Berryman Institute Mississippi State University

9:30 Gathering

10:00 Welcome and introductions (Schramm, Dibble, Hopper)

10:10 Reports from Coordinating Committee U.S. Geological Survey, Cooperative Research Units Program (Kevin Whalen) Mississippi State University (George Hopper, Eric Dibble) Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (Larry Castle and Staff) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

11:00 Reports from Cooperators

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service USGS National Wetlands Research Center USGS Mississippi Water Science Center

12:00 Lunch (catered)

12:30 Unit project presentations

2:00 Future research Cooperator needs (All) Proposed research (Miranda, Schramm, Vilella) Discussion

2:30 Other business

Executive session (Whalen, Dibble, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

Adjourn

Program Direction Statement

Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit The Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program was established to facilitate cooperation between the U.S. Department of the Interior (Department), universities, State fish and wildlife agencies and private organizations, and to conduct programs of research and education related to fish and wildlife resource management. The objectives of the Units are to: (1) conduct research directed toward the solution of problems of mutual concern related to fish, wildlife, and their habitats; (2) provided academic training toward advanced degrees in the fish and wildlife field; (3) provide technical assistance to Federal, State, and other conservation agencies related to fish and wildlife management; and (4) provide conservation education through publication, lecture, and demonstration. The operations of the Unit are governed by a formal Cooperative Agreement signed by the Department, university, State fish and wildlife agency, and the Wildlife Management Institute.

The Unit shall formulate and conduct a research program to address problems of state, regional, and national importance regarding aquatic and terrestrial riparian ecosystems in Mississippi and adjacent states. Bottomland hardwood ecosystems are being subjected to tremendous stress, primarily through agricultural development, including timber and range uses, navigational and flood control, urbanization, and highway developments, with consequent impact on fish and wildlife resources. Research will be oriented to the solution of problems which relate to aquatic and terrestrial resources impacting Federal and State agency programs in the Southeastern United States. These studies will involve a wide range of applied and basic research projects designed to improve or at least avoid, minimize or mitigate fish and wildlife losses resulting from natural resource development and associated human population increases. The research will involve such interacting specializations as plant and animal ecology, agronomy, hydrology, forestry, range management, sociology, economics, and ecosystem reclamation. Studies will involve assessing the regional and cumulative impact of resource development and recommending alternative management strategies to alleviate the effects of such development on plant and animal communities. Studies will also address the effects of expanding human populations on animal distribution and behavior, the socioeconomic impacts associated with the degradation of wildlife habitats, the loss of riparian and stream habitat through changing land use patterns, and the recovery of disturbed lands and waters for fish and wildlife. Each of the above areas will be approached through teams of University, State, and Federal agency scientists to achieve a balance in management recommendations between resource development and maintenance of environmental values called for under the National Environmental Policy Act. This Unit is expected to become a “Center of Excellence” for research on bottomland hardwood ecosystem development as fish and wildlife habitat with national significance in formulating management strategies whereby adverse impacts may be avoided, minimized, or mitigated.

USGS Mississippi Cooperative Research Unit 2013 Cooperator’s Meeting

April 12, 2013

Minutes Present:

Bruce Leopold (WFA), George Hopper (CFR), Larry Castle (MDWFP), Jim Fleming (USGS- CRUC), Ed Penny (MDWFP), Larry Pugh (MDWFP), Andy Sanderson (MDWFP), Francisco Villella (USGS-MSCRU), Scott Edwards (MDWFP), Jeffrey Lee (USFWS), Hal Schramm (USGS-MSCRU), Steve Miranda (USGS-MSCRU)

Opening Comments:

• George Hopper: Welcomed group and expressed support for the nature of the CRU,

its mission and contributions to the university. Welcomed USFWS to first meeting as official cooperator. He also acknowledged Dr. Leopold’s retirement and identified it as an important loss to the department. A search for a replacement is underway with Miranda representing Unit as member of search committee. College enrollment at 5-year high with WFA one of fastest growing in university. Dr. Hopper asked for help in giving paid opportunities for summer jobs for undergraduates. He recognized limitation of current budget levels but recognized a +6% has been approved at the state level. Sequestration may affect College at about -5.9%.

• Bruce Leopold: Also welcomed group to MSU and emphasized importance of CRU meeting for dialogue and development of ideas. Announced his approaching retirement in June 2013. Discussed student enrollment which is currently at 141, well above the level listed in the enrollment management plan (88). Projected enrollment for next year is 250. Graduate student enrollment is stable at 75. Center for resolving human-wildlife conflicts was recently created. As many as four retirements are expected in WFA in next couple of years. Leadership institute will provide opportunities to5-6 top notch undergraduates. The institute will support students from various universities. Boone- Crockett chair position may be coming to WFA.

• Jim Fleming: retirements have left several important vacancies in DOI and USGS including that of Ken Williams, past CRU Chief. USGS may not fill the position and keep only Deputy Chief position. Elaborated on budget uncertainties created by sequestration, including travel restrictions to meetings. Research and research oriented meetings OK. Hiring freeze is currently in place. There will be a 5% reduction in funding for USGS due to sequestration in current FY. USGS is about 95% salary based. Moreover, there is uncertainty for next fiscal year given

competing budgets (senate, house, president). Mentioned current push by CRU on safety related issues – limited funding is available for replacement of motors, boats, vehicles, etc. Described a newly instituted job hazard analysis available online on USGS Digital Measures’ that helps identify training needs.

• Larry Castle: Legislative session this year was beneficial to MDWFP, particularly as it relates to structure of fishing and hunting licenses. Legislation also cleared up various laws in need of clarification. PR dollars have increased due to a recent spike in gun sales, even with sequestration in place. Law enforcement salaries were increased this year through legislative appropriations.

• Larry Pugh – Final year of water level research in reservoirs in the four flood control reservoirs in northwest Mississippi. This research is conducted by the MSCRU and is expected to provide guidance on management of crappie fisheries. A summit about crappie management will be convened this fall. MDWFP-Fisheries continues to work with USFWS and Dr. Schramm on pallid sturgeon in the Mississippi River. Work on paddlefish in Pascagoula river. Working with extension in developing pond workshops. He also spoke about taking over aquatic plant control program (herbicides) in Ross Barnett reservoir from Pearl River Valley water management.

• Ed Penny – Announced a new WMA in Claiborne Co. He also indicated that the public lands program is growing, particularly in relation to wetlands restoration and waterfowl management. He discussed various problems the agency is facing in regards to problems associated with wild hogs management. Lastly, he indicated that the Wildlife bureau has several positions available.

• Scott Edwards – Spoke in generalities about several of the research projects funded to WFA, emphasizing the deer research. He also mentioned upcoming turkey research at the Tallahala WMA. This is a re-start of research conducted in the 1980s-1990s. Upcoming research also includes investigations into exploitation rates of quail. Also in the works is research into timber management to benefit wildlife. This will be a large-scope project including large number of partners. Lastly, he spoke about developing a publication describing the long-term cooperative research relationship between MDWFP and WFA at MSU..

• Andy Sanderson – spoke briefly about the Museum of Natural History. The museum also has various vacancies that need to be filled. He also spoke about the extensive collections available at the museum, and recent expansions.

• Larry Castle – he further commented on vacant positions at MDWFP. There has been no license increase in 20 years, but the cost of doing business has continued to go up. The agency is short on cash. This lack of cash flow has affected vacancies. MDWFP will probably not be able to fill many vacancies until more cash comes in. He also commented that hunters and fishers do support license increase, but politicians don’t as they see it as a tax increase.

• Jeffrey Lee – USFWS budgets continue to drop. Partners budget went up this year slightly (30K).

Student presentations:

• Ray Iglay – Simulating least tern populations • Caroline Andrews – oxbow lakes in the Delta • Justin Foth - Community ecology of shorebirds • Ethan Mower – Habitats in flood control reservoirs

Proposed research:

• Reservoir habitat – Miranda • Sturgeon habitat – Schramm

Larry Castle – commented that MDWFP would prefer that the minutes show after the proposed research simply that presentations were made, not that MDWFP does not object to the proposed research.

Cooperator needs:

• Larry Castle – Structure of dove hunting seasons. All-day hunting versus shorter hours.

It is believed that this may affect hunting success. • No other needs were mentioned

General Meeting Adjourned 2:03pm

Completed Research

Fisheries

Habitat use and selection of shovelnose sturgeon

Scaphirhynchus platorynchus in the lower Mississippi River Investigators: Patrick Kroboth (M.S. candidate) and Hal Schramm

Funding Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Project Status: Completed (2012-2014)

Shovelnose sturgeon are one of the more abundant and widely distributed freshwater

sturgeon species in North America, but throughout the last century they have experienced population declines attributed to overharvest, localized pollution, and habitat alterations. The lower Mississippi River (LMR) has changed during the past century from the effects of channelization and levee construction implemented to minimize flooding and maintain the river at a depth, width, and sinuosity suitable for commercial navigation. Limited research is available to help guide management on the habitat requirements of shovelnose sturgeon in the engineered lower Mississippi River. The goal of this study was to assess seasonal changes in habitat use and preferences. Project objectives were: 1) to identify habitat types selected by shovelnose sturgeon in the LMR; 2) to assess shovelnose sturgeon associations with abiotic conditions in the LMR; and 3) to assess sandbar microhabitat use by shovelnose sturgeon in the LMR.

The LMR is a dynamic system that fluctuates more than 10 m annually in most years. Thus habitat availability changes throughout the year and must be considered in any assessment of habitat use and selection. Habitat selection and associations with abiotic variables were assessed by comparing habitat use and availability during four periods differentiated by changes in thermal and hydrologic conditions. Location data were obtained from monthly tracking acoustically tagged adult shovelnose sturgeon. Separate habitat availability maps for each thermal-hydrologic season were developed from bathymetric data provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and satellite imagery from the U.S. Geological Survey.

Our results suggest that shovelnose sturgeon are a generalist species that occupy a broad range of habitats based on their availability. Analysis of associations with abiotic conditions suggests that shovelnose sturgeon use a broad range of conditions but prefer moderate depth and current velocity and relatively flat riverbed.

Efforts to assess microhabitat selection on sandbars revealed that shovelnose sturgeon selected downstream portions of sandbars. However, we found no evidence to suggest microhabitat discrimination based on depth, surface current velocity, or riverbed form. Either shovelnose sturgeon do not select locations on sandbars based on small changes in depth,

current velocity, or riverbed form, or sandbars are relatively homogeneous for these variables at the spatial scale of several hundred meters.

Promoting Crappie Recruitment in Northwest Mississippi Reservoirs

Investigator: L.E. Miranda Funding source: MDWFP Project Status: Completed (2009-2013)

Crappies are a major component in the fisheries of the four large flood control reservoirs in northwest Mississippi – Arkabutla, Sardis, Enid, and Grenada. According to angler surveys, crappie harvest in these reservoirs represents over 80% of the total annual fish harvest. Previous surveys have estimated that crappie exploitation is high - assessed at 48% in Sardis Reservoir in 1995-1996. Although the current exploitation level is unknown, it is expected to be higher considering that since the mid-1990s trolling for crappie has become widespread and this fishing technique produces higher catch rates and thus more “limits.” Considering the importance of crappie fisheries in these reservoirs, the high exploitation rates, and the need to sustain populations at levels that can continue to provide quality fisheries, the goal of this study was to identify management alternatives to promote recruitment of juvenile crappies into these fisheries.

Recruitment of juveniles can be influenced by managing the spawning stock, community interactions, and the environment. In this study we focused on the environment. These reservoirs are unique in that they are shallow and experience extensive seasonal water level fluctuations that dramatically change their area and dewater substantial portions of the reservoirs. Over the approximately 70-year lifespan of these reservoirs, water-level fluctuations have had positive and negative influences on spawning through timely and mistimed water level fluctuations, and have severely impacted reservoir environments by creating extensive mudflats that generally provide substandard habitat for fish. Therefore, environment is postulated to exert strong control over crappie spawning and recruitment in these flood-control reservoirs.

During 2009-2013 we investigated water levels, rule curve policies, and their effect on crappie populations and fish communities in the four northwest Mississippi flood–control reservoirs. Our overarching goal was to identify how water levels and habitat interact to control recruitment of juvenile crappies and influence fish species composition. We sought to advance our understanding of crappie recruitment relative to water levels and the habitats they influence. A better understanding about how water levels interact with fish habitat and fish ecology could inform management plans and maintain desired fisheries in light of declining habitat qualities.

We determined that water levels do influence recruitment of juvenile crappies through controlling access to key habitats and through shaping habitat characteristics. High water level during the spawning season allowed adult access to desirable vegetated spawning sites, and low water level during the preceding fall months allowed rejuvenation of vegetation in spawning sites. The low fall water levels that rejuvenated vegetation were also linked to larger age-0 crappies by the following summer. However, different habitats within the reservoir interact with water levels differently, resulting in different effects on recruitment. Floodplain environments that exist in the upper reaches of these reservoirs have various advantages over embayment environments associated with the main body of the reservoirs. Some of these advantages include providing access to suitable spawning sites earlier in the spawning period at a lower water level, and producing larger individuals and higher densities of age-0 crappies by late summer. The benefits of floodplain environment are derived from a

higher quality habitat that supports more moist-soil vegetation below normal pool. Conversely, below normal pool embayments include mainly mudflats, and upland vegetation is not inundated until water levels rise above normal pool. Thus, key to providing access to suitable spawning and rearing habitat, and maintaining and enhancing crappie fisheries, is maintaining a suitable annual cycle of water levels that will preserve viability of vegetated habitats and allow timely access to adult and juvenile crappies.

Because water levels are controlled by the USACE, we also researched the legal frameworks within which changes to the water level may be made. We identified and described three different frameworks. Understanding how rule curves for water levels are established is minimal among natural resource professionals and the public because such understanding requires hard to access data, complicated software, and engineering experience. This limitation can inhibit a manager’s ability to propose detailed, realistic, and viable water level options for discussion. To address this need, we developed a procedure that resource managers can use to visualize flood risk associated with rule curve changes, and therefore identify alternatives to best meet needs of fish populations while still operating within the flood control goals of the reservoir.

Results suggest that fish management in the study reservoirs would benefit from more intensive collaboration between USACE and MDWFP, with the goal of improving fish habitat in the reservoirs. These efforts may include maintenance and enhancement of floodplain habitat in the up-lake reaches of the reservoirs, seeding of mudflats in down-lake embayments, and yearly consultations on timing of water retention and discharges. Whereas the USACE is mandated by law to adhere to an established rule curve, the rule curve has flexibility that can be exploited to improve fisheries considering the latest fish monitoring data acquired by fisheries biologists.

Wildlife and Conservation Biology

Winter waterbird use and food resources of aquaculture lands in Mississippi Investigators: James S. Feaga (M.S. Wildlife Science) and Francisco J. Vilella

Funding Source: Natural Resources Conservation Service, Migratory Bird Habitat Initiative

Project Status: Completed (2010-2013)

The NRCS is conducting the Migratory Bird Habitat Initiative (MBHI) to provide alternate habitats for use by waterbirds. Working with owners and operators of private croplands, catfish ponds, and WRP easements in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) and Gulf Coast (GC) regions, NRCS is providing wetlands for migrating and wintering shorebirds, waterfowl, and other waterbirds. Other conservation agencies and organizations also are engaged in complementary habitat development and management on public and private lands (e.g., USFWS, Ducks Unlimited, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, state agencies). Within this framework, NRCS identified objectives to assess the near-term (1-3 years) effects of conservation measures implemented through the MBHI on migrating and wintering waterbirds. Assessment efforts focus on measuring overall biological effectiveness of habitat management actions taken presumably for the benefit of migratory birds within the regions.

For this research we evaluated use of MBHI-enrolled and managed catfish ponds vs. production catfish ponds by wintering waterfowl. We conducted field surveys of migrant shorebird and waterbird use of representative enrolled sites in late winter and spring 2011-2012 and 2012-2013, to estimate abundance and species diversity and identify factors explaining variation in waterbird use of MBHI crop fields. Wintering waterbirds exhibited similar densities on production (i.e., ~22 birds/ha) and idled (i.e., ~20 birds/ha) MBHI sites. Our results suggest production and idled MBHI aquaculture impoundments produced suitable conditions for waterbirds in terms of food and habitat. We recommend future programs strive to enroll properties that promote an increased diversity of habitats in terms of vegetation structure, available forage, and varying water depth, with the aim of maximizing waterbird diversity.

Current Research

Fisheries

Diet and temperature effects on growth rates of pallid sturgeon and shovelnose sturgeon

Investigators: Rob DeVries (Ph.D. student), Steve Chipps (South Dakota

Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit), Chris Guy (Montana Cooperative Fisheries Research Unit), and Craig Paukert (Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit), and Hal Schramm

Funding Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Geological Survey

Project Status: Third of 3 years (2012-2014)

A simple and reliable way to judge the health of a fish population and the suitability of its environment is comparisons of growth rate. Growth rate of fishes, however, is strongly influenced by water temperature and food supply. The endangered pallid sturgeon is native to the Missouri and Mississippi river basins and extends from the upper Missouri and Yellowstone rivers in Montana to the Gulf of Mexico in the lower Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers. Throughout its range, the pallid sturgeon co-occurs with the more common shovelnose sturgeon that is now a federally listed threatened species. Because the range of these two species spans climates ranging from cool temperate to subtropical, comparisons of growth rate should consider temperature effects. The goal of this research is to assess the effects of temperature and food sources on growth rates these two river sturgeon throughout their range.

Juvenile and adult pallid sturgeon and shovelnose sturgeon will be collected from upper, middle, and lower reaches of the Missouri River and the lower Mississippi River. Age data necessary for calculating growth rate will include use of known age fish and ages estimated from pectoral fin rays. Water temperature data will be obtained from U.S. Geological Survey and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers gauges. Fish diets historically have been assessed by analysis of stomach or gut contents. Such data, although informative, only provide a current snapshot of diet. We will quantify diets by analyses of stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen that allow inferences about long-term variability in fish diets with regard to food sources consumed (fish and macroinvertebrates have different carbon isotope signatures, and forage from different trophic positions, such as piscivores and invertivores, have different nitrogen isotope signatures). Although stable isotope analysis usually involves sampling muscle tissue, fin rays and scales have been found to provide useful isotope measures; collection of these tissues enables researchers to sample specimens in a non-lethal and minimally invasive way, a necessary requisite for studies involving threatened and endangered species.

Results from this study will be used to determine the effect of thermal regimes on growth rate and to determine those habitats or river reaches where suitable prey are more

abundant. The study will establish benchmarks for growth rates of pallid sturgeon and shovelnose sturgeon throughout the range of the pallid sturgeon that can be used to assess effects of changes in river management or recovery efforts on sturgeon populations and lower trophic level fauna. Furthermore, the results can be used to forecast the effects of climate change on these two protected species.

We have received approval from each work group associated with this project to obtain both fin clips (needed for stable isotope analysis) and fin rays (needed for age estimation) from shovelnose sturgeon but only fin clips from pallid sturgeon. This cooperative project is on schedule, but pallid sturgeon have been difficult to capture this year. Additional pallid sturgeon samples, particularly from larger specimens, are needed. To date, although we have not yet received samples from Missouri, we have obtained sufficient samples of small (<500 mm FL) shovelnose sturgeon from Montana (upper Missouri River), Nebraska (middle Missouri River), and Mississippi. We also have sufficient samples of large (>600 mm FL) shovelnose sturgeon from Nebraska and Mississippi. Pallid sturgeon samples have been more difficult to obtain, and sufficient specimens have only been obtained for the small size class of pallid sturgeon (<500 mm FL) in Montana. A request has been submitted to all field crews to continue collecting samples for the size classes not currently filled. Plankton and periphyton samples will also be collected in April, May, and June of this year to provide baseline isotope data at each of the study sites. Ageing and length-at-age back calculation for both species are currently underway for the lower Mississippi River and upper and lower Missouri River samples.

Tackling reservoir habitat problems with best management practices Investigators: L.E. Miranda

Funding Source: Multistate Conservation Grants

Project Status: First of 2 years (2013-2015)

The objectives of this research are (1) to compile and design best management practices

(BMPs), and flexible BMP systems, suitable for addressing fish habitat problems afflicting US reservoirs; and (2) to develop a national BMP monitoring system appropriate for evaluating and refining BMPs applied within an adaptive management context. Using as a starting point a recently completed habitat impairment survey we are identifying BMPs for a broad range of impairment factors. Some of the major factors identified to affect reservoir habitats by the RFHP survey include siltation, structural habitat availability, eutrophication, water quality, water regime, and aquatic plants. Within each of these major factors there are multiple impairments that need addressing. BMPs suitable for addressing common reservoir impairments are being compiled from state and federal agency manuals, handbooks, journal articles, websites, and policy statements. Information will be made available as a BMP manual available online and as a hard copy downloadable from the RFHP website. The BMPs are intended to provide direction on “what to do” and local direction will provide direction on

“how to do it.” For example, lack of structural habitat is a major source of habitat impairment in reservoirs. BMPs can effectively provide general guidance on how to develop a program to enhance structural habitat, but local conditions are likely to influence how the program is implemented. Thus, whereas detail guidance and monitoring procedures will be developed, the guidance will not attempt to directly address every local situation. Instead, the goal is to provide a standard set of core BMPs broadly applicable at the national level, and when appropriate, fine-tuned to the regional level.

This effort will benefit reservoir habitat management in several ways. First, it will compile an extensive set of BMPs, currently not available, or dispersed widely over a broad range of disciplines and journals, and not readily available to reservoir managers. Second, this exercise will help identify gaps in knowledge requiring additional research. Third, it will initiate a more organized and focused national approach to habitat management in reservoirs. Lastly, the use of field application of BMPs by State and local agencies as tests of BMP effectiveness will effectively serve as hypotheses tests that will more rapidly move the science of reservoir habitat management forward.

Current Research

Wildlife and Conservation Biology

Spatial dynamics and population estimation of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) in riverine systems of Mississippi

Investigators: Bradley Strickland (M.S. student) and Francisco J. Vilella

Funding Sources: Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks; MSU

Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture; USGS Biological Resources

Project Status: Second of 3 years (2011-2014)

The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is widely distributed throughout

wetland ecosystems of the southeastern United States. Following removal from the Endangered Species List, the state established regulations to manage the species and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP) created the Alligator Management and Control Project. The MDWFP program monitors alligator populations, handles nuisance animals, and educates the public regarding safety. We have been conducting collaborative research on alligators to develop the ecological knowledge required for the sustainable management of alligator populations for the benefit of the citizens of Mississippi. We focused on movements and habitat use of alligators in the Pearl River basin. In total, 60 alligators were captured and radiomarked and 1502 locations recorded. Alligator body measurements were collected (total length: mean = 2.79 m, range = 1.80 - 3.71 m) from spring 2012 to fall 2013. Satellite imagery and water depth grids are being used to create ecologically relevant habitat classifications to quantify alligator habitat selection at multiple spatial scales. We will quantify home range and seasonal movement patterns of alligators and use a multivariate k-select analysis to test for differential resource use and habitat selectivity as a function of body size.

The other main component of this research is an evaluation of current alligator survey protocol used by MDWFP to assess sources of variation and potential improvements. We conducted alligator surveys along line transects on the Pearl River and Ross-Barnett Reservoir during June - October 2013 using distance sampling methods. Also, we are conducting a quantitative assessment of MDWFP alligator survey data for the period 1998 – 2013. Surveys for this time period have been standardized for observer, routes, time of year, watercraft, water levels and weather. We will develop statistical models to examine alligator population trends.

Community ecology and resource use of migrating shorebirds in wetlands and aquaculture sites of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley and Gulf Coast

Investigators: Justyn Foth (Ph.D. student) and Francisco J. Vilella

Funding Sources: Natural Resources Conservation Service and USGS Biological

Resources Division Project Status: Third of 4 years (2011-2015)

The NRCS is conducting the Migratory Bird Habitat Initiative (MBHI) to provide alternate habitats for use by waterbirds. Working with owners and operators of private croplands, catfish ponds, and WRP easements in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) and Gulf Coast (GC) regions, NRCS is providing wetlands and associated foods (i.e., moist-soil seeds and tubers, waste grain, aquatic invertebrates) for migrating and wintering shorebirds, waterfowl, and other waterbirds. Other conservation agencies and organizations also are engaged in complementary habitat development and management on public and private lands (e.g., USFWS, Ducks Unlimited, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, state agencies).

Considering species-specific differences in waterbird habitat and food use, migration chronology, assessment metrics will be attempted to link with broad migratory bird population and demographic responses, physical habitat responses and selection, and possibly behavioral responses. Within this framework, NRCS identified objectives to assess the near-term (1-3 years) effects of conservation measures implemented through the MBHI on migrating and wintering waterbirds. Before the 20th century, most of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) was covered by bottomland hardwood forests. Most of it has been converted for agricultural, aquaculture, and other land uses which have provided new stop-over habitats for migrating shorebirds and other waterbirds. Historically, shorebirds likely bypassed the MAV for the Gulf Coast (GC) or remained within riverine wetlands on exposed mudflats and sandbars. Very little is currently known about shorebird use of new MAV habitats.

For this research we are assessing food energy density for shorebirds in MBHI-enrolled and managed catfish ponds vs. production catfish ponds and investigate factors influencing use of these habitats by these birds. We are developing models from on-going research in the MAV to estimate increased carrying capacity provided by catfish ponds managed for wildlife habitat under MBHI. Our objectives are to: (1) estimate species composition and relative abundance of migrating shorebirds and other waterbirds in aquaculture ponds and associated wetlands in the MAV and GC regions from July-October, a primary migration period for shorebirds; (2) estimate invertebrate food resources for migrating shorebirds in the MAV; (3) use stable isotope (carbon, nitrogen) analysis of shorebird tissues and soil to determine possible migratory connectivity among MAV and GC habitats; and (4) assess migratory connectivity and stopover wetland use from stable isotope analysis of biological material (i.e., feather, blood, tissue) and soil across the MAV and evaluate accumulation of compound-specific material in shorebird tissue derived likely from the Deep Water Horizon oil spill.

We will develop body condition index models for two common species of migratory

shorebirds in the MAV, the Pectoral Sandpiper (Calidris melanotos) and Least Sandpiper (Calidirs minutilla). Furthermore, we will use stable isotopes to link foraging stopover sites for these two species of shorebirds on the MAV and coastal wetlands of the Gulf coast. We will also use stable isotopes to identify signatures from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill that may be present in the coastal wetland shorebird foraging grounds of Mississippi and neighboring states.

We conducted shorebird surveys in summer-fall 2011 and 2012; fieldwork was concluded during fall 2013. Preliminary results indicate shorebird species richness on MBHI and other catfish ponds with mudflats in Mississippi increased from July through early September then declined. Idled catfish ponds, with mudflats or shallow water, provided thousands of acres of wetlands in Mississippi for shorebirds and other waterbirds. Analyses will reveal the extent of use of these ponds by shore- and other birds in the next quarterly report. Shorebirds and other waterbirds had greater relative abundance and species richness in shallowly flooded ponds when compared to production ponds on MBHI sites. Relative numbers of waterbirds on MBHI enrolled catfish ponds were similar to those observed on national wildlife refuges in the MAV and coastal wetlands.

Shorebird tissue, soil invertebrates and sediment are currently being processed for stable isotope analysis. Data analysis of shorebird count data and food resources is currently underway. Results from this study will provide the Natural Resources Conservation Service and other conservation agencies/organizations with data and other information to guide shorebird habitat conservation efforts in the MAV and along the GC regions.

Population dynamics and habitat models of the endangered Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus vennator) and the Red-tailed Hawk

(Buteo jamaicensis) in montane forests of Puerto Rico Investigators: Julio C. Gallardo (Ph.D. student) and Francisco J. Vilella

Funding Sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, CONACyT (National Council on

Science and Technology of Mexico) and USGS Biological Resources Project Status: Third of 4 years (2011-2015)

The Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata, hereafter PRPA) once abundant and widely distributed throughout coastal and montane forests of Puerto Rico and its major satellite islands is presently critically endangered. Predation by the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis, RTHA) accounts for most captive-reared and wild PRPA mortalities. The Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus vennator, SSHA) is an endangered woodland raptor of Puerto Rico. Available information indicates populations are small and restricted to montane forests. Breeding populations of the SSHA have been reported in several montane forests reserves of Puerto Rico. However, updated information on SSHA population status and use of private lands, particularly the coffee growing regions of the central mountains, is

lacking. This knowledge gap precludes opportunities for SSHA conservation. The Maricao State Forest has been selected as the site for a third population of PRPA. As such, it is important to assess SSHA presence in and around Maricao Forest to coordinate PRPA management actions with SSHA conservation.

Cooperating agencies of the PRPA recovery program have expressed interest in updating RTHA abundance information in the Luquillo Mountains and modeling annual removal estimates, including spatially-explicit information as to where within El Yunque National Forest these efforts should be focused. Our objectives for this study are: 1) Develop population estimates of the RTHA and SSHA in El Yunque National Forest and Maricao Forest, 2) Develop a population dynamics model for the RTHA in El Yunque National Forest, 3) Develop spatially-explicit habitat models for the RTHA and SSHA in El Yunque National Forest and Maricao Forest, and, 4) Provide recommendations for management of the RTHA and SSHA in El Yunque National Forest and Maricao Forest.

Line transect sampling being conducted in a distance sampling framework to develop RTHA population estimates with precision (± SE). A discrete-time population model for the RTHA in El Yunque National Forest will be developed incorporating environmental factors (i.e., rainfall) which vary through time into the model, and obtain summaries of the expected abundance of stages and the uncertainty of those expectations. We will also estimate the risks that RTHA abundance will fall below, or grow above, a given threshold. Model parameters will be derived from previous RTHA research in Puerto Rico as well as information derived from this study. This will include information on abundance, post-breeding adult:juvenile ratios, and nesting activity. We will utilize three basic approaches to model the RTHA population of El Yunque National Forest; 1) general life history models based on developmental stage, including multidimensional structure (e.g., simultaneous age and size), 2) environmental fluctuations models that include information on environmental factors that may influence the population, and, 3) risk assessment models where estimates are derived of population extinction or decline. We will use this approach to examine RTHA population response to alternate removal (i.e., harvest) levels. Model outputs will include average population size over time, interval and terminal quasi-extinction risk, percent decline, and time to cross predefined threshold levels.

Surveys sites for SSHA were identified using digital topographic maps, aerial photography, and spatial databases from the Puerto Rico GAP Analysis. Playback recordings are used at point count stations to detect SSHA presence; a single-species, multiple-season patch occupancy modeling approach will be used to assess SSHA presence, estimate abundance, and identify important habitat patches in Maricao Forest and adjacent private lands. After collecting appropriate SSHA data (i.e., repeated surveys of landscape units over time) we will employ recently developed statistical models to obtain unbiased parameter estimates. We will estimate the proportion of area occupied, or similarly the probability a site is occupied by SSHA in the Maricao Forest and adjacent lands. We will use landscape metrics associated with SSHA habitat use derived from previous studies together with occupancy probabilities derived from our patch occupancy model to generate a habitat suitability surface for the SSHA for our study area. This process will have two primary expected benefits: 1) Identify habitat variables at the site and landscape levels affecting SSHA presence and distribution, and 2) Quantitatively evaluate effects of potential landscape manipulations (i.e., infrastructure for parrot releases and monitoring) on SSHA presence and habitat. Fieldwork has been conducted in Puerto Rico during May 2012 – August 2013. A final field season is

currently underway (January – June 2014) to finalize data collection. The student responsible for this research will return to MSU August 2014 to conduct data analysis and prepare dissertation and final report.

Avian ecology and conservation in native and afforested habitats in

the Northern Campos Grasslands of Uruguay Investigators: Juan A. Martínez (M.S. student) and Francisco J. Vilella

Funding Sources: Weyerhaeuser NR Company, Rufford Foundation, Cleveland

Zoological Society, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture-Mississippi State University, and USGS Biological Resources Division

Project Status: First of 3 years (2012-2015)

The Rio de la Plata grasslands extend through more than 700,000 km2 in southeastern

South America and represent the most extensive grassland ecosystem of the Neotropics. South American grasslands have been severely modified by humans. Populations of many grassland specialist avian species such as the Saffron-cowled Blackbird (Xanthopsar flavus), Strange-tailed Tyrant (Alectrurus risora), and Black-and-White Monjita (Heteroxolmis dominicana) have declined. Further, these grasslands serve as wintering grounds for many Nearctic migrant birds, including species of concern like Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda), and Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni). Populations of these species have declined and evidence suggests overwinter survival may be contributing to documented declines. These declines may be related to conversion of native grassland to cropland and recent intensification of agriculture and forestry. Industrial afforestation has accelerated in Uruguay. There is concern over the impact of managed plantations of non-native trees on biodiversity, cultural traditions and traditional agricultural practices.

We are sampling avian communities in Pampa grasslands and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) plantations in lands owned by Weyerhaeuser NR and Cambium Forestal in north-central Uruguay. We will quantify avian communities and assess habitat associations at multiple scales (plot, stand, landscape) to develop bird/habitat relationship models. Vegetation structure information will be incorporated into explanatory models, particularly regarding occurrence patterns of grassland specialist birds. Bird point counts and vegetation sampling are being conducted in native grasslands and three pine age classes. Field work will be conducted during August 2013 to May 2014. This project will establish the baseline of a long-term research and monitoring program for adaptive management of bird responses to habitat conditions and silvicultural practices in native habitats and timber plantations in northern Uruguay.

A pattern oriented spatially structured model of the endangered interior population of the Least Tern (Sterna antillarum)

Investigators: Ray B. Iglay (Postdoctoral research associate) and Francisco J. Vilella

Funding Sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, COE Engineering Research and

Development Center, American Bird Conservancy, and USGS Biological Resources

Project Status: Second of 2 years (2012-2014)

Interior populations of the Least Tern (Sternula antillarum, hereafter ILT) are generally associated with sandbar habitats on large rivers of the central United States. The ILT was federally listed as endangered in 1985 as historical population declines were attributed to direct exploitation for the millinery trade, and loss or degradation of riverine sandbar habitat associated with navigation and flood control projects. The ILT continues to breed throughout their historic range; however, breeding is generally restricted to river portions that retain areas of sandbar habitat not subject to flooding during the breeding season. In this study, we will develop a pattern-oriented model of ILT occurrence across its range and develop a metapopulation model to examine population persistence across the species geographic range, identify possible source populations and evaluate the effects of various management actions. Pattern-oriented modeling is a strategy for developing multi-criteria design, selection and calibration of models of complex systems. The approach, relatively new in its application to biological systems, starts with identifying a set of patterns observed at multiple scales and levels that characterize a system with respect to the particular problem being modeled; a model from which the patterns emerge should contain the right mechanisms to address the problem.

We are developing coding and system architecture of a pattern-oriented model for the ILT. Model implementation will follow a timeline that partitions model processes among team members and assigns target completion dates. The project’s inaugural year began with the final development of the project’s proposal. We developed most of the proposal in late 2012 but finalized and submitted it in 2013 to all project collaborators including U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U. S. Geological Survey, American Bird Conservancy and multiple state and federal agency personnel across the ILT geographic range.

We developed ILT dispersal documents and implemented an individual-based model (IBM) for determining optimal dispersal traits for TernPOP, the project’s final IBM representing the interior least tern metapopulation. We worked closely with modeling team members to complete overall project tasks such as developing a draft model description and pattern list after submitting the project’s proposal. We completed all tasks except implementation of the dispersal IBM. The project’s modeling team leader decided the most efficient dispersal IBM would be one implemented in the project’s final IBM, not the separate model we implemented. We developed two primary dispersal documents. The first document was a dispersal model description complete with descriptions of agents, model processes, data inputs, and other model features typical of a model description following the Overview,

Design concepts, and Details (ODD) protocol. The dispersal model description was developed as a guide for implementing a stand-alone dispersal IBM. The information provided also supported open dialog among modeling team leaders regarding IBM capabilities to represent natural processes affiliated with ILT dispersal. We conducted an extensive literature review regarding animal dispersal with particular focus on least terns and similar seabirds. From information within over 250 articles and discussions with the modeling team leader, We developed common observed dispersal patterns, potential dispersal patterns, and alternative traits (processes) that could cause patterns to emerge. The final trait testing document will be used to test alternative dispersal processes in the fully implemented TernPOP model after habitat and reproductive processes are implemented.

More recently, we began developing an inter-annual survival model, another process of the overall project’s final IBM. Development of the inter-annual survival model has included a lot of trial and error as information is lacking regarding development of this type of process in population modeling. Analyses have used data generated by a survival IBM in NetLogo. The survival IBM represents a simple, non-spatial interior population of least terns. The applicant developed a draft model description and plans to have a completed model description and survival calibration document April 2014. Programming code (Program R) and the NetLogo model (PopVar) will accompany the calibration document. Additional tasks to be completed in 2014 include documenting effects of starting age structure and tern agent longevity on model performance. We will develop a peer-review manuscript of these characteristics along with inter-annual survival calibration approaches in 2014.

Proposed Research

Fisheries

Temperature effects on survival and development of live well management procedures to improve survival of largemouth bass

Investigators: Peter Allen (Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and

Aquaculture, Mississippi State University), Hal Schramm, and student to be selected

Funding Source: Multiple states

Project Status: Proposed

Several studies have demonstrated that survival of tournament-caught largemouth bass

inversely related to water temperature. Recently completed research on walleye has determined that (1) mortality of tournament-caught walleye increases sharply at water temperatures near 64 °F, a temperature 6-8 °F below walleye’s optimal temperature of 70-72 °F; (2) unstressed walleye have high survival at 75 °F, a temperature slightly above their physiological optimal temperature, but mortality is 100% when these fish are exposed to the stress of angler capture; (3) maximum survival of angled and tournament-caught walleye occurs at temperatures 12-16 °F below their physiological optimal temperature; (4) temperature changes of at least 7 °F do not reduce survival and may improve it; and (5) the conditions walleye are exposed to in the live well (i.e., immediately after capture) increases the survival of angler-caught fish. Despite the numerous studies of effects of angling and tournaments on survival of largemouth bass, the explicit effects of temperature on tournament-caught and caught-and-released largemouth bass have not been tested. If the results from the walleye studies pertain to largemouth bass, the mortality effect of tournaments and catch-and release angling may be significantly underestimated. Furthermore, better understanding of temperature-angling mortality relationships can lead to development of simple guidelines that anglers can use to improve the survival of angler-caught largemouth bass.

The objectives of this study will be to: (1) determine the water temperature at which mortality rate of largemouth bass subjected to simulated angler capture and tournament handling increases; (2) measure how changes in live well temperature affect survival rate of largemouth bass subjected to simulated angler capture and tournament handling procedures at different acclimation (ambient) temperatures; (3) determine live well temperatures at which survival of tournament-caught largemouth bass is greatest for a range of ambient water temperatures; and (4) identify the effect of temperature on the physiological processes that enable largemouth bass to better recover from the stress of angler capture.

Wildlife and Conservation Biology

Wildlife and fisheries resource assessment and structured decision approach for Caño Tiburones Natural Reserve, Puerto Rico

Investigators: Francisco J. Vilella and J. Brian Davis

Funding Sources: Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources,

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program, and USGS Biological Resources

Project Status: Proposed

Wetland ecosystems in the Caribbean islands have been subjected to anthropogenic

impacts for centuries. The current extent of wetlands in Puerto Rico has been greatly reduced due to historical land uses and represents about 50% of the original area. Historically agricultural activities, namely sugarcane cultivation, were the primary reason for wetland loss in the Caribbean. The sugar cane industry resulted in deforestation and drainage of nearly all coastal wetlands in Puerto Rico. Once sugarcane production ceased in many areas, it was replaced by cattle grazing. Consequently dense stands of vegetation typical of disturbed Neotropical wetlands and abandoned agricultural fields of little value to wildlife (e.g., Brachiaria mutica, Centrocema pubescen) became established. The extensive loss of coastal wetland habitats in turn resulted in the decline of most native waterbirds. These include the West Indian Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna arborea), White-cheeked Pintail (Anas bahamensis), Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), and Caribbean Coot (Fulica caribea).

The proposed research assessment will be take place at Caño Tiburones Natural Reserve. The Caño Tiburones Nature Reserve (hereafter, Caño Tiburones NR) is one of the most important freshwater wetland in the eastern Caribbean and the largest in Puerto Rico (18°28’42.06 N: 66°41’32.13 W). Caño Tiburones NR was originally a shallow coastal lagoon characterized by herbaceous wetlands dominated by Scirpus spp. and Eleocharis spp. Despite hydrologic alterations for agriculture purposes, the area encompasses a diverse herbaceous wetland ecosystem with abundant fish and wildlife communities. Habitat types are varied and include various herbaceous associations typical of the seasonal and permanent wetlands of Puerto Rico. Wildlife is abundant and diverse, including resident species of concern, federally listed endangered species, and several migratory gamebirds of importance. Approximately 105 species of birds have been reported from Caño Tiburones NR, including federally listed species such as Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) and Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis); species of concern listed by DNER including Masked Duck (Nomonyx dominicus), West Indian Whistling Duck, White-cheeked Pintail, White-crowned Pigeon (Patagioneas leucocephala), and migratory gamebirds such as Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago), American Wigeon (Anas americana), Blue-winged Teal (Anas discors), and Northern Pintail (Anas acuta). Caño Tiburones NR also provides wintering habitat for many species of Neotropical migrant birds.

A considerable amount of information has been collected on the physical environment and hydrological characteristics of Caño Tiburones NR. However, information on the living

environment including conditions and species-habitat relationships of the wildlife and fish communities are unknown. As such, there is a pressing need to assess the present ecological conditions at Caño Tiburones NR, collect on-site information, and prepare an ecological assessment and management plan for the site. Quantitative information on species-habitat relationships, resource availability, water quality, stressors (i.e. threats) most commonly associated with poor conditions and value (i.e., duck use-days) as well as the functional role of Caño Tiburones NR for wildlife species of concern (e.g., waterfowl and sport fish) within the landscape of north-central Puerto Rico has not been explored. Understanding these fundamental ecological relationships is essential to develop reliable indicators of wetland condition and success, before taking any management action (i.e. waterfowl hunting).

To meet these needs we propose a resource availability approach to quantify habitat conditions among avian and fish communities and their environments. The wildlife focus will be the avifauna, including abundance and community composition, as well as nest productivity of wetland birds. Nest success is a critical component of population dynamics for many species of waterbirds, and informed management of wetlands is essential to providing suitable quantity and quality of habitat for waterbirds. Additionally, information on survival, movements and resource selection of the West Indian Whistling Duck (WIWD) in Caño Tiburones NR will be provided. Results will provide the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources with a Structured Decision Making approach to identify and evaluate decisions related to resource management needs.

Publications, Presentations, Theses, and Patents (2012-2014)

REFEREED PUBLICATIONS

Alfermann, T.J., and L. E. Miranda. 2013. Centrarchid assemblages in floodplain lakes of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 142:323-332.

Andrews, C.S., L.E. Miranda, D.B. Goetz, and R. Kroger. In press. Spatial patterns of lacustrine fish assemblages in a catchment of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. Aquatic Conservation.

Bennett, J.M., and F.J.Vilella. 2013. Mourning dove (Zenaida macroura) survival from band recoveries in northern Mississippi. Proceedings of the 2012 Conference of Southeastern Association Fish & Wildlife Agencies 66:102-106.

Blanco-Rodriguez, P., F.J. Vilella, and B. Sanchez-Orla. In review. Waterfowl in Cuba: Status and Distribution. Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl: Proceedings of the 6th North American Duck Symposium.

Cruz, B.B., L.E. Miranda, M. Cetra. 2013. Links between riparian landcover, instream environment, and fish assemblage structure in headwater streams of southeastern Brazil. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 22:607-616.

Dagel, J.D., and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Backwaters in the upper reaches of reservoirs produce high densities of age-0 crappies. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 32:626-634.

Da Silva, P.S., M.C. Makrakis, L.E. Miranda, S. Makrakis, L. Assumpcao, S. Paula, J.H.P. Dias, and H. Marques. In press. Importance of reservoir tributaries to spawning of migratory fish in the Upper Parana River. River Research and Applications.

Dembkowski, D.J., and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Hierarchy in factors affecting fish biodiversity in floodplain lakes of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. Environmental Biology of Fishes 93:357-368.

Dembkowski, D.J., and L.E. Miranda. 2014. Hierarchical structure in factors shaping fish assemblage composition in floodplain lakes. Hydrobiologia 721:129-144.

Gomes L.C., C.K. Bulla, A.A. Agostinho, L. Vanconcelos, and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Fish assemblage dynamics in littoral areas of a Neotropical floodplain relative to the homogenizing effect of a flood pulse. Hydrobiologia 685:97–107.

Hartfield, P., N.M. Kuntz, and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2013. Observations on the identification of larval and juvenile Scaphirynchus spp. in the lower Mississippi River. Southeastern

Naturalist 21:251-266.

Herrala, J.R., P.T. Kroboth, N.M. Kuntz, and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2014. Habitat use and selection by adult Pallid Sturgeon in the lower Mississippi River. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 143:153-163.

Herrala, J.R., and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2012. Movement of pallid sturgeon in the Atchafalaya River. Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, 26-29 January, Biloxi, Mississippi.

Hodgins, N.C., H.L. Schramm, Jr., and P.D. Gerard. In press. Food consumption and growth rates of juvenile black carp fed natural and prepared feeds. Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management.

Hutt, C.P. K.M. Hunt, S.F. Baker, S. Grado, and L.E. Miranda. 2013. Economic values and regional economic impacts of recreational fisheries in Mississippi reservoirs. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 33:44-55.

Kaczka, L.J., and L.E. Miranda. 2013. Gradients of microhabitat and crappie (Pomoxis spp.) distributions in reservoir embayments. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 28:561-572.

Llerandi-Román, I. and F.J. Vilella. In review. Distribution and abundance of the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis jamaicensis) in moist karst and montane forests of north- central Puerto Rico. Journal of Raptor Research.

Loman, Z.G., S.K. Riffell, B.R. Wheat, D.A. Miller, J.A. Martin, and F.J. Vilella. In review. Bird community response to establishing intercropped switchgrass in intensively- managed pine stands. Biomass and Bioenergy.

Loman, Z.G., S.K. Riffell, D.A. Miller, J.A. Martin, and F.J. Vilella. 2013. Site preparation for switchgrass intercropping in loblolly pine plantations reduces retained trees and snags, but maintains downed woody debris. Forestry: An International Journal of Forest Research 86(3):353:360.

Loomis, J.H., H.L. Schramm, Jr., B. Vondracek, P.D. Gerard, and C.J. Chizinski. 2013. Effects of simulated angler capture and live-release tournaments on walleye survival. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society. 142:868-875.

López-Flores, M., B.D. Davis, F.J. Vilella, R.M. Kaminski, J.A. Cruz-Burgos, and J.D. Lancaster. 2014. Survival of female White-cheeked Pintails during brood rearing in Puerto Rico. Caribbean Naturalist 10:1-12.

Makrakis, M.C., L.E. Miranda, S. Makrakis, H.M. Fontes-Junior, W.G. Morlis, J.H.P. Dias, and J.O. Garcia. 2012. Diversity in migratory patterns among Neotropical fishes in a highly regulated river basin. Journal of Fish Biology 81:866-881.

Makrakis, M.C., P.S. Silva, S. Makrakis, A.F. Lima, L. Assumpção, S. Paula, L.E. Miranda, and

J.H.P. Dias. 2012. Spawning and nursery habitats of Neotropical fish species in the tributaries of a regulated river. Pages s 153-166 in K. Pourali and V. N. Raad, editors. Larvae: Morphology, Biology and Life Cycle. Nova Science, Hauppauge, NY.

Meals, K.O., A.W. Dunn, and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Trolling intensifies exploitation of crappies

in Mississippi Reservoirs. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 32:325-332. Miranda, L.E., C.S. Andrews, and R. Kröger. 2013. Connectedness of land use, nutrients,

primary production, and fish assemblages in oxbow lakes. Aquatic Sciences. 10.1007/s00027-013-0310-y.

Miranda, L.E., J.N. Aycock, and K.J. Killgore. 2012. A direct-gradient multivariate index of

biotic condition. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 141:1637–1648. Miranda, L.E., J.D. Dagel, L.J. Kaczka, E.B. Mower, and S.L. Wigen. In press. Floodplains

within reservoirs promote earlier spawning of white crappies Pomoxis annularis. Environmental Biology of Fishes.

Miranda, L.E., and K.J. Killgore. 2013. Entrainment of shovelnose sturgeon by towboat

navigation in the Upper Mississippi River. Journal of Applied Ichthyology 29:316-322. Miranda, L.E., and K.J. Killgore. 2013. Fish depth distributions in the Lower Mississippi River.

River Research and Applications. Published online DOI: 10.1002/rra.2652. Miranda, L.E., K.J. Killgore, and J.J. Hoover. 2013. Fish assemblages in borrow-pit

lakes resemble those in oxbow lakes of the Lower Mississippi River. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 142:596-605.

Miranda, L.E., and R.M. Krogman. 2013. Environmental stresses afflicting tailwater stream

reaches across the United States. River Research and Applications. DOI: 10.1002/rra.2705 Miranda, L.E., and R.M. Krogman. 2013. Fish habitat impairment in U.S. reservoirs. Lakeline

33(1):19-24. Miranda, L.E., and K.O. Meals. 2013. Water levels shape fishing effort in flood-control

reservoirs. Lake and Reservoir Management 29:82–86. Miranda, L.E., and S.W. Raborn. 2013. Interactions between striped bass and other game fish in

reservoirs. American Fisheries Society Symposium 80:501-519. Miranda, L.E., S.L. Wigen, and J.D. Dagel. 2013. Reservoir floodplains support distinct fish

assemblages. River Research and Applications. Published online DOI: 10.1002/rra.2641. Mitchell, K.L., S.K. Riffell, L. W. Burger, and F.J. Vilella. 2012. Nestling provisioning of

Dickcissels in native warm-season grass field buffers. Wilson Journal of Ornithology 124: 298-309.

Mower, E.B., and L.E. Miranda. 2013. Frameworks for amending reservoir water management. Lake and Reservoir Management 29:194-201.

Mower, E.B., L.E. Miranda. 2013. Evaluating changes to reservoir rule curves using historical water level data. International Journal of River Basin Management 11:323-328.

Palumbo, M.D., F.J. Vilella, G. Wang, B. K. Strickland, and D. Godwin. In press. Brood surveys and hunter observations used to predict gobbling activity wild turkeys in Mississippi. Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management.

Schramm, H.L., Jr., and D.W. Willis. 2012. Assessment and harvest of largemouth bass-bluegill ponds. Pages 181-214 in J.W. Neal and D.W. Willis, editors. Management of small impoundments. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.

Schramm, H.L., Jr., and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Responding to peer review and editor’s comments. Pages 135-142 in C.A. Jennings, T.A. Lauer, and B. Vondracek, editors. Scientific communication for natural resource professionals. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.

Vilella, F J., and W.F. Nimitz. 2012. Spatial dynamics of the Red-tailed Hawk in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico. Wilson Journal of Ornithology 124: 756-764.

TECHNICAL PAPERS AND RESEARCH REPORTS

Kaminski, R.M., J.B. Davis, F.J. Vilella, L. Webb, G. Wang, M. Brasher, E. Penny, and H. Havens. 2013. Assessment of the migratory bird habitat initiative. Annual report to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University.

Kaminski, R.M., J.B. Davis, F.J. Vilella, L. Webb, G. Wang, M. Brasher, E. Penny, and H. Havens. 2012. Assessment of the migratory bird habitat initiative. Annual report to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University.

Miranda, L.E., J.D. Dagel, L.J. Kaczka, E.B. Mower, S.L. Wigen, and K.O. Meals. 2013. Promoting crappie recruitment in northwest Mississippi reservoirs. Progress Report, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, Jackson, MS.

Vilella, F.J. 2013. Movements, resource use and survival of the Scaly-naped Pigeon and Plain Pigeon in east-central Puerto Rico. Final report project W-28-1, USGS Mississippi Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State.

Vilella, F.J. 2013. A 5-year review status of the endangered White-necked Crow Corvus leucognaphalus. Final report to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Unit Cooperative Agreement 14-45-0009-1543-91. USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Mississippi State.

THESES AND DISSERTATIONS

Alfermann, T. 2012. Centrarchid assemblages in oxbow lakes with perspectives for fisheries management. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

Andrews, C. 2013. Floodplain lake assessment and fish assemblage dynamics in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

Dagel, J.D. 2012. Crappie population characteristics relative to inundation of floodplain habitats in reservoirs. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

Feaga, J.S. 2014. Winter waterfowl use of aquaculture-associated wetlands in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. M.S. Thesis, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS.

Goetz, D. 2013. Relationships between fish assemblages and water quality in oxbow lakes of the Yazoo River Basin. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

Krogman, R.M. 2012. Classification and assessment of large U.S. reservoirs based on fish habitat impairment. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

Kaczka, L. 2013. Enhancing our understanding of age-0 crappies in northwest Mississippi flood control. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

Mower, E. 2013. Tools for water level management in flood control reservoirs. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

Wegener, M.G. 2013. Effect of fishing effort on the catchability of largemouth bass. M.S. Thesis. Mississippi State University, Mississippi State.

PRESENTATIONS (* indicates invited)

Allen, P., Z. Mitchell, R.J. DeVries, D. Aboagye, M. Ciaramella, S. Ramee, and H. Stewart. 2014. Salinity Effects on Atlantic Sturgeon Growth and Osmoregulation. Annual meeting of the Southern Division of the American Fisheries Society, Charleston, South Carolina.

*Adams, R., H.L. Schramm, and D.P. Herzog. 2013. An overview of fishery resources in

mainstem habitats of the Mississippi River. American Fisheries Society Annual Meeting, 9-12 September, Little Rock, Arkansas.

Andrews, C., L.E. Miranda, and R. Kroger. 2012. Applicability of a handheld chlorophyll-a fluorometer in oxbow lakes. Annual Meeting of the Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, Biloxi.

Andrews, C., R. Kröger, L.E. Miranda. 2012. Predicting nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations using chlorophyll-a fluorescence and turbidity. Mississippi Water Resources Conference, Jackson.

Andrews, C., R. Kröger, and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Simplifying monitoring efforts and an assessment of oxbow lakes in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. Annual Meeting of the North American Lake Management Society, Madison, Wisconsin.

Andrews, C., R. Kröger, and L.E. Miranda. 2013. Spring microhabitat oxygen dynamics of Blue Lake, a Yazoo River oxbow in Berclair, MS. Mississippi Water Resources Conference, Jackson.

Andrews, C., L.E. Miranda, and R. Kröger,. 2013. Fish assemblages in connected and isolated floodplain lakes of Bear Creek watershed, Mississippi. Annual Meeting of the Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, Nashville.

Andrews, C., L.E. Miranda, and R. Kröger. 2012. Dynamics of juvenile fish in three habitats within an oxbow lake. Annual Meeting of the North American Lake Management Society, Madison, Wisconsin.

Andrews, C., L.E. Miranda, and R. Kröger. 2013. Fish assemblages in connected and isolated floodplain lakes of Bear Creek watershed, Mississippi. Annual Meeting of the Mississippi Chapter, American Fisheries Society, McComb.

Andrews, C., L.E. Miranda, and R. Kröger. 2013. Spatial patterns of fish assemblages in Bear Creek Watershed, Mississippi. Annual Meeting of the American Fisheries Society, Little Rock.

Blanco-Rodriguez, P., F.J. Vilella, and B. Sanchez-Orla. 2012. Waterfowl in Cuba: status and conservation. Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl: 6th North American Duck Symposium and Workshop, Memphis, TN.

Boxrucker, J., R. Krogman, and L.E. Miranda. 2013. Prioritizing reservoir habitat restoration efforts using the Reservoir Fisheries Habitat Partnership’s assessment data. Annual Meeting of the Southern Division American Fisheries Society, Nashville.

*Boxrucker, J., L.E. Miranda, and R. Krogman. 2013. Prioritizing reservoir habitat restorationefforts using the Reservoir Fisheries Habitat Partnership’s assessment data. Annual Meeting

of the American Fisheries Society, Little Rock.

Calamari, N.C., G. Gavier-Pizarro, A. Cerezo, F.J. Vilella, and M.E. Zaccagnini. 2013. Loss and fragmentation of native forest in Entre Rios, Argentina: impact of future scenarios on bird populations. International Association for Landscape Ecology, September 9-12, 2013, Manchester, U.K.

Cruz-Burgos, J.A., F.J. Vilella, R.M. Kaminski, and M. Lopez-Flores. 2013. Wetland biodiversity restoration in a former sugarcane cultivation site in Puerto Rico. 19th

Regional Meeting, Society for Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds. July 27-31, 2013, St. George's University, Grenada W.I.

Dagel, J., and L.E. Miranda. 2013. Crappie population characteristics relative to inundation of floodplain habitats in reservoirs. Annual Meeting of the Minnesota Chapter of the American Fisheries Society, St. Cloud.

DeVries, R.J., D. Hann, and H.L. Schramm Jr. 2013. Developing a predictive model for the probability of capturing Pallid Sturgeon in the Mississippi River. Annual meeting of the American Fisheries Society, Little Rock, Arkansas.

DeVries, R.J., D.A. Hann, and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2014. Improving the likelihood of successful captures of pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) in the lower Mississippi River. Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, 22-26 January, Charleston, South Carolina.

DeVries, R.J., and H.L. Schramm Jr. 2013. A comparison of two non-lethal tissue sources for stable isotope analysis on shovelnose sturgeon. 7th International Symposium on Sturgeon, Nanaimo, British Columbia.

Devries, R.J., and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2014. Similarities and differences in δ13C and δ15N stable isotope ratios in two non-lethal tissue types from shovelnose sturgeon Scaphirhynchus platoorynchus. Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, 22-26 January, Charleston, South Carolina.

Feaga, J.S., F.J. Vilella, B. Davis, and R.M. Kaminski. 2012. Winter waterbird use and food resources of aquaculture facilities in Mississippi. Mississippi Chapter of The Wildlife Society Annual Meeting, Ocean Springs, MS, USA.

Foth, J.R. and F.J. Vilella. 2012. Community ecology and resource use of shorebirds in wetlands and aquaculture ponds in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley and Gulf Coast regions. 10th Annual Graduate Student Research Symposium. Mississippi State University, Mississippi.

Foth, J.R. and F.J.Vilella. 2012. Shorebird use of wetlands and aquaculture ponds in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley and Gulf Coast region. 5th North American Ornithological Conference, Vancouver, British Columbia.

Goetz, D., R. Kröger, and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Identifying fish guilds relative to water quality

and depth in oxbow lakes of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. Mississippi Water Resources Conference, Jackson.

Goetz, D., L.E. Miranda, and R. Kröger. 2012. The role of lake depth in regulating water quality and fish assemblages in oxbow lakes of the Yazoo River Basin. Annual Meeting of the North American Lake Management Society, Madison, Wisconsin.

Goetz, D., L.E. Miranda, and R. Kröger. 2013. The role of lake depth in regulating water quality and fish communities in oxbow lakes of the Yazoo River Basin, MS. Annual Meeting of the Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, Nashville.

Herrala, J.R., N.M. Kuntz, and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2013. Habitat use and selection by adult pallid sturgeon in the lower Mississippi River. Mississippi Chapter, American Fisheries Society, 21 February, Percy Quin State Park.

Herrala, J.R., N.M. Kuntz, and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2013. Habitat use and selection by adult pallid sturgeon in the lower Mississippi River. Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, 8-10 February, Nashville, Tennessee.

Herrala, J.R., N.M. Kuntz, and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2013. Habitat use and selection by adult pallid sturgeon in the lower Mississippi River. Mississippi Chapter, American Fisheries Society, 21 February, Percy Quin State Park.

*Ickes, B. and H.L. Schramm. 2013. The Mississippi River: A place for fish. AmericanFisheries Society Annual Meeting, 9-12 September, Little Rock, Arkansas.

Kaczka, L.J., and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Distribution gradients of age-0 crappies (Pomoxis spp.) within reservoir arms. Annual Meeting of the Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, Biloxi.

Kroboth, P.T., and H.L. Schramm, Jr. 2014. Habitat use of shovelnose sturgeon in the lower Mississippi River. Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, 22-26 January, Charleston, South Carolina.

Krogman, R., and L.E. Miranda. 2012. A classification system for large U.S. reservoirs and its relationship with the fishery and fish community. Annual Meeting of the Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, Biloxi.

*Krogman, R.M., and L.E. Miranda. 2013. Assessment of fish habitat impairment in largeU.S. reservoirs. Annual Meeting of the American Fisheries Society, Little Rock.

Krogman, R.M., L.E. Miranda, and J. Boxrucker. 2012. A classification system for large U.S. reservoirs and its application to the Midwest. Annual Meeting of the American Fisheries Society, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Kuntz, N.M., H.L. Schramm, Jr., and Paul Hartfield. 2012. Pallid sturgeon habitat use and

selection in the lower Mississippi River. American Fisheries Society, 26-29 January, Biloxi, Mississippi.

*Miranda, L.E. 2012. A classification system for large U.S. reservoir. Annual Meeting ofthe Reservoir Fisheries Habitat Partnership. Havasu, Arizona.

*Miranda, L.E. 2012. Crappie management in Mississippi Reservoirs. Mississippi Departmentof Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, Enid.

*Miranda, L.E. 2012. Oxbow lakes in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. Iowa StateUniversity, Ames.

*Miranda, L.E, and R.M. Krogman. 2013. Issues afflicting reservoir tailwaters across theUnited States. Annual Meeting of the American Fisheries Society, Little Rock.

Mitchell, Z., R.J. DeVries, and P. Allen. 2013. Effects of salinity on growth and osmoregulation of Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus) (Poster session). 7th

International Symposium on Sturgeon, Nanaimo, British Columbia.

Mower, E., and L.E. Miranda. 2013. A basic method for evaluating rule curves. Annual Meeting of the Southern Division, American Fisheries Society, Nashville.

Mower, E., and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Rule curves in flood control reservoirs: A historical and procedural analysis. Annual Meeting of the Southeastern Division, North American Lake Management Society, Columbus, Georgia.

Mower, E., and L.E. Miranda. 2012. Rule curves in flood control reservoirs: A historical and procedural analysis. Mississippi Water Resources Conference, Jackson.

Strickland, B.A., and F.J. Vilella. 2013. Habitat selection of American alligators in an inland riverine system of Mississippi. 20th Annual Conference of The Wildlife Society. October 5-10, 2013, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Vilella, F.J. 2013. Movements, Resource use and survival of the Scaly-naped Pigeon Patagioneas squamosa in east-central Puerto Rico. 19th Regional Meeting, Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds. July 27-31, 2013, St. George's University, Grenada W.I.

PATENTS

Evans, J.A., L.E. Miranda, and J.P. Kirk. 2012. Implant and forget mechanism to interact with biota, in particular fauna that may outgrow available habitat and method of use thereof. Patent Number US 8,156,897.

University Activities Hal Schramm

Strategic Planning Committee, College of Forest Resources Fisheries Management Search and Screen Committee, Department of Wildlife,

Fisheries and Aquaculture

Professional Service, 2012-2014

Steve Miranda

Advisory Board, Acta Scientiarum

Member, Steering Committee, National Fish Habitat Reservoir Partnership

Member, American Fisheries Society

Member, Reservoir Committee, Southern Division American Fisheries Society

Member, MDEQ Nutrients Task Force

Reviewed technical papers for: Acta Scientarium Hydrobiologia North American Journal of Fisheries Management Transactions of the American Fisheries Society Reviews in Fisheries Science River Research and Applications Environmental Biology of Fishes Aquatic Sciences Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Neotropical Ichthyology Journal of Freshwater Ecology Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Sciences

Hal Schramm

Editor, Fisheries Management and Ecology

Editorial Advisory Board, Reviews in Fisheries Science

U.S. Geological Survey, Research Grade Evaluation Panel Leader

Member, Catfish Management Technical Committee, Southern Division American Fisheries Society

Member, Warmwater Streams Committee, Southern Division American Fisheries Society

Reviewed technical papers for: Hydrobiologia North American Journal of Fisheries Management

Proceedings Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies River Research and Applications Transactions of the American Fisheries Society

Co-authored book chapters for two American Fisheries Society publications:

Pond Management Scientific Communication for Natural Resource Professionals

Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee

Gulf Coastal Plain and Ozarks Landscape Conservation Cooperative, Adaptation Science Management Team

Floodplain Connectivity Workshop and development of a floodplain science strategy

Francisco Vilella

Editorial Board, International Society for Tropical Ecology

Editorial Board, Neotropical Ornithological Society

Research Associate, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Reviewed manuscripts submitted to professional journals in areas of expertise, including: Biological Conservation Caribbean Naturalist Journal of Raptor Research The Wilson Journal of Ornithology Journal of Tropical Ecology Journal of Wildlife Management Waterbirds Neotropical Ornithology

Courses Taught, 2012-2014 Steve Miranda

Courses

Management of Impounded River Basins (WF8223), 3 graduate semester credits, Spring

2012

Advanced Fisheries Science (WF8413), 3 graduate semester credits, Spring 2013

Directed Individual Studies (WF7000), 3 graduate semester credits, Spring 2014

Hal Schramm

Courses

Advanced Fisheries Management (WF 8273), 3 graduate semester credits, Fall 2012

Guest Lectures at Mississippi State University:

Popular writing, Communications in Wildlife and Fisheries (WF 8212), Spring, 2012 Francisco Vilella

Courses

Tropical Biology (WFA 4483/6483), 3 split-level semester credits. Spring 2014.

Guest Lectures at Mississippi State University:

International wildlife trade and treaties, Wildlife Law and Policy (WFA 6993), Fall

2013. Radiotelemetry, Wildlife Management Techniques (WFA 6243), Spring 2014.

Students Graduated 2012-2013

Ted Alfermann Hometown: Washington, Missouri B.S., Wildlife Biology; Missouri State University M.S., Graduated August 2012 Advisor: L.E. Miranda Thesis title: Centrarchid assemblages in oxbow lakes with perspectives for fisheries management Employed: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Caroline Andrews Hometown: Matthews, North Carolina B.S., Zoology; North Carolina State University M.S. Graduated August 2013 Advisor: L.E. Miranda/R. Kroger Thesis Title: Support for nutrient criteria development and fish assemblage dynamics in floodplain lakes of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley Employed: Mecklenburg County (Charlotte, NC) Water Quality Department

Jonah Dagel Hometown: Waterville, Minnesota B.A., Wildlife and Fisheries; South Dakota State University M.S., Graduated May 2012 Advisor: L.E. Miranda Thesis title: Crappie population characteristics relative to inundation of floodplain habitats in reservoirs Employed: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

James S. Feaga Hometown: MeSherrystown, Pennsylvania B.S. Wildlife and Fisheries Science, Pennsylvania State University Graduated May 2013 M.S. (Wildlife Science). May 2014 Advisor: Francisco J. Vilella Thesis title: Winter waterbird use and food resources of aquaculture lands in Mississippi Employed: Environmental Scientist, Wallace & Pancher, Inc., Canonsburg, PA

Dan Goetz Hometown: Fairfield, Pennsylvania B.S., Fisheries Biology; Mansfield University of Pennsylvania Graduated August 2013 Advisor: L.E. Miranda Thesis Title: Understanding relationships between fish and water quality in oxbow lakes of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley Employed: Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries

Levi Kaczka Hometown: Liberty Boro, Pennsylvania B.S., Environmental Science; California University of Pennsylvania Graduated December 2013 Advisor: L.E. Miranda Thesis Title: Enhancing understanding of age-0 crappie (Pomoxis spp.) in flood control reservoirs: A study on size, distribution, and habitat use Employed: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

Rebecca Krogman Hometown: Pella, Iowa B.A., Wildlife and Fisheries; Iowa State University M.S., Graduated December 2012 Advisor: L.E. Miranda Thesis title: Classification and assessment of large U.S. reservoirs based on fish habitat impairment Employed: Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Ethan Mower Hometown: Stanley, New Mexico B.S., Wildlife, Fisheries and Range Ecology; Brigham Young University Graduated May 2013 Advisor: L.E. Miranda Thesis Title: Water level management in northwest Mississippi flood control reservoirs: Fish and waterfowl needs Employed: New Mexico Game and Fish

Matthew Wegener, M.S., Fisheries, 2013 Hometown: Kinmundy, Illinois B.S., Southern Illinois University; Carbondale, Illinois Advisor: Hal Schramm Thesis title: Effect of fishing effort on the catch rate and catchability of largemouth bass Employed: Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission

Current Graduate Students Rob DeVries Hometown: Orlando, FL B.S.: College of Charleston M.S.: University of Georgia PhD. Student (Forest Resources) Advisor: H.L. Schramm Thesis title: Diet and temperature effects on growth rates of pallid sturgeon and shovelnose sturgeon

Justyn R. Foth Hometown: O’Fallon, Missouri B.S., Fisheries and Wildlife Science, University of Missouri-Columbia M.S., Wildlife Science, Mississippi State University Ph.D. Student (Forest Resources) Advisor: Francisco J. Vilella Dissertation title: Community ecology and resource use of migrating shorebirds in wetlands and aquaculture sites of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley and Gulf coast. (May 2015)

Julio C. Gallardo Hometown: Veracruz, Mexico B.S., Biology, Universidad Veracruzana M.S., Behavioral Ecology, Universidad Veracruzana Ph.D. Student (Forest Resources). Advisor: Francisco J. Vilella Dissertation title: Population dynamics and landscape habitat models of the endangered Sharp- shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus vennator) and the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis jamaicensis) in montane forests of Puerto Rico. (December 2015)

Dylan Hann Hometown: Radford, Virginia B.S., Fisheries Science, Virginia Tech M.S. Student (Fisheries) Advisor: Hal Schramm Thesis title: to be determined

Jason Herrala Hometown: Windsor, Virginia B.S., Fisheries Science, Virginia Tech M.S. Student (Fisheries) Advisor: Hal Schramm Thesis title: Short-term movements and habitat use of pallid sturgeon in the lower Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers

Patrick Kroboth Hometown: Woodbridge, Virginia B.S., Fisheries Science, Virginia Tech M.S. Student (Fisheries) Advisor: Hal Schramm Thesis title: Habitat use and selection of shovelnose sturgeon Scaphirhynchus platorynchus in the lower Mississippi River

Nathan Kuntz Hometown: Bismarck, North Dakota B.S., Wildlife and Fisheries Science, South Dakota State University M.S. Student (Fisheries) Advisor: Hal Schramm Thesis title: Variables affecting catch rates of juvenile sturgeon in the lower Mississippi River

Juan A. Martínez Hometown: Montevideo, Uruguay B.S., Biology, Universidad de la Republica de Uruguay B.S., Biochemistry, Universidad de la Republica de Uruguay M.S. Student (Wildlife Science). Thesis title: Avian ecology and conservation in native and afforested habitats in the Northern Campos Grasslands of Uruguay. (December 2015)

Jared Porter Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina B.S., Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, Clemson University M.S. Student (Fisheries) Advisor: Hal Schramm Thesis title: Assessing the effects of hydrology and temperature on the growth and recruitment of lower Mississippi River shovelnose sturgeon

Bradley Strickland Hometown: Cedartown, Georgia B.S., Environmental Science, Berry College M.S. Student (Wildlife Science). Advisor: Francisco J. Vilella Thesis title: Density estimation, movements and resource use of the American alligator

(Alligator mississippiensis) in inland riverine systems of Mississippi. (December 2014)

Tyler Young Hometown: Lynchburg, Virginia B.S., Fisheries Science, Virginia Tech M.S. Student (Fisheries) Advisor: Hal Schramm Thesis title: Effects of gender and reproductive stage on habitat use and movements of shovelnose sturgeon in the lower Mississippi River: applications for pallid sturgeon

Sky Wigen Hometown: Spencer, Iowa B.S., Animal Ecology (Fisheries option); Iowa State University M.S. Student (Fisheries) Advisor: L.E. Miranda Thesis Title: Importance of backwater habitats to fish assemblages in flood control reservoirs

Other Graduate Students

Noelia C. Calamari (Ph.D. Wildlife Ecology) Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina. Dissertation title: Influence of patch size and spatial configuration of native forest on avian communities in Entre Ríos, Argentina. (December 2014).

Rafaela S. da Costa (Ph.D. Natural Resources Managment) Universidade Estadual Norte Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Dissertation title: Corridor use by Golden Lion Tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia) in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. (December 2015).

Staff

Dr. Ray B. Iglay Postdoctoral Research Associate Box 9690 Mississippi State, MS 39762 Phone: 662-325-3498 Fax: 662-325-8726 Project title: A pattern oriented spatially structured model of the endangered interior population of the Least Tern (Sterna antillarum). (June 2014).

Nicole Medeiros Business Coordinator Box 9690 Mississippi State, MS 39762 Phone (662) 325-2643

Awards

Caroline Andrews, Best Student Presentation, Mississippi Water Resources Conference, 2012

Caroline Andrews, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, M.S. student of the year,

2013 Caroline Andrews, Skinner Memorial Award, American Fisheries Society, 2013

Rob DeVries, Southern Division Travel Award, Mississippi Chapter, American Fisheries Society.

Justyn Foth – Mississippi Chapter of The Wildlife Society, Best Poster Award 2013

Dylan Hann, Southern Division Travel Award, Mississippi Chapter, American Fisheries

Society. Raymond B. Iglay – President, Mississippi Chapter of The Wildlife Society

Patrick Kroboth, Southern Division Travel Award, Mississippi Chapter, American Fisheries Society.

Rebecca Krogman, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, M.S. student of the year, 2012

FY 13 (October 2012 – September 2013)

U.S. Geological Survey Cooperative Research Units

FY 13 Balance $25,106.02 Revenue $8,476.48 Expenses $33582.50 Account Balance $ - (Working Capital Fund)

FY 14 (October 2013 – March 2014)

U.S. Geological Survey

Cooperative Research Units

FY 14 Balance $ - Revenue $ - Expenses $ - Account Balance $ - (Working Capital Fund)

Personnel

Salaries $365,400.00 Benefits $113,733.00 Total $479,133.00

FY 13 (July 2013 - March 2014)

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Memorandum of Agreement Account

Operations

Revenue $1,629.27 Beginning Balance 7/1/2013 $1,629.27 Expenses $ - Commodities $ - Vehicle/Boat Maintenance & Repair $ -

Fuel $ - Field/Research $ - Office $ - Hosting Collaborators/Prospective Students $ - Printing/Reproduction (including Page Charges) $ -

Contractuals $ - Insurance for State Vehicles $ - Mailing/Shipping $ - Vehicle/Boat Maintenance & Repair $ - Field/Research $ - Equipment $ - Salaries $ - Fringe/Tuition $ - Travel $ - Account Balance $1,629.27

FY 13 (July 2013 - March 2014)

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Memorandum of Agreement Account

Wildlife

Revenue $23,837.87 Beginning Balance 7/1/2013 $3,837.87 MDWFP Deposit 02/26/2014 $20,000.00 Expenses $15,557.37 Commodities $2,373.38 Vehicle/Boat Maintenance & Repair $ 230.65

Fuel $ 1,546.07 Field/Research $ 596.66 Office $ - Hosting Collaborators/Prospective Students $ - Printing/Reproduction (including Page Charges) $ -

Contractuals $989.26 Insurance for State Vehicles $ - Mailing/Shipping $ 10.26 Vehicle/Boat Maintenance & Repair $ - Field/Research $ - Tuition Fees $ 979.00 Equipment $ - Salaries $7,489.64 Fringe/Tuition $2,521.06 Travel $2,184.03 Account Balance $8,280.50

FY 13 (July 2013 - March 2014)

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks

Memorandum of Agreement Account

Fisheries

Revenue $55,830.67 Beginning Balance 7/1/2013 $35,830.67 MDWFP Deposit 02/26/2014 $20,000.00 Expenses $19,232.44 Commodities $14,323.20 Vehicle/Boat Maintenance & Repair $ 6,632.04

Fuel $ 1,944.87 Field/Research $ 5,746.29 Office $ - Printing/Reproduction (including Page Charges) $ -

Contractuals $4,909.24 Insurance for State Vehicles $ 733.50 Mailing/Shipping $ 66.96 Vehicle/Boat Maintenance & Repair $ 2,325.86 Field/Research $ - Consultant Expenses/Services $ 1,782.92 Salaries $ - Fringe/Tuition $ - Travel $ - Account Balance $36,598.23

FY 2014

MSU Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture Support of USGS Coop Unit

Commodities $ - Contractuals $13,566 Telephone (annual average including local and long distance $1,383 Boat Storage facilities $12,184 Equipment $- Salaries $38,185 Business Coordinator (Medeiros) – 90% $30,600 Office Associates (LaSalle and Weeks) – 6% each $2,617 Business Manager (Hill) - 7.50% $3,824 Program Manager (Andrews) - 2% $1,145 Fringe (26.5%) $10,119 Travel $ - Direct Costs $61,870 Unrecovered Indirect Costs (29.5%) $51,064 University rate of 44.5% less 15% recovered on $173,097 of external funding through March 2014 (excludes $111,251 funding from MDWFP, which recovers 0% indirect) **Total Support $112,934 **This figure is minimum support provided

MSU Inv# Description Serial Number Location Room Number

WF 49423 SCANNER AUXILIARY 870109 THOMPSON HALL 240-I

WF 49428 BOAT FSH MTL 16 FT ALD15929F787 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49432 BOOM BOAT BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49433 BOAT FSH MTL 12 FT FFL24485G091 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49434 PRINTER LASER 3103JG2URD THOMPSON HALL A225

WF 49437 ELECTROFISHER 47434 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49438 SYSTEM BOOM BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49441 BOAT FSH ALUM 20 FT SAB025801495 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49442 TRAILER BOAT MOVING 17H7SAA30454 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49443 BOAT FSH ALUM 20 FT LWX00010J494 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49444 ELETROFISHER CTRL BX 21015 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49445 ELETROFISHER GENRATR 52825 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49467 BOAT FSH ALUM 14 FT. WKG7207B797 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 49474 ELECTROFISHER 74546 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 73934 VEHICLE AT 4 WHEELER 200XY4106897 PR WF 75959 SCANNER RECEIVER 464061 THOMPSON HALL 220

WF 75960 SCANNER RECEIVER 464463 THOMPSON HALL 220

WF 75962 RECEIVER TRX-2000S 40015343 THOMPSON HALL 263

WF 84775 MOTOR OUTBRD 115HP 0T463577 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 93022 GPS MAPPING SYS 10799189 THOMPSON HALL 210

WF 94103 ELECTROFISHER COMBO C00033 THOMPSON HALL 240-I

WF 100101 FORD F150 1/2T TRUCK 1FTRX18W93NB94410 THOMPSON HALL PARKING LOT

WF 100227 CAMERA UNDERWTR DT60 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 102437 FORD RANGER 1/2T TRK 1FTYR10U63PB50952 THOMPSON HALL PARKING LOT

WF 102438 MICROSCOPE STREOZOOM 1002235 THOMPSON HALL A219

WF 103664 SONAR/GPS COMBO 11407941 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 109113 COMPUTER P4-3000 41XSX41 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 125789 20' ALUMINUM BOAT BUJ62241B505 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 127019 20" OUTBOARD MOTOR SHAFT 1B358982 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 141357 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102074 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141358 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102074 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141359 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102076 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141360 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102077 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141361 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102078 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141362 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102079 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141363 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102080 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141364 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102081 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141365 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102082 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141366 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102083 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141367 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102084 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 141368 Acoustic Monitoring Receiver VR2W 102085 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 145047 PRINTER LSRJT 4240N CNRY37744 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 145326 WORKSTATION BLACKJACK BERRYMAN CABIN

WF 146558 SYSTEM GLOBAL POSITN 102300374 THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 146559 DESK W/ CREDENZA THOMPSON HALL 221

WF 148202 BOAT METAL 8FT WZ0BB095E808 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 149019 40 HP OUTBOARD MOTOR 1C073879 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 150529 RECEIVER MONITORING 408289 HR BRIDGE

WF 150530 RECEIVER MONITORING 408288 HR BRIDGE

WF 150531 RECEIVER MONITORING 408290 HR BRIDGE

WF 150532 RECEIVER MONITORING 408281 HR BRIDGE

WF 150533 RECEIVER MONITORING 408282 HR BRIDGE

WF 150534 RECEIVER MONITORING 408283 HR BRIDGE

WF 150535 RECEIVER MONITORING 408284 HR BRIDGE

WF 150536 RECEIVER MONITORING 408285 HR BRIDGE

WF 150537 RECEIVER MONITORING 408286 HR BRIDGE

WF 150538 RECEIVER MONITORING 408287 HR BRIDGE

WF 153154 TRAILER 20FT X 6FT 1L9CB202X7V254039 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 153417 BOAT MOTOR F150 TXR 63PX1083100 BLACKJACK BOATBARN

WF 154877 NOTEBOOK COMPUTER PD-2800 7VG56L1 THOMPSON HALL 221

155184 COMPUTER PD-3300 3K5JGK1 THOMPSON HALL 269

158557 BOAT FISHING ALUMINUM 16' AWLC0283C010 BOAT HOUSE BOAT BARN

163504 SCOPE STM-STRAIGHT SPOTTING U811298709 THOMPSON HALL 269

164277 HYDROPHONE DIRECTIONAL 2164K BOAT HOUSE 164278 RECEIVER ACOUSTIC 10391 BOAT HOUSE 164279 HYDROPHONE DIRECTIONAL 2163K BOAT HOUSE