2 0 0 8 E X P E D I T I O N B R I E F I N G A N D F O R M S

Moose andWolves

Dr. Rolf O. PetersonDr. John A. Vucetich

Michigan Technological University

N O R T H A M E R I C A

Earthwatch.

2008

Our Mission Earthwatch Institute engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. We believe that achieving a sustainable future requires objective scientific data from the field—and that the scientific process must engage the general public if it is to change the world. To that end, we involve people from all walks of life directly in global field research. We invite you to join us.

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-- An international nonprofit organization founded in Boston, Massachusetts in 1971--

Welcome to Earthwatch Institute! You are just one step away from an experience that may change your life. You may travel to a land you’ve never seen, live with a culture you know little about, learn skills you’ve only imagined. All in the name of field research that leads to furthering our understanding of our natural and cultural resources. The Expedition Briefing in your hands is your initiation to the project from the scientist’s own perspective. You will learn about the inspiration that led the scientist(s) to launch the research, the objectives, goals, and even achievements of the project to date. You will get a very real sense of how your participation contributes to solving a global research question. Your assignment is to apply your own skills and talents to the research question. Your support helps to make the project – and over 130 like it – possible. Thank you for contributing your time and money to support scientific research, providing experiential learning, and inspiring environmental responsibility and global citizenship. Now, find a comfortable chair and prepare for a fascinating journey.

~ Earthwatch Institute Staff

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Dear Earthwatch Volunteers,

Welcome to the Moose and Wolves expedition! Since 1988, Earthwatch volunteers have provided essential physical and financial assistance to wolf-moose research each summer at Isle Royale. Although most of the wolf research is conducted during a seven-week winter study, summer fieldwork provides additional information about the genetic make-up of the wolves and tells us the condition of the moose population on which the wolves rely. For example, in the winter of 1996, deep snow, winter ticks, and an unusually late spring devastated the moose population. Carcasses of almost 400 moose were examined in the next four seasons, and we continue to find skulls with maggot casings, the telltale sign of a “96-er.” We are also monitoring the wolf and moose populations as the moose are reaching an all-time low level, a change we currently attribute to increasingly warm summer weather.

We trust Earthwatch volunteers will help us once again in our challenging and interesting project. As Principal Investigators, we want you to completely understand the rugged physical activity involved, as well as the scope of the project, so that your expectations will be realistic.

The long-term research goal at Isle Royale is to understand wolf and moose populations in this naturally-functioning ecosystem. This requires records of survival for each annual crop of moose, and we do this by locating as many moose as possible after they die. We find many moose during winter surveys, freshly killed by wolves; we typically find more skeletons during cross-country hikes in the summer. Over 4,300 moose have been recovered in this way at Isle Royale within roughly the past five decades.

In the field, the basic objective of each hiking team is very simple: to carefully search as much area as possible for moose bones. Records are also kept of certain mammals, birds, and plants of special interest, and there are opportunities for learning a lot of natural history about this secluded island. We will be backpacking across the island, mostly traveling off-trail, and wilderness-camping each night. This is NOT a routine backpacking trip; it will be constantly necessary to go over and under fallen trees, work your way through thick vegetation when you can’t see your feet, climb up and down rock ridges, and negotiate bogs and numerous wetlands, all the while keeping a sharp lookout for moose bones. Remember, most of our travel is not on trails. It is absolutely essential that participants be in excellent physical condition, with boots and packs that are already “broken-in.”

Unlike most backpackers, we often end a trip considerably heavier than when we started, because of all the moose bones collected. From a single adult moose skeleton, for example, we may pack up 15 pounds of bones – the skull and lower jaws, one leg bone for standard measurements, and any bones with arthritis or other pathology.

It must be clearly understood that these are not trips to observe wolves. More wolves were seen by visitors in 2006 and 2007 than ever before, and we are more determined than ever to keep our distance from them. We actually go out of our way to avoid confronting the wolves, as our presence disturbs them. Isle Royale wolves face a daily struggle in summer to raise growing pups and to stay alive themselves. For these wolves, human contact is not needed or desired. Of course, we will be following the same ephemeral trails through the forest that wolves use, and we often see wolf tracks, droppings, and other evidence of their presence.

For seven days, we will be working and camping apart from other people and any facilities, and we will have to deal with whatever Mother Nature dishes out. The weather at Isle Royale is variable, so prepare for extremes. When it rains, we usually keep walking, so sturdy raingear (NOT ponchos) is a must. The combination of wet and cold can be pretty uncomfortable! We

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have timed the expeditions to avoid the heavy insect swarms of midsummer, but expect to see some black flies and/or mosquitoes. We purposely route groups through portions of the island where we have not been before, so be prepared for the insecurity of making navigation mistakes (even with decades of experience in this, we still manage to get lost at times).

Finally, each participant must supply certain items of field gear, including backpack, boots, tent (not everyone needs to bring one, but the group must have enough 1-2 person tents to cover the participants), sleeping bag and pad, water bottles, and a small daypack for short excursions. Binoculars and camera equipment may be useful, but remember that everything must be carried. Usually a pack will weigh over 40 pounds when the trip begins without any camera equipment, so plan your photographic gear carefully. We will add 15-20 pounds of food and equipment to your pack upon arrival at Isle Royale.

Of course, you will see Isle Royale in a way that very few people ever do, and hopefully you will come away with an understanding of how the “real world” and its non-human inhabitants function!

Sincerely,

Rolf O. Peterson and John A. Vucetich Principal Investigators For more information on the wolves and moose of Isle Royale, including accounts from past volunteers, please see www.isleroyalewolf.org.

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Moose and Wolves Table of Contents

GENERAL INFORMATION.................................................................................................................... 1 THE EXPEDITION..................................................................................................................................... 2

1. PROJECT OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................. 2 2. RESEARCH AREA ................................................................................................................................... 3 3. PROJECT STAFF...................................................................................................................................... 4

DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD ..................................................................................................................... 5 4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS ........................................................................................... 5 5. TEAM ITINERARY................................................................................................................................... 6 6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS ............................................................................................................... 6 7. ACCOMMODATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 7 8. FOOD ..................................................................................................................................................... 7

TRAVEL PLANNING................................................................................................................................ 8 9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE ............................................................................................................................. 8 10. PROJECT CONDITIONS........................................................................................................................ 12 11. HEALTH INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................... 14 12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 14 13. RECOMMENDED READING.................................................................................................................. 15 14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD .............................................................................................................. 16 15. HELPFUL RESOURCES ........................................................................................................................ 16

APPENDIX................................................................................................................................................. 18 EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST ............................................................................................... 21

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GENERAL INFORMATION PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS: 1) Dr. Rolf O. Peterson

2) Dr. John A. Vucetich

POSITIONS/TITLES: 1) Research Professor of Wildlife Ecology 2) Assistant Professor of Wildlife Ecology

AFFILIATION: School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, Michigan Technological University

PROJECT TITLE: Moose and Wolves

RESEARCH SITE: Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, US

EXPEDITION LENGTH: 9 days

TEAM SIZE MINIMUM/MAXIMUM: 5/15 volunteers

MINIMUM AGE OF PARTICIPATION: 18 years of age*

* It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Contact Earthwatch for more information and see Section 9 ‘Before You Leave’ for traveling advice for minors.

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THE EXPEDITION

1. PROJECT OVERVIEW

“I’ve done this particular project four times in ten years, and it has become a huge part of my life. I love the place, the people, the project, the learning, the gifts. The leaving gets harder every time.”

~ Lynda Thompson, Moose and Wolves Volunteer (1995, 2000, 2004, 2005)

As part of the longest-running study of any mammal population, the wolves and moose in Isle Royale National Park are monitored annually. Volunteers are needed to assist with ground surveys on Isle Royale from May to August in order to discover and collect bones from dead moose. This effort provides key data for long-term studies of wolf and moose population dynamics. Volunteers will spend one week backpacking off-trail, camping in the wilderness of Isle Royale. Wildlife observations will provide additional data on abundance and distribution of several other species.

Volunteers can expect to spend days hiking and nights camping, making sure to leave no trace behind. While searching the forest for moose bones, you will have ample opportunity to observe a variety of plants and animals. You may be able to watch moose at sodium licks or aquatic areas. The difficulty of the hiking and the number of moose skeletons found will likely vary depending on the season. While some teams may find more bones, others will have a better chance of hearing the howling of wolves in the distance. When moose bones are few and far between, you may spend time surveying loons, snowshoe hares and other species, as well as keeping an eye out for any unusual animal signs, trees, and more.

Each Earthwatch team will be involved in a group effort requiring close cooperation and mutual assistance. The work is difficult – out of over 400 volunteers in the past, only one felt that the backpacking was easier than he had expected – but the challenges seem to knit the group of individuals together. Each team member is called upon to contribute a significant effort both during fieldwork and in camp, and individuals tend to develop special skills (tent-pitcher, navigator, skull-finder, etc.). Team Leaders will offer direction as needed to ensure sharing of tasks.

Before and after each expedition, volunteers will be able to socialize and exchange experiences with another team of volunteers traveling in a different portion of the island. A banquet at the field headquarters will be planned for the final evening on Isle Royale.

Note: See Moose and Wolves: The Research in the appendix of this briefing for information on the research objectives, methods, and results of this project.

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2. RESEARCH AREA

Isle Royale National Park was established in 1931, and today is the least-visited National Park in the US outside of Alaska. About 15,000 people visit the island between mid-April and November, most coming in late July and August. The park is closed to visitors during the winter. Isle Royale was established as a National Park to preserve its unique and isolated northern forest environment. Its scenic beauty is not as dramatic as some other parks, but the island, its flora and fauna, and its Lake Superior shoreline possess a quiet charm that brings visitors back year after year.

Surrounded as it is by the cold waters of Lake Superior, the island tends to be cooler than the mainland in summer. In May/June it can be downright cold, with temperatures around 40°F (4-6°C). As August progresses, evenings can start to be quite cool. High temperatures rarely exceed 85°F (30°C), and are usually in the 70s (21-26°C); temperatures in the island’s interior, however, may be up to 10°F (5°C) higher, especially in early August.

The topography of Isle Royale is dominated by a series of parallel bedrock ridges which run the length of the island. Valleys between ridges tend to contain wet swamps or beaver ponds. Northern hardwood forests in the interior contain yellow birch and sugar maple, but most of the island is dominated by boreal forests of white spruce, balsam fir, white birch, and aspen. Northern white cedar dominates most wetland forests. The southwest end of Isle Royale contains fewer inland lakes than the northeast end, and is less dissected by bays of Lake Superior. The topography is a bit more rugged at the northeast end, where glacial sediments are thinner. Throughout Isle Royale maximum elevation above Lake Superior is only about 700 feet (213 meters). The primary impediments to cross-country travel are wetlands, rocky ridges, shrub vegetation (in July/August), and wind-fallen trees.

Mammal life most likely to be observed by Earthwatch participants includes moose, snowshoe hares, beavers, red foxes, and red squirrels. The river otter population has also increased dramatically in the past decade. All signs of wolves (scats, droppings, howling) will be closely monitored. Sightings are extremely rare because of strong avoidance behavior on the part of the wolves. Bird life is similar to that of the surrounding mainland, with a wide variety of northern warblers, thrushes, ducks, and raptors. Ospreys and bald eagles are becoming more evident as pairs become reestablished after decimation by DDT in the years following World War II.

The park also contains abundant species of bog plants, several species of plants more typical of Arctic regions (along Lake Superior), and an outstanding array of several dozen orchid species. Various kinds of edible wild fruits are available in August, such as blueberries, raspberries, and thimbleberries.

Lake Superior is too cold for swimming or even wading in May/June, but in August a dip may be possible. Inland lakes are warmer, although swimming is often deterred by rocky or weedy shorelines, or leeches. Fishing is possible in inland lakes (northern pike) or Lake Superior (lake trout, whitefish), and fishing enthusiasts might consider staying on the island a few extra days.

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3. PROJECT STAFF

Principal Investigator

Dr. Rolf Peterson, age 59, is a Research Professor at Michigan Technological University (MTU). He received his B.A. in Zoology from the University of Minnesota and his Ph.D. in Wildlife Ecology from Purdue University. Dr. Peterson has been researching the moose and wolves of Isle Royale since 1970. He has also conducted research on wolves in Alaska and several other mammalian species in the Great Lakes area. He is the overall project director and will be responsible for orientating and briefing all Earthwatch teams on the project, as well as leading some teams in the field.

Co-Principal Investigator

Dr. John Vucetich, age 37, is an Assistant Professor of Wildlife Ecology at MTU. He received his Ph.D. from MTU and has been associated with wolf and moose research at Isle Royale since 1991. He will meet some Earthwatch teams prior to or following fieldwork.

Field Coordinator

Carolyn (Candy) Peterson, age 60, received her B.A. in Economics from Wellesley College and her Teacher Certification from the University of Minnesota. She has been a participant on wolf and moose research at Isle Royale since 1971. Candy will be responsible for packing food and equipment and for assisting in the training of volunteers. She will meet all Earthwatch teams and will lead some teams in the field.

Team Leaders

Tim Pacey, Jeff Holden, Ted Soldan, Mike Clark, and Brian Rajdl will serve as Team Leaders and field assistants during the Earthwatch expeditions. Each will lead a group of 4-5 volunteers for the duration of the expedition. All are experienced Team Leaders for this expedition, and they are responsible for standardizing the scientific data collection and ensuring that the groups leave nothing behind in the wilderness.

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DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD

4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS

Training

It is essential that volunteers conduct their own physical conditioning and break in their hiking boots before joining the expedition. Orientation and training will be accomplished on the day of arrival and during a portion of the second day. The Principal Investigator (PI) will be responsible for introducing most groups to the research project, the rationale for each group’s route, aspects of wolf and moose ecology and other natural history features, and backpacking/camping procedures. Staff members will work closely with each individual in packing for the upcoming trip, to begin on the second day. Many research procedures, such as collecting data from moose skeletons, interpretation of wolf signs, analysis of prey remains in wolf scat, etc., will be introduced as needed during each expedition.

Assignments

The primary assignment of Earthwatch volunteers will be to hike extensively on Isle Royale. The 150-mile trail system in the park will be used to gain access to portions of the island, but most time will be spent off-trail. After orientation, groups of volunteers will embark with their Team Leaders on a backpacking trip of about seven days, carrying all equipment and food needed for the week. In accordance to the National Park regulations, each group will consist of up to five volunteers and will be led by a Team Leader/staff assistant with extensive field experience on Isle Royale. Team Leaders will work under the direction of the PI and will be responsible for most navigation using aerial photos, compasses, and topographical maps.

Most hiking routes will travel through portions of the island where moose density in winter is high, maximizing opportunities to discover moose skeletons. Daily mileage will range from 2-10 miles (3-16 kilometers), depending on the extent of on-trail hiking and local topography. In areas of high moose density, the team will try to establish base camps and take day hikes, which will enable travel without heavy packs.

Once a moose bone is found, a group effort will be made to discover all bones, which are often spread out by wolves and scavengers. Bones needed for further analysis will be collected and carried back to the field camp. Data recording in the field is minimal, and most will be taken care of by the staff assistants.

Ancillary activities may include a survey of nesting loons, assessment of the snowshoe hare population and recording of bird species. Volunteers will contribute by noticing unusual animal signs, problems with tree species (spruce budworm, for instance), and other aspects of natural history.

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5. TEAM ITINERARY

Volunteers will travel to Isle Royale via ferry and meet their Team Leaders at the rendezvous sites, where they will pack equipment and supplies. The PI will have a chance to meet volunteers and give a briefing on the field operations. Volunteer groups will depart with their Team Leaders for the backcountry either late on Day 1 or early on Day 2.

For the duration of the trip the group will hike together, camping each night in undeveloped settings using a “no-impact” approach. Most of the daylight hours will be spent moving relatively slowly through the forest, following animal trails and examining areas where moose skeletons are expected to be found. There will be ample time for wildlife observation and photography during the course of each day. Groups will usually spend some time observing moose at sodium licks or aquatic areas. The pace of the trip will depend on the fitness of group members.

Activities and opportunities will vary by expedition. Teams I, II, and III will find somewhat easier hiking because the ground vegetation will just be emerging. This also means greater success in finding moose skeletons. Moose activity at sodium licks is at an impressive annual peak during Teams I and II. Volunteers on Team IV will encounter much thicker ground vegetation. Moose are also more difficult to see during this season as they are not as likely to concentrate at licks, and the hot weather forces them to “bed” much of the day. However, the chance of hearing wolves is greater on Team IV than on the earlier teams.

6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS

Wildlife observations are always best early and late in the day, so teams will be encouraged to be active at these times. Yet there will be time in between when the team will be relatively sedentary, for example during a long lunch. Mornings and afternoons will usually be spent traveling, and each day the route and that day’s objective will be evaluated and altered as needed. Groups will travel together with their Team Leaders, often spread out a bit for maximum coverage. Under the leader’s direction, groups may split briefly (e.g. to cover both sides of a pond). When moose bones are found, the groups will attempt to find and bring together all the dispersed bones for examination. A preliminary analysis of the findings will be made on the spot, with appropriate bones collected and carried back by group members. Daily schedules can vary quite a bit, depending on the weather, research needs, terrain, etc. Your cooperation and understanding are appreciated. During some day trips when the team will be returning to the same camp, some volunteers may opt to remain in camp to rest.

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7. ACCOMMODATIONS

Before and after each group’s fieldwork days, volunteers will stay in a National Park Service campground at Windigo (Teams I and II) or a research field camp near Daisy Farm (Teams III and IV). Two-person tents will be used both in the campgrounds and during the fieldwork trip. Volunteers who have backpacking tents are asked to bring them. The project will provide additional tents if necessary. Couples can be accommodated in a single tent. Other tent-mates will be assigned by the Team Leader, in consultation with individuals. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and pad. Accommodations will be relatively primitive in the established campgrounds and even more primitive while on the trip. Electricity, running water and flush toilets will NOT be available, and pit toilets/outhouses will be available in campgrounds only. During the fieldwork trip and when away from outhouses, volunteers will bring all used toilet paper back to the base camp (bags will be provided). Volunteers will be able to take “country showers” upon return from the trip – water will be heated on the stove and taken into a tarped enclosure. You should bring your own towel. Soap will be provided, but note that soap and other products must not be used in or near any bodies of water, even biodegradable products. The only opportunity for washing up during the field trip is to use the cold lake water.

8. FOOD

There will be no opportunity to purchase food on Isle Royale; most food will be shipped to the island weeks in advance. With sufficient notice (more than one month), special diets can be accommodated to a degree, but please understand that all food must be carried on one’s back. Cook kits, stoves, all food, and a water filter will be provided. Meals will be simple and, during the field trip, very lightweight. While backpacking, food will be heavy in carbohydrates, soy protein, and high-energy foods such as nuts, raisins, chocolate, cheese, etc. Water will be boiled or filtered. All meals will be cooked over single-burner gas stoves.

Below are examples of the foods you might expect in the field. This list is intended to provide a general idea of food types, but it is very important that volunteers be flexible.

Breakfast: Granola and oatmeal flavored with such things as apples and cinnamon Lunch: Cold, usually a mix of cheese, peanut butter, raisins, crackers, chocolate, and

“gorp” (nuts, chocolate chips, dried banana, sunflower seeds, etc.) Dinner: Hot, usually involving something like Lipton “instant” meals, supplemented with

dehydrated vegetables, soy protein and powdered milk, plus instant pudding Beverages: Coffee, cocoa, tea, Tang, and water (water from spigots at Windigo is safe to drink,

but all other water sources should be boiled and/or filtered to protect against the possibility of water borne diseases and parasites)

Special Dietary Requirements

Please alert your Earthwatch Expedition Coordinator to any special dietary requirements as soon as possible (e.g. diabetic, lactose intolerant, etc.). Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed, but advance notice makes most things possible.

Special note to vegans and strict vegetarians: It may be possible to get meatless meals but vegans and strict vegetarians may have a problem avoiding animal products altogether because meals are prepared in a common pot. If this poses a problem, then participation on this Earthwatch expedition should be seriously reconsidered.

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TRAVEL PLANNING

9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE

Note: Earthwatch Institute’s international travel insurance company, International SOS, has a wealth of useful information available at their website, including visa, passport, currency, medical, etc. information for the country in which this project takes place. See www.internationalsos.com and enter Earthwatch’s member identification number: 14ACPA000075. Under “Select Resource” choose “English Country Guide,” and then select the United States from the list. For a listing of other useful websites for passport and visa requirements see Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources.’

Passport Information

Travelers to the United States from other countries will need passports valid for at least six months beyond the dates of travel. Note that as of January 2007, under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all citizens of US dependencies and Canada (which previously only needed proof of citizenship) will be required to present a passport when traveling to and from the Americas, the Caribbean, Bermuda and the US.

Visa Information

Travelers are advised to check visa regulations well in advance of traveling. Citizens of countries covered by the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) traveling to the US for tourism or business for 90 days or less do not need to obtain a visa provided they have a valid passport. Passports for VWP countries issued on or after October 26, 2006 must include biometric information (so-called e-passports include a chip with the relevant information); otherwise, the holder is required to obtain a visa. VWP citizens with passports issued between October 26, 2005 and October 25, 2006 do not require a visa as long as they have machine-readable passports with a digital photograph of the holder. Citizens with valid but older machine-readable passports (issued prior to October 26, 2005) that do not have a digital photograph are still allowed into the US without a visa.

Currently, the following countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Citizens of other countries should check with a travel or visa agency for specific visa and entry requirements. Entry requirements are subject to change, so please check for updates in advance of your travel.

Reminder: If you require a visa, remember when filling out your application to list the purpose of your visit as “vacation,” “holiday” or “travel.” Words such as “working”/”volunteering,” “research” or a “scientific expedition” can raise questions concerning foreign labor laws and/or prompt questions about official scientific research permits and credentials, etc., to which volunteers on their own will not be equipped to respond. All required research permits for the project are in place and have been approved by the proper authorities.

If you do need a visa, the chart on the next page should be helpful.

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Essential Information for Volunteers Requiring Visas to Enter the US

Type of Visa You must get a TOURIST VISA. Where to Get a Visa

Contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate to find out how to apply for your visa. Please note that this process can take weeks or more. If you have less than six weeks or wish to save yourself trouble, we strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.

Required Information

You will need to send your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your stay), a Visa Application and Immigration Form, 2-4 passport-size photos plus payment to the embassy or visa agency (if applicable). Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Cost of a Visa

Generally between US$40-100, but varies from country to country and can potentially cost up to US$180. A visa agency will charge an additional fee, which you can inquire about directly.

Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age

Entry to Foreign Countries

In an effort to prevent international child abduction many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate in the project if accompanied by a parent or guardian. In this case, if the minor will be traveling with only one guardian or if for any reason they will be traveling alone, it may be necessary to have a notarized letter from all legal guardians stipulating that they may travel unaccompanied or in the presence of a single guardian. This letter must give an explanation for why only one parent or someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter should state that.

In addition, airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors. Parents of minors are responsible for checking with each airline that their child will be flying to ensure that sufficient documentation is provided. This could include a copy of a birth certificate or a notarized letter stating that the minor has his or her parent’s permission to travel alone or with only one parent.

Note: Requirements by specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You MUST keep informed of the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If a letter is not available, the volunteer under 18 can be refused entry into the country. There is nothing Earthwatch Institute can do to help in this circumstance.

Travel Medical Insurance

Travel medical and evacuation insurance is mandatory for Earthwatch volunteers while on an Earthwatch expedition anywhere in the world. The cost of this insurance is included in your volunteer contribution. It covers volunteer travel medical risk, including medical expenses and medical evacuation, while traveling with Earthwatch overseas or on an expedition within your home country. Without insurance, the costs of such measures can range from US$20,000 to $50,000.

The emergency medical and evacuation assistance provider for Earthwatch is On Call International. On Call is a 24-hour international operation which provides medical assistance and evacuation, a 24-hour nurse help line and other travel assistance services such as lost baggage and lost document assistance.

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Basic coverage is valid in the country of your Earthwatch expedition and during international travel to and from your expedition. If the expedition takes place in your home country, coverage begins when your group forms for the expedition and ends when the group disbands, and is incremental to your existing health insurance. Options are available for volunteers who would like to extend the period of coverage, increase insurance amounts or purchase additional cancellation or baggage insurance. Application forms for additional coverage are included in your volunteer packet.

A detailed description of the Volunteer Medical and Evacuation Insurance Program policy, including the optional coverage increases, will be sent with this briefing. Please note that policies are specific to each Earthwatch office.

To contact On Call International in the event of an emergency, dial:

• 1-866-509-7715 from within the US • +1-603-898-9159 from outside the US

State that you are on an Earthwatch expedition. The Earthwatch policy number is #US008020.

Cancellation Insurance

Trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended for Earthwatch volunteers. Depending on the level of coverage you purchase, cancellation insurance will help cover your airfare and Earthwatch contribution if you need to cancel your expedition due to medical or other covered reasons. Earthwatch Institute does not reimburse airfare or costs associated with cancelled flights or expeditions. Levels of reimbursement for cancelled airline tickets or ticket change fees will vary depending on what type of trip cancellation policy you purchase. You are strongly advised to buy flexible or refundable plane tickets. Note that volunteers with preexisting medical conditions are encouraged to explore their coverage options.

For US and Canadian Volunteers

Earthwatch is offering comprehensive optional travel insurance through CSA Travel Protection as a service to our US and Canadian volunteers. While our inclusive insurance covers your emergency medical needs while in the field, this optional policy covers trip cancellation insurance due to medical emergencies, lost luggage, travel delays, etc. For more information on the insurance policy, call Earthwatch at 1‐800‐776‐0188 or visit www.csatravelprotection.com. Please note that some coverage is dependent on purchasing insurance within 24 hours of paying in full for your expedition. Should you decide to take out our optional insurance, please use the following producer code to indicate your affiliation with Earthwatch: 83534816.

For Volunteers Signing Up through Earthwatch Europe Earthwatch Europe volunteers can purchase travel insurance from Earthwatch that is underwritten by Endsleigh and includes Additional Cancellation Cover. Additional Cancellation Cover insurance includes cover for non-refundable travel expenses should your expedition be cancelled. Alternatively, if Earthwatch Europe volunteers hold their own travel insurance they may be able to purchase Additional Cancellation Cover through their existing insurer.

Travel Agencies

Contact your local travel agent or use the web to find the lowest rates to make your travel arrangements. A list of suggested travel agents can be found in Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources.’ Be sure to give your rendezvous details to your travel agent as soon as possible so they can plan your trip accordingly.

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Other Advice / Information

• Language: English

• Telephone codes: 1 (country code), 011 (international prefix), 906 (Michigan area code), 218 (Minnesota area code)

• Electricity: Electricity in the US is generally 120 volts, 60 Hz, with flat two-prong plugs. Note that electricity is NOT available in the field.

• Time zone: Minnesota is on Central Time (CDT): GMT/UTC -6. Ontario and Michigan (Isle Royale) are on Eastern Time (EDT): GMT/UTC -5 (one hour later than Central Time).

• Smoking: Please note that smoking is NOT allowed in the park.

• Local currency: US dollar. See the International SOS website (above) and www.xe.com/ucc for currency information and current exchange rates.

• Personal funds: You won’t have a chance to buy anything during fieldwork days, as there will not be access to any shops or services. Therefore, the team will leave all wallets, credit cards, valuables, etc. at the base camp before starting on the trip. You will need to pay for your own lodging, meals, etc. on the night before the rendezvous, the ferry to the island, plus activities and meals on the days before or after the expedition, but the natural world offers plenty to keep you busy on a tight budget.

• Options for before or after the expedition: There are many options for what to do in Grand Portage for a day. Climb Mt. Rose (700 feet above Lake Superior), visit Grand Portage National Monument (a major fur trade facility), or hike the historic Grand Portage trail (at nine miles, one of the longest overland routes faced by the voyageurs transporting furs and goods in the 18th century). See www.grandportage.com for more information and ideas.

• Checking luggage: Please note that if you will be taking an international flight that has one or more connections within the US, it will be necessary to collect any checked bags at the airport where you first arrive in the country. After proceeding through Customs, you will have to recheck your luggage before flying on to your final destination.

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10. PROJECT CONDITIONS

Please show this section to your physician when he/she is completing your health statement. Be sure to discuss inoculation requirements with your physician well in advance of your departure date. See Section 11 ‘Health Information’ for inoculation information.

To the examining physician:

Your patient has volunteered to join a field research team that has specific physical demands of which you and your patient should be aware. We need your accurate evaluation of your patient’s ability to meet the conditions detailed below in order to safeguard his/her health and safety and ensure that he/she can participate fully and effectively.

General Conditions of the Research Site

The weather on Isle Royale is highly variable. Teams in May should not be surprised to experience snowfall, nor should they be surprised by a daytime temperature of 80°F (27°C). Typical temperatures in May, however, are in the mid-50s°F (12-14°C) during the day and the mid-30s°F (0-3°C) at night. Average temperatures in June are slightly higher. In August, high temperatures are in the upper 60s°F (19-21°C), while the typical lows are in the mid 50s (12-14°C). Normal precipitation in May/June is around three inches (7.6 centimeters), usually in the form of rainfall, though snow is possible in May. Average August precipitation is only slightly higher. However, it is important to keep in mind that both temperature and precipitation on Isle Royale are unpredictable. Similarly, humidity can be very high or very low. Volunteers on all teams must be prepared to experience all types of weather – hot, cold, dry, snowy, wet and windy.

Temp. range Extreme low in May: 19°F/7.2°C to Extreme high in August: 85°F/29.4°C Altitude 600 ft/183 m to 1,300 ft/396 m Normal rainfall May: 2.5 in/6.4 cm June: 3.1 in/7.9 cm August: 3.2 in/8.1 cm

Physical Demands

Earthwatch volunteers must be in excellent shape and should prepare themselves for carrying about 45 pounds (20.5 kilograms) in a pack-frame. Teams will be hiking 2-10 miles (3-16 kilometers) per day mainly off trail. Hikers must negotiate heavy brush, rocky ridges, frequent wind-fallen trees (going under or over), and crossing streams and beaver ponds on slippery beaver dams. Vegetation may obscure the ground and one’s feet, and it is not uncommon to trip and fall with a pack on. Feet will often be wet from puddles, ponds, rain, and heavy dew. To prepare for the expedition, walk WITH your pack, and practice adding extra weight, climbing up and down stairs, etc. Conditioning exercises to strengthen and increase the flexibility of ankles and knees are highly recommended. You will also need to be prepared for standing or walking slowly for long periods with your pack, which can be more strenuous on the knees and back than hiking. Most important is that hiking boots fit properly and are well-broken-in!

Below are the expected demands of the project, but please keep in mind that conditions may change and the project could potentially be more or less strenuous than the chart indicates.

Activity Workload/Intensity Hiking 2-10 mi/3-16 km for up to 8 hours per day, mainly off trail Carrying Loaded pack weighing 40-45 lbs/18-20.5 kg for up to 8 hours per day

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Potential Hazards

Hazard Type Associated Risks and Precautions Distance to medical care

There are no common medications available on Isle Royale, nor are there any medical facilities on the island. Volunteers with conditions that may require immediate medical care should not participate. Bring any over-the-counter and/or prescription medication that you might need with you.

Travel by boat The open waters of Lake Superior can be choppy, though the harbor areas through which the small boats travel are relatively protected. The water is cold year-round. The ferry ride to the rendezvous site is approximately 3 hours, but outboard motor boat trips to the project base and trail heads are usually less than 3 mi/5 km at a time. Boats have necessary safety devices including lifejackets.

Hiking Blisters and sore muscles are likely, and falling trees can be a hazard. Risks can be reduced with proper precautions. Be alert, prepare physically prior to your expedition, and bring well-broken-in boots.

Cow parsnip This plant can cause minor rashes. Staff will point it out and tell you how to avoid it. Moose Female moose can be aggressive if protecting calves. Hikers will make enough noise

to warn any animals of their approach. Insects There will be some black flies in early June, mosquitoes may persist in August and

bees may be present. All volunteers should bring insect repellant. Individuals allergic to bees should bring their own medication (i.e. at least two epi-pens, antihistamines, etc.) and inform their Team Leader.

Varying weather conditions

Sunburn, heatstroke and hypothermia are possible, though unlikely. Dehydration is always a risk and you must drink plenty of water, especially while hiking. It is important to dress appropriately and bring the items listed on the Packing Checklist.

Diseases and water-borne illness

Diseases which may be present in this area include Lyme disease, West Nile virus and giardia. Risk of contracting these diseases is low and can be further reduced by protecting oneself from mosquitoes and ticks, checking for ticks regularly, and drinking from water sources known to be safe or treated.

Medical Conditions of Special Concern

It is important for your health and safety, and that of your teammates, that you be physically and mentally fit for this expedition. The fieldwork is physically demanding. It is essential that participants be in excellent condition and capable of carrying heavy loads over rough terrain. Any volunteer who does not meet these requirements should not participate. People with limited mobility (e.g. back, knee, leg, ankle, etc. problems) or with conditions that might require immediate attention (e.g. serious heart or kidney ailments) should not participate. Note that medications are NOT available on Isle Royale. You must bring any medications you may need, especially if you have insect, bee or plant allergies.

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11. HEALTH INFORMATION

See www.internationalsos.com for information on the current health conditions in the US. At the homepage, enter Earthwatch’s member identification number: 14ACPA000075. Under “Select Resource” choose “English Country Guide,” and then select the United States from the list.

All volunteers should make sure to have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (if you have not already had chicken pox). Please be sure your tetanus shot is current. Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer. Note that health conditions around the world are constantly changing, so keep informed and consult your physician, a local travel health clinic, the US Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), the World Health Organization (www.who.int), International SOS (see above), and/or the resources in Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources’ for the latest health information for travelers. Please consult your physician for guidance on inoculations if you intend to travel to other parts of the country.

12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS

PLEASE SEE THE PACKING CHECKLIST AT THE BACK OF THIS BRIEFING AND REMEMBER TO TAKE YOUR BRIEFING WITH YOU ON YOUR EXPEDITION.

General Considerations

Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. Each individual should bring personal items and clothes suitable for the season, keeping in mind that space and weight are at a premium while on the expedition. Layers of clothing are preferable to bulky items. Secure storage will be provided for luggage and other items that are brought to the island but not taken on the field trip. If you check any luggage during your flight, you are advised to pack a carry-on bag with an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in case your luggage is lost and/or takes several days to catch up with you.

The project will supply all expedition gear with the exception of backpacks and pack raincovers, sleeping bags and sleeping pads, water bottles, and raingear. Provided for each group will be cook kits, stoves, all food, water filters, and research materials such as gloves, plastic bags, and navigation materials. Volunteers who have backpacking tents are asked to bring them. The project will provide additional tents if necessary.

Weather Considerations

Please take weather conditions into consideration when packing for your expedition. Climate information can be found in Section 10 ‘Project Conditions.’ Again, clothing you can layer is best.

Essential Items

Make sure to bring your Earthwatch Expedition Briefing with you! It includes important information to which you may need to refer during your expedition, as well as during your journey to and from the rendezvous site. Additionally, a good pair of hiking boots and raingear are essential. The most common boot used is a 10-inch leather boot. Because wet conditions are often encountered, heavy climbing boots often take a long time to dry out. Boots with rubber bottoms are nice on wet ground, but most have a rather soft toe. These would be most useful in May and June, when the ground is wet and muddy. Adequate raingear is essential especially

14

early in the summer, when temperatures are often cold. Very expensive raingear should be avoided, as it may be torn on twigs and branches, but very cheap raingear won’t last. Ponchos are NOT recommended as they catch on vegetation.

Please see the Expedition Packing Checklist for a complete list of what you will need to take with you. You are encouraged to go through the list and mark off each required item right before you leave for your expedition.

13. RECOMMENDED READING

You are strongly encouraged to read the following materials prior to joining the expedition:

• Moose and Wolves: The Research: Document prepared by the Principal Investigator and Earthwatch that explains the research conducted through this project as well as some results to date, located in the appendix of this briefing.

• “Life on the Isle of Wolves”: Article printed in Traverse, also located in the appendix. • Ecological Studies of Wolves on Isle Royale 2006-2007: A annual report on the research prepared

by the Principal Investigator, available at http://www.isleroyalewolf.org.

The following is a list of additional suggestions for reading that will provide background information on the moose and wolves of Isle Royale, the research area, and wolves in general. Many of these materials are available from the Isle Royale Natural History Association (800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931) and/or www.islerolyalewolf.org. Some can be purchased online through popular vendors. See Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources’ for suggested vendor websites.

Books

• The Wolves of Isle Royale – the Broken Balance by Rolf O. Peterson, 1995: Available from Willow Creek Press (1-800-850-WILD).

• The Life of Isle Royale by Napier Shelton: A popular treatment of the natural history and ecology of Isle Royale’s plants and animals.

• Moods, Magic and Mystique by Jeff Rennicke: On Isle Royale’s natural history, with great photos. • Of Wolves and Man by Barry Lopez, 1978: A best-selling book about wolves and the unique

human attitudes about this species. • The Wolves of Minong by Durward Allen: A summary of the first 18 years of wolf-moose research

on Isle Royale, written by a project director (1958-1975). • The Wolf by L. David Mech, 1970: A comprehensive review of wolf ecology and behavior, with

material from the early years of wolf studies on Isle Royale. Available in paperback from the University of Minnesota Press.

• The Great American Wolf by Bruce Hampton, 1997: An excellent review of the history of wolf-human interactions from the days of paleo-Indians through 1996.

• Never Cry Wolf by Farley Mowat: An older but well-known book, later made into a movie. • Arctic Wolf by Lois Crisler: An early book about wolves taken from the wild in Alaska. • In the Company of Wolves by Peter Steinhart: One of the newer books about wolves, dealing with

wolf research and current controversies.

Articles

• “Wolves, Moose, and a Red Raven,” 1990-1991, Research (MTU magazine), Volume 4. • “Wolves, Moose, and the Allometry of Population Cycles” by R.O Peterson, R.E. Page and K.M.

Dodge, 1984, Science 224:1350-1352.

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• “Wolves, Moose, and Tree Rings on Isle Royale” by B.E. McLaren and R.O. Peterson, 1994, Science 266:1555-1558.

• “Ecosystem Consequences of Wolf Behavioral Response to Climate” by E. Post, R.O. Peterson, N.C. Stenseth and Brian E. McLaren, 1999, Nature 401:905-90.

Project Field Report

Each Earthwatch Institute-supported project submits a report on the past year’s research and results to Earthwatch, generally on an annual basis. The most recent field report for this project may be available online through www.earthwatch.org/expeditions/peterson.html. Note that reports are not available for all projects.

14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD

Groups will often be more than one day’s walk from assistance of any kind. The research teams will have First Aid kits and a radio which can be used to contact National Park Service staff in case of emergency. Emergency evacuation procedures would begin by getting word to the nearest ranger, who can organize whatever effort is needed in an emergency. The park has radio contact with evacuation helicopters in Ontario Province, Canada, which are equipped with EMT personnel for transport to Thunder Bay. However, heavy fog may ground all aircraft for days at a time. There is usually one or two EMT personnel among the National Park Service staff who can typically be reached within one day by boat from radio locations. There are no medical doctors on the island unless vacationing doctors register with the National Park Service.

Proximity to Medical Care

Nearest medical center

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre 980 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada Tel: +1 807 684-6000

Distance 30 mi/48 km by helicopter, weather permitting. Time to reach depends on distance from NPS Rangers (at least 2 hours, but could take a day or more).

15. HELPFUL RESOURCES

Project-related Websites

• Project website: http://www.isleroyalewolf.org • Grand Portage, MN: http://www.grandportage.com • Isle Royale National Park: http://www.isle.royale.national-park.com • National Park Service, Isle Royale: http://www.nps.gov/isro • Voyageur II ferry information: http://www.isleroyaleboats.com

Passport and Visa Information

• Embassies around the world: http://www.embassyworld.com • For Japanese citizens: http://www.rainbowt.jp/travel/visa_top.html • For Australian citizens: https://www.passports.gov.au and

http://www.dfat.gov.au/visas/index.html • The Visaservice: http://www.visaservice.co.uk • Thames Consular Services Ltd: http://www.visapassport.com

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Travel Guidebooks and Booksellers

• Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com • Rough Guide: http://travel.roughguides.com • Amazon: http://www.amazon.com • Barnes and Noble: http://www.bn.com

Travel Agencies and Advice

• STA Travel (contact Angie Kurtz or Chris Chappell and mention that you will be going on an Earthwatch Expedition): http://www.statravel.com 36 Geary Street San Francisco, CA 94108 Tel: +1 415 391-8407 Email: sfo@statravel.com

• STA Travel (UK): http://www.statravel.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1865 792800 Fax: +44 (0) 1865 792911 Email: manager.oxford@statravel.co.uk Quote code: EWE01/02

• Wexas International (Europe): http://www.wexas.com Tel: +44 (0) 20 7581 8761 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7581 7679 Email: southern@wexas.com Quote code: EWE01/02

• World Travel Guide: http://www.worldtravelguide.com • UK Foreign Office travel advice: http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel

Airline/Airport Resources

• Flight comparison tools: http://www.bookingbuddy.com and http://www.1800-fly.com • Airport codes worldwide: http://www.logisticsworld.com/airports.asp

Country Information

• Country information from around the world: http://www.countryreports.org • National Geographic Map Machine: http://plasma.nationalgeographic.com/mapmachine • US State Department: http://www.state.gov • Time worldwide with GMT/UTC: http://www.worldtimeserver.com • Currency converter: http://www.xe.com • Electrical current converter: http://kropla.com/electric2.htm • Telephone dialing codes: http://kropla.com/dialcode.htm • Online unit conversions: http://www.onlineconversion.com • Worldwide weather: http://www.wunderground.com or http://www.tutiempo.net/en • ATM locator: http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/jsp/SearchPage.jsp or

http://www.mastercard.com/atmlocator/index.jsp

Health Information

• Travel health website: http://www.mdtravelhealth.com • Center for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov

Tel: +1 800 311-3435 or +1 888 232-3228 World Health Organization: • w.who.inthttp://ww

• The Travel Doctor: http://www.tmvc.com.au • Disease outbreaks: http://www.who.int/csr/don/en

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APPENDIX MOOSE AND WOLVES: THE RESEARC H

The following information was taken from the research proposal submitted by the Principal ugh Investigators to Earthwatch Institute. Included is a description of the research conducted thro

this project, some results to date, and other information regarding the accomplishments of the project and the staff. Specific details regarding research sites, methods, etc. is subject to change slightly from year to year and such changes may not be incorporated into this document.

BACKGROUND, OBJECTIVES, AND METHODS Background

d moose of Isle Royale National Park are known throughout the world, and have

ough

As a research area, Isle Royale provides a unique combination of assets found nowhere else in the

l

This was clearly revealed in the 1970s when, after a decade of stability, both wolf and moose

tion

1996 was a pivotal year for Isle Royale’s moose. Having built to a record 2,500 animals, the moose

The wolves anbeen the focus of long-term research since 1958. The singular major research goal remains unchanged: to clarify the role of wolf predation in the population dynamics of moose. Althoriginally distributed throughout North America, wolves in the continental US are now limited to areas of northern Minnesota, northwestern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, plus Isle Royale (and new arrivals in Idaho, Montana and Washington). Elsewhere, persecution by humans armed with poison, traps, and guns has eliminated the species, and human intoleranceremains a significant impediment to wolf conservation throughout the world.

world. Only 15 of the 45 or so mammal species from the mainland have reached the island, so it represents a simplified animal community. Problems of ingress and egress are eliminated, and alspecies are protected from harvest or persecution by humans. The long life-spans of wolves and moose and their resulting long generation times dictate long-term studies in order to reveal dynamics of their interaction.

populations fluctuated dramatically. A series of four severe winters when moose were at peaknumbers led to malnutrition, poor survival, and a generation of moose that were small at birth and suffered from increased bone pathology when old. Wolf numbers tripled during the 1970s, producing the world’s highest wolf density in 1980. Moose numbers were cut to perhaps one-third of their former level and, while holding moose numbers low, wolves gradually culled vulnerable moose from the population. Simultaneously, wolf food supply dropped to starvalevels, and the wolf population then crashed from 50 to 14 in 1980-1982 (an introduced disease, canine parvovirus, was probably a major cause of the wolf crash). With forage recovered, moose immediately began increasing, a trend which continued until a large die-off in 1996, with the exception of a drop in 1989 and 1992 because of winter ticks.

were acutely affected by a combination of deep snow, winter ticks and a very late spring; in 1997 there were only 500 moose left. The wolves rallied in 1997 and, after a bad year in 1998, wolves recovered to 25 animals in 1999. Because of the health of the current moose population, wolves may again have trouble thriving. The wolves of Isle Royale are highly inbred, but it is not clear whether their reproductive rate has suffered as a result. Genetic analysis of DNA found in wolf

18

scats is now possible, and preliminary results show that the Isle Royale wolves have not lost as much genetic variability as we had expected. Collecting fresh wolf scats for DNA analysis is nowpart of our standard field protocol.

Objectives

o extreme views on the dynamics of wolves and their prey. One view, termed

ers sity

From recent trends in wolves, moose, and growth of trees at Isle Royale (McLaren and Peterson

a

,

To evaluate both long-term dynamics of moose and the short-term future of the faltering wolf

”

e

The future of Isle Royale wolves continues to be uncertain, as the degree of genetic inbreeding

lves

’s

lic.

Findings from Isle Royale have influenced wolf conservation worldwide. Early data revealed the

There are tw“bottom-up,” holds that prey populations are ultimately regulated by factors other than predation, primarily food supply (or other environmental factors), and so predator numbsimply follow those of their prey. The other view, “top-down,” is that predation regulates denof prey and so has a fundamental influence on community structure.

1994), we infer that the Isle Royale food chain is controlled by wolf predation. Wolves regulate moose numbers, and herbivory by moose in turn determines tree growth rates. This represents considerable revision of our earlier ideas, which emphasized the importance of bottom-up factorssuch as moose nutrition. Global climate also influences this wolf-moose system. In the absence of predation by a top carnivore (wolves, bears, or humans), we argue that prey populations will not stabilize or reach an equilibrium arising from density-dependent reductions in reproduction or survival. Given the chronic decline in Isle Royale wolves since the population crash of 1980-1982the moose on this island have been largely released from predation pressure. Moose increased until 1996, save two small die-offs caused by winter ticks in 1989 and 1992. The catastrophic mortality of 1996 confirmed that moose stretched the absolute limits of the food supply.

population, we need data on moose population size, age structure, and survival. The best long-term source of these demographic data comes from a process called “population reconstruction,in which moose recovered after death are used to “reassemble” the previous population. For example, a 15-year-old moose that died in 1990 was known to be alive during 1975-1990. By adding together all such records and comparing the sum to moose population estimates fromaerial census for the same period, it appears that about one-third of all moose are recovered byground crews, in both summer and winter. Thus each moose skeleton recovered by Earthwatch teams, especially those whose date of death can be estimated accurately, contributes directly to the effort to understand past moose fluctuations. Carcass collections also provide estimates of thabundance of old moose, the primary food supply of Isle Royale wolves. In a new project, skeletal remains of moose in our collection are being used to track the amount of carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere over the past 50 years.

increases with each passing generation. While we have documented some congenital abnormalities (the occasional fused toes, asymmetrical vertebrae, and extra vertebrae), wocontinue to reproduce successfully in each pack, proving that our scientific understanding of inbreeding significance in wild populations is very incomplete. The possibility that Isle Royalewolves might become extinct is very real. Wolves could be introduced from the mainland in an effort to improve genetic viability, but management philosophies of the National Park Service traditionally stress a “hands-off” approach for managing wildlife in national parks. This management philosophy will be carefully evaluated by scientists, park managers, and the pub

pronounced selectivity of wolf predation in culling prey, contributing to a heightening of public interest in the species. Airplane hunting, poisoning, and wolf bounties began to disappear in the 1960s throughout the remaining range of the wolf in North America. In the former Soviet Union,

19

where most of the world’s wolves exist, strong government controls on wolf populations were replaced by more tolerant approaches, and the resulting resurgence of wolves led to a substantialwolf recovery in Finland and the possibility of wolf re-colonization for the remainder of Scandinavia. Where moose are very abundant, findings from Isle Royale are most pertinethe 1970s, moose declines at Isle Royale mirrored those occurring in many parts of North America. The typical management response elsewhere was to kill wolves, but at Isle Royanatural regulation achieved the same end, a major recovery of moose in the 1980s.

nt. In

le

Wolves at Isle Royale have remained fearful of people, in spite of 50 years of complete protection.

ed

Methods

In other protected areas wolves have sometimes become dangerous campground nuisances. Management at Isle Royale aims to provide adequate remote areas for wolves to remain secludduring the critical pup-rearing period so that future generations of wolves keep a healthy distance from people.

ng-term data from Isle Royale wolves and moose are gathered during field surveys in

each

The dead moose discovered each year provide the basis for long-term analysis of moose survival

ide

RESULTS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Findings from ongoing wolf-moose research at Isle Royale are scrutinized by wildlife managers

o top

Future management challenges involving Isle Royale wolves are expected to help shape wildlife

yale–

ed

Essential loboth summer and winter. Both animals are censused during aerial surveys from light aircraft in winter; by backtracking wolf packs, a complete record of their travel and kills is gathered for a 50-day period. All dead moose discovered during aerial surveys are subsequently ground-checked, either in winter or the following summer. The following collections are made fromdead moose: lower jaws and incisors (to determine age), skull (for brain volume, sensitive to early nutrition), metatarsus (a leg bone also sensitive to early nutrition) and any pathology (usually toothrow infections or arthritis in hip joints and lower back).

and population reconstruction. Ground crews in summer also gather other types of data. All summer wolf scats are inspected for contents, revealing wolf diet. Frequency of sightings of certain species provides an index of abundance for moose, snowshoe hare, and gray jay (scavengers of dead moose). All wolf signs (scats, tracks, howling) are monitored to provindications of successful wolf reproduction in each pack.

and scientists throughout the world. The dynamics of the moose population, protected from hunting by humans, has immediate applicability for moose populations elsewhere that are managed by hunting. The role of wolf predation in regulating moose is of obvious interest twildlife managers. The dynamics of the Isle Royale community in response to the decline of a carnivore is of considerable technical importance for ecologists. The Isle Royale case history is a classic textbook example of large-mammal interaction, and is actually referenced by most ecologytextbooks.

management policies of the National Park Service. It is anticipated that technical articles will be published in scientific journals such as Journal of Mammalogy, Journal of Wildlife Management, Journal of Animal Ecology, and Conservation Biology. Late in 1995, the book The Wolves of Isle RoThe Broken Balance (Willow Creek Press, Minoqua, WI) by PI Rolf Peterson was published, which provided a summary of wolf-moose dynamics and the challenge of planning for the future of wolves in this National Park. Many other publications, both scientific and popular, have featurthe moose and wolves of Isle Royale.

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EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST

Note: Please see Section 12 ‘Packing Considerations’ for important advice.

Essential Items

� This Expedition Briefing � Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary and credit cards in case the originals are lost

or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents � Visa and/or passport (if necessary) � Certification of inoculation (if necessary)

Required Items

Clothing/Footwear � Well worn-in and comfortable hiking boots � Pair of lightweight shoes to wear at the campsite (Crocs are great) � Lightweight, quick drying, long-sleeved shirts � Lightweight, quick drying pants � T-shirts � Shorts (for in-camp use only) � Warm jacket � Complete rain suit (jacket and pants) � Plenty of pairs of socks to keep your feet warm and dry � Hat with wide brim to protect head and neck from sun, rain, and insects (a “bug hat” is

recommended) � Warm hat � Lightweight gloves (especially in May) Field Supplies � Internal or external frame backpack � Pack raincover � Drybag or plastic sealable baggies (e.g. Ziploc brand) for protecting equipment such as

camera from dust, humidity and water � Insect repellent � Sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 or higher � Flashlight or headlamp � Two water bottle(s) able to hold at least one liter each 21

Bedding and Bathing � One or two-person tent (the project has a few tents that may be available) � Lightweight, compact sleeping bag � Sleeping pad � Towel Personal Supplies � Personal toiletries (soap will be provided) � Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for “washing” hands while in the field) � Spending money for before/after the expedition (during fieldwork days, there won’t be

anywhere to spend money)

Optional Items

� Small daypack/rucksack � Light and compact camera equipment, film or memory card, extra camera battery � Gaiters (some volunteers have found them helpful, especially over-the-calf styles) � Water shoes � Field guide � Travel guide � Books, games, journal, etc. for leisure time (keep to a minimum due to weight concerns) � Sunglasses � Binoculars � Earplugs � Swimsuit (August only) 22