• HUNTING PLAN AGASSIZ NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

•

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE MIDDLE RIVER, MINNESOTA 56737

APRIL 1983 e.· ' CONTENTS i Page I. INTRODUCTION 1 A. Refuge Establishment 1 B. Refuge Description 1 1. Climate 1 2. Vegetation and land Use 1 c. Public Use 2

II. RELATIONSHIP OF HUNTING TO REFUGE OBJECTIVES 2

III. ASSESSMENT 3 A. Wildlife Populations and Hunting 3 1. White-tailed Deer 3 2. Moose 3 3. Waterfowl 4 p

I IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE HUNTING PROGRAM 4 A. Species Abundance and Distribution 4 1. Deer 4 • 2. Moose 4 B. Establishing Harvest Rates and Season Framework 4 1. Deer 5 2. Moose 5 c. Areas Open to the Public 5 D. Methods of Control and Enforcement 5

E. Funding and Manpower Requirements 5 1. Deer Hunt 5 2. Moose Hunt 6 3. Enforcement Training 6

v. MEASURES TAKEN TO AVOID CONFLICTS WITH OTHER MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES 6

,'?_) VI. CONDUCT OF HUNT 6

A. Federal Register Special Regulations 6 .t B. Anticipated Public Reaction to the Hunt 6 C. Hunter Application and Registration Procedures 7 •• D. Hunt Publicity 7 E. Description of Hunter Orientation 7 F. Hunter Requirements 7 1. Age 7 2. Allowable Equipment 7 3. Use of Open Fires 8 4. Sanitary Waste Disposal 8 5. License and Permits 8 6. Reporting Harvest 8 7. Hunter Training and Safety 8

VII. HUNT PREPARATION AND MAINTENANCE NEEDS 8 A. Waterfowl Controlled Hunting Zone Maintenance Needs 8 B. Deer/Moose Season Maintenance Needs 8 •

• AGASSIZ HUNTING PLAN

I. INTRODUCTION A. Refuge Establishment Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge was established by Executive Order No. 7583, dated 23 March 1937, to serve principally as a waterfowl production and migration area. The original parcel of land established as refuge totalled 60,215 acres. In 1964, an additional 1,272 acres were acquired, and in 1982, a land exchange with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources brought the total to 61,449 acres.

B. Refuge Description Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge is located in eastern Marshall County in northwestern Minnesota. Formerly an embayment of glacial Lake Agassiz, the refuge is situated in the aspen park­ land ecotone between grassland to the west and deciduous forest to the east. The topography is extremely flat varying one foot per mile in elevation from northeast to southwest. Soils are mainly peat and silty learns underlain by clayey glacial drifts . • 1. Climate The climate in northwestern Minnesota is characterized by long, cold winters and cool summers. January is the coldest month with average maximum and minimum temperatures of 130F and -8°F, respectively. These average temperatures contrast with respective means of 800F and 550F in July, the warmest month. Average annual precipitation of 21 inches mostly occurs between April and September, Snowfall averages 39 inches and prevailing northwest winds cause drifting and extreme wind chills. The average frost-free period is 115 days. 2. Vegetation and Land Use At the turn of the century, prairie, open marshes, and scattered clones of aspen dominated the landscape. In the early 1900's, a massive ditching project drained the lakes and marshes and a short-lived farming era ensued. Farming proved to be uneconomical; in 1937, the refuge was established and the wetlands were restored and managed by constructing dikes, spillways and water control structures. Today, the area is a mosaic of several vegetation types dissected by roads, dikes and ditches. Approximately one-half of the refuge is marsh and open water less than four feet deep • Other cover types include willow, deciduous hardwoods, conifers and open fields in various stages of succession. Extensive •• land clearing and drainage surrounding the refuge and adjacent

1 state wildlife management areas has radically altered the original landscape. Farms specialize in small grain, sun­ flower and livestock production. Due to the climate and • topography, farmers frequently experience spring flooding, wet autumns and early frosts.

c. Public Use Public use at the present time is not excessive and has decreased in recent years due to high gas prices and depressed rural and urban economies. The only communities of any size within a 100 mile radius are Bemidji, Minnesota (population 11,500}, Grand Forks, North Dakota (population 43,800), and Thief River Falls, Minnesota (population 9,100). Thief River Falls, the closest sizeable community, has had a recent population decline due primarily to the closure of the Arctic Enterprises, Inc. A return to previous levels of public use is not expected unless an economic recovery occurs. Fall visitation is concentrated in late September and October and centers around hunting, whereas, spring and summer use is centered around wildlife observation. Most visitors live within 50 miles, however, some visitors come from every state and occasionally foreign countries • • II. RELATIONSHIP OF HUNTING TO REFUGE OBJECTIVES Since the establishment of the refuge in 1937, the primary goal has been to restore and manage wetlands and uplands habitats for nesting and migrant waterfowl. Refuge objectives include providing habitat to accommodate a diversity of hundreds of wildlife species for the benefit of people. Management for waterfowl production is accomplished primarily by manipulating water levels and by maintaining upland vegetation in early successional stages. Early succession is attained by burning, spraying, farming, mowing, dozing and a variety of other methods. Deer, moose, furbearers and many other species respond favorably to management practices and achieve high productivity. Predation alone does not keep populations from increasing to undesirable levels; hence, there is a need to harvest surplus animals. High winter mortality, depredation problems, and excessive disease are almost assured if big game populations are left unchecked. In short, hunting at Agassiz NWR is a necessary big game management tool. !':::::, The Refuge Recreational Act of 1962 authorizes hunting as a valid form of recreation on National Wildlife Refuges provided that hunting does not interfere with primary objectives. The effects of hunting on refuges are evaluated in the Final Environmental Statement on the Operation of the National Wildlife Refuge System (1976). Public • hunting was determined to be 11 an acceptable and desirable fonn of

2 wildlife-oriented recreation" provided it was compatible with refuge objectives and was conducted as a quality program. ' • Guidance in managing hunting programs on National Wildlife Refuges is provided in Title 16, United States Code, Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations Part 32, and in the Refuge Manual. Regulations to control hunting on National Wildlife Refuges are published in the Federal Register.

I II. ASSESSMENT A. Wildlife Populations and Hunting Harvest recommendations are based on census data collected each year. Big game population estimates are derived annually from mid-winter big game surveys, spring deer-pellet surveys, spring moose production surveys, and fall moose classification surveys. Waterfowl populations estimates are based on spring breeding pair surveys, summer brood surveys, spring and fall weekly waterfowl surveys, and goose production surveys. This information is used primarily at the local level in assessing population trends. 1. White-tailed Deer The greatest threat to the Agassiz deer population is excessive winter mortality. For example, in the winter of 1977-78 losses • were estimated to be 50 percent of the herd. To minimize this threat the winter (post-hunt) deer density objective is set at 20 deer/mi2 of habitat. The 1981-82 wint~r refuge deer population was estimated to be 25 deer/mi . Fawn production in 1982 was high but only 86 adult and fawn does were taken during the season. Although deer are abundant, hunting pressure has declined markedly in recent years. Since 1979, the number of antlerless permits available for Kill Block 11 has increased from 450 to 1,000 permits. Of the 1,000 permits available the past two seasons, only 532 were issued in 1981 and 394 in 1982. Hunters prefer to hunt in zones that offer concurrent antlerless deer quotas in the buck framework. Efforts to change regulations and subsequently generate desired harvest continues. 2. Moose The current moose population on the refuge and adjacent WMA's is between 300 and 350. Harvest quotas are established to maintain a population of approximately 300 moose. ·~' Visitors are especially interested in viewing moose while at the refuge. Thus, a season structure that will assure that sufficient numbers of moose are present for observation purposes is essential. Moose harvest quotas are conservative so that • non-consumptive recreational objectives may be achieved. 3 3 . Waterfowl There is no on-refuge waterfowl hunting as per criteria outlined in 8 RM 5.5. Opportunity for hunting is provided • on over 21,000 acres of State lands contiguous to Agassiz NWR. There are over 255,000 acres of State lands open for public hunting in northwest Minnesota (Appendix 1). The refuge provides food, water and sanctuary for migrating waterfowl during the fall hunting season and plays a vital role in providing a reservoir of birds that continually resupply surrounding agricultural and wetland habitats. This reservoir provides many activity hours of waterfowl hunting in the area. In 1976, a controlled hunting zone (CHZ) was established under a cooperative agreement between the Minnesota DMR and the Fish and Wildlife Service to clean up a "firing line" situation along a common boundary between the Elm Lake WMA and the southeast corner of the refuge. The CHZ is 2 miles long and contains twenty-two hunting stations spaced 150 yards apart. A 75 yard retrieval zone is located within the refuge (Appendix 2).

IV • DESCRIPTION OF THE HUNTING PROGRAM Currently, hunting at Agassiz NWR consists of an annual firearms deer season and a biennial firearms moose season. No other hunt • programs exist on Agassiz NWR per criteria in 8 RM 5.5. A. Species Abundance and Distribution 1. Deer Deer are distributed over 25,000 acres of forest, brush, grasslands and croplands during most of the year. However, 37,000 acres of wetlands receive seasonal use during late fall, winter and early spring. Densities of 15-25 deer/mi2 occur in the northeast and eastern portions of the refuge, whereas, densities of 5-15 deer/sq2 occur along the north, central and southern portions. Less than 5 deer/mi2 occur in the wilderness area and pools. 2. Moose Moose are distributed within forest and brushlands during the year but may concentrate in the wetlands during the summer. Establishing Harvest Rates and Season Framework In late winter the Refuge Manager provides big game harvest and season framework recommendations to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources area wildlife manager. These recommendations • are based on factors identified in Section III.

4 1. Deer Since 1977, the season framework for the zone that includes • Kill Block 11 has included a bucks-only season followed by an either-sex season with a quota of antlerless permits available. Season dates have generally been from early to mid-November and the season length has ranged from 5 to 19 days. 2. Moose A firearms moose season has been held biennially in accordance with State regulations since the Department of Natural Resources received legislative approval for a season in 1971. In 1975, the refuge adopted the December framework to eliminate conflicts with waterfowl objectives and to reduce crippling loss through improved tracking conditions (snow). licenses are issued as one per party of four hunters. A party is permitted one moose of eft her sex. The season is 9 consecutive days (Appendix 3).

c. Areas Open to the Public The portion of the refuge open to deer and moose hunting comprises approximately 56,500 acres. Two closed areas exist, one is around the •headquarters and the other around the maintenance center. These 2 areas are clearly posted with area-closed signs • and are marked on the refuge hunting leaflets {Appendix 4). D. Methods of Control and Enforcement Enforcement objectives are t,o minimize violations by maintaining a highly visible enforcement presence during peak hunting periods such as on opening weekends. Areas of highest hunter concentrat­ ions are patrolled most. Vehicles used by enforcement personnel are equipped with federal frequency radios. Two vehicles are also equipped with state radios which provide communication wfth the highway patrol dispatcher, and DNR conservation officers. Refuge personnel maintain deer and moose check stations at refuge headquarters.

E. Funding and Manpower Requirements for the Hunts ·-;::, 1. Deer Hunt From 1977 to 1982 refuge law enforcement staff spent 22 staff days/year enforcing deer hunt regulations at an average salary cost of $2,400/year. The expenses of transportation, etc., • are additive to the above cost.

5 2. Moose Hunt The moose hunt occurs on odd-numbered years. During the 1977, • 1979 and 1981 hunts, refuge law enforcement staff spent 7 staff days/year enforcing moose hunt regulations at an average salary cost of $705/year. Fewer hunters and a shorter season length combine to reduce costs to about 65 percent of the deer hunt costs. Additionally, the costs of conducting the hunter orientation sessions were $550 in 1979 and $950 in 1981. Details of the hunter orientation are in VI E. 3. Enforcement Training The requirements to provide 40 hours of law enforcement refresher training for each of three staff persons cost $2,300 in 1982. The breakdown of costs in 1982 was $550 for travel and $1.750 for salaries.

v. MEASURES TAKEN TO AVOID CONFLICTS WITH OTHER MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES The potential for conflict with non-hunters does exist, but probability of this occurring is remote. During the onset of waterfowl season in early October,. hikers and motorists visit the refuge to enjoy wildlife and fall colors. Waterfowl hunting is not allowed inside the refuge, thus visitor conflict with hunting is avoided. By the time big game hunting begins in November, non-hunting visitations are few. • Space/time conflicts occur with firewood cutters and trappers during the firearms deer and moose seasons. Wood cutters are required to suspend operations during open seasons. Trappers are allowed to continue, but they usually cut back on trapping activities during hunting seasons. According to State law, all persons in the field during open big game seasons in Minnesota must wear bright red or flourescent orange cap and outer jacket. This applies to all refuge users and visitors and significantly deters potential hunting accidents.

VI. CONDUCT OF THE HUNT A. Federal Register Special Regulations The current Federal regulations authorizing hunting of deer and moose on Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge are contained in Appendix 5.

!~ Anticipated Public Reaction to the Hunt Deer hunting is a popular traditional activity among residents in the area. There is no known opposition to either deer or • moose hunting at Agassiz NWR. 6 c. Hunter Application and Registration Procedures Both deer and moose hunting require application and registration procedures. These procedures are all in accordance with publicized • Minnesota DNR regulations.

D. Hunt Publicity The Minnesota DNR is responsible for public information relative to all hunting programs through the media of television, radio and newspapers. All special regulations within the refuge are handled by the refuge news release process.

E. Description of Hunter Orientation A mandatory moose hunt orientation began with the establishment of the first moose hunt in 1971. All hunters are required to attend an orientation session prior to the opening of the moose hunting season. The session includes a 20-minute slide-tape presentation on moose ecology. Additional discussions include hunter ethics, safety, and refuge and State regulations. All participants are given access to aerial photographs and maps of the refuge to familarize themselves with the area. A question and answer period allows discussions of any subjects of concern to the hunters. The orientation has been well accepted by most • participants.

F. Hunter Requirements Hunters at Agassiz NWR are required to follow all applicable State and Federal regulations. Information about State regulations is available through licensing agents, conservation officers, and the media. A combination of signs and informational leaflets are used to inform the public of specific refuge regulations. 1. Age As per Minnesota Department of Natural Resources regulations.

2. Allowable Equipment Motorized vehicles are restricted to designated roads only. Non-motorized watercraft are permitted. Wheeled carts and non-motorized carrying devices for packing out animals are allowed. Permanent deer stands are prohibited, whereas portable stands are authorized. Firearms and ammunition • must meet specifications of Minnesota DNR. 7 3. Use of Open Fires 4lt Open fires are prohibited. 4. Sanitary Waste Disposal No refuge waste disposal facilities are available. 5. license and Permits There are no special refuge license or permit requirements to hunt deer or moose. All such licenses and permits are in accordance with Minnesota DNR regulations.

6. Reporting Harvest Minnesota DNR requires hunters to report both deer and moose harvested. This is done through a statewide network of check stations where harvested animals must be taken for registration. The Refuge cooperates by maintaining a check station at refuge headquarters during both the antlerless deer and the moose seasons. Information obtained includes sex, age, weight, kill location, animal parts, etc. All moose taken within Zone 2, Agassiz Refuge and adjacent WMA's, must be registered at refuge headquarters. Antlerless deer hunters, however, may register deer taken from the refuge at nearby registration stations. As a result, final harvest figures are obtained from the Minnesota DNR following the season close. 7. Hunter Training and Safety All hunter training and safety is administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

VII. HUNT PREPARATION AND MAINTENANCE NEEDS A. Waterfowl Controlled Hunting Zone Maintenance Needs Mowing of the retrieving zone and parking lots and signing of the CHZ retrieving zone are to be completed before opening of waterfowl season. B. Deer/Moose Season Maintenance Needs Maintenance activities to be accomplished before the big game seasons open include: 1. Replacing missing or damaged boundary signs

8 2. Signing the closed area boundaries around the refuge , headquarters and maintenance center 3. Closing roads, ~ikes, and field accesses where motor vehicles are prohibited 4. Signing where appropriate with "Do Not Block Gate" and "Foot Traffic Only" signs 5. Assuring parking areas are mowed and maintained, and that roads are graded 6. Removing retrieving zone signs from the CHZ 7. Preparing check station facilities

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9 ' SIGNATURE PAGE

Prepared by: Submitted by: ~~~~ Assistant Refuge Manager

nate: __,1/__,,"--f?_;-+-j_g_s __ Date: -'1-+-+--~/1~..:...5+-{__;;__~...&...? __

I

Approved by: ~ ~'· ..l"old W. Denson .~.-}t ing flegional DireotOI"

nate: /f/~ I"?; IY f3

I "Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Lands in north­ west Minnesota" State Wildltfo Management Areas

Stato Wildlifo Management Areas with Resident Managers ______App ndix 2 • • •

Summary of Zone 2 Moose Hunting, 1971-1981

D Number Number Adult Number Found Penn its Moose Percent Dead and/or Year Season Dates Season length Issued Harvested Bulls Fatally Wounded

1971 October 2-17 16 + 16 = 32 days 25 25 63.6 2 December 4-19

1973 September 22-30 9 + 9 = 18 days 35 33 48.0 5 December 8-16

1975 December 6-14 9 days 30 29 38.0 2

1977 December 3-11 9 days 35 35 43.0* not recorded

1979 December 1-9 9 days 30 27 59.0 3

1981 December 5-13 9 days 25 23 52.0 2

* Includes yearlings

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