Development and Management of Avian Habitat on Dredged Material Islands. Synthesis of Research Results

• Main Authors: Soots,Robert F , Jr, Landin,Mary C
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Subjects: AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY; Biology; Bird sanctuaries; BIRDS; COLONIES(BIOLOGY); COUNTING METHODS; Dredged Material Research Program; DREDGED MATERIALS; ECOLOGY; ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT; HABITABILITY; ISLANDS; LPN-DMRP-4F; NESTING(ANIMALS); OCEAN ENVIRONMENTS; Structural Engineering and Building Technology; WATERFOWL

Seven regional DMRP studies were conducted throughout Corps of Engineers maintained waterways to determine dredged material island use by nesting waterbirds and the succession of vegetation on these islands as affected by bird use, to compare diked and undiked islands and natural and man-made islands and sites, and to study migratory and year-round use of dredged material islands. These data and pertinent management information are synthesized in this report. Recommendations and guidelines for management of existing dredged material islands and creation of new islands are set forth by the authors. Five major factors determining selection for waterbird colony sites on dredged material islands are set forth: isolation from predators and humans, habitat diversity, nesting substrate stability, species behavioral characteristics, and species feeding and foraging habits. Management for waterbird colonies has been proven feasible and may be accomplished by several important facotrs: (a) incorporation of management plans into routine dredging operations, (b) interagency and intraagency cooperation, and (c) public education and cooperation. It was determined that dredged material islands are often crucial habitat for colonial waterbirds and should be maintained and managed as such. (Author) Report on Dredged Material Research Program.